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  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Announces the ExpertBook P5, its First Copilot+ PC for Work, is Now Available in Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KEY POINTS

    • First ASUS Copilot+ PC for work: Powered by up to the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor (Series 2) to deliver up to 47 NPU TOPS
    • AI-powered productivity and collaboration: ASUS AI ExpertMeet automates meeting minutes, translates subtitles, offers watermarks in conference calls
    • ASUS ExpertGuardian: Includes commercial-grade BIOS, Windows 11 Secured-core PC tech, complimentary 1-year McAfee+ Premium membership

    TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announces that the ExpertBook P5 (P5405), a groundbreaking Copilot+ PC1 designed to empower modern professionals is now available in Canada, starting October 21st. Available through the ASUS Store, Costco, and select retailers, it comes in four configurations starting at CA$1,299.99.

    Powered by up to the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor (Series 2) with 47 NPU TOPS2, the laptop delivers up to 3X the AI performance boost compared to the previous generation. Featuring ASUS AI ExpertMeet, this AI-driven powerhouse streamlines workflows and enhances collaboration. Its sleek, durable aluminum chassis houses a stunning 2.5K 144 Hz display, delivering exceptional visuals. With a 1.29 kg3 feather-light design, robust security features, and a focus on sustainability, ExpertBook P5 is the perfect companion for on-the-go professionals seeking peak performance and efficiency.

    The future of work

    Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ExpertBook P5 boasts a premium aluminum design that seamlessly blends aesthetics and ergonomics. Despite its lightweight construction, at just 1.29 kg, P5 offers exceptional durability — meeting the exacting US MIL-STD 810H military standard. Its thoughtfully designed workspace, featuring conveniently placed function keys and a spacious mouse area, optimizes productivity and comfort during video conferences and multitasking. Engineered with the ASUS ExpertCool thermal structure, a newly-enhanced cooling design, the ExpertBook P5 ensures consistent, optimal cooling whether the lid is open or closed, guaranteeing peak performance even during extended usage. It is a productivity powerhouse designed to elevate professional performance, empowering users to achieve their full potential.

    Forwarding the ASUS commitment to sustainability, ExpertBook P5 also represents a significant advancement in sustainable technology. This intelligent product has significantly enhanced its circularity by 10% to reach 50%, utilizing Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) for performance measurement. By incorporating recycled materials and a modular design, ExpertBook P5 directly addresses the pressing issue of e-waste.

    Experience the power of AI in meetings

    ASUS ExpertBook P5 benefits from the all-new ASUS AI ExpertMeet, an on-device AI assistant that transforms meetings into productive and engaging experiences, leverages advanced AI capabilities to enhance audio, video, and collaboration features, ensuring seamless communication and capturing every important detail.

    AI ExpertMeet offers a comprehensive suite of AI-powered features to elevate every meeting experience. AI Meeting Minutes accurately captures and transcribe meetings, generating detailed summaries and identifying key points from multiple speakers. The AI Translated Subtitles feature provides translations, ensuring seamless communication across languages. Additionally, the Watermark function allows video calls to be personalized with customizable business card information and screen watermarks for added security and professionalism. All powered by on-device intelligence, personal data remains secure, allowing users to focus on ideas without privacy concerns – empower teams with the latest AI technology and unlocking the full potential of virtual collaborations.

    ASUS ExpertGuardian: the ultimate guardian for confidential data

    ASUS ExpertBook P5‘s robust security arsenal safeguards critical data. Engineered with a commercial-grade and NIST SP 800-155-compliant BIOS, it provides a foundational layer of protection against firmware attacks. Coupled with Windows 11 Secured-core PC technologies, the ExpertBook P5 creates a fortified defense against software vulnerabilities. To ensure long-term security, ASUS offers a comprehensive five-year support4 for BIOS and driver updates, safeguarding the system against emerging threats.

    Complementing this robust hardware-based security, ExpertBook P5 includes a complimentary one-year McAfee+ Premium membership. This comprehensive security suite leverages McAfee Smart AI™ for advanced threat detection, including AI-powered deepfake detection to protect against sophisticated social engineering attacks. Additionally, email scam protection provides an extra layer of defense against phishing attempts.

    ASUS Business Support

    Understanding the critical needs of modern professionals, ASUS Business Support is not merely a warranty — it’s a comprehensive service package that includes on-site repairs, dedicated technical assistance and 24/7 customer support. This robust support framework ensures that every ExpertBook user experiences minimal downtime and receives personalized solutions to their technical issues.

    AVAILABILITY & PRICING

    The ASUS ExpertBook P5 is available in 4 different configurations starting from October 21st, 2024.

    The 4 specifications are available on the ASUS Store, ranging from CA$1,299 to CA$1,799 both for B2B and B2C customers.

    The ExpertBook P5 (P5404) with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor 226V, 512 GB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD, an upgradeable M.2 2230 SSD slot, 16 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and Windows 11 Home is now available starting from CA$1,299 on the ASUS Store and Costco.

    An additional version with Windows 11 Pro is available on the ASUS Store and selected retailers for CA$1,399.

    The ExpertBook P5 (P5404) with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 258V, 1 TB M.2 PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD, an upgradeable M.2 2230 SSD slot, 32 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and Windows 11 Pro is now available starting from CA$1,799 on the ASUS Store and selected retailers.

    An additional version with Windows 11 Home will be available later starting from October 28th on the ASUS Store and selected retailers, starting from CA$1,699.

    Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information.

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    For more product photos: https://press.asus.com/media/photos/

    ExpertBook P5 Product Page: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-work/expertbook/expertbook-p5-p5405/

    ExpertBook P5 ASUS Store: https://shop.asus.com/ca-en/expertbook-p5-p5405.html

    ExpertBook P5 Costco: https://www.costco.ca/asus-expertbook-p5-14-in-laptop%2c-intel-core-ultra-5-226v-%E2%80%93-16gb-ram%2c-512gb-ssd%2c-intel-arc.product.4000313261.html

    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com

    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/

    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca

    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube

    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    SPECIFICATIONS5

    ASUS ExpertBook P5 (P5405)

    Model    ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-P73-CB    		 ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-DH71-CA    		 ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-P53-CA    		 ExpertBook P5
    P5405CSA-CH51-CB
    Compute
    platform     		   Intel® Core™ 7 Processor 258 V 32 GB 1.8
    GHz (12 MB Cache, up to 4.8 GHz, 8 cores, 8
    Threads); Intel® AI Boost NPU up to 47    		 Intel® Core™ 5 Processor 226 V 16 GB 1.6
    GHz (8 MB Cache, up to 4.5 GHz, 8 cores, 8
    Threads); Intel® AI Boost NPU up to 40″
    Graphics    Intel® Arc™ 140 V
    GPU (16GB)    		 Intel® Arc™ 140 V
    GPU (16GB)    		 Intel® Arc™ 130 V
    GPU (8GB)”    		 Intel® Arc™ 130 V
    GPU (8GB)”
    Display    14.0″ 2560 x 1600 Anti-Glare, 100% sRGB, 400 nits
    Chassis    Color: Misty Grey
    Operating
    system     		   Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Home
    Main memory    32 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP    		 32 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP    		 16 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP    		 16 GB LPDDR5X-
    8533 MOP
    Storage    1 x 1 TB M.2 PCIe®
     4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD, up
    to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable

    		 1 x 1 TB M.2 PCIe®
     4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD,
    up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable

    		 1 x 512 GB M.2
    PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD,
    up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable

    		 1 x 512 GB M.2
    PCIe® 4.0 2280 SSD (Upgradeable to 2 TB)

    1 x M.2 2230 SSD,
    up to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0
    SSD User
    upgradeable
    Connectivity    WiFi 6E (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.3 Wireless Card
    Camera    1080p FHD IR camera, Webcam Shield
    I/O ports    2X Thunderbolt™ 4, USB 3.2 Gen2, support wide range 5–20 V

    1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen2, support BC1.2

    1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen2

    1 x HDMI® 2.1

    1 x Audio combo jack

    1 x Kensington® Nano lock slot
    Keyboard    Full-size keyboard with 1.5 mm key travel; backlit, spill-resistant 78 cc
    Touchpad    ASUS ErgoSense touchpad

    Smart gesture touchpad
    Silent touchpad technology
    Audio    2 x speaker

    2 x multi-array microphone with intelliGO beam forming

    Smart amp technology

    Dolby Atmos certified”
    Battery    63 Wh, 3-cell, Li-polymer
    AC adapter    65 W non-wall mount Type-C® power jack, Input : 100–240 V AC, 50 / 60 Hz universal
    Dimensions    31.2 x 22.3 x 1.645 cm
    Weight    63 Wh battery: starting at 1299 g
    Price    CA$1,799 CA$1,699 CA$1,399 CA$1,299
    Availability    October 10th, 2024 October 28th, 2024 October 10th, 2024 October 10th, 2024
    Where to Buy    ASUS Store ASUS Store ASUS Store ASUS Store
    Costco

    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    1 Copilot+ PC experiences are coming. Requires free updates available starting late November 2024. Timing varies by device and region. See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs.
    2 The figures are based on theoretical performance. Actual performance may vary in real-world situations.
    3 Weight may vary according to specifications
    4 Five-year support includes but not limited to OS, BIOS, driver and security-related updates. OS and BIOS security update occurs twice a year.
    5 Specifications, content and product availability are all subject to change without notice and may differ from country to country. Actual performance may vary depending on applications, usage, environment and other factors. Full specifications are available at http://www.asus.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c90e1d1e-c22c-484f-8e7c-91a555a6f437

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Empty property eyesore finally demolished

    Source: City of Coventry

    The Council has been completing work to demolish an empty block of low-rise flats at 1 to 15 Jasmine Court, Stoke Aldermoor.

    The building should be completely removed over the coming weeks and the site cleared for future redevelopment.

    It follows a long period of legal efforts by the Council officers.

    The Council is increasing its efforts to tackle issues around empty properties in the city – especially with a high demand for good quality housing in the city.

    It is continuing to use all legal powers to remove any further obstacles to the redevelopment of the site.

    Cllr Naeem Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: “I’m delighted that our efforts are paying off to bring empty homes back into use.

    “Jasmine Court has been a real eyesore, and I know that local people will feel a real sense of relief that something positive is going to happen.

    “We are hopeful that eventually suitable social housing, providing family homes, will replace the demolished flats.”

    Cllr Abdul Khan, Deputy Leader of Coventry City Council, added: “I know that a number of council services have been working hard to remove this property.

    “There are often a number of legal steps that need to be addressed to deal with housing that has been left empty and in poor disrepair, and I’m pleased to see a positive outcome for people living around Jasmine Court.”

    Get a closer look at the work by watching this video.

    Monday, 21st October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Could new farming methods sustain life on Mars?

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Published: 21 October 2024 at 14:00

    ARU gardening expert will discuss if plants could, or should, grow on the Red Planet

    A talk at the Chelmsford Science Festival will explore research into new farming methods that could potentially grow plants on Mars – and the moral question of whether humans should cultivate another planet even if they could.

    In the 2015 film The Martian, stranded astronaut, Mark Watney, managed to grow potatoes. Recently SpaceX owner Elon Musk has spoken of a desire to set foot on Mars, and potentially colonise the Red Planet. However, the colonisation of Mars would depend on the ability to grow plants.

    During the free talk at Anglia Ruskin University’s Chelmsford campus, ARU horticulture expert Mick Lavelle will discuss some modern farming techniques, drawing on research into vertical farming being carried out at ARU Writtle, and how these could make it possible to cultivate life in hostile environments such as Mars.

    The talk, A Practical Guide to Gardening on Mars, explores the difficulties this poses and the ways it may be achieved, as well as the ethics of taking organic matter to another planet. 

    Research published in peer-reviewed journals earlier this year by ARU Writtle showed the success of vertical farming systems, using LED lighting, in stimulating growth in strawberries and in lavender, a valuable plant for essential oil production.

    These new studies show that vertical farming using artificial light is not only feasible, but can actually be more productive than traditional farming techniques. 

    The research into lavender, to be published in the November edition of the journal Industrial Crops and Products, shows that plants grown in these conditions had greater root emergence, root biomass, chlorophyll content, flower bud emergence, and a higher root-to-shoot ratio compared to lavender crops growing in glasshouses under normal lighting conditions.

    Another study, published in June, found that certain LED lighting conditions stimulated flower bud emergence in strawberries more than four times more effectively than a control group. LED lighting also appeared to stimulate more chlorophyll content – a crucial element in plant growth because it enables plants to absorb the energy from light.

    Mick will also examine whether the desire of wealthy individuals to create life on another planet, and the willingness to strive for it, should be a cue to being better at solving sustainability issues and food production on Earth.

    Mick, Senior Lecturer in Landscape Management at ARU Writtle, said:

    “Mars has an allure to the super-rich due to the hostility of the planet and its reputation through films and science, not to mention the challenge of achieving something that was previously thought impossible – bringing life to Mars.

    “Some new farming techniques do mean this is theoretically possible, and I will draw on our research here at ARU Writtle during the talk.

    “Whether we could grow plants on Mars is a seductive question, but the bigger one is, should we? With climate change already ravaging the developing world and millions of people going hungry, perhaps our desire and willingness to use new scientific techniques to cultivate another planet could be better put to use closer to home.”

    The talk will take place at ARU’s Chelmsford campus on Thursday, 24 October from 7.30pm until 9pm. It is free to attend, but places must be booked by visiting https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-practical-guide-to-gardening-on-mars-tickets-1027968420217 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Trial Jury Convicts New Orleans Men for Using Stash House for Methamphetamine, Heroin, Fentanyl Distribution Conspiracy and Being Felons in Possession of Firearms

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – A federal jury convicted TERENCE WILSON (“WILSON”), age 42, and TRAVIS ENCLADE (“ENCLADE”), age 42, both of New Orleans,  on October 9, 2024 for using a stash location in the 3500 block of Encampment Street in New Orleans to conspire to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl and, for being felons in possession of firearms.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, WILSON and ENCLADE conspired together, and with others, to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl from August 2022 through October 12, 2022.  During this time, WILSON and ENCLADE engaged in multiple, near daily, hand-to-hand transactions with drug customers in the Hollygrove area. 

    In September 2022, law enforcement identified a residence being used by WILSON and ENCLADE as a stash house.  Both WILSON and ENCLADE regularly made short trips to the stash house, indicative of drug activities, and possessed access  keys.  When law enforcement executed a search warrant at the stash house, they seized over 534 grams of heroin and fentanyl, over 120 grams of fentanyl, and 363 grams of mostly pure methamphetamine.  Law enforcement also seized a Diamondback Model DB9, multicaliber pistol, a Palmetto State Armory Model PA-X9, multicaliber pistol and drug paraphernalia, including, vacuum seal bags, a plastic mixer bottle containing a brownish residue, digital scales with suspected drug residue, a mechanical press used to compress drugs into kilogram shaped packages for distribution, and bags of brown sugar, used as a cutting agent. 

    During a separate search of ENCLADE’s residence, law enforcement seized a stolen Ruger Model 57, 5.7 x 28-millimeter pistol.

    In Count 1, the jury convicted WILSON and ENCLADE of conspiracy to distribute and, possess with intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture, and 100 grams or more of heroin mixture.  With respect to Count 2, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture and, 100 grams or more of a heroin mixture, the jury found WILSON guilty and ENCLADE not guilty.  The jury convicted WILSON and ENCLADE of being felons in possession of firearms in Counts 3 and 4.  The jury found WILSON and ENCLADE not guilty on Count 5, which charged possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    For both Counts 1 and 2, WILSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least 5 years of supervised release.  For Count 1, ENCLADE faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least 5 years of supervised release. For being a felon in possession of firearms, WILSON and ENCLADE each face up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Additionally, for each count of conviction, both WILSON and ENCLADE face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  Sentencing is set for January 21, 2025.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    This prosecution is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Orleans Division, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Special Response Team, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Response Team, the New Orleans Police Department, the Louisiana State Police, the Slidell Police Department, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, and the Thibodeaux Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and André Jones of the Narcotics Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why does Donald Trump tell such blatant lies?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Geoff Beattie, Professor of Psychology, Edge Hill University

    When it comes to lying in politics, Donald Trump is in a class of his own. According to the Washington Post, he made 30,573 false or misleading claims in his four years as president, increasing year-on-year from six per day in his first year to 39 per day in his fourth.

    Although other presidents have lied to the public, none have lied like this. Some of Trump’s lies are trivial, and many are self-aggrandising (“Nobody builds better walls than me”). Then there are his more egregious lies, like the one about the 2020 presidential election being “stolen” – demonstrably and dangerously contrary to the facts, with serious consequences for the nation and public trust.

    And these lies can cut through. Research by political scientists Kevin Arceneaux and Roy Truex found that this “big lie” about the stolen election was very “sticky”. Around 50% of Republican voters believed it, regardless of any emerging contrary evidence. The researchers also found that belief in this lie boosted Republican supporters’ self-esteem – as they weren’t “losers” after all.

    Politicians who lie can gain a strategic advantage. If you can successfully embellish the truth or construct a new reality, this often tends to be more interesting and engaging than the complicated truth. The truth may be a bit dull and uninspiring; the lie can be whatever you want it to be. You know what your audience wants to hear.

    Politicians know that lying is part of our everyday lives. Research in psychology using lie diaries tells us that people lie on average twice a day. Many are harmless “white” lies told for the benefit of others, but some are not so harmless and told for the benefit of the liar themselves.

    Some people get significant pleasure from telling such self-centred lies. Psychologists call this “duping delight”. It confuses the recipient of the lie, who expects to detect signs of guilt or anxiety. Instead, all they see is a faint smile of satisfaction. The liar gets away with it – that smile could mean anything.

    Who likes lying?

    Certain types of personality are drawn to telling these sorts of lies, including those with little empathy, such as narcissists and psychopaths. They don’t care about the consequences for the recipient; it’s all about them.

    People typically start lying early in life – between two and three years of age. Charles Darwin observed this in his own son.

    And the ability to lie improves as our cognitive abilities develop. Like any skill, we get better at it with practice. While many adults still feel guilt when they don’t tell the truth, some politicians don’t appear to feel any guilt, shame or sadness at telling a lie.

    Donald Trump claimed falsely that immigrants in Ohio were eating cats and dogs.

    Telling a big lie

    Politics was once thought of as an art. It was political philosopher Nicolo Machiavelli who, in 1532, wrote: “Those princes who have done great things … have known how to circumvent the intellect of men by craft.” Part of that craft was lying. Machiavelli argued that rulers should do whatever it takes to retain power, and this could include “being a great dissembler”.

    Politicians can lie by omission and by exaggeration – but sometimes, like Trump, they tell outright “big lies”. This term was introduced by Adolf Hitler in Mein Kampf, and the concept of the big lie was used by the Nazis to justify persecution of the Jews.

    A big lie is often defined as “a deliberate gross distortion of the truth used especially as a propaganda tactic”. These have, it is argued, the power to disrupt society.

    Political historian Timothy Snyder accused Trump of using the big lie technique in his denial of the 2020 election result.

    To work, according to Hitler, big lies must also be able “to awaken the imagination of the public through an appeal to their feelings”. They are not aimed at our rational selves, but our unconscious and emotional selves.

    Trump saying that immigrants are eating the dogs and cats in Springfield, Ohio, is not appealing to our rational system. It’s providing us with a vivid image, and trying to affect our emotional and unconscious system.

    As the sociobiologist Robert Trivers has pointed out, lying can give you a clear evolutionary advantage. Status, wealth and achievements are important in that great evolutionary battle, the survival of the genes – that’s why people (including Trump) lie about them. But Trivers says self-deceit can also be evolutionarily advantageous, because if you can convince yourself then it makes you more convincing to others, and therefore more effective.

    Perhaps Trump managed to convince himself that they really were eating the dogs and cats in Springfield. Or perhaps he thought to himself: “Plant the emotional image, that’s all you need for the faithful.”

    Attractive fictions might well engage us and sweep us along but, as Shakespeare suggested in the Merchant of Venice, many people hope the “truth will out” eventually. The last few months of the US election campaign suggest this may not always be true.

    Geoff Beattie does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why does Donald Trump tell such blatant lies? – https://theconversation.com/why-does-donald-trump-tell-such-blatant-lies-241192

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Secretary-General’s remarks for the inauguration of the renovated Africa Hall

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Dear Prime Minister Abiy, dear Chairperson Moussa Faki, dear friends and colleagues,

    It is an enormous pleasure to join all of you for this moment of history – in this house of history. 

    I thank all our partners – particularly the Government of Ethiopia, along with our own United Nations Economic Commission for Africa for the tremendous work.

    This hall is where Africa came together to give life to the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union. 

    Times were very different. 

    In 1961, when this Hall was inaugurated by Emperor Haile Selassie, only 26 African nations had achieved independence – many of them just months before.

    Today, Africa is a transformed continent.

    And to my mind, this renewed building symbolizes renewed hope and unity for Africa.

    This Hall is a bridge between Africa’s past and future – honouring shared struggles and achievements, while embracing common aspirations.  It is ubuntu.

    A state of the art 21st century facility that preserves the grandeur and history of this great continent.

    I also see it as an invitation for everyone to cooperate in pursuit of a better future, for Africa and for the world.

    Dear friends,

    As we celebrate this new beginning, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead of us.

    Africa is a continent of hope. 

    But it faces challenges that are deeply rooted in history and are exacerbated by climate change, conflict and persistent poverty.

    And African women often bear the brunt of these hardships.

    Addressing these issues requires resolute action and renewed solidarity.

    Our global institutions were built at a time when most of Africa was under colonial rule.  

    But unlike this Hall with its 21st century innovations, many of these global institutions are stuck in those times, unable to respond to the aspirations and rights of the African people.

    Africa still has no permanent seat at the Security Council. And let’s hope it will be corrected soon.

    And international financial institutions often cannot provide African countries with the response they need – whether it is protection from strangling debt or from climate catastrophe they did not cause.

    We can only move forward if we also renew and update global institutions – by making them more effective, fair and inclusive.

    Last month, world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.

    The Pact recognizes the need to reform the Security Council to make it representative, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable.

    It also calls for groundbreaking reforms of the international financial architecture – including to massively scale-up affordable development and climate finance.

    And the Global Digital Compact includes the first truly universal agreement on the governance of Artificial Intelligence – giving every country a seat at the table, while supporting partnerships to bridge the digital divide and build AI capacity in developing countries and namely in Africa.

    We must now move forward together in implementing these historic agreements without delay.

    And we must include young people at every step of the way.

    Dear friends,

    For more than sixty years, the Africa Hall has been a symbol of the continent’s collective aspirations, a testament to its resilience, and a beacon of hope for entire generations.

    Today, as we step into this renewed space, let us also renew our pledge to work for the people of Africa and the world we need.

    May the debates and discussions here continue to lead towards greater peace, unity and prosperity for all on the African continent.

    And I thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Quigley Statement on Tenth Anniversary of Laquan McDonald Shooting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

    U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in recognition of the 10th anniversary of the Laquan McDonald police shooting:

    “Ten years ago today, 17-year-old Laquan McDonald was shot and killed by a Chicago police officer. Laquan’s death shocked our city and led to Chicagoans demanding change from law enforcement and accountability from Chicago’s leaders. Today, I join all those still mourning Laquan’s death and still demanding change.

    “Laquan’s murder is part of a long history of Black men being senselessly killed by police officers. His name is now uttered along with Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Adam Toledo, Eric Garner, George Floyd, and too many more.

    “Going for a jog, a walk, a drive, or simply existing in your own home should never be a death sentence. The only remedy is to enact transformative changes to government and law enforcement systems that have failed Black communities for too long.

    “To that end, after ten years, it is simply unacceptable that the Chicago Police Department has achieved only seven percent compliance with the Justice Department’s consent decree. The residents of Chicago have demanded – and deserve – better. I firmly believe that most police officers seek to do right by their communities but too many bad apples continue to color communities’ relationships with law enforcement. When bad officers erode public trust, they harm the reputation of their fellow good officers.

    “Unconscious bias and systemic racism must be rooted out. Bad officers must be held accountable for their actions. We owe it to Laquan to build a future that reflects our founding belief in equal justice under the law.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at a home-based transcranial direct current stimulation treatment (tDCS) and major depressive disorder

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Nature Medicine looks at home-based brain stimulation as a possible treatment for major depressive disorder. 

    Dr Julian Mutz, King’s Prize Research Fellow, King’s College London, said:

    “Depression is a common mental health condition that carries a significant disease burden.  While medication and psychotherapy are effective, they do not work for every patient and sometimes cause unwanted side effects.  Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, such as transcranial magnetic or electrical stimulation, offer alternative treatment options.  A barrier to more widespread use is the need for frequent visits to the clinic, usually five times a week for several weeks.  There is considerable interest in transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) due to its potential for home-based use.  However, data from randomised clinical trials are limited.  Prior studies have supported its feasibility but more data are needed to establish efficacy, an important gap that this study addresses.  In this phase II trial of 174 patients, the authors show that tDCS was efficacious over a ten-week period, a longer duration than prior home-based trials.  Nearly half of the patients receiving tDCS achieved clinical remission, compared to just over 20% in the control group.  The treatment also showed a good safety profile, which will provide reassurance to both clinicians and patients.  Given that two of the largest randomised controlled trials of tDCS yielded negative results, this trial will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing discussions about tDCS as a treatment option for depression.

    “This is a well-designed trial of tDCS, with sample sizes comparable to those of the largest tDCS trials in the clinic.  The trial had appropriate procedures in place to mitigate potential risks of bias and the authors carefully monitored and reported on adverse events and safety.  The assessment of efficacy was not limited to clinician ratings but also included patient reported outcomes.

    “tDCS is different from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).  ECT involves inducing a seizure and is applied under general anaesthesia.  ECT is generally reserved for the most difficult-to-treat patients when other treatment approaches have been unsuccessful.  tDCS applies mild electrical stimulation to the scalp while the patient is fully awake.”

    Prof Jonathan Roiser, Professor of Neuroscience & Mental Health, UCL, said:

    “This paper reports on a moderately large clinical trial of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for depression.  tDCS is a non-invasive brain stimulation method that has been tested in many previous depression trials – with mixed success – and involves delivering a mild electric current to a specific brain region (often, as in this study, to the prefrontal cortex, with electrodes placed on the forehead).  tDCS was delivered several times per week for 10 weeks, for half an hour each time.  In the “sham” (i.e. placebo) group, patients received only very brief stimulation to mimic the sensation of the active tDCS on the skin, in an attempt to introduce blinding.  What was relatively new in this study was the use of a commercially available device patients could use at home by themselves, with remote support from the study team.  Patients were told to use the machine five times each week for the first three weeks, reduced to three times each week for the remaining seven weeks.  Around two-thirds of the patients were taking antidepressant medication.  Some of the study investigators had a financial interest in the company that makes the tDCS device.

    “On average, both groups had quite substantial reductions in depressive symptoms (rated by the research team using a standard clinical interview) over 10 weeks.  However, there was a greater reduction in the active stimulation group, around half of whom got completely better.  This improvement was statistically better than in the sham group, around one-quarter of whom got completely better.  The size of the difference was in the small-to-moderate range, which is quite similar to trials of antidepressant medication.  The major challenge in interpreting this otherwise promising finding relates to problems with blinding: around three-quarters of the active stimulation group correctly guessed their treatment allocation, while less than half did so in the sham stimulation group.  This was probably due to minor side effects caused by the stimulation device; mostly skin redness, which occurred in nearly two-thirds of those receiving active stimulation, but also skin irritation and cognitive problems (trouble concentrating) in a small number of patients.  If there was clear skin redness on the forehead, it is possible that the researchers conducting the clinical interviews might also have also guessed the treatment allocation.  It is worth noting that a couple of the patients had more serious side effects, specifically skin burns which may have been caused by incorrect use of the device.”

    ‘Home-based transcranial direct current stimulation treatment for major depressive disorder: a fully remote phase 2 randomized sham-controlled trial’ by Rachel D. Woodham et al. was published in Nature Medicine at 16:00 UK time on Monday 21 October 2024.

    DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03305-y

    Declared interests

    Dr Julian Mutz: “I do not have any COIs to report.  I have co-authored publications with the senior author in the past, but have not been involved in any collaboration recently.”

    Prof Jonathan Roiser: “No interests to declare.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New report reveals that targets to save 30% of the ocean by 2030 aren’t being met

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Callum Roberts, Professor of Marine Conservation, University of Exeter

    Qasimphotographer/Shutterstock

    The world is gathering in Colombia for the UN biodiversity conference known as Cop16, a biannual pulse-taking of the living planet where actions to protect the natural world are agreed. At its last meeting in 2022, an ambitious roadmap for nature protection was put in place. As part of that Kunming-Montreal global biodiversity framework, the UN set a bold goal to protect 30% of the world’s land and ocean by 2030 – known as “30×30” – which was agreed by 196 countries and bodies such as the European Commission.

    A key task in Colombia will be to measure progress, and the ocean is in the spotlight. A new report reveals that growth in marine protected areas – designated nature conservation zones that are protected from one or more harmful or damaging human activities – is far too slow to achieve this target. Analysis by conservation experts shows that protected areas are too scattered and unrepresentative.

    Efforts to protect marine life lag far behind conservation on land. When 30×30 was agreed, the world had protected roughly 17% of land and 7.8% of the sea. The sea element was already behind previous targets, set in 2010 by the UN’s Convention on Biological Diversity to reach 17% and 10% protection of land and sea by 2020.

    The 30×30 target is based on what scientists say is required to protect marine diversity, unlike the arbitrary 10% target it replaces. This would give a decent chance of meeting basic conservation goals like representing the full spectrum of habitats and species, or sustaining ecosystem services, such as the provision of seafood to eat and clean water for people. The 30×30 target was designed to turbo-charge conservation, end biodiversity loss and begin nature’s recovery. It hasn’t quite worked out that way, at least not yet.

    The new report, commissioned by philanthropic initiative the Bloomberg Ocean Fund and developed in partnership with environmental organisations Campaign for Nature, the Marine Conservation Institute and SkyTruth, is sobering. Since 2022, the global ocean protected area network has grown by only 0.5 percentage points to 8.3%, still nearly 2% short of the 10% target that 30×30 replaced. On this trajectory, the world is set to crawl towards just 9.7% by 2030. The world is failing badly and there seems little urgency in the pace of progress.

    Some marine protected area designations set fishing restrictions.
    Tamil Selvam/Shutterstock

    Most marine protected areas (MPA) fail the quality test too. Assessed against a global framework of effectiveness, called the MPA guide, most marine protected areas are insufficiently protected or managed to deliver positive benefits to nature. The report calculates that only 2.8% of the world’s ocean is protected “effectively” according to MPA guide criteria. They include tiny protected areas like the South Arran MPA in Scotland, which was set up in 2014 and monitored by the local community, and the vast and still wild Ascension Island protected area that encloses 172,000 square miles (445,000km²) of the tropical Atlantic.

    Even this low figure could overestimate current effectiveness. Reporting against MPA guide criteria is not yet mandatory for countries, so inconsistent definitions of protected areas complicate measurement of progress. And while some countries have declared MPAs as either “highly” or “fully” protected, the report suggests some of these areas aren’t sufficiently funded by governmental or other means to deliver effective management.

    Country protected-area networks – that’s the the total composition of all protected areas – are badly imbalanced. In the global north, countries like the US, UK and France have declared large highly and fully protected areas in their overseas territories to boost the coverage of effective MPAs. Meanwhile, in home waters, most MPAs remain subject to destructive and extractive industrial activities such as bottom-trawl fishing or offshore energy. Their headline percentage protection numbers therefore “blue-wash” the reality of ongoing damage and biodiversity loss.

    This October, Australia expanded the sub-Antarctic Heard and MacDonald Islands MPA, leading its environment minister to declare that with 52% of Australia’s waters protected, it had far exceeded 30×30. This and other huge offshore protected areas hide the fact that only 15% of coastal seas around the main Australian landmass are protected. Much of it is still open to industrial fishing and oil and gas production.

    The 30×30 goal will also be an impossible dream until the world ratifies the UN’s high seas treaty. This was agreed in 2022 to manage and protect the colossal 61% of the ocean (43% of the Earth’s surface) that lies beyond the sovereign waters of any nation. Until that treaty comes into force, there is no agreed legal mechanism to create MPAs there. At present, just 1.4% of international waters are protected, much of them in Antarctica.

    The Bloomberg report recommends governments speed up the creation of more marine protected areas. Another new study suggests a further 190,000 MPAs will be needed to reach 30×30, equivalent to 85 new protected areas daily for the rest of this decade.

    While numbers and size matter, the world must also stop paying lip service to conservation and deliver real protection for nature, matched with sufficient and durable finance to ensure they work. And the high seas treaty needs urgently ratified, since there otherwise remains a near half-planet sized hole in ambitions for 30×30.


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

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Callum Roberts receives funding from Convex Insurance, EU H2020, and EU Synergy. He is a board member of Nekton and Maldives Coral Institute, and advisor to Minderoo Foundation, Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy and CORDAP, and is a Pew Marine Fellow and WWF Fellow.

    – ref. New report reveals that targets to save 30% of the ocean by 2030 aren’t being met – https://theconversation.com/new-report-reveals-that-targets-to-save-30-of-the-ocean-by-2030-arent-being-met-241584

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting Jasper residents’ return home

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring Jasper residents are supported as the community recovers from the summer’s wildfire. To support rebuilding efforts in Jasper, government is committing $112 million to build interim housing for displaced Jasper residents and residents of Pine Grove Senior Citizens Manor.

    Work on the sites in Jasper has already begun, and the first residents are expected to begin moving in as early as January 2025. Homes in Jasper will be available for essential service workers and support service workers, and other eligible Jasper residents who lost their homes and are employed in the area. Alberta’s government will ensure that interim homes are ready for eligible residents as quickly and efficiently as possible.

    “Our entire country grieved when wildfire ravaged Jasper this past summer. We know the rebuilding process takes time, and we’re doing all we can to support Jasper’s recovery. Most of all, people want to return home, and the funding we have approved will speed up that process so folks can rebuild their lives and move forward sooner.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta

    “We know that Jasper residents are eager to get back home and Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring they have the supports they need throughout this rebuilding effort. When ready, these interim homes will address the immediate housing need in Jasper and provide a short-term housing option for those who are working in the town doing the critical work needed to support this rebuild.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    To support the interim housing needs of Jasperites, the government is supporting the construction of modular homes. It is estimated that this portion of the provincial funding will build 250 modular homes for eligible displaced Jasper residents. Modular homes are constructed off-site, in a controlled environment, to allow for all-season construction and accelerated schedules. They are installed using permanent foundations that ensure the safety and comfort of the occupants.

    Interim housing units in Jasper will be provided at market rent, and applications and eligibility details will be released in the future. Units in Jasper will be sold at market value when they are no longer required for interim housing for Jasper recovery.

    “This interim housing is a much-needed step forward in getting the community of Jasper back on track and getting people into homes. Alberta’s government will continue to work with the town and our partners to restore Jasper as quickly as possible.”

    Martin Long, MLA for West Yellowhead

    “On behalf of the people of Jasper, I extend our sincere gratitude to the Government of Alberta for their critical support in funding interim housing as we work to rebuild Jasper. This housing isn’t just about the buildings, it’s directly linked to our social and economic recovery including the mental well-being of the community as a whole.”

    Richard Ireland, mayor, Town of Jasper

    Alberta’s government is also supporting the residents of Pine Grove Manor with interim housing in Hinton. Pine Grove Manor was destroyed by the fire and this interim housing will keep residents close to their community while the seniors home is rebuilt. Up to 25 units of modular housing will be built for seniors in Hinton on a site that was given to the project by the Town of Hinton. These units in Hinton will later be used as affordable housing for the community. Work on these sites is expected to begin in January and the first seniors are expected to begin moving in as early as April 2025.

    “The Evergreens Foundation is proud to work together with the province to move forward on this project with haste. We continue to keep the needs of the seniors who built our province in the forefront as we work through the Jasper recovery.”

    Kristin Chambers, chief administrative officer, The Evergreens Foundation

    A request for proposals will be released on both of these projects as the next steps in this process. Funding from Alberta’s government will be contributed to these projects over two fiscal years.

    Quick facts

    • The 2024 Jasper wildfire complex destroyed or damaged around 30 per cent of structures in Jasper, including the Pine Grove Seniors Citizens Manor, a government-owned building.
    • Wildfire is an insurable event and insurance can cover costs for interim housing for insured individuals.

    Related news

    • Supporting recovery in Jasper (Sept.19, 2024)
    • Progress on Jasper recovery: Premier Smith and Minister McIver Joint Statement (Oct.10, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia’s ‘meat grinder’ tactics in Ukraine have proved effective in past wars – but at terrible cost

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Becky Alexis-Martin, Peace Studies and International Development, University of Bradford

    Reports have emerged in recent months of particularly savage casualties among Russian troops fighting in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, as the Russian military bids to capture as much territory as it can, possibly with one eye on a potential ceasefire deal. Much will depend on the outcome of the US election. Donald Trump has said he will end military aid to Ukraine if elected, bringing the war to an end in “one day”.

    This could mean that Kyiv will be forced to cede Ukrainian territory along current lines of occupation. Analysts have commented that this was one of the motivations for Ukraine’s Kursk offensive inside Russia in August, since territory captured by Ukraine would be a valuable bargaining chip in negotiations.

    But meanwhile Russia’s offensive in eastern Ukraine has been particularly bloody, with US intelligence reports of casualty numbers of up to 1,000 per day, dead and wounded. This calls to mind the “meat grinder” tactics of previous Russian and Soviet military campaigns.

    The “meat grinder” is a collective battlefield approach that values high troop density and intensity to overwhelm the enemy. It is a uniquely Russian approach nine decades in the making, consisting of a combination two much older strategies, namely attrition and mass mobilisation.

    At the heart of attrition is the notion of abundance. The opponent is physically and psychologically exhausted by the sheer force of numbers, as wave after wave of cannon fodder are relentlessly deployed. Mass mobilisation is the large-scale movement of troops to a particular location with the intention of overpowering the adversary. Neither approach recognises the intrinsic value of individual lives.

    Despite being outmatched in organisation and tactics, the Russian military successfully undertook a war of attrition against Napoleon’s invasion in 1812. A century later, the Russian empire generated enormous casualties but successfully launch large-scale counterattacks during the first world war.

    The “meat grinder” became embedded in Soviet military tactics. The phrase “quantity has a quality of its own” has apocryphal roots in Stalin’s leadership during the second world war. Key battles such as Stalingrad and Kursk involved the deployment of millions of soldiers, and the Soviet army eventually crushed the Nazi blitzkrieg through sheer weight of numbers on the eastern front.

    Past victories do not guarantee future success. But – for the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, and his military planners – it seems the dead and disabled bodies of their own soldiers are necessary collateral damage. It is estimated that more than 70,000 Russian troops have died since 2022. But it has been reported that Russian casualty rates are now rising more rapidly due to its military’s increased reliance on inexperienced fighters.

    The state of the war in Ukraine, October 20 2024.
    Institute for the Study of War

    Civilian recruits now make up the greatest proportion of deaths since the invasion began. This increase is partially their lack of military knowledge in a challenging fighting environment against a highly motivated enemy. But inadequate medical care and poor quality protective kit are also important factors. The Russian state media shares carefully curated images and stories of the deceased but morale is still crashing, and military wives and mothers are rebelling.

    Ultimate sacrifice

    Putin’s meat grinder continues to expand, however. The Russian government announced plans to spend £133.8 billion on national security and defence in 2025, equivalent to 41% of annual government expenditure. All healthy men aged 18 to 30 can now be conscripted, and Russia has recently ordered a third increase in Russian troops. The recruitment of a further 180,000 soldiers will make Russia’s army the second largest in the world, with nearly 2.4 million members. Yet this army is unqualified and offers little protection for the individual soldier.

    Ukraine does not view its soldiers’ lives as disposable in the same way – and they are comparatively well trained and resourced. But the dynamic in Ukraine may be changing. The country’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, signed new conscription laws in April 2024 that lowered the age of conscription to 25, and it has reached the point where eligible men are now being dragged away from restaurants and nightclubs by army recruiters.

    Russia’s meat-grinder tactics are not infallible and will eventually collapse. Large formations can quickly become large targets in an age of remote reconnaissance. While Russia can coerce military participation through the carrot of high wages and the stick of forced conscription, a large and unmotivated army is not well-equipped for modern warfare and will eventually produce diminishing returns.

    Even declaration of martial law in the whole of Russia – Putin introduced martial law in occupied part of Ukraine in September 2022 – would not overcome the deeply embedded structural issues Russia faces. Poor care of soldiers and veterans will generate long-term challenges in the form of disability and treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.

    The social and cultural harms of a poor culture of care are already manifesting in Russia. Approximately 190 serious crimes have been committed by veterans upon returning home. With Putin showing no interest in peace, we can only hope that the Russian war machine burns itself out – and that the long-term consequences are not terminal.

    Becky Alexis-Martin is affiliated with the British American Security Information Council.

    – ref. Russia’s ‘meat grinder’ tactics in Ukraine have proved effective in past wars – but at terrible cost – https://theconversation.com/russias-meat-grinder-tactics-in-ukraine-have-proved-effective-in-past-wars-but-at-terrible-cost-241688

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Arctic Circle Assembly: Minister Doughty Plenary Speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    UK Minister of State for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories outlines the UK’s commitment to the Arctic in the face of rising global challenges.

    Location:
    Reykjavik
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you very much. It is a genuine pleasure to be here, President Grímsson and all of you at the Arctic Circle, distinguished guests and friends across the room.

    It’s a pleasure to be here representing the new government in the United Kingdom, and it has been fantastic to be part of some fascinating discussions – yesterday following my visit with my ministerial colleague in Tromsø, at the Framsenteret in Norway, and in Oslo, and then here in Reykjavik, and meeting with many colleagues from across the Arctic region.

    I am glad of the opportunity to be able to say a few words to you about the UK’s valuable work with all of you as fellow friends of the Arctic.

    I reflect on many of my own personal relationships with people and communities across this incredible region. I have friends from Iqaluit to Nuuk, from Tromsø to Tórshavn, and here in Reykjavik too.

    I reflect back on a moment I spent as a 19-year-old in Finnish Lapland, in the Millenium New Year’s Eve, in a little cabin in the snow, in minus 25, enjoying the sauna and some skiing. 

    But like many that night, I thought a lot about the world, the future of the world in this century, my place in it and what the future might hold.

    And as I sat there amid the incredible beauty and peace, little could I have imagined how the world would look nearly a quarter of a century on.

    With Putin’s war raging on the European continent, and all of the implications that brings for regional and global security.

    And with climate change and biodiversity loss advancing at such a frightening pace, wrecking precious ecosystems and destroying livelihoods.

    And with me as the British minister responsible for Europe, North America and indeed our relations in the Polar regions, I am very conscious that I have to work with all of you to address those challenges.

    And of course that is a daunting responsibility.

    But it is also an immense privilege to hold this role and to be here with you all, united in concern and care for the Arctic, and indeed both polar regions, and determined to navigate the challenges ahead in a spirit of co-operation and respect.

    So there are three areas I wanted to focus on briefly with you today – firstly, our relationships, secondly, our shared security, and thirdly, our efforts to tackle the climate and nature crises.

    Firstly, let me confirm to you that the new UK government is putting internationalism and multilateralism at the heart of all that we do. 

    We are resetting and deepening relationships with friends in Europe and beyond – many here in this room – to better face global challenges. 

    The UK’s Arctic Policy Framework continues to guide our approach, and we continue to update and develop that, guided by science and indeed the strategic challenges that we face.

    And, as it makes clear, we are committed to the Arctic Council in our role as a State Observer, recognising that it has been at the heart of a stable and peaceful region for much of the past three decades. 

    And indeed, the Council has an important role to play in articulating a strong voice and delivering effective governance.

    It has potential to act as a multilateral ‘glue’, with the strength to bind together a fragmented world.

    So, our objectives for the Council are characterised by strong co-operation and constructive dialogue – objectives I think we all share in this room.

    And I commend Norway’s work as Chair of the Council to re-start the technical engagement in the face of the very significant geopolitical challenges.

    We will do what we can to further those efforts, as part of our commitments to the multilateral system.

    But we are of course not naïve. The security of the Arctic is clearly at risk – the impacts of Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine cannot be underestimated, let alone the wider geopolitical cooperation and competition landscape, and that will impact on all of us in this important region.

    So alongside our resolute support for Ukraine, we are working tirelessly with partners for peace, security and stability, particularly for all of those areas of Europe on what I call the flanks – including the Western Balkans, the Nordic states and beyond.

    We recognise Russia’s rights and role as an Arctic state.

    But we will not tolerate attempts to wreck regional stability, disrupt critical infrastructure or restrict freedom of navigation. 

    There is no global security without Arctic security. So, we are ready to protect and – if necessary – assert our rights.

    And on Wednesday, I was privileged to take a tour with the Norwegian Coastguard in Tromsø, to see how security threats and environmental changes are monitored in the High North.

    They have a tough job in tough conditions – and all credit to them.

    And as someone who’s participated alongside our training with Royal Marines in Northern Norway, I have huge respect for all of those who regularly brave the Arctic wilderness to ensure we are ready to protect it.

    And let me be clear that the UK’s commitment to NATO, to the Joint Expeditionary Force, the Northern Group, and the Arctic Security Forces Roundtable is ironclad, including of course our close partnership with our hosts, Iceland.

    And the NATO alliance is of particular significance to me personally. Many members of my family have served in NATO operations over many years, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with allies.

    Of course, beyond Putin’s menace, climate change and the global marine biodiversity loss that we are tragically seeing is the other immense threat that we are all discussing here looming over the Arctic.

    We are witnessing devastating impacts – on glaciers, fish stocks and weather patterns – with implications for us all.

    And we are painfully aware that global warming is driving geopolitical competition over resources beneath the ice too.

    And so that’s why my colleague, the Foreign Secretary David Lammy, made clear in his first major policy speech last month that efforts to address the climate and nature crisis are central to our new government’s work. 

    So at COP29 we will press the global community to accelerate ambition to reduce our emissions and push for an agreement on an ambitious new climate finance goal.

    And we have also seen how research to understand and assess climate change – including through the Arctic Council – has been an important basis to build collaboration. We will continue to back this.

    But we have already invested over one hundred and thirty-five million pounds in Arctic research over the last decade, including through UK centres of expertise.

    Our Royal Research Ship, Sir David Attenborough, paid its first visit to Greenland over the summer, and I was delighted to hear about their work here last night.

    That data gathered will help us understand crucial changes and their impacts on the Arctic Ocean and beyond.

    Now, our Advanced Research and Invention Agency has launched an eighty-one-million-pound call for proposals for further research around Greenland. 

    This new programme will develop an early warning system for ‘tipping points’, providing climate data of local and global importance.

    And we are committing further funds to collaborations with Arctic Council Working Groups, helping to enhance understanding of climate impacts on the livelihoods of Arctic indigenous people, including many other things.

    And I think it’s important to say here that, while we tend to focus on modern science for solutions, indigenous knowledge often holds the key to understanding and responding to the climate and nature crises, on top of the absolute necessity of working in respect and partnership with all of those communities and peoples who live in these wonderful lands, understand these lands, and steward their resources, and indeed their beauty.

    So further research will be key, and will build on our programmes, for example with Canada and the Inuit Nunangat, which is looking into climate-driven changes in that Arctic homeland, as well as impacts on health and wellbeing. I have been delighted to meet representatives of communities from across the Arctic at this fantastic conference.

    So this is just a brief flavour of our work, of our partnerships, of our hope for the future.

    But let me say in conclusion that the future of the Arctic depends on every one of us, working together, in a spirit of strong collaboration and co-operation.

    I hope that when we look back, 25 years from now, it’ll be from the perspective of a more secure, peaceful and indeed sustainable era. Not least here in the Arctic, but also globally.

    Thank you very much.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Announces Plans for New Playground in Thompson

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 21, 2024

    Manitoba Government Announces Plans for New Playground in Thompson

    – – –
    Consultation Will Ensure Planned Playground Meets Needs of Community: Smith

    The Manitoba government is inviting Thompson residents of Manitoba Housing to provide feedback on designs for a new playground in the community by participating in consultations beginning later this month, Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith announced today.

    “Our government recognizes that play is a crucial part of child development that teaches kids about the world around them and helps them cultivate social skills they will carry forward for the rest of their lives,” said Smith. “I’m pleased to announce our government is investing in the future of children in Thompson by building a new playground at the housing complex. I encourage residents to share their feedback on the proposed plans to ensure they address community needs now and into the future.”

    Manitoba Housing is considering three design options for a new playground at 539 Princeton Dr., and a companion swing set and benches nearby at 8 Brandon Cres. The playground will be accessible and will feature Indigenous cultural elements. Community consultations on the new playground will begin in the coming weeks, the minister noted.

    “Thompson families want the same thing all Manitobans want, the freedom to raise a healthy family in a safe community,” said Kathy Valentino, deputy mayor, City of Thompson. The new playground reflects the values of our community and build relationships between youth and their families.”

    These in-person consultations will also be an opportunity for Manitoba Housing residents to connect with staff to ask questions and share ideas. A playground-themed colouring and drawing station will be available for children at the session, the minister added.

    Manitoba Housing owns and operates 95 rental units in Thompson. Of those, 55 units are townhouse properties designated for families, and 40 units in two apartment blocks are designated for families or tenants aged 50 and over.

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Liechtenstein: Five Things You May Not Know About the IMF’s Newest Member

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    By Rodgers Chawani and Kazuko Shirono

    October 21, 2024

    Liechtenstein is a winter sports destination and the only doubly-landlocked country in Europe. Find out more about the IMF’s 191st member

    The IMF welcomed the Principality of Liechtenstein as its 191st member. Prime Minister Daniel Risch signed the IMF’s Articles of Agreement in a ceremony in Washington, D.C at the beginning of the 2024 Annual Meetings, which the country now attends as a full member.

    Five Facts about Liechtenstein

    1. Liechtenstein is one of only two doubly landlocked countries worldwide, along with Uzbekistan.

      Among six smallest European states—Andorra, Malta, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City—Liechtenstein has the third-largest total area at 160 sq. km, comparable to the size of the city of Washington D.C. Liechtenstein is located between Austria and Switzerland in the Alps and is a winter sports destination. About 40,000 people call it home, half of the population of Andorra. Although Liechtenstein’s capital, Vaduz, is the best-known city in the principality, it’s not the largest; next-door Schaan has a larger population.

    2. Liechtenstein is a parliamentary constitutional principality with a small civil service.

      The 1921 constitution combines monarchy and democratic principles, defining the principality as “a constitutional, hereditary monarchy on a democratic and parliamentary basis.” The government consists of a five-member cabinet nominated by parliament and appointed by the prince for a four-year term. Liechtenstein has 1,500 civil servants, less than 4 percent of the population, significantly lower than the EU average of about 17 percent. Twenty-five members of parliament serve a four-year term.

    3. Liechtenstein has the second highest per capita income in Europe, behind Monaco.

      Liechtenstein’s per capita income of US$197K/year is substantially higher than that of most other small states and other European countries. High investment in research and development (6.2 percent of GDP) supports a globally-competitive and export-oriented manufacturing sector, which includes machine and tool engineering, plant construction, and precision and dental instruments, contributing to high incomes. The share of industry is high at 42 percent of gross value added, well above the EU average (about 15 percent). The financial sector, mostly based on private banking, wealth management, insurance, and trust services, accounts for about 20 percent of GDP.

    4. The number of persons employed in Liechtenstein exceeds its population.

      A distinctive feature of Liechtenstein’s economy is the large number of inward, cross-border commuters—from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Compared to a population of approximately 40,000, the workforce was 42,500 in 2022. About half of the workforce commutes daily from Switzerland (59 percent of commuters) or Austria (37 percent). Labor force participation is high (76.1 percent, vis-à-vis 74.9 percent in the EU), and the unemployment rate is below 2 percent.

    5. Despite its small size, Liechtenstein is globally integrated.

      The US, Germany, and Switzerland are among its most important export destinations. As part of the European Economic Area, Liechtenstein has full access to the EU’s single market, including financial markets, under the rules for free movement of services and capital. Building on access to the EU’s financial market and oversight by the European Banking Authority, Liechtenstein’s financial institutions have extended private wealth management networks outside the EU to Asia and the Middle East. Strong economic ties with Switzerland—including use of the Swiss franc—have also fostered trade and labor market integration. 

    ****

    Rodgers Chawani is a senior economist and Kazuko Shirono is a deputy chief. Both are in the IMF’s European Department.

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/21/cf-five-things-you-may-not-know-about-liechtenstein

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Climate futures for lizards and snakes

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Have you found your niche? 

    For us humans that usually means we’ve found a job or hobby that is perfectly suited to our interests and skills. A climate niche is similar—it’s the combination of temperature and precipitation that is perfectly suited to a species’ needs. Climate is particularly important for lizards and snakes because they are ectotherms, commonly referred to as “cold-blooded.”  That means they depend on the environment for warmth since their bodies don’t generate heat on their own. 

    It’s no surprise then that the southwestern U.S. and Mexico are home to the most lizard and snake species in western North America. However, as the climate warms and water availability becomes more variable, the locations of species’ climate niches could change. Parts of the continent that were previously suitable for a species could become too warm, while areas farther north or higher in elevation that were previously too cold for reptiles could become “just right.” 

    This classic Goldilocks story was the focus of a recent study by U.S. Geological Survey and U.S. Forest Service researchers. Where will those ideal climate conditions be as climate change unfolds across the West? Answering that question could help us predict where species will live in the future, providing valuable information for those working today to sustain biodiversity tomorrow.

    Scientists gathered data on the recent distributions of 130 lizard and snake species found from Mexico to western Canada. 

    The climate in each species’ current range defined its “climate-niche distribution” or the area where the temperature and precipitation have been suitable for survival and reproduction over the last 30 years or so. 

    Then, the team looked at where those same climate conditions may occur later in the century based on multiple climate change scenarios. 

    Overall, future climate-niche distributions are predicted to shift northward and towards higher elevations. 

    By the end of the century, 68% of the 130 species are predicted to have an expanded climate-niche distribution, potentially resulting in new species arriving across state and international borders if there are no barriers to dispersal. 

    Idaho and Colorado are the states predicted to have the most species knocking at their door. Both states border vast deserts to the south and have remarkable elevation gradients.

    Dede Olson, research ecologist with the U.S. Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station says:

    “As species migrate northward, they could cross jurisdictional boundaries, such as private lands, state lines, or even international borders. Natural resource agencies might find themselves managing species that were not previously within their regions.”

    On the map to the right, areas shaded in yellow have suitable climate for a larger number of reptile species. The maximum number of species is 68 in the recent time period and 69 in the future scenario. Areas in purple are suitable for fewer species. 

    Although most species are predicted to enjoy an expanded climate niche, 8.5% of species—mostly in the southwest United States and Mexico—could lose climate-niche space as parts of their current ranges become too warm and dry for survival. The states of Chihuahua and Sonora in Mexico are predicted to lose climate-niche space for the most species.

    The researchers behind the study released the full data set to the public and developed a data visualization tool to make it easy to explore the results and learn more about how climate change could impact local species. The data release includes downloadable data, including full-page illustrations of climate-niche predictions for each species. 

    Anyone from scientists and resource managers to local residents interested in the wildlife in their own backyard can use the tool. The interactive figures display the results by species, state, or elevation.

    Michelle Jeffries, a biologist with the USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center says:

    “We created this data visualization tool so resource managers will be able to quickly identify which species may need attention as the climate changes. The tool brings the figures from the paper to life. It allows users to interact with the data, filter it, and create their own figures tailored to their specific needs or interests.”  

    Whether those reptile species can actually move towards cooler climates and survive in new habitats depends on many factors. Human-created barriers like cities or roads could block the way, or natural obstacles like rivers and canyons could halt progress. 

    On the map to the right, areas shaded in brown are predicted to lose climate-niche space for reptile species in the future. Areas in teal are predicted to gain species. These simulated dispersal scenarios are on opposite ends of the spectrum. Actual changes in climate-niche species richness will likely fall somewhere in between: some species will be able to disperse and others will not.

    There could be other habitat suitability considerations as well, like food availability or predators. It’s also possible that some species will adapt to the changing climate of their current range and stay put. Populations with enough genetic variation could evolve tolerance to warmer temperatures over generations. In other words, a shift in climate-niche doesn’t necessarily mean a species’ distribution will shift accordingly.

    David Pilliod, research ecologist with the USGS and lead author of the publication said:

    “Researchers around the world are looking at links between genetics and climate adaptation, temperature and reproduction, the timing of life history events and migrations…it’s a long list. Reptiles are a very diverse but understudied group, and we know they’re particularly sensitive to changes in environmental temperature. We wanted to try and focus attention on species and habitats that could be impacted by climate change relatively soon.”

    This early warning that climate-niche distributions could change, and reptile species could be gained or lost, gives wildlife managers a chance to prepare. The results of this study are relevant to managers across 47 states and provinces from Mexico to western Canada with responsibilities for species conservation and habitat management. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: UN Secretary-General’s remarks for the inauguration of the renovated Africa Hall

    Source: United Nations – English

    ear Prime Minister Abiy, dear Chairperson Moussa Faki, dear friends and colleagues,

    It is an enormous pleasure to join all of you for this moment of history – in this house of history. 

    I thank all our partners – particularly the Government of Ethiopia, along with our own United Nations Economic Commission for Africa for the tremendous work.

    This hall is where Africa came together to give life to the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union. 

    Times were very different. 

    In 1961, when this Hall was inaugurated by Emperor Haile Selassie, only 26 African nations had achieved independence – many of them just months before.

    Today, Africa is a transformed continent.

    And to my mind, this renewed building symbolizes renewed hope and unity for Africa.

    This Hall is a bridge between Africa’s past and future – honouring shared struggles and achievements, while embracing common aspirations.  It is ubuntu.

    A state of the art 21st century facility that preserves the grandeur and history of this great continent.

    I also see it as an invitation for everyone to cooperate in pursuit of a better future, for Africa and for the world.

    Dear friends,

    As we celebrate this new beginning, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead of us.

    Africa is a continent of hope. 

    But it faces challenges that are deeply rooted in history and are exacerbated by climate change, conflict and persistent poverty.

    And African women often bear the brunt of these hardships.

    Addressing these issues requires resolute action and renewed solidarity.

    Our global institutions were built at a time when most of Africa was under colonial rule.  

    But unlike this Hall with its 21st century innovations, many of these global institutions are stuck in those times, unable to respond to the aspirations and rights of the African people.

    Africa still has no permanent seat at the Security Council. And let’s hope it will be corrected soon.

    And international financial institutions often cannot provide African countries with the response they need – whether it is protection from strangling debt or from climate catastrophe they did not cause.

    We can only move forward if we also renew and update global institutions – by making them more effective, fair and inclusive.

    Last month, world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.

    The Pact recognizes the need to reform the Security Council to make it representative, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable.

    It also calls for groundbreaking reforms of the international financial architecture – including to massively scale-up affordable development and climate finance.

    And the Global Digital Compact includes the first truly universal agreement on the governance of Artificial Intelligence – giving every country a seat at the table, while supporting partnerships to bridge the digital divide and build AI capacity in developing countries and namely in Africa.

    We must now move forward together in implementing these historic agreements without delay.

    And we must include young people at every step of the way.

    Dear friends,

    For more than sixty years, the Africa Hall has been a symbol of the continent’s collective aspirations, a testament to its resilience, and a beacon of hope for entire generations.

    Today, as we step into this renewed space, let us also renew our pledge to work for the people of Africa and the world we need.

    May the debates and discussions here continue to lead towards greater peace, unity and prosperity for all on the African continent.

    And I thank you.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2024 American Women Quarters Rolls and Bags™ Honoring Zitkala-Ša on Sale October 28

    Source: United States Mint

    WASHINGTON – The United States Mint (Mint) 2024 American Women Quarters rolls and bags honoring Zitkala-Ša will be available for purchase on October 28 at noon EDT. The Zitkala-Ša quarter is the 15th coin in the American Women Quarters™ Program, a four-year program that celebrates the accomplishments and contributions made by women who have shaped our Nation’s history and helped pave the way for generations that followed.

    The rolls and bags product options include:

    • Priced at $45.00, a bag of 100 circulating quality quarters minted in Philadelphia (product code 24WBJ)
    • Priced at $45.00, a bag of 100 circulating quality quarters minted in Denver (product code 24WBK)
    • Priced at $40.00, a two-roll set containing a total of 80 circulating quality quarters minted in Philadelphia and Denver (product code 24WRJ)
    • Priced at $60.00, a three-roll set containing a total of 120 circulating quality quarters minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco (product code 24WRK)

    Orders for the 100-coin bags are limited to 10 per household on the first day, while orders for the two-roll and three-roll sets are limited to three per household on the first day.

    Sign up to receive “Remind Me” alerts by visiting the official product listing page.

    Because of overwhelming demand, much of the production of the three-roll sets is accounted for through subscription. A limited quantity will be available for purchase on October 28 at noon EDT.

    The American Women Quarters rolls and bags are available for purchase through the Mint’s Product Subscription Program. These subscriptions work like a magazine subscription. After you sign up, you will receive the next product released in the series and continue to receive products until you end your subscription. Visit our subscriptions page to learn more.

    The American Women Quarters will also be available at the Mint’s sales centers at the Philadelphia Mint, 151 N. Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (on 5th Street between Arch Street and Race Street); the Denver Mint, 320 West Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO 80204 (on Cherokee Street, between West Colfax Avenue and West 14th Avenue); and the Mint Headquarters Coin Store in Washington, D.C., 801 9th St. NW, Washington, DC 20220.

    The reverse (tails) depicts Zitkala-Ša in traditional Yankton Sioux dress. She is holding a book, which represents her work as an author as well as her successful activism for Native American rights. Behind her, a stylized sun represents her work on The Sun Dance Opera, while a cardinal symbolizes her name, which translates to “Red Bird.” A Yankton Sioux-inspired diamond pattern sits underneath the sun. Inscriptions are “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “AUTHOR,” “ACTIVIST,” “COMPOSER,” “25 CENTS,” and “ZITKALA-ŠA.” Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) Designer Don Everhart created the design, which Mint Medallic Artist Renata Gordon sculpted.

    Each coin in this series features a common obverse (heads) design depicting a portrait of George Washington. This design was originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser as a candidate entry for the 1932 quarter, which honored the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. The inscriptions are “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “2024.”

    Launched in 2022, and continuing through 2025, the Mint is issuing five new quarter dollar reverse designs each year. The American Women Quarters Program is authorized by the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020 (Public Law 116-330).

    Inspire women everywhere. Shop the American Women Quarters Program today and start collecting this historic series honoring extraordinary women whose achievements, triumphs, and legacies reflect the strength and resilience of our Nation.

    The groundbreaking American Women Quarters Program is an excellent way to remind future generations what can be accomplished with vision, determination, and a desire to improve opportunities for all. Subscribe to the program today to ensure fulfillment of your favorite product through 2025.

    Please use the United States Mint catalog site at https://catalog.usmint.gov/ as your primary source of the most current information on product and service status or call 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468). Hearing and speech impaired customers with TTY equipment may order by calling 1-888-321-MINT (6468).

    About the United States Mint
    Congress created the United States Mint in 1792, and the Mint became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. As the Nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, the Mint is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.

    Note: To ensure that all members of the public have fair and equal access to United States Mint products, the United States Mint will not accept, nor honor orders placed prior to the official on-sale date of October 28, 2024, at noon EDT. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IPO campaign highlights dangers of counterfeit vehicle parts  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The campaign focuses on the serious risks these goods pose, warning that ‘Fake Always Breaks’ .

    • the Intellectual Property Office has launched a new national awareness campaign warning of the dangers of buying counterfeit vehicle parts
    • the ‘Fake Always Breaks’ campaign highlights to consumers and the motor trade that counterfeits are more likely to fail and endanger road users, putting lives at risk
    • safety-critical items such as tyres, wheels, airbags and brakes are among the most commonly-purchased fake items
    • the campaign has been developed in partnership with the motoring industry

    The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has launched its latest national awareness campaign, warning consumers of the dangers of purchasing counterfeit vehicle parts.

    Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) research estimated that counterfeit vehicle parts imported to the UK were worth almost £1billion in 2016.  

    Driving home a clear message that ‘Fake Always Breaks’, the IPO’s new campaign alerts drivers to the life-threatening dangers such counterfeits pose. These include  items such as brakes, headlights and air bags.

    A survey conducted for the IPO has revealed that one in six motorists who responded said they had bought a counterfeit part in the past 12 months alone.

    The campaign highlights how counterfeit vehicle parts are not subject to the same rigorous testing as legitimate products.  It signposts new guidance advice for consumers and the motoring industry published by the IPO on how to spot and report a fake, developed in partnership with the motoring industry.

    The campaign shows that many of the most commonly-purchased counterfeit car parts in the UK pose significant safety concerns if faulty. These include car batteries (bought by 25% of motorists who admit to buying counterfeit parts), tyres/wheels (23%) and windscreen wipers (19%). 14% of motorists who have purchased fake car parts bought counterfeit airbags, while over a tenth (12%) bought fake brake pads or discs.

    Although many purchases are made unknowingly, almost three fifths (58%) of motorists responding to a survey said they did so knowing  the part was counterfeit.

    The survey also found that getting parts for a lower price was a significant factor among those intentionally buying a fake part, with three in ten (31%) citing cost savings as a reason.

    A third (34%) of motorists who admitted to buying fake parts said they did so because they felt there was no discernible difference in appearance (34%).

    Responses also suggest that such purchases made unknowingly are often uncovered at a later stage. More than two in five motorists (45%) who bought a fake that they thought was genuine, found out through their garage after the part faulted, with 30% becoming aware during routine service checks.

    The campaign is being supported by a range of organisations in the automotive industry and vehicle repair and servicing sectors. These include the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation and the Independent Garage Association.

    Vehicle manufacturers including Mercedes Benz, and law enforcement bodies such as the City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU), are also involved in the campaign.  It brings targeted social media and industry voices together  to deliver an awareness message that will resonate, and help consumers make informed choices.  

    Miles Rees, IPO Deputy Director of Enforcement  said: 

    This is a serious campaign with a very serious message.  We want to raise awareness that the trade in counterfeit vehicle parts not only harms legitimate traders while enriching criminals, but can also lead to life-changing or life-ending consequences for road users.

    Working with our partners, we’re highlighting that such illicit goods are not subject to safety tests, and are likely to be made using vastly inferior materials.  This puts them at increased risk of failure, with potentially devastating results. 

    Our ‘Fake Always Breaks’ campaign seeks to arm motorists and the vehicle repair and servicing industries with the awareness they need to help spot a fake, avoid the risks and report sellers . It reinforces a clear message that – as with all counterfeiting and piracy – this is anything but a victimless crime.

    Stuart James, Chief Executive Officer at the Independent Garage Association (IGA) said:

    We are pleased to support the IPO’s campaign that aims to raise awareness of the severe safety risks that counterfeit vehicle parts pose to all road users.

    Garages should ensure that they avoid using customer supplied parts and fit parts from trusted suppliers and reputable vehicle parts distributors. This practice not only enhances the safety of vehicles but also reassures customers that all components meet the required specifications.

    We actively encourage any garage that identifies counterfeit parts to report them through the various channels highlighted in the IPO advice. Together, we can combat this issue and contribute to safer roads for all.

    Detective Chief Inspector Emma Warbey, from the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU), at City of London Police, said:

    Counterfeiting safety-critical car components like tyres, wheels, airbags and brakes demonstrates the lengths that criminals will go to make money and their disregard for the safety of the people who will end up using these products.

    Our officers recently seized 500 counterfeit car airbags, which could have put motorists at risk, during an operation in east London. Fake airbags aren’t manufactured to industry standards, so there’s a real possibility that they won’t inflate during a road traffic collision, or will deploy in error.

    We know that the offer of a good deal can be enticing, but it’s vital to know how to spot the signs of a counterfeit car part and to buy from a reputable seller.

    The campaign builds on previous consumer campaign activities undertaken by the IPO since the publication of its ambitious 5-year counter-infringement strategy, as the office continues to deliver on its commitments to raise public understanding, and ultimately respect, for IP rights.  

    Notes to editor: 

    1. A core strand of IPO’s Counter Infringement Strategy is to raise awareness and understanding of IP crime and infringement and the risks surrounding it.

    2. The IPO regularly commissions research into topics relating to the infringement of intellectual property rights, including Social Media Influencers research published last year, regular reports include the Online Copyright Infringement and Physical Goods Tracker reports. The rese  arch underpinning this campaign is found in the most recent Physical Goods Tracker report.

    3. OECD source: Trade in Counterfeit Products and the UK Economy, 2019 Update

    New guidance has been published by the IPO to consumers and industry.  

    4. Counterfeit vehicle parts are unauthorised copies of a genuine branded part being it an (OEM) part supplied by car manufacturers or aftermarket parts. An aftermarket part is anything not supplied by a vehicle manufacturer under their own brand name. Criminals target both categories. Counterfeit parts are usually made from inferior materials and are not safety-tested, increasing the risk of failure.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: BOEM Completes Environmental Review of Wind Lease Areas Offshore New York and New Jersey

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    TRENTON – In support of the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of deploying 30 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind energy capacity by 2030, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has completed an environmental review to assess potential wind development activities within six wind lease areas covering over 488,000 acres offshore New York and New Jersey in an area known as the New York Bight. BOEM estimates that full development of the lease areas could generate up to 7 GW of offshore wind energy, enough to power up to two million homes.

    “BOEM has collected input from Tribes, Federal and state government agencies, local communities, ocean users, and key stakeholders as part of our comprehensive environmental review,” said BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein. “We appreciate the feedback we have received, and we believe our regional approach will provide a solid baseline for future environmental reviews for any proposed offshore wind projects in the New York Bight.”

    In February 2022, BOEM held an auction that brought in over $4.3 billion for the rights to six lease areas in the New York Bight – a record amount for any U.S. offshore renewable or conventional energy lease sale.

    BOEM prepared a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) to analyze potential environmental impacts of offshore wind activities in the six New York Bight lease areas. The Proposed Action for the PEIS identifies avoidance, minimization, mitigation, and monitoring (AMMM) measures that BOEM may require as conditions for approval for activities proposed by lessees in the individual construction and operations plans submitted for these six lease areas. Additional environmental analyses specific to each proposed project would build on the PEIS. This is the first time BOEM has conducted a regional analysis of offshore renewable energy development activities across multiple lease areas.

    In early 2024, BOEM held five public meetings and eight regional environmental justice forums between 2022 and 2024 to receive input on the Draft PEIS from Tribal Nations, local community members, government partners, and ocean users. This public engagement was supported by funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. BOEM sought information on important resources and issues, potential impacts to the environment, and AMMM measures found in the Draft PEIS. BOEM received 1,568 unique comments from 560 submissions, which informed the Final PEIS, including the categorization and analysis of the AMMM measures. The Final PEIS analyzes 58 AMMM measures that have been applied previously to offshore wind activities, and eight that have not been applied previously but may help reduce potential impacts.

    Under the Biden-Harris administration, the Department of the Interior has approved more than 15 gigawatts of clean energy from ten offshore wind projects, enough to power nearly 5.25 million homes. It has also held five offshore wind lease auctions, including a record-breaking sale offshore New York and New Jersey and the first-ever sales offshore the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico coasts. Earlier this year, Secretary Haaland announced a schedule of potential additional lease sales through 2028.  

    The “Notice of Availability of a Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Expected Wind Energy Development in the New York Bight” will publish in the Federal Register on October 25, 2024.

    For more information, see BOEM’s website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Inquest Into the Death of Kristin Grant

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on October 21, 2024

    A public inquest into the death of Kristan Grant will be held November 18 to 22, 2024, at the Kenosee Inn, 100 Kenosee Drive, in Kenosee.

    The first day of the inquest is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Subsequent start times will be determined by the presiding coroner.

    Grant, 36, called police regarding a complaint with people in her house on November 8, 2021 at approximately 20:57 hours. RCMP members responded, found her agitated and noted some injuries present on her body. While the RCMP members attempted to calm her down, she became more agitated. The RCMP members deemed she was becoming a danger to herself, put her in handcuffs and placed her in the back seat of the police car to await for EMS to arrive. Upon arrival of a first responder, Kristin Grant became unresponsive and life saving measures were initiated. EMS arrived and continued resuscitation on route to the Kipling Hospital. She was pronounced deceased by an attending physician at the hospital at 02:29 hours on November 9, 2021.

    Section 20 of The Coroners Act, 1999 states that the Chief Coroner shall hold an inquest into the death of a person who dies while an inmate at a jail or a correctional facility, unless the coroner is satisfied that the person’s death was due entirely to natural causes and was not preventable.

    The Saskatchewan Coroners Service is responsible for the investigation of all sudden, unexpected deaths. The purpose of an inquest is to establish who died, when and where that person died and the medical cause and manner of death. The coroner’s jury may make recommendations to prevent similar deaths.

    Coroner William Davern will preside at the inquest.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa Announces $98 Million for Tulare’s State Route 99

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    FRESNO, Calif. – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) announced $98 million to widen State Route 99 in Tulare County at the Paige Avenue multimodal interchange, relieving traffic congestion for San Joaquin Valley drivers. This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects (INFRA) grant program and is significantly strengthened by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    “Thanks to the support of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are taking significant steps toward creating a more efficient and reliable transportation network for our community,” said Rep. Jim Costa. “This vital funding will directly benefit the people of Tulare County by reducing traffic congestion and improving access to local businesses and essential services.”

     “This $98.4 million in federal funding will support dramatic improvement to Highway 99 in the City of Tulare, finally widening this section to six lanes to improve safety and reduce congestion. Highway 99 has been the most dangerous road in America for years, but we are changing that by working with our partners throughout the Valley,” said TCAG Chairman and City of Woodlake Mayor Rudy Mendoza. “We competed for this funding against projects from across the nation and could not have been successful without the support of the Valley’s home team in Congress, Congressmen David Valadao, Jim Costa, and Vince Fong. Our Congressional delegation has gone to bat for the Valley time and time again, and this funding is another demonstration of their effectiveness.”

    BACKGROUND
    The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) will utilize this funding to expand about 5.4 miles of freeway from four to six lanes, adding one lane in each direction.

    The project will also reconstruct four ramps to form a cohesive multimodal interchange that includes roundabouts at the ends of the ramps and nearby intersections. Furthermore, the funding will help build 10-foot-wide shared-use paths on both sides of Paige Avenue, creating an east-west corridor for different modes of transportation.

    Learn more about the project HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Robert Vroom named Producer with NFB’s Eastern Documentary Unit in Montreal. Working to strengthen English-language filmmaking across Quebec

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Veteran film producer Robert Vroom is joining the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) as the new Producer with the Eastern Documentary Unit, Executive Producer Nathalie Cloutier announced today.

    October 21, 2024 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    Veteran film producer Robert Vroom is joining the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) as the new Producer with the Eastern Documentary Unit, Executive Producer Nathalie Cloutier announced today.

    Based in Montreal, Rob will work closely with anglophone directors and co-producers in the Montreal region and across Quebec to strengthen English-language non-fiction storytelling.

    He brings a deep knowledge of the Quebec film sector to his new post, along with a commitment to collaborating with underrepresented communities and helping to guide inspiring stories to the screen.

    Rob has been working in the film and TV industry for over 25 years. After receiving his MFA from the American Film Institute, he emersed himself in television series, both scripted and documentary.

    After seven years of living in LA and travelling the world, Rob moved to Vancouver to work on the CSA-nominated documentary series The Beat, where he helped showcase the struggles of the Downtown Eastside. He then went on to be a part of the Webby Award-winning Best Documentary series Heritage and the James Beard Award-nominated feature-length documentary Funke.

    In 2012, Rob returned to his hometown of Montreal to start his own production company with the intent to collaborate with auteur filmmakers. His feature film credits include Pat Kiely’s Three Night Stand and Another Kind of Wedding, Jeff Barnaby’s Blood Quantum, and Sarah Watts and Mark Slutsky’s You Can Live Forever.

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

     

    Online Screening Room: nfb.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB Twitter | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    About the NFB

    Lily Robert
    Director, Communications and Public Affairs, NFB
    C.: 514-296-8261
    l.robert@nfb.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, Minister Responsible for Gender Equity, on International Day of the Girl

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 11, 2024

    Statement from Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, Minister Responsible for Gender Equity, on International Day of the Girl

    Today is International Day of the Girl – a day we acknowledge the rights of girls and the unique challenges they face including barriers to education, food insecurity, forced child marriage, female genital mutilation, sexual violence and access to legal and medical rights.

    Girls and gender-diverse youth are disproportionately impacted by the rising tide of political instability, violence, climate change, economic inequality, child sex human trafficking and all the devastating armed conflicts we see across the world.

    The world’s conflicts and wars – whether in the Congo, Haiti, Chad, Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan or elsewhere – are fought at the expense of girls: their rights, their bodies, their education, their futures and their very lives.

    The ongoing climate crisis also exacerbates these issues, with girls often being the first to lose access to vital resources like food and water, making them more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

    Despite these immense challenges, girls and gender-diverse youth continue to lead the way in creating positive change. Whether in their families, their communities, their nations or beyond, they are standing up as advocates, innovators and leaders, often at great personal risk.

    I know so many incredible girls and gender-diverse youth, and they continue to inspire me with their courage, resilience and determination. These are smart, fierce and brave young citizens who not only stand strong in the face of adversity but envision a world where equality, justice and opportunity are within reach for all.

    What we want for girls in Manitoba, we want for girls around the world: a safe and nurturing environment, connection to communities caring for them, access to quality health care and education, and the freedom to pursue their dreams.

    We must continuously speak and stand up for girls here at home and across the world. We must be unapologetically relentless in building an equitable world.

    To all girls in Manitoba, and beyond, your dreams and ideas are powerful. You are strong and beyond capable. You are transformative agents of change. You deserve every opportunity.

    Don’t be afraid to lead, to speak up, take up space and to make your indelible mark on the world.

    You are the future!

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: No such thing as a ‘normal family’

    Source: City of York

    This year’s National Adoption Week highlights all kinds of adoption journeys.

    City of York Council and One Adoption North and Humber, the regional adoption agency for the York, North Yorkshire and the Humber, are supporting this year’s National Adoption Week (21-27 October). 

    This year’s campaign hopes to increase understanding of modern adoption, the diversity of adoption journeys today and show that ‘the journey to a family is not always a traditional one’.

    The campaign will show prospective adopters that they are not alone, by highlighting the ‘village’ that makes every journey unique – from social workers and foster carers to birth families and grandparents – who help support and navigate the journey along the way.  

    A new survey by You Can Adopt exploring changing attitudes to family life, reveals that in Yorkshire and the Humber, 66 per cent of participants said there’s no such thing as a ‘normal’ family, with nearly half (48%) of people questioned describing themselves as having a ‘chosen family’ and 51 per cent saying they come from a ‘non-traditional’ family structure themselves (such as blended, extended, adoptive, or single parent). 

    This comes as new adoption data shows that in England, there has been a 22 per cent increase in the number of children with a plan for adoption not yet matched with an adoptive family, alongside a fall in the number of adopters coming forward.

    In the North and Humber region there are currently 46 children waiting for their forever home and more than half are part of a group of brothers and sisters. With fewer potential adopters coming forward – believed to largely be a result of the cost-of-living crisis – this means that nearly half (47 per cent) of all children face delays of over 18 months to be placed with an adoptive family.

    Tom Maxwell, Head of Agency at One Adoption North and Humber said: 

    National Adoption Week is always a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and raise the profile of adoption across the country.

    “Adoption is a life-changing journey that enriches not only the lives of children but also the families who welcome them. 

    “Here at One Adoption North and Humber we have 46 children currently in our care who are waiting for their forever home. We urgently need adopters who are ready to embrace the unique bond of adopting siblings, older children and children with diverse needs. Every adoption story is different, shaped by the people who make it possible. 

    “Modern adoption is about creating new beginnings, celebrating diversity, and building families in ways that are as unique as the children themselves. By stepping forward, you’re opening your heart to the incredible joy and love adoption brings. We look forward to hearing from anyone who is interested in adopting with us.” 

    Cllr Bob Webb, City of York Council’s Executive Member for Children and Young People, said:

    National Adoption Week is a great opportunity for us to shine a light on the pivotal role that adoption has in creating, and growing families across the region.

    “We’re always looking for families from all backgrounds who can offer a permanent, caring, forever home to children. I’d urge anyone who’s considering adoption to get in touch or attend one of the regular information events.”

    Rachel, who features in the film alongside her two-year-old adopted daughter Winnie, father Daniel and social worker Becky, said:

    You have an idea in your head of what family looks like, and for us it’s been different, but even more wonderful in different ways.

    “For me, it’s really important that Winnie has a sense of herself and her identity – that she understands that not only do all families look different, but she has more than one family, and that’s OK.” 

    In support of the campaign, train companies across the country including Hull Trains and Avanti are encouraging more people to start their own adoption journey. From offering free tickets for adoptive families, to changing digital signage at train stations, rail companies are rallying behind the cause in support of everybody who is part of an adoptive family or considering embarking on their own adoption journey

    To find out more about adoption or starting your adoption journey with One Adoption North and Humber, visit their website. 

    One Adoption North and Humber will be holding an online adoption information event during National Adoption Week on Wednesday 23 October between 6pm and 7pm, where the adoption team and an adoptive parent will be on hand to answer your questions. For more information and to book your place, please visit the One Adoption event page.

    To find out more about adopting with One Adoption North and Humber visit the One Adoption website or call 0345 305 2576.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mfume, Team Maryland Announce More Than $38 Million for Critical Transportation & Port Infrastructure Projects in Baltimore

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen, Governor Wes Moore (all D-Md.), and Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeldtoday announced $38,406,076 in U.S. Department of Transportation awards to rehabilitate the Dundalk Marine Terminal and the Curtis Creek Drawbridge. This investment will improve vital infrastructure at and around the Port of Baltimore, which is critical to Maryland’s economy.

    “This monumental federal investment is a transformative display of the continued unity among us in Team Maryland to deliver for all of those who have been personally affected by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and continue to navigate the recovery alongside us. After speaking with so many of those impacted, I was and remain inspired by their grit, fierceness, and commitment to getting through this disaster together,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume.

    “With these grants, the federal government is recognizing that Baltimore is home to nationally significant supply chain infrastructure that is overdue for investment and improvement. We are seeing once again how the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is delivering for Maryland, and we will continue to push for federal commitments to our infrastructure, including the rebuilding of the Francis Scott Key Bridge,” said Senator Cardin. 

    “Through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we continue to deliver historic resources to upgrade everything from our transportation network to the Port of Baltimore. With these major federal investments, we are priming the Port for future growth – while sustaining the thousands of jobs it already supports – and modernizing an essential bridge for commuting and commerce. These efforts will help drive Baltimore’s economic success and create more good paying jobs for Marylanders,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “These two projects reinforce the Moore-Miller Administration’s commitment to making Maryland more competitive by investing in our critical infrastructure, including our world-class Port of Baltimore,” said Governor Moore. “We are grateful for the partnership from the Biden-Harris Administration, the U.S. Department of Transportation and our Congressional delegation in supporting projects that will serve all Marylanders and help expand our growing economy.”

    “Together, these federal grants will support increased economic growth at the Port of Baltimore and the greater Baltimore region,” said Secretary Wiedefeld. “The funding will support critical rehabilitation efforts at the Dundalk Martine Terminal, the largest publicly owned terminal in the Port, and the Curtis Creek Drawbridge on I-695.  Thank you to our federal delegation and partners for their continued commitment in rebuilding Baltimore’s infrastructure better than before.”

    “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Biden-Harris administration is carrying out ambitious, complex transportation projects that will shape our country’s infrastructure for generations to come,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “With this latest round of awards, dozens of major and much-needed projects – projects that are often difficult to fund through other means – are getting the long-awaited investment they need to move forward.”

    The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Infrastructure for Rebuilding America Grant Program (INFRA), which has administered historic levels of federal investments through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

    1. $30,906,076, Dundalk Marine Terminal: Awarded to the Maryland Port Administration to reconstruct Berth 11, consisting of the rehabilitation and replacement of 597 linear feet of wharf deck including pilings, substructure, storm water drainage, utilities, and installation of new mooring bollards, cleats, pneumatic fenders, flood barriers, and tidal gates.

    1. $7,500,000, Curtis Creek Drawbridge Rehabilitation: Awarded to the Maryland Transportation Authority to rehabilitate parallel drawbridges over Curtis Creek on I-695. The project will replace portions of the reinforced concrete deck, perform repairs to the exposed steel superstructure and existing catwalks, remove and replace bridge parapets, traffic lights, and low-level lights, and install new electrical service systems, drainage systems, and pavement markings.

    The Infrastructure for Rebuilding America Grant Program provides funding for multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Seeks Information on Fatal Shooting of Carlos Honable in Stockton, California

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    SACRAMENTO—The FBI is seeking information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of those responsible for the homicide of Carlos Honable, who was fatally shot on July 5, 2024.

    A ‘Seeking Information’ poster, which contains images of the suspect vehicle and a sketch of one of the vehicle’s occupants, is below. These visuals, products of the collaborative investigation with the Stockton Police Department, are intended to aid in solving this homicide and seeking justice for the victim.

    On July 5, 2024, at approximately 5:30 p.m., officers with the Stockton Police Department responded to a report of a person shot on the 3800 block of Fairburn Way. The investigation revealed that a 31-year-old male victim was sitting inside his parked vehicle when the suspect vehicle, a gray Toyota Camry (2018 model or newer), pulled up next to him. Occupants of the vehicle fired at the victim, striking him numerous times, before fleeing the scene. The victim, Carlos Honable, was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

    Investigators produced a sketch of one of the vehicle’s occupants based on the information gathered during the investigation. The individual is described as a young Black male, approximately 5’6″, with a thin build, weighing between 120 and 140 pounds. He was reportedly wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and dark-colored jeans at the time of the incident. He is considered armed and dangerous.

    If you have any information about this homicide and/or the occupants of the Toyota Camry, please contact the FBI Sacramento Field Office by calling 916-746-7000. You may also submit information online at tips.fbi.gov. You may remain anonymous.

    Link to FBI’s Most Wanted Release: FBI Seeks Information on Fatal Shooting of Carlos Honable in Stockton, California

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the inauguration of the renovated Africa Hall

    Source: United Nations – English

    ear Prime Minister Abiy, dear Chairperson Moussa Faki, dear friends and colleagues,

    It is an enormous pleasure to join all of you for this moment of history – in this house of history. 

    I thank all our partners – particularly the Government of Ethiopia, along with our own United Nations Economic Commission for Africa for the tremendous work.

    This hall is where Africa came together to give life to the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union. 

    Times were very different. 

    In 1961, when this Hall was inaugurated by Emperor Haile Selassie, only 26 African nations had achieved independence – many of them just months before.

    Today, Africa is a transformed continent.

    And to my mind, this renewed building symbolizes renewed hope and unity for Africa.

    This Hall is a bridge between Africa’s past and future – honouring shared struggles and achievements, while embracing common aspirations.  It is ubuntu.

    A state of the art 21st century facility that preserves the grandeur and history of this great continent.

    I also see it as an invitation for everyone to cooperate in pursuit of a better future, for Africa and for the world.

    Dear friends,

    As we celebrate this new beginning, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead of us.

    Africa is a continent of hope. 

    But it faces challenges that are deeply rooted in history and are exacerbated by climate change, conflict and persistent poverty.

    And African women often bear the brunt of these hardships.

    Addressing these issues requires resolute action and renewed solidarity.

    Our global institutions were built at a time when most of Africa was under colonial rule.  

    But unlike this Hall with its 21st century innovations, many of these global institutions are stuck in those times, unable to respond to the aspirations and rights of the African people.

    Africa still has no permanent seat at the Security Council. And let’s hope it will be corrected soon.

    And international financial institutions often cannot provide African countries with the response they need – whether it is protection from strangling debt or from climate catastrophe they did not cause.

    We can only move forward if we also renew and update global institutions – by making them more effective, fair and inclusive.

    Last month, world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.

    The Pact recognizes the need to reform the Security Council to make it representative, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable.

    It also calls for groundbreaking reforms of the international financial architecture – including to massively scale-up affordable development and climate finance.

    And the Global Digital Compact includes the first truly universal agreement on the governance of Artificial Intelligence – giving every country a seat at the table, while supporting partnerships to bridge the digital divide and build AI capacity in developing countries and namely in Africa.

    We must now move forward together in implementing these historic agreements without delay.

    And we must include young people at every step of the way.

    Dear friends,

    For more than sixty years, the Africa Hall has been a symbol of the continent’s collective aspirations, a testament to its resilience, and a beacon of hope for entire generations.

    Today, as we step into this renewed space, let us also renew our pledge to work for the people of Africa and the world we need.

    May the debates and discussions here continue to lead towards greater peace, unity and prosperity for all on the African continent.

    And I thank you.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Avon, New York, Police Trainee Charged with Attempted Kidnapping, Cyberstalking, and Multiple Child Pornography Charges

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Casey Medina, 33, of Rochester, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with attempted kidnapping, distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography, cyberstalking, and aiding and abetting. The charges carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that in May 2024, the Onondaga County, NY, Sheriff’s Office was contacted by a 31-year-old female (victim), who reported that she had been receiving text messages from unknown numbers that included photographs depicting her face superimposed on various pornographic images made to appear as if she had been engaging in sexual acts. In addition, the victim reported being threatened by the unknown numbers, including being kidnapped, raped, sexually abused and/or killed. In August 2024, the victim indicated to investigators that the text messages in May occurred over the course of approximately 26 days, and, after short break, continued sporadically through June and July 2024. The victim stated that the messages were becoming very concerning, and she had no idea who they were coming from.

    Also in August 2024, law enforcement received a tip from an individual that he had communicated with another individual with username “crcdal” via social media. The other individual, later identified as Medina, was looking for someone to help to harass the victim. Medina provided the individual with the victim’s personal information, including her place of employment, home address, personal cell phone number, and a variety of photos. The individual provided law enforcement with several screenshots of communications with Medina, which included discussions of abducting, drugging, and raping the victim. An undercover law enforcement officer then began communicating with Media online, during which they also discussed abducting, drugging, and raping the victim.

    On August 22, 2024, Medina was an Avon Police Department trainee, and was arrested by the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office at the Rural Police Training Academy in Livingston County on multiple state charges. Investigators executed a search warrant on Medina’s cell phone and recovered the communications discussing the abduction, drugging, and raping of the victim as well as images and videos of child pornography that Medina shared online.

    The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the Onondaga County, NY, Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Tobias Shelley, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.          

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lancaster Man Sentenced for COVID Relief Fraud

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    BUFFALO, NY – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Larry Jordan, 45, of Lancaster, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud for his participation in a scheme to file fraudulent loan applications seeking forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, joined the announcement.

    According to court documents, between April and September 2020, Jordan and his brother Sutukh El a/k/a Curtis Jordan a/k/a Hugo Hurt a/k/a Hugo Hermes Hurtington, conspired to submit eight fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of companies they owned or controlled. Three of the applications were submitted to Evolve Bank & Trust and the other five were submitted to Lendio, a financial technology company based in Utah. The applications contained false statements about the 2019 payroll expenses of each company, which were used to calculate the amount of PPP funds to which the applicant-companies would be entitled. To corroborate the applications, Jordan and El submitted IRS forms, which had never been filed with the IRS, as well as fraudulent payroll registers that purported to identify the names, personal information, and salary of the employees identified on the PPP applications.

    For example, a PPP loan application was submitted on behalf of 5 Stems Inc to Evolve. The application represented that in 2019, 5 Stems Inc had 194 employees and an average monthly payroll of $242,133.33. In truth, 5 Stems Inc had nine employees in 2019 and paid those employees a total of approximately $57,380 for all of 2019. Evolve approved the application and funded a $605,200 loan. The money was deposited into an account controlled by defendant El. Some of the money was used for the defendants’ own investments, as well as personal expenses and home improvements.

    Sutukh El was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Office of Inspector General, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection’s Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Kruly and Grace Carducci for the Western District of New York and Trial Attorneys Ariel Glasner and Della Sentilles of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    # # # #

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Volta Finance Limited – Net Asset Value(s) as at 30 September 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Volta Finance Limited (VTA / VTAS)
    September 2024 monthly report

    NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION, OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

    Guernsey, October 21st, 2024

    AXA IM has published the Volta Finance Limited (the “Company” or “Volta Finance” or “Volta”) monthly report for September 2024. The full report is attached to this release and will be available on Volta’s website shortly (http://www.voltafinance.com).

    Performance and Portfolio Activity

    Dear investors,

    Volta Finance recorded a net performance of +2.3% in September bringing the year-to-date return to +13.5%. This positive performance is built on the strong performance of its CLO equity investments through the month, Volta being almost fully invested in CLO Equity and debt tranches.

    Markets found some momentum in September on the back of a rather constructive macro backdrop. In Europe, inflation headline numbers dropped to 1.8% YoY and were below the 2% target for the first time in almost three years. Core inflation also came in lower and beat estimates with 2.7% YoY, opening the door for further cut rates possibly as early as October. In the US, the Fed implemented a 50bp rate cut by mid-month while the US flash PMIs showed economic resilience at 54.4 (vs. 54.3 expected).

    Credit markets were relatively stable despite some volatility intra-month, High Yield indices in Europe (Xover) were marginally wider following the index’s roll in the +315bps context while the US CDX High-Yield one settled at c. +330bps (+8bps MoM). On the Loan side, Euro Loans closed 25 cents down at c. 97.60px (Morningstar European Leveraged Loan Index), their US counterparts were trading flat at 96.70px.

    Primary CLO markets remained extremely busy once again, we recorded circa USD 42bn of issuance in the US and EUR 7bn in Europe. Spreads moved sideways across the capital structure with AAAs pricing +130bps context and non-Investment Grade BB-rated tranches at +600bps in Europe (inside +550 for top tier US bonds).

    Looking at fundamentals, both US and European default rates were roughly unchanged at 0.80% while the proportion of CCC-rated Loans within CLO collateral portfolios was slightly lower at 5.4% in US CLOs and slightly higher at 3.7% in Europe, while Loan repayment rates were stable at 26% in the US (-2% YoY growth rate of the Loan market) and 14% in Europe (+6% YoY growth). .

    Volta Finance’s activity over the month was focused on CLO Equity. $7mm of USCLO Equity were purchased as well as tickets of c. €1.4m in a Reset and €2.0mm in Secondary. Also, 2 transactions in which Volta is invested were reset through the month generating mark-to-market gains for Volta in addition to the strong distribution generated by the closing of one European CLO warehouse.

    CLO debt investments performed in excess of their carry, driven by some spread compression. Overall, the cashflow generation over the last 6 months remained strong at c.€30m equivalent of interests and coupons, representing c.23% of the month’s NAV on an annualized basis.

    Volta’s underlying sub asset classes monthly performances** were as follow: +1.1% for Bank Balance Sheet transactions, +4.1% for CLO Equity tranches, +1.4% for CLO Debt tranches and 0.0% for Cash Corporate Credit & ABS***, cash representing c.4% of NAV. The fund being c.26% exposed to USD, the depreciation of USD vs EUR had a negative impact of -0.2% on the overall performance.

    As of end of September 2024, Volta’s NAV was €261.9m, i.e. €7.16 per share.

    *It should be noted that approximately 0.44% of Volta’s GAV comprises investments for which the relevant NAVs as at the month-end date are normally available only after Volta’s NAV has already been published. Volta’s policy is to publish its NAV on as timely a basis as possible to provide shareholders with Volta’s appropriately up-to-date NAV information. Consequently, such investments are valued using the most recently available NAV for each fund or quoted price for such subordinated notes. The most recently available fund NAV or quoted price was 0.24% as at 31 August 2024, 0.20% as at 31 July 2024.

    ** “performances” of asset classes are calculated as the Dietz-performance of the assets in each bucket, taking into account the Mark-to-Market of the assets at period ends, payments received from the assets over the period, and ignoring changes in cross-currency rates. Nevertheless, some residual currency effects could impact the aggregate value of the portfolio when aggregating each bucket.
    *** The cash Corporate Credit and ABS bucket is currently made of 3 legacy assets representing 0.6% of GAV.

    CONTACTS

    For the Investment Manager
    AXA Investment Managers Paris
    François Touati
    francois.touati@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 80 22

    Olivier Pons
    Olivier.pons@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 87 30

    Company Secretary and Administrator
    BNP Paribas S.A, Guernsey Branch
    guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com 
    +44 (0) 1481 750 853

    Corporate Broker
    Cavendish Securities plc
    Andrew Worne
    Daniel Balabanoff
    +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

    *****
    ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED

    Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities. Volta’s home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

    Volta’s Investment objectives are to preserve its capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis. The Company currently seeks to achieve its investment objectives by pursuing exposure predominantly to CLO’s and similar asset classes. A more diversified investment strategy across structured finance assets may be pursued opportunistically. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

    *****

    ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS
    AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 2,700 professionals and €844 billion in assets under management as of the end of December 2023.  

    *****

    This press release is published by AXA Investment Managers Paris (“AXA IM”), in its capacity as alternative investment fund manager (within the meaning of Directive 2011/61/EU, the “AIFM Directive”) of Volta Finance Limited (the “Volta Finance”) whose portfolio is managed by AXA IM.

    This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are “U.S. persons” for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. Volta Finance does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

    *****

    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

    *****
    This press release contains statements that are, or may deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “anticipated”, “expects”, “intends”, “is/are expected”, “may”, “will” or “should”. They include the statements regarding the level of the dividend, the current market context and its impact on the long-term return of Volta Finance’s investments. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Volta Finance’s actual results, portfolio composition and performance may differ materially from the impression created by the forward-looking statements. AXA IM does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements.

    Any target information is based on certain assumptions as to future events which may not prove to be realised. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these future events, the targets are not intended to be and should not be regarded as profits or earnings or any other type of forecasts. There can be no assurance that any of these targets will be achieved. In addition, no assurance can be given that the investment objective will be achieved.

    The figures provided that relate to past months or years and past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance or construed as a reliable indicator as to future performance. Throughout this review, the citation of specific trades or strategies is intended to illustrate some of the investment methodologies and philosophies of Volta Finance, as implemented by AXA IM. The historical success or AXA IM’s belief in the future success, of any of these trades or strategies is not indicative of, and has no bearing on, future results.

    The valuation of financial assets can vary significantly from the prices that the AXA IM could obtain if it sought to liquidate the positions on behalf of the Volta Finance due to market conditions and general economic environment. Such valuations do not constitute a fairness or similar opinion and should not be regarded as such.

    Editor: AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS PARIS, a company incorporated under the laws of France, having its registered office located at Tour Majunga, 6, Place de la Pyramide – 92800 Puteaux. AXA IMP is authorized by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers under registration number GP92008 as an alternative investment fund manager within the meaning of the AIFM Directive.

    *****

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –