NewzIntel.com

Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Children invited to ‘Play Out’ this Summer

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Playing Out is a national programme that allows residents to close their street for up to 3 hours, allowing children to safely enjoy the space, the sun and the fresh air.

    The scheme is being led locally by the council as part of its work to provide more opportunities for children and young people, and to promote physical activity and well being.

    Anyone can apply for a road closure. A minimum of 6 weeks’ notice is required, and quiet streets and cul-de-sacs are ideal. Please note, bus routes and main roads cannot be shut.

    To make an application please visit Let’s Play Out and complete the short online form.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “Playing Out days are a wonderful opportunity to bring your community together and give children the chance to play outside their homes in an environment that is safe and secure.

    “Activities like these are key to ensuring strong and healthy communities are built and can have long term benefits to children and their families.

    “They also showcase a sense of togetherness and community cohesion, enabling opportunities for those from every background to socialise and build strong relationships.

    “With the summer holidays around the corner, now is the time to think about applying for a Playing Out road closure.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India celebrates 11 years of PM Modi’s leadership: A decade of transformative governance and inclusive growth

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks 11 years at the helm of the Indian government, the nation reflects on a decade defined by unprecedented transformation, inclusive development, and governance rooted in the spirit of Seva (service).

    Under PM Modi’s leadership, India has not only surged economically and technologically but also redefined its global standing and internal governance priorities. The slogan 11 Years of Seva has come to symbolize a period of speed, scale, and selfless public service, touching every section of Indian society—from farmers to youth, from marginalized communities to women, and from remote villages to global forums.

    India’s GDP has more than tripled over the last decade—from ₹105 lakh crore ($2.1 trillion) in 2013–14 to over ₹330 lakh crore ($4.2 trillion) in 2024–25. The country’s export capacity saw a 91% surge, hitting $890 billion in total exports this year. Initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes attracted ₹1.61 lakh crore in investments and created over 11.5 lakh jobs across 14 sectors.

    Infrastructure witnessed massive upgrades. National highway length grew from 91,287 km in 2014 to 1,46,204 km in 2024. Operational airports more than doubled to 157. In the Northeast alone, ₹81,000 crore has been invested in railway projects, with 1,728 km commissioned—up 159% from the previous decade.

    Agriculture saw a budgetary increase of nearly six times, with Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) rising substantially for major crops. Over ₹3.68 lakh crore has been directly transferred to over 11 crore farmers under PM-KISAN, while institutional credit to agriculture nearly tripled.

    Women emerged as key stakeholders in this growth journey. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam has secured one-third reservation for women in legislatures, and women now constitute 43% of STEMM enrollments and over 2 crore MSME entrepreneurs. Self-help groups (SHGs) have grown to 90.9 lakh, transforming grassroots leadership.

    Health and Digital Transformation

    Healthcare underwent a seismic shift. Ayushman Bharat has issued over 36 crore health cards, saving citizens ₹1.25 lakh crore in medical costs. India added nearly 400 new medical colleges, doubled MBBS seats, and saw a sharp decline in maternal and infant mortality rates.

    Telemedicine service eSanjeevani delivered over 36 crore consultations—making it the world’s largest digital health platform. Aadhaar-enabled DBT schemes transferred over ₹43 lakh crore directly to beneficiaries, while UPI transactions crossed ₹214 lakh crore, with India now handling nearly half of global real-time payments.

    Global Positioning and Defence Prowess

    India has transitioned from a major arms importer to an emerging defence exporter, with defence exports soaring from ₹1,941 crore in 2014 to ₹23,662 crore in 2024. Indigenous platforms like the Vande Bharat trains and advanced defence drones have solidified India’s technological edge.

    India’s role on the global stage also evolved, leading humanitarian missions like Operation Ganga, Brahma, Kaveri, and Vande Bharat to rescue citizens and deliver aid globally.

    Sustainability and Green Growth

    The green revolution under PM Modi’s governance is visible in the 3,400% rise in solar power capacity (from 2.82 GW to 100+ GW), the planting of over 142 crore trees, and the creation of 282 new protected ecological areas. The ₹19,744 crore National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to position India as a global clean energy hub.

    Peace and Integration in the Northeast

    Violence in the Northeast has reduced significantly—insurgency-related incidents fell by 70%, and over 10,500 insurgents have surrendered. The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) has been revoked in large parts of the region, as development replaces discord. PM Modi has visited the region 78 times—more than all previous prime ministers combined.

    Youth, Innovation, and Digital Bharat

    With 1.61 lakh startups recognized and India now ranking third globally in the unicorn count, the youth have become central to India’s innovation ecosystem. Over 2.27 crore youth have been trained under Skill India, and more than ₹2 lakh crore has been invested in their skilling and employment.

    India’s digital backbone also saw remarkable growth—with average data usage per person rising 325 times, from 70 MB in 2014 to 22.8 GB in 2025, and mobile phone production scaling from 5.8 crore units to over 33 crore annually.

    From eradicating open defecation and improving healthcare access to transforming India into a startup and manufacturing powerhouse, the past 11 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi have laid the foundation for a Viksit Bharat (developed India).

  • Modi 3.0 driving new India towards security, self-reliance and development: Amit Shah

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, is moving decisively towards becoming a secure, self-reliant, and developed nation.

    In a post on X, Amit Shah highlighted the achievements of the Modi government over the past 11 years, stating that the era has marked a significant transformation in India’s internal security and national confidence.

    “’11 Years of Seva’ has also proved to be a milestone for national security. Naxalism is on its last legs, peace has been established in Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast, and India now responds to terrorist attacks by entering terrorists’ homes. This shows the changing picture of India under the Modi government,” Shah wrote.

    He further asserted that with the beginning of Modi 3.0, the nation is “rapidly progressing towards development and self-reliance with the power of reform, perform and transform.” The Home Minister said that the vision for India becoming number one across all sectors remains steadfast and will continue to bring “positive changes in the lives of the countrymen”.

    Earlier on Sunday, addressing the state, district, and mandal-level office bearers of the Tamil Nadu BJP in Madurai, Shah extended his remarks, calling 2024 a “historic milestone” for the BJP and its dedicated cadre.

    “It is a truly remarkable year, as Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji secured a third consecutive term, an extraordinary achievement,” he said.

    Shah noted the BJP’s first-ever majority government in Odisha, describing it as a “historic mandate” in a state, where the party had never previously held strong support. He also highlighted significant victories in Haryana and Maharashtra, where the BJP returned to power and secured its biggest-ever win, respectively.

    Looking ahead, Shah pointed to a political turning point in 2025, where the BJP ousted Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP government to establish its own in Delhi after a gap of 27 years. He also forecasted political transformations in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal in 2026, expressing confidence that both states are on the path toward forming NDA-led governments.

    With the Modi government completing its 11 years, Home Minister Shah underlined a renewed push for national security, development, and political expansion, reinforcing the BJP’s mission of building a ‘New India’ through what he called the mantra of “Reform, Perform, and Transform”.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Global: The blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Henry Maher, Lecturer in Politics, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney

    A no-holds-barred and very public blow-up between the world’s richest man and the president of the United States has had social media agog in recent days, with each making serious accusations against the other.

    And while tech billionaire Elon Musk appears to have cooled the spat somewhat – deleting some of his more incendiary social media posts about Donald Trump – the president still appears to be in no mood to make up, warning Musk of “very serious consequences” if he backs Democrats at the mid-term elections in 2026.

    Tensions erupted over Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB). The OBBB proposes extensive tax cuts which could add roughly US$3 trillion (A$4.62 trillion) to the US national debt.

    After stepping down from his role as advisor to Trump, Musk criticised the OBBB as “disgusting abomination” that would “burden America [sic] citizens with crushing unsustainable debt”. Trump returned fire, suggesting “Elon was ‘wearing thin’, I asked him to leave […] and he just went CRAZY!”.

    In a dramatic escalation, Musk responded by calling for Trump’s impeachment. Musk also tweeted allegations that Trump was implicated in the Epstein files related to child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He has since deleted those tweets.

    Why has the much-hyped “bromance” between Musk and Trump suddenly ended? And what was the basis of their alliance in the first place?

    Musk in politics

    Like many billionaires, Musk had previously been hesitant to get involved in frontline politics. He says he voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020, but claimed in 2021 “I would prefer to stay out of politics”.

    In early 2024, Musk was still claiming to be politically non-aligned, suggesting he would not donate to either presidential campaign.

    This apparent neutrality ended following the attempted assassination of Trump at a July 2024 campaign rally, with Musk immediately endorsing Trump.

    In reality, Musk’s conversion to the MAGA movement long predated the assassination attempt. Musk’s hyperactive Twitter/X account shows a steady radicalisation.

    Across 2020-2024, Musk engaged with accounts sharing MAGA and far-right conspiracy theories. These include the antisemitic Great Replacement Theory, and the related South African white genocide conspiracy. Musk’s posts also show the obsession with opposing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies characteristic of the MAGA movement.

    After endorsing Trump, Musk spent US$288 million (A$444 million) supporting Trump’s election and appeared at campaign events around the country.

    Musk’s support for Trump was both ideological and pragmatic.

    From tax cuts to immigration restrictions to opposing DEI, there were clearly many ideological commonalities between Musk and Trump.

    There were also clear practical benefits for both men. Trump gained the financial backing of the world’s wealthiest man. Musk gained not only unparalleled access to the US president, but also a role leading the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    DOGE: success and failure

    Early reporting on the second Trump presidency noted the omnipresence of Musk, who at one point moved into Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort to be close to the president.

    However, observers were sceptical about the potential effectiveness of DOGE, and Musk’s claim it would save the government US$2 trillion (A$3.02 trillion).

    In the early months of the Trump administration, Musk cut government programs and employees at a remarkable rate. The USAID program was particularly hard hit, as were the Department of Education and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

    As the spending cuts picked up pace, Musk began to attract more controversy. Critics questioned the apparent power wielded by the unelected billionaire. Musk’s ties to the far right were also in the spotlight after he appeared to perform two “Roman salutes”, which many observers believed to be a Nazi salute.

    Trump clips Musk’s wings

    Musk’s apparent rampage through government did not last long. As Trump’s executive appointees assumed control of their departments, Musk and DOGE experienced increasing resistance. After a series of fractious cabinet meetings, Trump reportedly reduced the power of DOGE in March.

    Political attention was also clearly affecting Musk’s businesses. The negative publicity has significantly damaged the Tesla brand, leading to declining sales around the world and repeated falls in Telsa’s share price.

    On May 1, Musk announced he would be leaving DOGE, claiming the department had saved the government US$180 billion (A$277 billion) in spending. This number is likely an exaggeration, but still falls well short of his original target.

    Musk has learned a harsh lesson in politics – that the complexities of government resist simple reform and cannot be easily rolled back in the way a CEO might slim down a company.

    For Trump, his manoeuvring of Musk appears to be another smart political move. As the public face of DOGE, Musk bore the negative rap for early government cuts and chaos. Having used his money and reputation, Trump dispensed with Musk as he has with so many advisers and appointees before.

    The falling out

    Musk departed his role in a muted White House ceremony, where Trump thanked him for his service and presented him with a ceremonial “golden key” to the White House.

    However, behind the public show of civility, tension was brewing over Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.

    Trump and Musk had originally claimed that the US$2 trillion (A$3.02 trillion) in DOGE savings could be used to fund a substantial tax cut. With the efficiency savings not eventuating, Musk worried the OBBB would significantly increase US public debt.

    Unable to convince Trump or other Republican legislators, Musk took to X, launching a “Kill the Bill” campaign that ultimately led to his incendiary showdown with Trump.

    For his part, Trump has belittled Musk, suggesting Musk only opposed the OBBB because it cut subsidies for electric vehicles.

    Though the subsidy cuts will affect Tesla, Musk has previously supported eliminating subsidies. Musk’s anger at the OBBB is more likely driven by the realisation he has been played by Trump.

    What now?

    Trump has used and discarded many other powerful figures in his chaotic political career. Musk has more power than most, and might be able to strike back at Trump.

    Yet, with his public reputation and brands already tarnished, Musk would be ill-advised to pick further fights with Trump and his adoring MAGA movement.

    Accordingly, Musk has indicated over the weekend he is open to a détente. Tesla investors will no doubt be relieved if Musk makes good on his pledge to step back from politics and return to his businesses.

    More concerning are the prospects for democracy. With wealth and power continuing to concentrate in a handful of billionaires, voters appear reduced to the role of viewers forced to watch the reality TV drama unfold.

    Though Trump appears to have won this round of billionaire battle royale, whatever happens next, democracy is the real loser.

    Henry Maher 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. The blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast? – https://theconversation.com/the-blow-up-between-elon-musk-and-donald-trump-has-been-entertaining-but-how-did-things-go-so-bad-so-fast-258394

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What can you do if you don’t like your child’s friends?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Rachael Murrihy, Director, The Kidman Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney

    Getty Images/ Wander Woman Collective

    Many parents will be familiar with this situation: your child has a good or even best friend, but you don’t like them.

    Perhaps the friend is bossy, has poor manners or jumps on your furniture. Maybe you don’t like the way your child behaves when they are with this friend.

    For older children, your dislike might relate to the friend’s language, attitude towards school, or risk-taking behaviours. Maybe the friend is hot and cold and elicits more drama than Mean Girls.

    What can parents do?



    Read more:
    How can you help your child make friends?

    You will have a protective instinct

    If you see your child being treated poorly, this can ignite a protective instinct in parents that manifests in a bodily “fight or flight” response.

    This provides a rush of adrenaline, which can spur parents to take actions such as criticising the friend or even attempting to ban the friendship.

    However, this approach can do more harm than good, particularly for adolescents who are hardwired to push back on their parents.

    What can you do for younger kids?

    With younger children, clear boundaries can be set at the outset of a playdate. For example, “my bedroom is off limits for playing” or “we don’t jump on the couch”.

    If kids are using mean or rude language around each other, you can say “we don’t use that word in this house, be kind to each other”.

    Playdates can be moved outside, which can be particularly helpful if a child shows loud, destructive or rude behaviour. And if you can help it, organise fewer plays with that child.

    But parents may also want to reflect on why this child rubs them the wrong way. Is the reaction warranted, or does it comes from your own biases and opinions? Your child’s friends do not have to be the friends you would choose.

    Change your approach for older kids

    To become successful adults, teens need to move through developmental milestones of becoming autonomous and self-reliant. Intervening in their friendships interferes with this vital process of developing independence and identity, which ultimately disempowers them.

    In the 1960s, US psychologist Diana Baumrind published famous research on parenting. She found an authoritarian style – where the parent exerts complete control and does not listen to the child’s needs – results in a child with less confidence and independence than one brought up in a household that has rules but is also responsive to their needs.

    Adopting an authoritarian approach to friends or potential partners also risks the “Romeo and Juliet” effect, whereby disapproval makes the child more attracted to that person.

    So, for teenagers and their friends, the approach should be more nuanced. The primary goal is to encourage the child to see the parent as a person to come to when they have problems. If parents are tempted to be critical, they could ask themself: is it in the best interests of your child to be controlled?

    It is important to let children make mistakes so they can learn from them. Learning about what they do and don’t want in relationships is a crucial life skill.



    Read more:
    ‘How was school today?’ How to help kids open up and say more than ‘fine’

    How can you talk about friendship?

    Fostering an open dialogue about friends and relationships can allow parents to have influence in a subtle and developmentally appropriate way.

    For younger children, you could use a quiet moment to ask questions like “what can you say to Charlotte if you don’t want to play her game anymore?” or “what’s a good way to deal with it if she is being too bossy?”

    For older children, ideally wait until your teen wants to connect, rather than launching into questions. Ask gentle, non-judgmental questions about their friendship, like “what do you like to do together?” or “tell me about what you have in common”.

    If they seem upset or uncomfortable in some way, resist the urge to dismiss or solve the problem. Simply listening is the key to helping the child work it out, so they feel supported but not judged.

    And remember, not all friendships last. As children move through school and grow, most will naturally make new friends and move on from old ones.

    Clearly, one exception to adopting a teen-led approach is when safety is at risk. If they are being bullied or abused in any form – even if the child is opposed – parents should step in and speak to the school or other relevant authorities.



    Read more:
    What can you do if your child is being bullied?

    Rachael Murrihy 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. What can you do if you don’t like your child’s friends? – https://theconversation.com/what-can-you-do-if-you-dont-like-your-childs-friends-257353

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Measles cases are surging globally. Should children be vaccinated earlier?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Meru Sheel, Associate Professor, Infectious Diseases, Immunisation and Emergencies (IDIE) Group, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney

    EyeEm Mobile GmbH/Getty Images

    Measles has been rising globally in recent years. There were an estimated 10.3 million cases worldwide in 2023, a 20% increase from 2022.

    Outbreaks are being reported all over the world including in the United States, Europe and the Western Pacific region (which includes Australia). For example, Vietnam has reportedly seen thousands of cases in 2024 and 2025.

    In Australia, 77 cases of measles have been recorded in the first five months of 2025, compared with 57 cases in all of 2024.

    Measles cases in Australia are almost all related to international travel. They occur in travellers returning from overseas, or are contracted locally after mixing with an infected traveller or their contacts.

    Measles most commonly affects children and is preventable with vaccination, given in Australia in two doses at 12 and 18 months old. But in light of current outbreaks globally, is there a case for reviewing the timing of measles vaccinations?

    Some measles basics

    Measles is caused by a virus belonging to the genus Morbillivirus. Symptoms include a fever, cough, runny nose and a rash. While it presents as a mild illness in most cases, measles can lead to severe disease requiring hospitalisation, and even death. Large outbreaks can overwhelm health systems.

    Measles can have serious health consequences, such as in the brain and the immune system, years after the infection.

    Measles spreads from person to person via small respiratory droplets that can remain suspended in the air for two hours. It’s highly contagious – one person with measles can spread the infection to 12–18 people who aren’t immune.

    Because measles is so infectious, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends two-dose vaccination coverage above 95% to stop the spread and achieve “herd immunity”.

    Low and declining vaccine coverage, especially since the COVID pandemic, is driving global outbreaks.



    Read more:
    What are the symptoms of measles? How long does the vaccine last? Experts answer 6 key questions

    When are children vaccinated against measles?

    Newborn babies are generally protected against measles thanks to maternal antibodies. Maternal antibodies get passed from the mother to the baby via the placenta and in breast milk, and provide protection against infections including measles.

    The WHO advises everyone should receive two doses of measles vaccination. In places where there’s a lot of measles circulating, children are generally recommended to have the first dose at around nine months old. This is because it’s expected maternal antibodies would have declined significantly in most infants by that age, leaving them vulnerable to infection.

    If maternal measles antibodies are still present, the vaccine is less likely to produce an immune response.

    Research has also shown a measles vaccine given at less than 8.5 months of age can result in an antibody response which declines more quickly. This might be due to interference with maternal antibodies, but researchers are still trying to understand the reasons for this.

    A second dose of the vaccine is usually given 6–9 months later. A second dose is important because about 10–15% of children don’t develop antibodies after the first vaccine.

    In settings where measles transmission is under better control, a first dose is recommended at 12 months of age. Vaccination at 12 months compared with nine months is considered to generate a stronger, longer-lasting immune response.

    In Australia, children are routinely given the measles-mumps- rubella (MMR) vaccine at 12 months and the measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV, with “varicella” being chickenpox) vaccine at 18 months.

    Babies at higher risk of catching the disease can also be given an additional early dose. In Australia, this is recommended for infants as young as six months when there’s an outbreak or if they’re travelling overseas to a high-risk setting.

    A new study looking at measles antibodies in babies

    A recent review looked at measles antibody data from babies under nine months old living in low- and middle-income countries. The review combined the results from 20 studies, including more than 8,000 babies. The researchers found that while 81% of newborns had maternal antibodies to measles, only 30% of babies aged four months had maternal antibodies.

    This study suggests maternal antibodies to measles decline much earlier than previously thought. It raises the question of whether the first dose of measles vaccine is given too late to maximise infants’ protection, especially when there’s a lot of measles around.

    Should we bring the measles vaccine forward in Australia?

    All of the data in this study comes from low- and middle-income countries, and might not reflect the situation in Australia where we have much higher vaccine coverage for measles, and very few cases.

    Australia’s coverage for two doses of the MMR vaccine at age two is above 92%.

    Although this is lower than the optimal 95%, the overall risk of measles surging in Australia is relatively low.

    Nonetheless, there may be a case for broadening the age at which an early extra dose of the measles vaccine can be given to children at higher risk. In New Zealand, infants as young as four months can receive a measles vaccine before travelling to an endemic country.

    But the current routine immunisation schedule in Australia is unlikely to change.

    Adding an extra dose to the schedule would be costly and logistically difficult. Lowering the age for the first dose may have some advantages in certain settings, and doesn’t pose any safety concerns, but further evidence would be required to support this change. In particular, research is needed to ensure it wouldn’t negatively affect the longer-term protection that vaccination offers from measles.

    Making sure you’re protected

    In the meantime, ensuring high levels of measles vaccine coverage with two doses is a global priority.

    People born after 1966 are recommended to have two doses of measles vaccine. This is because those born before the mid-1960s likely caught measles as children (when the vaccine was not yet available) and would therefore have natural immunity.

    If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, you can check this through the Australian Immunisation Register. If you don’t have a documented record, ask your doctor for advice.

    Catch-up vaccination is available under the National Immunisation Program.

    Meru Sheel receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Anita Heywood 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. Measles cases are surging globally. Should children be vaccinated earlier? – https://theconversation.com/measles-cases-are-surging-globally-should-children-be-vaccinated-earlier-257942

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Trump’s trade war is supercharging the fast fashion industry

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Mona Mashhadi Rajabi, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Technology Sydney

    Jade Gao/Getty Images

    When US President Donald Trump introduced sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports the goal was to bring manufacturing back to American soil and protect local jobs.

    However, this process of re-shoring is complex and requires years of investment and planning – far too slow for the world of ultra-fast fashion, where brands are used to reacting in weeks, not years.

    Many clothing companies started to move production out of China during Trump’s first term. They relocated to countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia when the initial China-specific tariffs hit.

    This trend accelerated with the newer “reciprocal” tariffs. Instead of re-shoring production, many fashion brands are simply sourcing from whichever country offers the lowest total cost after tariffs. The result? The ultra-fast fashion machine adapted quickly and became even more exploitative.

    From Guangzhou to your wardrobe in days

    Platforms such as Shein and Temu built their success by offering trend-driven clothing at shockingly low prices. A $5 dress or $3 top might seem like a bargain, but those prices hide a lot.

    Much of Shein’s production takes place in the so-called “Shein village” in Guangzhou, China, where workers often sew for 12–14 hours a day under poor conditions to keep pace with the demand for new items.

    When the US cracked down on Chinese imports, the intention was to make American-made goods more competitive. This included raising the tariff on Chinese goods as high as 145% (since paused), and closing the “de minimis” loophole, which had allowed imports under US$800 to enter tariff-free.

    But these tariffs did not halt ultra-fast fashion. They just rerouted production to countries with lower tariffs and even lower labour costs. The Philippines, with a comparatively low tariff rate of 17%, emerged as a surprising alternative. However, the country can’t provide the industrial scale and infrastructure to match what China can offer.

    So why does Australia matter?

    Much of the cheap fashion previously bound for the US is now flooding other markets, including Australia.

    Australia still allows most low-value imports to enter tax-free, and platforms such as Shein and Temu have taken full advantage. Australian consumers are among the most frequent Shein and Temu buyers per capita globally.

    Just 3% of clothing is made in Australia and most labels rely on offshore manufacturing. This makes Australia an ideal target market for ultra-fast fashion imports. We have high purchasing power, lenient import rules and strong demand for low-cost style, especially due to the cost-of-living crisis.

    The hidden costs of cheap clothes

    The environmental impact of fast fashion is well known. However, amid the chaos of Trump’s tariff announcements, far less attention has been paid to how these policies – together with the retreat from climate commitments – worsen environmental harms, including those linked to fast fashion.

    The irony is that the tariffs meant to protect American workers have, in some cases, worsened conditions for workers elsewhere. Meanwhile, consumers in Australia now benefit from faster delivery of even cheaper goods as Temu, Shein and others have improved their shipping capabilities to Australia.

    Australian consumers send more than 200,000 tonnes of clothing to landfill each year. But the deeper problem is structural. The entire business model is built on exploitation and environmental damage.

    Factory workers bear the brunt of cost-cutting. In the race to stay competitive, many manufacturers reduce wages and overlook hazardous working conditions.

    Will ethical fashion ever compete?

    Fixing these problems will require a global rethink of how fashion operates.
    Governments have a role in regulating disclosures about supply chains and enforcing labour standards.

    Brands need to take responsibility for the conditions in their factories, whether directly owned or outsourced. Transparency is essential.

    Alternatives to fast fashion are gaining traction. Clothing rentals are emerging as a promising business model that help build a more circular fashion economy. Charity-run op shops have long been a sustainable source of second-hand clothing.

    Australia’s new Seamless scheme seeks to make fashion brands responsible for the full life of the clothes they sell. The aim is to help people buy, wear and recycle clothes in a more sustainable way.

    Consumers also matter. If we continue to expect clothes to cost less than a cup of coffee, change will be slow. Recognising that a $5 t-shirt has hidden costs, borne by people on the factory floor and the environment, is a first step.

    Some ethical brands are already showing a better way and offer clothes made under fairer conditions and with sustainable materials. These clothes are not as cheap or fast, but they represent a more conscious alternative especially for consumers concerned about synthetic fibres, toxic chemicals and environmental harm.

    Trump reshuffled the deck, but did not change the game

    Trump’s trade rules aim to re-balance global trade in favour of American industry, yet have cost companies more than US$34 billion in lost sales and higher costs. This cost will eventually fall on US consumers. In ultra-fast fashion, it mostly exposed how fragile and exploitative the system already was.

    Today, brands such as Shein and Temu are thriving in Australia. But unless we address the systemic inequalities in fashion production and rethink the incentives that drive this market, the true cost of cheap clothing will continue to be paid by those least able to afford it.

    Mona Mashhadi Rajabi receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand (AFAANZ), and a Business Research Grant from the University of Technology Sydney.

    Lisa Lake previously received funding from NSW Department of Education Innovation and Collaboration grant to establish the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Fashion + Textiles.

    Martina Linnenluecke receives funding from The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the Australian Research Council. Her work is also supported by a Strategic Research Accelerator Grant from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

    Yun Shen 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. How Trump’s trade war is supercharging the fast fashion industry – https://theconversation.com/how-trumps-trade-war-is-supercharging-the-fast-fashion-industry-257727

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • Political divide widens as Trump deploys National Guard to Los Angeles

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Republicans and Democrats traded barbs on Sunday after President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles amid massive protests against increasing and divisive immigration raids.

    “Important to remember that Trump isn’t trying to heal or keep the peace. He is looking to inflame and divide,” Democratic Senator Chris Murphy said in one of the most direct rebukes.

    “His movement doesn’t believe in democracy or protest – and if they get a chance to end the rule of law they will take it.”

    Democratic Senator Cory Booker condemned Trump for deploying troops without California’s approval, warning it would only escalate tensions. On NBC’s “Meet the Press” he accused Trump of hypocrisy, and noted the president’s inaction on January 6, 2021 when thousands of his supporters raided the U.S. Capitol and his subsequent pardons for those arrested.

    Footage showed at least a half dozen military-style vehicles and riot shields on Sunday at the federal building in Los Angeles with federal law enforcement firing gas canisters to disperse demonstrators protesting against the ICE crackdown.

    California Governor Gavin Newsom and Trump sparred over the protests, with Newsom condemning the federal response as an overreach, saying Trump wants “a spectacle,” while the president accused Newsom of failing to maintain order.

    Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday defended Trump’s decision and said he had no concern about the National Guard deployment, adding, “One of our core principles is maintaining peace through strength. We do that in foreign affairs and domestic affairs as well. I don’t think that’s heavy handed.”

    Republican Senator James Lankford said Trump is trying to de-escalate tensions, pointing to scenes of protesters throwing objects at law enforcement.

    He recalled similar unrest in 2020 in Seattle and Portland, where National Guard backed local law enforcement amid racial justice protests.

    The protests against the raids have become the latest focal point in a national debate over immigration, protest rights, and the use of federal force in domestic affairs. It also has fueled discussion on the boundaries of presidential power and the public’s right to dissent.

    (Reuters)

  • China’s May exports slow, deflation deepens as tariffs bite

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    China’s May export growth slowed to a three-month low as U.S. tariffs slammed shipments, while factory-gate deflation deepened to its worst level in two years, heaping pressure on the world’s second-largest economy on both the domestic and external fronts.

    The global trade war and the swings in China-U.S. trade ties have in the past two months sent Chinese exporters, along with their business partners across the Pacific, on a roller coaster ride and hobbled world growth.

    Exports expanded 4.8% year-on-year in value terms in May, slowing from the 8.1% jump in April and missing the 5.0% growth expected in a Reuters poll, customs data showed on Monday, despite a lowering of U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods which had taken effect in early April.

    Imports dropped 3.4% year-on-year, deepening sharply from the 0.2% decline in April and worse than the 0.9% downturn expected in the Reuters poll.

    Exports had surged 12.4% year-on-year and 8.1% in March and April, respectively, as factories rushed shipments to the U.S. and other overseas manufacturers to avoid U.S. President Trump’s hefty levies on China and the rest of the world.

    While exporters in China found some respite in May as Beijing and Washington agreed to suspend most of their levies for 90 days, tensions between the world’s two largest economies remain high and negotiations are underway over issues ranging from China’s rare earths controls to Taiwan.

    Trade representatives from China and the U.S. are meeting in London on Monday to resume talks after a phone call between their top leaders on Thursday.

    “Export growth was likely stalled by heavy customs inspections in May due to tightened export control efforts,” said Xu Tianchen, senior economist at the Economist Intelligence Unit, noting that rare earth exports nearly halved last month, while electric machinery exports also slowed significantly.

    Underscoring the U.S. tariff impact on shipments, customs data showed that China’s exports to the U.S. slumped 34.5% year-on-year in May in value terms, widening from a 21% drop the previous month. Imports to the U.S. also lost further ground, dropping 18.1% from a 13.8% slide in April.

    China’s May trade surplus came in at $103.22 billion, up from the $96.18 billion the previous month.

    Other data, also released on Monday, showed China’s import of crude oil, coal, and iron ore dropped last month, underlining the fragility of domestic demand at a time of rising external headwinds.

    Beijing in May rolled out a series of monetary stimulus measures, including cuts to benchmark lending rates and a 500 billion yuan low-cost loan program for supporting elderly care and services consumption.

    The measures are aimed at cushioning the trade war’s blow to an economy that relied on exports in its recovery from the pandemic shocks and a protracted property market slump.

    China’s markets showed muted reaction to the data. The blue-chip CSI300 Index CSI300 and the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index SSEC were up around 0.2%.

    DEFLATIONARY PRESSURES

    Producer and consumer price data, released by the National Bureau of Statistics on the same day, showed that deflationary pressures worsened last month.

    The producer price index fell 3.3% in May from a year earlier, after a 2.7% decline in April and marked the deepest contraction in 22 months, while consumer prices extended declines, having dipped 0.1% last month from a year earlier.

    Cooling factory activity also highlights the impact of U.S. tariffs on the world’s largest manufacturing hub, dampening faster services growth as suspense lingers over the outcome of U.S.-China trade talks.

    Sluggish domestic demand and weak prices have weighed on China’s economy, which has struggled to mount a robust post-pandemic recovery and has relied on exports to underpin growth.

    Retail sales growth slowed last month as spending continued to lag amid job insecurity and stagnant new home prices.

    U.S. coffee chain Starbucks said on Monday it would lower prices of some iced drinks by an average of 5 yuan in China.

    The core inflation measure, excluding volatile food and fuel prices, registered a 0.6% year-on-year rise, slightly faster than a 0.5% increase in April.

    However, Zichun Huang, China economist at Capital Economics, said the improvement in core prices looks “fragile”, adding “we still think persistent overcapacity will keep China in deflation both this year and next.”

    (Reuters)

  • India’s inclusive development journey: 11 years of transformative social welfare under ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Marking eleven years of transformative governance under the banner of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas,” the Government of India has unveiled an extensive account of its welfare-driven initiatives that have reshaped the socio-economic landscape of the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a statement released by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), said, “Bharat is changing, and it is changing rapidly. People’s self-confidence, their trust in the government, and the commitment to build a new Bharat is visible everywhere.”

    Over the past decade, the government has focused on complete saturation of welfare schemes, ensuring no eligible citizen is left behind. This approach has led to the expansion of access to essential services such as clean water, housing, electricity, sanitation, healthcare, and social security, significantly improving the lives of millions across the country.

    The Jal Jeevan Mission has brought tap water to over 15.59 crore rural households, achieving full coverage in eight states and three union territories. In the housing sector, nearly 4 crore homes have been completed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), with over 90 lakh homes under the urban component now owned by women. Rural electrification has also seen remarkable progress, with 2.86 crore homes electrified under the SAUBHAGYA scheme. As a result, the average daily electricity supply in rural areas has risen from 12.5 hours in 2014 to 22.6 hours in 2025.

    The Swachh Bharat Mission has transformed sanitation across India, resulting in the construction of 12 crore household toilets and the declaration of over 5.64 lakh villages as Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus. In the realm of healthcare, the Ayushman Bharat scheme now covers 55 crore individuals, while the Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme provides additional support for all citizens aged 70 and above. Free ration distribution through the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) has benefited 81 crore citizens since its launch during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a financial commitment of ₹11.80 lakh crore until 2028.

    Efforts to ensure clean cooking fuel have reached a milestone with 10.33 crore LPG connections distributed under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana. Additionally, the PM SVANidhi scheme has extended loans to 68 lakh street vendors, helping formalize 76.28 lakh vendors into the economic mainstream. In the field of entrepreneurship, India now boasts 1.57 lakh recognized startups and 118 unicorns, reflecting the vibrancy of its innovation ecosystem. Worker welfare has also been strengthened, with more than 30.86 crore unorganised workers registered on the eShram portal, of whom over half are women.

    India’s anti-poverty efforts have been globally recognized. The World Bank’s Spring 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief reports that 171 million people have been lifted out of extreme poverty, with the rate falling from 16.2 percent in 2011–12 to just 2.3 percent in 2022–23. The UNDP’s Multidimensional Poverty Index also shows a dramatic decline from 53.8 percent in 2005–06 to 16.4 percent in 2019–21, underscoring gains in health, education, and living standards.

    Rural consumption indicators further reflect these improvements. The average monthly per capita expenditure in rural areas has nearly tripled, increasing from ₹1,430 in 2011–12 to ₹4,122 in 2023–24. Urban spending has shown similar growth, rising from ₹2,630 to ₹6,996 in the same period.

    The government’s empowerment initiatives have particularly benefitted women, artisans, and marginalized communities. The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana has disbursed ₹33.33 lakh crore in loans to over 52 crore accounts, with 68 percent allocated to women. The Stand-Up India scheme continues to support SC/ST and women entrepreneurs through substantial bank financing. The PM Vishwakarma Yojana has provided toolkits, collateral-free loans, and training support to 2.37 million artisans. Meanwhile, the Lakhpati Didi initiative, aiming to make three crore rural women economically self-reliant, builds on the success of over 10 crore women joining self-help groups nationwide.

    Social security has expanded through schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM), which now offers assured monthly pensions to 51.35 lakh unorganised workers. Insurance schemes PMJJBY and PMSBY cover over 75 crore citizens, offering low-cost life and accident insurance.

    Inclusivity remains a central pillar of the government’s approach. Sixty percent of current Union Ministers hail from minority communities. Nearly 44 percent of rural homes built under PMAY-G have been allotted to SC/ST households. More than half of all scholarship recipients come from SC/ST/OBC backgrounds. In education, the number of Eklavya Model Residential Schools sanctioned for tribal students has grown fourfold since 2014, now totaling 477. Eleven Tribal Freedom Fighter Museums are being developed to honor the contributions of tribal leaders, while Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas is celebrated annually to commemorate the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

    To improve last-mile delivery, the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra has reached 2.6 lakh gram panchayats and over 4,000 urban bodies across the country, promoting the saturation of welfare schemes. The Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), focused on 112 of India’s most backward districts, has already shown measurable improvements in key sectors like health, education, and basic infrastructure.

    As Bharat approaches its centenary of independence, the government reiterates its commitment to building a developed, inclusive, and self-reliant nation. The results of the past eleven years, driven by policy innovation, data-driven governance, and community participation, represent not only progress but a vision of Viksit Bharat that is within reach.

  • Australia favourites to retain WTC crown against South Africa

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australia will have to dust off the cobwebs but are still fancied to successfully defend their World Test Championship crown against equally ring-rusty South Africa in the final at Lord’s, starting on Wednesday.

    The five-day clash comes on the heels of a plethora of limited overs cricket over the last five months and both teams have been scrambling to prepare for a high-profile return to the red-ball game.

    Australia have not played a test since beating Sri Lanka in Galle in February when they made sure of a top-two finish in the standings from results for the 2023-25 WTC cycle.

    South Africa were assured of top place when they won their last test against Pakistan at home in January to book a first-ever finals appearance.

    It came on the back of a run of seven successive wins, but the fact they did not play against the Aussies or England has seen their achievement dismissed as too easy.

    Former England captain Michael Vaughan said they reached the final “on the back of beating pretty much nobody,” which was a result of the lopsided test schedule where Australia, England, and India dominate and South Africa elect to play more financially lucrative limited-overs internationals.

    But an upset win for South Africa could change that.

    “It’s the biggest thing in this team’s existence. It’s the biggest thing for South African cricket at the moment,” said their coach Shukri Conrad.

    SELECTION CHOICES

    Australia have been warming up with training sessions at Beckenham in Kent as they grapple with selection choices.

    They must pick between Scott Boland or Josh Hazlewood to join skipper Pat Cummins, left-armer Mitchell Starc and spinner Nathan Lyon in the attack’

    The top batting order is likely to be changed with Cameron Green set to return for his first test in more than a year. He will likely bat third with Marnus Labuschagne opening alongside Usman Khawaja, while Steve Smith will come in at No. 4.

    South Africa’s planned four-day warm-up scrimmage with Zimbabwe at Arundel last week was largely washed out but did hint at Wiaan Mulder moving up the order to No.3 in a batting lineup that has been inconsistent over the last two years.

    Their hopes rest instead on a fiery bowling attack where Kagiso Rabada features after serving a one-month ban for recreational drug use.

    Australia won the last WTC final by beating India at The Oval two years ago. New Zealand were the inaugural winners in 2021.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man arrested following building site burglaries

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A 42-year-old man has been arrested and charged following an investigation into a series of burglaries across North Canterbury and Selwyn.

    On Monday 9 June, three search warrants were executed, two at residential addresses and one at a storage unit.

    CCTV supplied by the public and from building sites helped identify the person of interest; acknowledged by Police as being crucial in bringing this investigation to a successful conclusion.

    Burglaries at building sites cause significant disruption and financial loss to builders, contractors, and future homeowners.

    Police urge the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity around construction sites.

    The man has been bailed to appear on 13 June at Christchurch District Court.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PSA welcomes withdrawal of suspension of disability workers at Te Roopu Taurimu

    Source: PSA
    Mediation is set to resume with disability support provider Te Roopu Taurima and the PSA following the withdrawal of a lockout and suspension of workers without pay by the employer, the PSA in return agreed to lift the strike notices.
    Te Roopu Taurima o Manukau Trust is the country’s largest provider of kaupapa Māori-based support for people with disabilities in residential facilities in Northland, Auckland, Waikato and Canterbury.
    “We welcome the withdrawal of the harsh and oppressive suspension and lockout and as a result the PSA also withdraws strike action in support of the collective agreement,” said Fleur Fitzsimons National Secretary Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    Te Roopu Taurima told the PSA it would suspend 38 workers late Friday without pay for six weeks in response to low level strike action taken in support of their collective agreement.
    Last year the trust also locked out Kaitaataki (house leaders for residential disability support) preventing them from working the extra hours they rely on to earn enough to support themselves and their whānau, this forms part of legal action in the Employment Court.
    The PSA and Te Roopu Taurima attended facilitation run by an Employment Relations Authority member recently. The Authority member then provided recommendations to settle the collective agreement.
    “The PSA did not get everything we wanted but nevertheless agreed that we would recommend the outcomes to our members. Te Roopu Taurimu now needs to come to the party and accept the recommendations, this is the basis on which the PSA att

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Republic of Latvia: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 8, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Washington, DC – June 9, 2025

    Latvia’s economy is navigating a complex global environment while addressing structural challenges at home. Geoeconomic fragmentation, geopolitical tensions, higher trade barriers and trade policy uncertainty, and labor and skills shortages are adding to challenges to productivity growth. Meanwhile, Latvia faces significant medium- and long-term spending pressures driven by population aging, defense needs, and investments for energy security. To address these spending needs, staff recommends the mobilization of additional revenue and the acceleration of structural fiscal reforms. Improving pension adequacy requires strengthening the second and third pillars of the pension system. The authorities should continue to monitor risks in the financial sector, including banks’ exposure to the commercial real estate sector, and reassess the solidarity contribution on banks. To strengthen resilience and growth—which will also support public finances—the authorities should consider measures to boost productivity. These include increasing the quantity and quality of corporate investment (e.g., by improving firms’ access to finance), supporting the reallocation of labor and capital toward higher value-added products and services, and enhancing digital technology adoption in traditional sectors.

    Outlook and Risks

    Growth is projected to rebound in 2025. Real GDP growth is projected to recover to about 1 percent in 2025, underpinned mainly by higher public investment, but also a recovery in private consumption and a gradual recovery of external demand. Headline inflation is projected to increase to about 3 percent in 2025, reflecting higher energy prices in the early months of 2025 and higher food prices, and core inflation is expected to moderate but remain above headline reflecting persistent services inflation.

    Risks to the outlook are tilted to the downside. Rising geopolitical tensions, and higher tariffs and trade policy uncertainty may dampen the recovery. Although direct trade and financial exposures to the United States are small, weaker demand in key European trading partners and lower consumer and business confidence could affect economic and financial stability through financial contagion. Other downside risks to growth include a further slowdown of growth in Latvia’s trading partners, delays in the absorption of EU funds, new increases in global energy and food prices, and an increase in electricity prices. At the same time, a strong economic recovery in Latvia’s main trading partners, a boost in confidence from improved security, a faster-than-expected disbursement of EU funds, and a swift implementation of structural reforms may contribute to higher-than-expected economic growth. Latvia has a strong track record, solid commitment to fiscal discipline, and strong fiscal institutions. Despite that, the fiscal balance is subject to downside risks from higher spending in defense, contingent liabilities with state-owned enterprisesthat could be in excess of the Fiscal Safety Reserve, and higher capital expenditure with large infrastructure projects.

    Fiscal Policy: Addressing Public Spending Pressures

    The moderately expansionary budget in 2025 is appropriate, given the currently negative output gap. The headline fiscal deficit is projected to increase to about 3 percent of GDP in 2025, because of higher defense and investment spending needs. At the same time, the 2025 budget includes tax reforms to simplify the personal income tax that will generate minimal revenue gains.

    Latvia’s government faces significant medium- and long-term spending pressures.These include rising costs for pensions and health care, increased defense spending, and investments for energy security. The government has recently committed to increasing defense spending to 5 percent of GDP from 2026 onwards. In the absence of measures to raise fiscal revenues and reprioritize government spending, Latvia’s structural fiscal deficit (including one-off expenses) is projected to average about 3 percent of GDP in the medium-term. This would raise public debt close to 50 percent of GDP in 2030, eroding fiscal space and limiting the authorities’ ability to address large adverse shocks in the future.

    Going forward, the authorities should proactively preserve fiscal buffers. Staff estimates that bringing public debt to its pre-Covid level of 40 percent of GDP in 2030 requires a fiscal consolidation of about ½ percent of GDP per year between 2026 and 2030.

    The government should therefore mobilize additional revenue. Revenue measures could include (i) strengthening tax compliance; (ii) broadening the bases of corporate and personal income taxes (e.g., by reducing the shadow economy); (iii) continuing to improve VAT collection efficiency through further narrowing the compliance gap; (iv) reducing tax exemptions and fossil fuel subsidies; and (v) raising property tax revenue. The government should also consider improving the efficiency of public spending by further improving procurement, eradicating rent-seeking activities, simplifying regulation, reducing bureaucracy, and increasing the efficiency of public administration and public investment management.

    The government should adopt measures to support medium- and long-term pressures arising from higher spending with pensions. The government needs a comprehensive approach to improve pension adequacy while ensuring the financial balance of the pension system. This may include pursuing active labor market policies to increase labor force participation, incentivizing pensioners to work, and linking the retirement ages to future life expectancy gains. The authorities should also strengthen pension adequacy by increasing the contribution rates and the returns to the mandatory defined contribution pension pillar and strengthening incentives for higher voluntary savings for retirement through a more flexible and accessible system design.

    Financial Policies: Countering Risks and Building Resilience in the Financial Sector

    The authorities should monitor loan exposure to commercial real estate (CRE) and reassess the solidarity contribution on banks. If remaining in place for long, the solidarity contribution could distort bank lending toward less productive uses such as real estate and reduce lending to corporates. This is because banks can spread the increased tax costs over the full term of a mortgage, unlike for corporate loans which have shorter maturities. Considering structural changes in the office CRE segment globally, and given that loans to the CRE sector are around 31 percent of banks’ total corporate loan portfolio, CRE developments should be closely monitored.

    The macroprudential policy stance remains broadly appropriate. The implementation of a positive neutral countercyclical capital buffer requirement, which will be raised to 1 percent in June 2025, helps build up releasable macroprudential buffers. However, the looser debt-to-income and debt service-to-income limits implemented in 2024 to promote loans for the purchase of energy-efficient housing should be reconsidered. Latvia has made further progress in strengthening its AML/CFT framework.

    Structural Reforms: Policies to Boost Investment and Productivity

    Latvia’s low productivity growth is driven by sluggish capital accumulation and an inefficient allocation of productive resources. The low capital stock results from inadequate investment in part driven by financial constraints and low risk-adjusted expected returns. Structural bottlenecks like costly and lengthy insolvency processes (despite improvements) or limited occupational and regional mobility of the labor force have hindered the flow of resources from low- to high-productivity firms. Boosting productivity would help to increase the tax base and sustainably lift incomes, while preserving Latvia’s external competitiveness.

    Corporate reforms can improve capital allocation and enhance access to finance. Insolvency reforms with a focus on micro companies and timely initiation of insolvency cases that facilitate the exit of firms that are not economically viable could help to reallocate resources to more viable businesses. Initiatives to develop the capital market could help improve the access to finance by smaller firms. Expanding venture capital and equity financing would improve access to finance, therefore boosting opportunities for startups and allowing young firms to scale up. All these reforms will be more successful if combined with deepening the EU’s single market, which will allow Latvia’s firms to leverage economies of scale and greatly improve access to capital markets.

    Addressing labor and skills shortages would sustain investment and productivity growth in Latvia. High-quality education and training systems, and targeted upskilling and reskilling measures are key to reducing the labor and skills shortages, improving competitiveness, and boosting productivity. The facilitation of skilled migration and the use of targeted active labor market policies will also help to enhance participation in the labor market.

    Product and service market reforms can enhance competition and productivity. The regulatory framework could be improved by reducing the use of retail price regulation, streamlining spatial planning and construction regulations, and further simplifying administrative procedures and digitalization efforts in the construction sector.

    The authorities should enhance support for innovation, technology adoption, and digital transformation, as well as strengthen energy security. Despite a modest rise in the past decade, Latvia’s R&D spending as a share of GDP remains among the lowest in Europe, hampering innovation and productivity growth. The authorities should accelerate the digital transformation by centralizing the governance of digital platforms and systems in the public sector, expanding digital training to public employees, promoting digitalization in businesses and in the education sector, and enhancing the broadband infrastructure. Finally, Latvia should continue to enhance its energy security by increasing the share of renewable energy, including biomass, and improving interconnections to other European power grids.

    An IMF team conducted meetings in Riga during May 26–June 6, 2025. The mission was led by Mr. Luis Brandao-Marques and includes Gianluigi Ferrucci, Bingjie Hu, and Keyra Primus (all EUR). Carlos Acosta and Anjum Rosha (all LEG) participated virtually in meetings. Gundars Davidsons (OED) participated in the meetings. The mission would like to thank the authorities for their open collaboration, generous availability, and the candid and constructive discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Boris Balabanov

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/06/mcs060925-Latvia-Staff-Concluding-Statement-2025-Article-IV-Mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Portugal win Nations League title with shootout win over Spain

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Cristiano Ronaldo scored again as Portugal claimed its second UEFA Nations League title, overcoming Spain 5-3 on penalties after a tense 2-2 draw in Munich on Sunday.

    Having scored the winner against Germany in the semifinal, Ronaldo equalized in the 61st minute of the final to bring Portugal back into the game for a second time. This extended his record of international goals to 138 in 221 appearances.

    Spain, who had stunned France 5-4 in the semifinal, started brightly and were rewarded in the 21st minute when Martin Zubimendi scored from close range following a clever pass from 17-year-old Lamine Yamal. Portugal responded swiftly through Nuno Mendes, whose angled drive beat goalkeeper Unai Simon just five minutes later.

    Spain regained the lead moments before halftime when Pedri played a defense-splitting pass to Mikel Oyarzabal, who finished confidently to make it 2-1. However, Ronaldo leveled the match with a scrappy but vital finish after Mendes’ cross caused chaos in the Spain box.

    Despite both sides pressing for a winner, the match was dragged into extra time, where fatigue began to take its toll. Substitute Diogo Jota almost won it for Portugal in the final minute, but his header went just over the bar.

    In the penalty shootout, both teams converted their first three attempts. The turning point came when Spain’s late substitute Alvaro Morata saw his tame effort saved by goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

    Ruben Neves then stepped up and fired home the winning penalty, sparking scenes of jubilation on the Portuguese bench.

    “Our fighting spirit helped us clinch the title. We knew it would be a tough game; Spain is a very strong team and plays some of the best football in the world. But we also know that when we stick together and play as a team, we are very hard to beat,” said Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rating Valuation – frequently asked questions

    Source: Auckland Council

    The latest rating valuations 

    What valuation trends do I need to know?

    Two independent valuation providers, QV and Opteon, completed the 2024 valuation process. These companies are experienced property valuers and have worked closely with Auckland Council. The trends they identified tell us:

    • Values for areas further from the city centre have reduced less. These include Hibiscus & Bays, Upper Harbour and Franklin (-4% to -1%).

    • Conversely, properties closer to the city centre generally have above-average reductions (-11 to -14%). These include Puketāpapa, Albert-Eden, Maungakiekie- Tāmaki, Waitematā and Whau (all -14 or -13%).

    • In some areas, reduced demand for properties with redevelopment potential has contributed to larger value declines. These include Māngere Bridge, Henderson, Massey, Glen Innes, Point England and Panmure.

    • Land values have driven changes in CV. For many residential properties, land values reduced an average of -13% and commercial -6%. The reduction in land values reflects reduced development activity since 2021 and, in some cases, potential zoning changes.

    • Some have bucked the trend. Rodney has held its values (average 0% change) and Great Barrier is up (+38%). This is a continuing trend, with residential valuations on Great Barrier up 59% at the 2021 rating valuation. 

    My property’s valuation has reduced. Why?

    The new valuations reflect changes between 1 June 2021 and 1 May 2024. The last council rating valuation in 2021 was close to the market peak, and between then and May 2024 the economy and property market generally trended down.

    Council valuations do not reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes. Valuations just allow rates to be fairly shared.

    Valuers assess a property’s CV by analysing data, such as local sales, property type, location and other property factors. The valuations are not a good indication of what your property would sell for today (the values are based on 1 May 2024).

    Rating valuation and rates

    How does rating valuation impact a property’s rates cost?

    How a property’s CV changes compare to other properties in the region will determine whether a property’s rates increase from 1 July is more, or less, than the average residential rates increase of 5.8%. The new CV will be used to calculate rates for the next rating year, from 1 July 2025.

    Reduced property values mean lower rates, right?

    A change in a property’s CV will not necessarily mean the rates will be higher for an increased value, or lower for a decreased value. Properties with a valuation change higher or lower than the region’s average, will pay a higher or lower proportion of rates.

    Does rating valuation affect the amount of rates council receives?

    Revaluation doesn’t affect the amount of money the council collects from rates – it helps work out everyone’s share of rates. Any increase, or decrease, in the city’s property value does not change the total amount of rates the council collects. The council sets its budget annually following community consultation, using the three-yearly Long-term Plan as the starting point.

    The council decides the rates revenue it needs to provide the services in the budget, after accounting for all revenue sources such as income from fees and charges, and central government contributions. Achieving savings and other initiatives to improve value for money are helping the council to deliver more, without solely relying on rates increases.

    What a new property valuation means 

    Why does the council value properties?

    All councils are required by law to revalue properties inside their boundaries within a maximum of three years. In order to set rates fairly, the council’s registered valuers attribute an approximate value to all properties in the region, every three years. The last rating valuation was in 2021 and used to set rates from 1 July 2022.

    Does rating valuation reflect the current value of a property?

    No, a rating valuation reflects the likely selling price of the property, without chattels, if it sold on 1 May 2024. This historical information is only used for fairly sharing rates between properties. Council valuations do not reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    For an appraisal of current market value, we recommend ratepayers reach out to local real estate agents or registered valuers. There is also a range of online providers of property information based on current market data and recent trends.  

    How are rating valuations completed?

    Valuers assess a property’s CV by analysing data, such as local sales, property type, location and other property factors. The values are not a good indication of what a property would sell for today (the values are based on 1 May 2024).

    Rating valuations allow rates to be fairly shared. Council valuations do not reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    How does it work for an average home?

    For your average stand-alone home, the valuers would look at sales of comparable homes – similar land size, floor area, quality condition and location attributes, such as coastal properties.

    Valuers analysed market sales in areas of Auckland around 1 May 2024, considering similar properties and locations. For example, renovated villas in Grey Lynn are compared with sales of other renovated villas in that immediate area.

    So, a typical residential property would usually move in value along with other similar properties in the neighbourhood. But not all property values in an area will change in the same way – it depends on standalone houses, cross-leases, units and other home types. Values are done by mass valuation, using information held by council and our valuation providers – not by individual inspection.

    Good things to know

    Who completed this year’s valuations?

    Given the scale of the task of valuing 630,000 rateable properties in Auckland, two property valuation partners were involved in Auckland rating valuation: Opteon and Quotable Value.

    How does the objection process work?

    Property owners who want to opt for an objection can do so by 25 July 2025. We encourage property owners to take a look at the process via our website – and consider how the CV for their property compares with the CV for similar properties in their local area.

    Because the rating values are all based on 1 May 2024, looking at more recent sales data might not be relevant when considering an objection. Further information is available online through the Auckland Council website or phone 09) 301 0101.

    If an objection leads to a change in a property’s rating value, council will issue amended rates assessments that reflect any increase or decrease. If a refund is required, any overpaid amount will be refunded (once the objection process is complete).

    What should ratepayers do if they are concerned about paying rates?

    Anyone concerned about paying their rates is encouraged to get in touch as we have a range of assistance available.

    These include:

    • a government-funded rates rebate scheme
    • a rates postponement scheme for residential properties
    • flexible payment options, such as direct debits offering weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly, and annual payment.

    The rates rebate threshold for SuperGold card holders will increase from $31,510 to $45,000 from 1 July 2025. This will make more ratepayers who receive NZ superannuation eligible for a rates rebate.

    This information can be found on the Auckland Council website and our rates invoices also detail the support available. We encourage ratepayers to consider the options.

    This year’s valuation delay 

    Why has the property rating valuation been delayed?

    Ensuring a robust valuation process so ratepayers receive values that accurately reflect market values as at 1 May 2024 is important to the council, so Aucklanders have confidence the values used to determine rates have been accurately calculated.

    Following an audit in September 2024, the Valuer-General advised that the council valuation data required some amendments to ensure it accurately reflects the market as at 1 May 2024, before valuations will be certified and ready for public release.

    The Valuer-General advised that the 2024 valuation data was of a good quality, however some further work was needed for Auckland Council to attain certification.

    In April, the valuation file was resubmitted to the Valuer-General for review once that further work was completed by our valuation partners. The Valuer- General has now certified the 2024 rating valuations which has enabled us to publicly release these to property owners in June 2025.

    Who is the Valuer-General and why are they involved?

    The Valuer-General is appointed by central government and has a statutory responsibility for auditing and certifying all valuations used by councils to set rates.

    Where can I get more information?  

    Further information is available on the Auckland Council website.

    This year’s rating valuation trends is summarised on OurAuckland.

    To discuss your queries further, please phone (09) 301 0101.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rating valuations released to Auckland ratepayers

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland ratepayers will receive new property valuations this week, as Auckland Council prepares to update rates from 1 July 2025.

    The rating valuations Auckland property owners receive this week are based on property market trends and recent sales activity as at 1 May 2024. Therefore, the valuations are not intended to accurately reflect current market value – instead, the information will help enable rates to be fairly shared across Auckland’s 630,000 properties.

    The new rating valuations have been prepared by two independent valuation providers, QV and Opteon. These experienced property valuers have worked closely with Auckland Council to deliver valuations that meet robust standards.

    Auckland Council chief financial officer Ross Tucker said he was pleased to announce that the Valuer-General has now approved the new valuations for release to Aucklanders.

    “As we know, the last council valuations from 1 June 2021 were completed close to the market peak and between then and May 2024 the economy and property market generally trended down. Therefore, as most people would expect, the May 2024 Capital Values (CVs) are lower than the previous 2021 CVs for many properties,” said Mr Tucker.

    The overall CV movements between June 2021 and May 2024, by property type for Auckland, are:

    • industrial +5%
    • lifestyle +4%
    • rural + 4%
    • commercial -5%
    • residential -9%.

    Valuation movements over that period also varied across the Auckland region. Residential properties in centrally located local board areas tended to see a bigger reduction than those further out.

    [embedded content]

    Economic backdrop

    Auckland Council Chief Economist Gary Blick said it is important to note that the last two Auckland rating valuations happened to coincide with markedly different stages of the recent economic cycle.

    “At the time of the 2021 rating valuation, in June 2021, the Official Cash Rate (OCR) had been at an all-time low,” says Mr Blick. “We saw exceptionally low mortgage rates and strong upward pressure on property prices. The 2021 rating valuation reflected those higher prices.

    “In contrast, the 2024 rating valuation in May 2024, occurred when the OCR had been lifted to its recent high of 5.5 per cent. Higher interest rates cooled buyer demand, leading to a decline in property prices.

    “Despite that fall, the median house price as at June 2024 was still above the level just prior to the OCR cut of March 2020, and that remains the case today. The recent economic cycle – with its unusually steep climb and fall – helps explain why some properties have had swings between the two rating valuations.”

    What it means for rates

    The valuations do not change how much the council takes in rates – this is set annually following community consultation. For 2025/2026, Auckland Council has approved an overall average rates increase of 5.8 per cent for residential ratepayers.

    The council has kept the rates increase down, due to the commitment made as part of the council’s Long-term Plan 2024-2034, along with good progress in savings.

    “We are acutely aware of the tough cost of living facing our community and we continue to work hard to achieve council savings and improve value for ratepayers, to help keep rates as low as possible,” said Mr Tucker.

    “Most Auckland ratepayers will see some degree of rates increase from 1 July 2025. However, how a residential property’s CV changes compares to other properties in the region will generally determine whether that property’s rates increase from 1 July is more, or less, than the 5.8 per cent average.

    “If your residential property value has reduced more than the average (-9 per cent) change between the two valuations, you can expect a smaller rates increase than the 5.8 per cent. Conversely, if your property value held up better than the average, then you can expect a larger rates increase.”

    For 2025/2026, the annual rates for an average residential property (CV $1.29 million) will be $4,069. The 5.8 per cent average increase for 2025/2026 will equate to $223 per year or around $4.30 per week.

    Anyone concerned about paying their rates is encouraged to get in touch to access a range of assistance available. This information can be found on the Auckland Council website and rates notices.

    Ratepayers can access their property valuations via the Auckland Council website from Tuesday, 10 June 2025. Formal notices will be posted or emailed from Friday, 13 June 2025.

    Supporting information

    What are the valuation trends from this rating valuation?

    The rating valuations are based on 1 May 2024. At that time, these were the high-level trends for residential properties compared to the previous valuation:

    • Values for areas further from the city centre have held up slightly better (Hibiscus & Bays, Upper Harbour and Franklin range from -4% to -1%).

    • Conversely, properties closer to the city centre generally had above-average reductions (-11 to -14%). These include Puketāpapa, Albert-Eden, Maungakiekei-Tāmaki, Waitematā and Whau (all -14 or -13 per cent). This may be influenced by the varied market, including apartments, multi-units and stand-alone homes, which all have different sales trends.

    • In some areas, reduced demand for properties with redevelopment potential has contributed to larger value declines. These include Māngere Bridge, Henderson, Massey, Glen Innes, Point England and Panmure.

    • Land values have driven changes in CV. For many residential properties, land values had fallen an average of -13% and commercial land is also down -6%. The reduction in land values reflects reduced development activity since 2021 and, in some cases, potential zoning changes.

    • Some have bucked the trend. Rodney held its values (average 0% change) and Great Barrier is up (+38%). This is a continuing trend, with residential values on Great Barrier up 59% at the 2021 revaluation.

    • For storm-affected properties, it is difficult to quantify the overall effect of the 2023 storms on the market due to the number of variables involved. For instance, values in Muriwai have increased by 12%, whereas values in Henderson have fallen by 10%.     

    How are rating valuations completed?

    Valuers assess a property’s CV by analysing data, such as local sales, property type, location and other property factors. The values are not a good indication of what a property would sell for today (the values are based on 1 May 2024).

    Rating valuations allow rates to be fairly shared. Council valuations do not accurately reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    How does rating valuation impact a property’s rates cost?

    A change in a property’s CV will not necessarily mean the rates will be higher for an increased value, or lower for a decreased value. Properties with a valuation change higher or lower than the region’s average, will pay a higher or lower proportion of rates.

    How a property’s CV compares to other properties in the region will determine whether a property’s rates increase from 1 July is more, or less, than the average residential rates increase of 5.8 per cent, which was set through the council’s budget process. The new CV will be used to calculate rates for the next rating year, which starts on 1 July 2025.

    Do reduced property values mean lower rates?

    Property values going up do not increase the total rates the council collects, and likewise downward values do not decrease the total rates the council collects. Valuations simply allow the amount of rates to be fairly shared.

    How does rating valuation work for an average home?

    For your average stand-alone home, the valuers would look at sales of comparable homes – similar land size, floor area, quality condition and location attributes, such as coastal properties.

    Valuers analysed market sales in areas of Auckland around 1 May 2024, considering similar properties and locations. For example, renovated villas in Grey Lynn are compared with sales of other renovated villas in that immediate area.

    So, a typical residential property would usually move in value along with other similar properties in the neighbourhood. But not all property values in an area will change in the same way – it depends on standalone houses, cross-leases, units and other home types.

    Values are done by mass valuation, using information held by council and our valuation providers – not by individual inspection.

    What should ratepayers do if they need support with paying rates?

    Anyone concerned about paying their rates is encouraged to get in touch as we have a range of assistance available. These include:

    • a government-funded rates rebate scheme
    • a rates postponement scheme for residential properties
    • flexible payment options, such as direct debits offering weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly, and annual payment.

    The rates rebate threshold for SuperGold card holders will increase from $31,510 to $45,000 from 1 July 2025. This will make more ratepayers who receive NZ superannuation eligible for a rates rebate.

    This information can be found on the Auckland Council website and our rates invoices also detail the support available. We encourage ratepayers to consider their options.

    For more information and frequently asked questions, visit the main Auckland Council website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Busting myths: rates and property valuation

    Source: Auckland Council

    Rating valuation is undertaken every three years, by all councils nationwide. It’s legislated so councils fairly and accurately distribute rates.
    Often, the process prompts a range of questions from our ratepayers – so we’ve busted some of the most common myths, below.

    Myth: My property value has reduced – so my rates will reduce too.

    BUSTED: A change in your property’s CV (capital value) will not necessarily mean your rates will be higher for an increased value, or lower for a decreased value. It’s how your property value moves with the average change, that affects rates.

    To explain… if your residential property’s value change is higher than the overall average change, you will pay more in rates. Valuation changes below the average change will mean rates fall relative to the general increase.

    Myth: The council is taking more rates, as a result of revaluing properties.

    BUSTED: Property rates contribute to about 40 per cent of council funding. Property values help us share that rates revenue fairly across all property owners – the values do not increase or decrease the amount the council receives.

    A council valuation has the sole purpose of enabling rates to be fairly shared across 630,000 properties in our region.

    Myth: My rates increase will be exactly 5.8% this year.

    BUSTED: The average residential rates increase for 2025/2026 will be 5.8 per cent which was set through the council’s budget process. But it’s how the change in your property’s CV compares to the change in other properties that will determine whether your increase from 1 July is more, or less, than 5.8 per cent.

    Myth: Council valuations are a current property value.

    BUSTED: The values are not a good indication of what a property would sell for today. We recommend ratepayers reach out to local real estate agents or registered valuers for an up-to-date appraisal. Rating valuations are only used to fairly set rates.

    The property valuations will reflect the likely selling price of the property, without chattels, if it sold on 1 May 2024. Council valuations should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    The latest values (based on 1 May 2024) are a historical moment in time. Values are completed by mass valuation, using information held by council and valuers – not by individual inspection.

    Further information

    More information is available on the Auckland Council website.

    The latest revaluation trends for Auckland are summarised on OurAuckland. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 9, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 9, 2025.

    Israeli forces intercept Gaza freedom aid boat Madleen – cut communications
    Pacific Media Watch Contact has been lost with the Gaza Freedom Flotilla humanitarian aid boat Madleen after Israeli commandos intercepted it in international waters. The commandos demanded that everyone on board turn off their phones, and the boat lost contact with Al Jazeera Mubasher journalist Omar Faiad as well as its live feed, reports the

    NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Tookey, Professor of Construction Management, Auckland University of Technology New Zealand has just been hit by the first big cold snap of 2025 and, like every year, many New Zealanders will be reaching for an extra jumper, slippers and maybe a blanket to try and keep

    2-million-year-old pitted teeth from our ancient relatives reveal secrets about human evolution
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Towle, Research Fellow in Biological Anthropology, Monash University Ian Towle / The Conversation The enamel that forms the outer layer of our teeth might seem like an unlikely place to find clues about evolution. But it tells us more than you’d think about the relationships between

    Curious Kids: Why do dolphins jump out of the water?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katharina J. Peters, Lecturer in Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong Will Falcon/Shutterstock Why do dolphins jump out of the water? Charlize, age 8, Melbourne Have you ever seen images of dolphins jumping out of the waves and performing impressive acrobatics in the air? Or maybe you’ve seen

    How Trump’s trade war is supercharging the fast fashion industry
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mona Mashhadi Rajabi, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Technology Sydney Jade Gao/Getty Images When US President Donald Trump introduced sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports the goal was to bring manufacturing back to American soil and protect local jobs. However, this process of re-shoring is complex and

    Can Israel still claim self-defence to justify its Gaza war? Here’s what the law says
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University On October 7 2023, more than 1,000 Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel and went on a killing spree, murdering 1,200 men, women and children and abducting another 250 people to take back to Gaza. It was the

    Measles cases are surging globally. Should children be vaccinated earlier?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meru Sheel, Associate Professor, Infectious Diseases, Immunisation and Emergencies (IDIE) Group, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney EyeEm Mobile GmbH/Getty Images Measles has been rising globally in recent years. There were an estimated 10.3 million cases worldwide in 2023, a 20% increase from 2022. Outbreaks

    What can you do if you don’t like your child’s friends?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachael Murrihy, Director, The Kidman Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney Getty Images/ Wander Woman Collective Many parents will be familiar with this situation: your child has a good or even best friend, but you don’t like them. Perhaps the friend is bossy, has poor

    Immortality at a price: how the promise of delaying death has become a consumer marketing bonanza
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy Errmann, Senior Lecturer, Marketing & International Business, Auckland University of Technology Living forever has become the wellness and marketing trend of the 2020s. But cheating death – or at least delaying it – will come at a price. What was once the domain of scientists and

    Why bystanders defend bad behaviour at work — even when they know it’s wrong
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zhanna Lyubykh, Assistant Professor, Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University Rather than intervening, supporting targets or reporting the misconduct, bystanders may downplay it, withdraw support or even blame the target, which ultimately reinforces the mistreatment. (Shutterstock) “You always mess things up. Why are you even on

    Phil Goff: Israel doesn’t care how many innocent people it’s killing in Gaza
    COMMENTARY: By Phil Goff “What we are doing in Gaza now is a war of devastation: indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians. It’s the result of government policy — knowingly, evilly, maliciously, irresponsibly dictated.” This statement was made not by a foreign or liberal critic of Israel but by the former Prime Minister

    New Zealand’s foreign policy stance on Palestine lacks transparency
    COMMENTARY: By John Hobbs It is difficult to understand what sits behind the New Zealand government’s unwillingness to sanction, or threaten to sanction, the Israeli government for its genocide against the Palestinian people. The United Nations, human rights groups, legal experts and now genocide experts have all agreed it really is “genocide” which is being

    The blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Henry Maher, Lecturer in Politics, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney A no-holds-barred and very public blow-up between the world’s richest man and the president of the United States has had social media agog in recent days, with each making serious accusations against the

    Gaza plea: RSF, CPJ and 150+ media outlets call on Israel to open Strip to foreign journalists, protect Palestinian reporters
    Pacific Media Watch More than 150 press freedom advocacy groups and international newsrooms have joined Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) in issuing a public appeal demanding that Israel grant foreign journalists immediate, independent and unrestricted access to the Gaza Strip. The organisations are also calling for the full protection

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Story of a Foreign Son-in-Law and His Love for Pizza in Huangshan City

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    American-turned-“Chinese son-in-law” Adrian Brill left a teaching job in Chengdu to become a pizza maker in the quiet village of Nanxingan, nestled at the foot of the Huangshan Mountains in Anhui Province. In 2017, he and his wife moved to her hometown of Huangshan City. “This is a chance to build the life I’ve always wanted, which is to live in greater harmony with nature, community, and personal well-being,” he said.

    “Chinese Son-in-Law” Adrien Makes Pizza with Fermented Maotofu Bean Curd (Source: Screenshot from video)

    In 2021, Adrien gained attention for sharing his home-style and rustic cuisine on social media and opened a local pizzeria. “I didn’t choose the restaurant business, the business chose me,” he says. His signature pizzas are two types that combine unique Anhui flavors: the savory Chinese snapper and the fermented tofu (maotofu). “It’s not just food, it’s a cultural exchange. My family is half American and half Chinese, and the most beautiful thing is what’s born between the two cultures,” he says. Today, Adrien is not only a chef but also a mentor to the neighborhood’s youth, giving him a sense of belonging to different identities that lie at the intersection of Chinese and Western food cultures.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rich get much richer, driving inequality and poverty

    Source: Green Party

    The 2025 NBR Rich List makes immediately obvious the need for a fair tax system, says the Green Party. 

    “The rich list is now worth more than one hundred billion dollars, while the Government has chosen to cut support to tens of thousands of the lowest income New Zealanders. It’s time to tax wealth, and build a country where all of us can thrive,” says the Green Party’s spokesperson for Finance and co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick.

    “Poverty and homelessness doesn’t come from nowhere. They are created by inequality. Christopher Luxon has put his foot down on the accelerator. By design, the rich are getting much, much richer while the poor are getting much, much poorer.

    “We already know that the wealthiest households are able to arrange their finances to pay half the effective tax rate of regular New Zealanders. That means, proportionally, teachers, nurses, builders and firefighters pay more of their income to support our country’s infrastructure than the billionaires the Prime Minister has chosen to celebrate today.

    “The Greens are ambitious for an Aotearoa New Zealand where everyone has what they need to thrive. We can have free GPs, free early childhood education, free dental care and rapidly reduce climate changing emissions – if the rich pay their fair share.

    “A wealth tax on just the ten wealthiest rich listers alone would pay for free GP care for all New Zealanders.

    “Don’t let the people laughing their way to the bank while everyone else suffers tell you what is possible. We all deserve so much better, and our Green Budget shows how,” says Chlöe Swarbrick.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Alisson backs Ancelotti, says changes will take time

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Brazil goalkeeper Alisson Becker said Saturday that the influence of new manager Carlo Ancelotti may not be fully apparent until the FIFA World Cup next year.

    Ancelotti, who was appointed last month, took charge of his first match on Thursday as Brazil was held to a goalless draw by Ecuador in a World Cup qualifier in Guayaquil.

    Alisson said Ancelotti was already making his mark within the squad but cautioned that the long-term effects of the Italian’s management would take time to materialize.

    “We know that football is a process and we can’t expect all the problems to be resolved overnight,” the Liverpool player told a news conference in Sao Paulo, where the team is training ahead of next Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Paraguay at Corinthians Arena.

    Alisson said the former Real Madrid boss had already brought greater defensive cohesion and a relaxed atmosphere in the dressing room.

    He added the 65-year-old’s winning mentality was noticeable in training sessions and team meetings.

    “Ancelotti contributes in a lot of ways, it’s evident just by his presence,” he said. “He’s a manager with a long history in football and he carries that wherever he goes. It’s no different with the national team.”

    Meanwhile, Alisson raised the prospect of returning to his homeland to play for former club Internacional when his Liverpool contract expires in 2027.

    “My immediate goal is to be very focused on the present, especially with the World Cup approaching,” the 32-year-old said. “I’ve spoken with some players who have already gone through the process of returning to Brazil and some had positive experiences while others didn’t.”

    Brazil is currently fourth in the 10-team South American group with three qualifiers remaining.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Legacy in action: How Beijing’s dual-Olympic venue powers sport, community

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    From the fierce clashes of Olympic ice hockey to the roar of basketball fans and the graceful arcs of figure skating, Beijing’s National Indoor Stadium has become a model for sustainable Olympic venue use.

    17 years after hosting gymnastics, trampoline and wheelchair basketball events at the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, and three years after staging ice hockey competitions during the 2022 Winter Olympics, the venue is once again welcoming world-class athletes, with the FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL) held at one of the city’s iconic “dual Olympic” venues.

    Martyna Lukasik (R) of Poland spikes the ball during the Pool 3 match between Poland and Thailand at the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Luo Yuan)

    At the heart of the stadium’s success lies a simple yet powerful strategy: putting sports first and sharing it with the community. In doing so, it reflects a broader vision of how Olympic legacy can serve both elite performance and public engagement.

    “We’ve always believed that a world-class sports venue must serve athletes, spectators and the city alike,” National Indoor Stadium chairman Wang Yue told Xinhua.

    SMART OPERATIONS, OLYMPIC LEGACY

    Built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the National Indoor Stadium underwent major upgrades for the 2022 Winter Games, becoming one of the two ice hockey competition venues.

    During renovations, designers incorporated a dual-size ice rink system, allowing conversion between the standard 60m x 26m Olympic ice hockey field and a 60m x 30m configuration for figure skating and other events. This design foresight laid the foundation for versatile, long-term use.

    Following the Winter Olympics, the stadium returned to its sports-first mission under the Beijing Performing Arts Group, aligning with the city’s call to refocus Olympic venues on athletic development. Since then, it has hosted a growing portfolio of top-tier events and become home to Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) team the Beijing Royal Fighters.

    “Our post-Olympic mission has been to fully return to our core mission – sports. This venue is designed to host elite competitions, and also to welcome citizens in their everyday lives. We’re building a world-class stadium brand rooted in Olympic spirit and open access,” Wang explained.

    The venue’s reputation for professionalism has also been affirmed by visiting teams during the VNL.

    “This stadium has amazing lighting and atmosphere. It makes the players feel like they’re on one of the world’s biggest stages,” said Türkiye head coach Daniele Santarelli.

    China captain Gong Xiangyu echoed this sentiment: “It’s exciting to play here. You feel the energy of the crowd and the history of the place.”

    FROM OLYMPIC SPOTLIGHT TO DAILY USE

    Since its post-Winter Olympics reopening, the stadium has focused on optimizing space and schedule through precise planning. With an annual calendar packed with over 60 major events – spanning volleyball, basketball, ice hockey, concerts and exhibitions – the venue runs on what its operators call a “full-time, full-space” model.

    “We host around 30 professional sports events a year, and the same number of other commercial and cultural events,” said Wang.

    Behind these seamless transitions is a core operation team of fewer than 20 people, who oversee everything from scheduling to logistical coordination.

    “Our team is small but specialized,” Wang explained. “After a concert teardown at night, we can switch the space into basketball mode by the next morning.”

    Beyond major events, the stadium shifts gears on non-match days to serve everyday fitness and public engagement.

    “We offer rhythmic gymnastics and badminton classes in the main hall. The training hall becomes a hub for table tennis and balance-bike lessons,” Wang noted.

    A dedicated ice hockey rink built for the Winter Games now supports both Beijing’s men’s ice hockey team and public skating hours, while outdoor tennis and 3×3 basketball courts are fully booked on weekends.

    “Hosting events isn’t our only goal,” said Wang. “We want local residents to see this as their home stadium. Whether you’re watching volleyball or playing badminton with your children, this is the place for you.”

    “We are positioning ourselves as an Olympic legacy venue that delivers on both elite performance and daily vitality,” he added.

    BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE, PEOPLE-CENTERED MODEL

    With the goal of long-term sustainability, the stadium is developing a diversified revenue model that combines core sports events with concerts, exhibitions, themed retail and dining.

    “Our operations are now basically breaking even,” Wang noted. “We are pushing for a balance between economic return and public benefit.”

    To support this strategy, the stadium is building two flagship sports brands: basketball and ice hockey.

    “The Beijing Royal Fighters plays most of its home games here. We’re also the training base and competition site for Beijing’s city-level ice hockey team,” said Wang, adding these projects help drive identity and fan engagement.

    Wang also emphasized the stadium’s public-service function.

    “More than 1,000 amateur events are held here every year,” he said. “This isn’t a major profit center, but it’s about public value. As a state-owned venue, we must serve the community.”

    The five-day VNL competitions have drawn tens of thousands of fans and ignited a new wave of enthusiasm. Visitors can use match tickets for discounts at restaurants and shops nearby – part of a growing “ticket stub economy” that ties sport with city life.

    “Sport is more than a competition,” said Wang. “It’s a way to connect people, boost local business and enhance urban life. That’s the Olympic legacy we hope to continue.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two before the courts after separate offences

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Senior Sergeant Stephen McDaniel, Waimakariri/Hurunui Response Manager,

    Two people are before the courts following two separate incidents in the Rural Canterbury area.

    On Tuesday 27 May, Police were alerted to a report of a burglary on Southbrook Road, where a residential property’s front gates had been taken during the day in front of peak traffic.

    After following lines of enquiry, including CCTV footage, Police identified the alleged offender.

    A search warrant was executed at a Christchurch property where Police located the stolen gates partially mounted to the front fence.

    The alleged offender was also located at the property and was taken into custody at the scene.

    A 41-year-old man appeared on 31 May, and was remanded in custody. He is due to reappear in Christchurch District Court on 25 June.

    On Tuesday 3 June, the Canterbury Rural Tactical Crime Unit executed a search warrant at a Swannanoa address in relation to a number of reported stolen vehicles.

    During the search warrant, Police located three vehicles that had been reported stolen.

    A 30-year-old woman was taken into custody at the scene.

    The woman is due to appear in Christchurch District Court at a later date, charged with receiving property.

    We would like to thank the members of the public who provided information in relation to this incident to Police.

    This information is invaluable to our investigations and enabled us to hold the alleged offender to account.

    We thank the public for their continued support and urge anyone to report any suspicious or unlawful behaviour to Police.

    If you see something happening now, call 111 with as much detail as safely possible, or get in touch on 105 if it’s after the fact.

    Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Tookey, Professor of Construction Management, Auckland University of Technology

    New Zealand has just been hit by the first big cold snap of 2025 and, like every year, many New Zealanders will be reaching for an extra jumper, slippers and maybe a blanket to try and keep warm.

    New Zealand’s housing stock has long been criticised for being damp, cold and ill-suited to the climate.

    In the 2018 Census, households were asked about the state of their homes. According to Stats NZ, 318,891 homes in New Zealand (21.5%) were affected by dampness and 252,855 (16.9%) had visible mould larger than A4 size at least some of the time.

    While the World Health Organization recommends a minimum indoor temperature of 18˚C, many homes in New Zealand fall below these thresholds, with some experiencing temperatures less than 16°C.

    Even when homes are built to code, there can still be issues and health risks. A lot of New Zealand’s housing is not fit for purpose – particularly at this time of the year.

    While improving heating and standards is a homeowner choice, for landlords it is increasingly a requirement. Over recent years landlords have faced increasing costs to achieve legal heating, ventilation and insulation requirements within 90 days of a new or renewed tenancy.

    For everyone else, there are ways to make homes more efficient to heat and comfortable to live in. Here are four ways to keep heat in your home this winter – some simple and affordable, while others are more of an investment.

    Insulation is your friend

    Firstly, insulation is our friend in winter. Double glazing is excellent but expensive (between NZ$450/m2 and $1500/m2) and subject to restrictions in heritage buildings. There are other options.

    Secondary glazing with glass, acrylic or applique plastic sheets can be a significantly more cost-effective option.

    Where possible, home owners should be looking at ways to add to thermal efficiency by increasing insulation.

    Walls can be retrofitted with cavity fillers. If your budget can stretch to it, rigid insulation board is also effective. Under the floor and in the roof spaces are favourites for these upgrades. They are relatively cheap improvements to make and generally pay for themselves.

    Target draughts

    Secondly, a warm and dry home requires finding and eliminating draughts.

    For many years, building scientists have sought to achieve airtight homes. An airtight home substantially reduces heat loss in winter.

    Temporary and permanent improvements can be made by buying or making some draught excluders and door sweeps for doorways. But specialist products such as adhesive-backed foam tape or V-strip weatherstripping around door and window frames are also very effective.

    Even just using masking tape during winter to seal the gaps in unused windows can help keep warmth in the home.

    Windows and a compass

    Third, use your window orientation strategically. Invest in heavier curtains (or blinds) that insulate windows. Then use a compass (you probably have a compass app on your phone) to work out which way is north.

    North-facing windows catch the sun during the day, and contribute to thermal gain in a house. South-facing windows are in shadow all day and tend to act as a heat sink, losing energy throughout the day.

    During the day, ensure curtains and blinds are open on the north side and closed on the south side. As soon as night falls, close the curtains to retain maximum heat. Try to keep unused rooms closed off and stick to the naturally warmer spaces.

    Move heat around

    Fourth, use ceiling fans, heat pumps, and dehumidifiers to maximise the available heat in your house.

    Heat will stratify into layers in your house. It is always going to be warmer near the ceiling of each room. Usually, the loft space is the warmest of all through maximum thermal gain during the day.

    Using a ducted heat pump can recycle that heat to the living spaces. Similarly, if you set the ceiling fan to move air around the room you will make the most of what you have. Ideally, run the ceiling fan backwards (clockwise) if it has that option, to create an updraught rather than a downdraught to aid circulation.

    Dehumidifiers are extremely useful in increasing the feeling of warmth in a house. During operation, they release some latent heat while condensing water. Dry air is easier to heat, making your heating more efficient.

    Your home can make you sick

    Cold damp homes can have significant health impacts, including respiratory issues, rheumatic fever and skin infections – particularly for children and vulnerable people.

    Targeting heat loss and dampness can help improve conditions. Will it ensure every home is warm and toasty? No. But these steps can make their homes just a little bit warmer – and healthier – this winter.

    John Tookey 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. NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter – https://theconversation.com/nz-homes-are-notorious-for-being-cold-and-damp-here-are-4-ways-to-make-yours-feel-warmer-this-winter-257893

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From Kent State to Los Angeles, using armed forces to police civilians is a high-risk strategy

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Brian VanDeMark, Professor of History, United States Naval Academy

    Smoke and tear gas surround a protester in Los Angeles on June 7, 2025, amid confrontations between immigration rights advocates and law enforcement personnel. Taurat Hossain/Anadolu via Getty Images

    Responding to street protests in Los Angeles against federal immigration enforcement raids, President Donald Trump ordered 2,000 soldiers from the California National Guard into the city on June 7, 2025, to protect agents carrying out the raids. Trump also authorized the Pentagon to dispatch regular U.S. troops “as necessary” to support the California National Guard.

    The president’s orders did not specify rules of engagement about when and how force could be used. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who did not request the National Guard and asserted it was not needed, criticized the president’s decision as “inflammatory” and warned it “will only escalate tensions.”

    I am a historian who has written several books about the Vietnam War, one of the most divisive episodes in our nation’s past. My recent book, “Kent State: An American Tragedy,” examines a historic clash on May 4, 1970, between anti-war protesters and National Guard troops at Kent State University in Ohio.

    The confrontation escalated into violence: troops opened fire on the demonstrators, killing four students and wounding nine others, including one who was paralyzed for life.

    In my view, dispatching California National Guard troops against civilian protesters in Los Angeles chillingly echoes decisions and actions that led to the tragic Kent State shooting. Some active-duty units, as well as National Guard troops, are better prepared today than in 1970 to respond to riots and violent protests – but the vast majority of their training and their primary mission remains to fight, to kill, and to win wars.

    Protests in Los Angeles began after federal agencies conducted immigration raids across the city on June 6, 2025. Local police responded with pepper spray, rubber bullets and tear gas.

    Federalizing the Guard

    The National Guard is a force of state militias under the command of governors. It can be federalized by the president during times of national emergency, or for deployment on combat missions overseas. Guardsmen train for one weekend per month and two weeks every summer.

    Typically, the Guard has been deployed to deal with natural disasters and support local police responses to urban unrest. Examples include riots in Detroit in 1967, Washington DC in 1968, Los Angeles in 1965 and 1992, and Minneapolis and other cities in 2020 after the death of George Floyd.

    Presidents rarely deploy National Guard troops without state governors’ consent. The main modern exceptions occurred in the 1950s and 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement, when Southern governors defied federal court orders to desegregate schools in Arkansas, Mississippi and Alabama. In each case, the federal government sent troops to protect Black students from crowds of white protesters.

    The 1807 Insurrection Act grants presidents authority to use active-duty troops or National Guard forces to restore order within the United States. President Trump did not invoke the Insurrection Act. Instead, he relied on Section 12406 of Title 10 of the U.S. Code, a narrower federal statute that allows the president to mobilize the National Guard in situations including “rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.”

    Trump did not limit his order to Los Angeles. He authorized armed forces to protect immigration enforcement operations at any “locations where protests against these functions are occurring or are likely to occur.”

    ICE officers and national guards confront protesters outside of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025.
    Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images

    The standoff at Kent State

    The war in Vietnam had grown increasingly unpopular by early 1970, but protests intensified on April 30 when President Richard Nixon authorized expanding the conflict into Cambodia. At Kent State, after a noontime anti-war rally on campus on May 1, alcohol-fueled students harassed passing motorists in town and smashed storefront windows that night. On May 2, anti-war protesters set fire to the building where military officers trained Kent State students enrolled in the armed forces’ Reserve Officer Training Corps program.

    In response, Republican Governor Jim Rhodes dispatched National Guard troops, against the advice of university and many local officials, who understood the mood in the town of Kent and on campus far better than Rhodes did. County prosecutor Ron Kane had vehemently warned Rhodes that deploying the National Guard could spark conflict and lead to fatalities.

    Nonetheless, Rhodes – who was trailing in an impending Republican primary for a U.S. Senate seat – struck the pose of a take-charge leader who wasn’t going to be pushed around by a long-haired rabble. “We’re going to put a stop to this!” he shouted, pounding the table at a press conference in Kent on May 3.

    Hundreds of National Guard troops were deployed across town and on campus. University officials announced that further rallies were banned. Nonetheless, on May 4, some 2,000 to 3,000 students gathered on the campus Commons for another anti-war rally. They were met by 96 National Guardsmen, led by eight officers.

    There was confrontation in the air as student anger over Nixon’s expansion of the war blended with resentment over the Guard’s presence. Protesters chanted antiwar slogans, shouted epithets at the Guardsmen and made obscene gestures.

    Archival footage from CBS News of the clash between campus anti-war protesters and Ohio National Guard troops at Kent State University on May 4, 1970.

    ‘Fire in the air!’

    The Guardsmen sent to Kent State had no training in de-escalating tension or minimizing the use of force. Nonetheless, their commanding officer that day, Ohio Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General Robert Canterbury, decided to use them to break up what the Department of Justice later deemed a legal assembly.

    In my view, it was a reckless judgment that inflamed an already volatile situation. Students started showering the greatly outnumbered Guardsmen with rocks and other objects. In violation of Ohio Army National Guard regulations, Canterbury neglected to warn the students that he had ordered Guardsmens’ rifles loaded with live ammunition.

    As tension mounted, Canterbury failed to adequately supervise his increasingly fearful troops – a cardinal responsibility of the commanding officer on the scene. This fundamental failure of leadership increased confusion and resulted in a breakdown of fire control discipline – officers’ responsibility to maintain tight control over their troops’ discharge of weapons.

    When protesters neared the Guardsmen, platoon sergeant Mathew McManus shouted “Fire in the air!” in a desperate attempt to prevent bloodshed. McManus intended for troops to shoot above the students’ heads to warn them off. But some Guardsmen, wearing gas masks that made it hard to hear amid the noise and confusion, only heard or reacted to the first word of McManus’ order, and fired at the students.

    The troops had not been trained to fire warning shots, which was contrary to National Guard regulations. And McManus had no authority to issue an order to fire if officers were nearby, as they were.

    Many National Guardsmen who were at Kent State on May 4 later questioned why they had been deployed there. “Loaded rifles and fixed bayonets are pretty harsh solutions for students exercising free speech on an American campus,” one of them told an oral history interviewer. Another plaintively asked me in a 2023 interview, “Why would you put soldiers trained to kill on a university campus to serve a police function?”

    Doug Guthrie, a student at Kent State in 1970, looks back 54 years later at the events of May 4.

    A fighting force

    National Guard equipment and training have improved significantly in the decades since Kent State. But Guardsmen are still military troops who are fundamentally trained to fight, not to control crowds.

    In 2020, then-National Guard Bureau Chief General Joseph Lengyel told reporters that “the civil unrest mission is one of the most difficult and dangerous missions … in our domestic portfolio.”

    In my view, the tragedy of Kent State shows how critical it is for authorities to be thoughtful in responding to protests, and extremely cautious in deploying military troops to deal with them. The application of force is inherently unpredictable, often uncontrollable, and can lead to fatal mistakes and lasting human suffering. And while protests sometimes break rules, they may not be disruptive or harmful enough to merit responding with force.

    Aggressive displays of force, in fact, can heighten tensions and worsen situations. Conversely, research shows that if protesters perceive authorities are acting with restraint and treating them with respect, they are more likely to remain nonviolent. The shooting at Kent State demonstrated that using military force in these situations is an option fraught with grave risks.

    This is an updated version of an article originally published Aug. 27, 2024.

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

    – ref. From Kent State to Los Angeles, using armed forces to police civilians is a high-risk strategy – https://theconversation.com/from-kent-state-to-los-angeles-using-armed-forces-to-police-civilians-is-a-high-risk-strategy-258468

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Prestigious award for experienced brigade captain

    Source:

    Sharon Merritt AFSM has received the prestigious Australian Fire Service Medal in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours for her outstanding service to CFA and the community.

    Sharon has been a CFA member for 28 years, initially as a volunteer firefighter and then a staff member for more than 15 years. Since 2003, Sharon has served as captain of Macclesfield Fire Brigade, showing exceptional leadership in a specialised large animal rescue brigade.  

    Sharon is a qualified sector commander, strike team leader, crew leader, and Level 3 fire behaviour analyst and safety officer. She has responded to many significant incidents at the local level, interstate and overseas deployments. She was a Level 3 incident management team safety officer during the 2019-20 Victorian fires and was a strike team leader and sector commander during the 2009 fires. 

    “I spent most of the 2019-20 fire season away from home,” Sharon said. “I was everywhere and saw all of Gippsland. I was surprised by the scale of the fires. They covered huge areas over a long period of time. It was incredible. 

    “As a safety officer I was in the field and in incident control centres. My role was to look after the safety of firefighters, both physical and psychological. It was a challenge dealing with a wide range of safety issues. A particular challenge was making sure crews could safely get to Mallacoota on a single road that was impacted by hazardous trees.”    

    She recognised the specialist response needed for large animals in distress, including during bushfires and floods, and she was integral in developing the brigade’s large animal rescue unit, one of only two in Victoria. This type of rescue needs specialist knowledge and understanding of large animals as well as considering the needs of the surrounding community.  

    “Our brigade had responded to horse rescues for the past 15 years, as there are a large number of horses in our area and they can get stuck in a lot of places,” Sharon said. “The number of rescues increased over the past 10 years, but we didn’t have the correct equipment to deal with them. Luckily, equipment was donated to the brigade by riding schools.  

    “Brigade members were trained in large animal rescue by overseas’ experts, we did accredited training, and it grew from there.”  

    In addition to large animal rescue, Sharon has been an advocate for educating horse owners about effective management practices during bushfires. Moreover, her work has played a significant role in mitigating the risks associated with the interaction between emergency services and the equine community in the challenging and dynamic conditions of a bushfire.  

    Sharon was the first woman in District 13’s Dandenong Ranges Group to become a captain. Under her leadership, the number of women firefighters in Macclesfield Fire Brigade has doubled. 

    She is passionate about mentoring women in CFA, providing operational training (including one-on-one General Firefighter training) to women staff in District 13.  

    Sharon led the brigade during the planning and construction of the new Macclesfield Fire Station, which was completed in 2010, and was instrumental in acquiring the land for it.  

    As a qualified trainer/assessor, Sharon is endorsed to train members in General Firefighter, Suppress Wildfire, Respond to Isolated Structure Fire (Low Structure), Hazmat Awareness, and Crew Leadership.  

    She is also a volunteer structural and wildfire fire investigator and was recently part of the team that investigated the significant Yering Golf Club fire.  

    “I started investigating fires in 1998 and I have conducted more than 600 investigations as a volunteer. I’m fascinated by the science and determining the cause – I’m interested in why things happen. I’ve also been to court several times as a witness.” 

    For 12 years, she worked as a CFA staff member as a vegetation management officer, focusing on bushfire risk management through prevention and mitigation efforts. Her expertise in developing and implementing fuel management plans across District 13 included cultural and ecological fire management. As a qualified Level 3 burns controller, she played a crucial role in community preparedness. 

    “I conducted burns every year for 12 years in District 13,” Sharon said. “I remember a planned burn near Silvan Reservoir that was particularly effective. About two years after the burn there was a lightning strike on the burnt ground. Although it caused a fire, it was brought under control quickly. Also, if the area hadn’t been previously burned, the fire would have showered Monbulk with embers and caused more fires. The planned burn worked and there were no embers.”      

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: AFSM honour for fire services impact

    Source:

    Colin Brown AFSM is a dedicated and highly experienced firefighter and emergency services leader with more than 40 years of service to CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria.

    His longstanding career exemplifies outstanding leadership, innovation and service in firefighting, emergency management, aviation operations and community engagement. Beyond his distinguished service in frontline firefighting, Colin has played a pivotal role in shaping strategic emergency management frameworks, mentoring future leaders, and championing inclusivity.

    Colin is a current volunteer member of Warrandyte Fire Brigade, a fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) Commander at CFA District 13, and a former CFA Deputy Group Officer of Seymour Group. He is also an accredited wildfire and structural fire investigator and has mentored prospective investigators undergoing training in the past.

    “As a teenager growing up in The Basin, there was little to do to occupy my time,” Colin said. 

    “The local fire brigade was near my home and hearing them regularly respond to incidents prompted me to join. Once I became a member, the camaraderie within the brigade and a sense of helping the community led me to pursue a career as a firefighter.”

    Across his more than four decades of service, Colin has made a significant contribution in the protection of life and property at major fires including Dandenong Ranges fires (1967, 1997), Ash Wednesday (1983), Black Saturday Fires (2009) and the Cambarville fires (2019-20).

    He also managed emergency response as Incident Controller for complex fires including Dutson Downs Bombing Range (1999), Hazelwood Power Station (2000) and Maryvale Paper Mill (2001), and provided strategic leadership during the Victorian Alpine Fires (2002-03), Emu Track Fire (2003), the 2019-20 fires (in both Victoria and NSW) and numerous other large-scale emergencies. Additionally, he has been involved in multi-agency emergency operations, working alongside Victoria Police, CFA, DELWP and other emergency services.

    “One of the incidents that stands out for me is the Longford gas explosion in 1998. It was my first day as a CFA Operations Officer and I was asked to lead the CFA Fire Investigation team in determining its cause,” Colin said.

    “I was then privileged to be asked by ESSO Australia to support the Longford team to obtain their licence as a major hazards facility.”

    Colin’s expertise and leadership during catastrophic events has led to significant advancements in township protection plans, improvements in Incident Control Centres and the creation of the highly successful Your Emergency Services (YES) program in the Yarra Ranges.

    Following the Black Saturday Royal Commission, Colin worked with 21 CFA brigades across the Dandenong Ranges and surrounding areas on an EMV-led project to provide community alert sirens in emergencies through existing CFA and purpose-built sirens. This project is now in place and has been used to alert these communities to emergencies since its implementation, improving public safety outcomes.

    Colin is also a champion of diversity in emergency response operations. His commitment to training, mentoring and inclusivity has led to advancements in fire aviation operations and fire investigation, including endorsing the first accredited woman CFA Air Observer and managing the development of a joint agency training manual between CFA and DELWP.

    “Receiving the AFSM is very humbling, and I am privileged to be honoured by this significant award,” Colin said.

    “CFA is a fantastic organisation. It allows you to challenge yourself and contribute to protecting your community. It provides you with opportunities to develop diverse skills, including leadership and teamwork, outside of your normal day-to-day life.

    “I have also made many friends and acquaintances over my 45 years of service to the organisation and the community.”

    Colin’s dedication, visionary leadership and commitment to safeguarding communities has enhanced firefighting and incident management in Victoria. His contributions continue to shape best practice, mentor future leaders and inspire excellence in firefighting and emergency management.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CFA stalwart honoured for decades of bushfire safety leadership

    Source:

    CFA Wildfire Instructor and operational firefighter Anthony (Tony) Scicluna has been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in this year’s King’s Birthday honours for his outstanding dedication to firefighter training, safety culture and community service.

    Tony’s career in fire services spans more than four decades across both volunteer and career roles. During that time, he has left a lasting mark on bushfire training in Victoria, shaping programs, training thousands of volunteers, and instilling a culture of calm, safety and awareness on the fireground.

    “Receiving the AFSM is a real honour, but it’s one I share with a lot of people who worked beside me along the way,” Tony said.

    Tony began his CFA journey as one of the founding members of Clonbinane Fire Brigade in the early 1980s. At the time, there was no brigade in the local area, only a community fire truck attached to the Wandong Fire Brigade. Driven by local need and collective effort, Tony joined other local residents and successfully lobbied the CFA for a new brigade, which continues to serve the region today.

    From 1990, his firefighting expertise deepened during 12 years with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, where he gained hands-on experience in bushfire behaviour, forest management and operational response. He also worked in the Fire Management Branch developing bushfire training packages and firefighting training videos. That experience became the foundation for his work developing and delivering CFA’s training curriculum.

    Over the years, Tony, has played a pivotal role in the creation of several major CFA training programs, including CFA’s initial core firefighter training module, the General Firefighter program, the Chainsaw and Tree Hazard programs. He has also taught fire ecology and planned burning at TAFE level, contributed to the development of interagency training packages still in use today, all while remaining an active CFA volunteer throughout.

    “I’m a big believer in the older firefighter teaching the newer firefighter,” he said.

    “That’s how firefighting knowledge has always been passed on — hands-on learning, real stories, real consequences. You’ve got to engage the firefighters you train so they bring out the best in themselves. That’s my philosophy.”

    Tony is also well known for his signature tree hazard safety message: “look up”, a mantra he developed through years of chainsaw and forest fire training.

     In 2009, Tony’s home community was directly impacted by the Kilmore East fire on Black Saturday, a day he describes as testing every fibre of his training and leadership.

    “CFA District 12 was heavily impacted by fire. Our communities and brigades were severely affected.  That day, and the years that followed, were tough for me and for the volunteers I worked with. I learnt so much during this time.”

    In the aftermath, Tony supported many of the same brigades he had helped train, as they regrouped, recovered and continued to serve their communities.

    “Post Black Saturday a few firefighters told me that the training I delivered really helped them get through that terrible day. That’s the ultimate reward for a bushfire instructor.”

    Reflecting on his stellar career, Tony remains humble.

    “It is a privilege to work alongside our volunteers and watch their fire experience grow with every bushfire they attend. They are good people doing a very important job and I hold them all in high regard.  They’re the ones who’ll carry the training forward to our new firefighters.”

    “I simply want to say thank you to the many people who have supported me over the years.” 

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers launches KiwiSaver petition

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers has launched a nationwide petition calling on the Government to urgently change the KiwiSaver rules to help young farmers get their foot on the ladder.
    “Accessing your KiwiSaver to buy your first farm, flock, herd or home has been an incredibly hot topic for farmers,” Federated Farmers dairy chair Richard McIntyre says.
    “On the campaign trail of the 2023 election, Todd McClay stood up in front of young farmers in Morrinsville and made a promise that he would make it happen.
    “I’m sure he had the best of intentions, but unfortunately farmers have been bitterly disappointed by the lack of action from the Government on the issue to date.
    “That’s why Federated Farmers has launched this petition: to hold the Government accountable and send a clear message that it’s time to follow through on their promise.”
    The petition’s launch has been timed to coincide with the National Fieldays, where thousands of farmers, industry leaders and politicians will gather at Mystery Creek.
    “Politicians are always out in force at Fieldays, rubbing shoulders with farmers, and we really wanted to make sure KiwiSaver issues were a topic of conversation,” McIntyre says.
    “Allowing young farmers to access their KiwiSaver to buy their first herd, home, farm or flock is the number one thing the Government could do to help our next generation of farmers.
    “It would shave years of hard work and saving off their progression through the industry, and really turbocharge their farming careers.
    “Why is the Government okay with that money being managed by stockbrokers and invested in Fortune 500 companies, but not by a farmer buying a herd to go sharemilking?”
    McIntyre says he can’t see any reason the Government wouldn’t throw their full support behind making this policy change happen.
    “A lot of young urban people enter KiwiSaver because it’s a good way to build a deposit for their first house. They’re saving for a home early on – not for their retirement.
    “We’re asking for young farmers to have the same opportunity – a one-off withdrawal early in their careers to help them get ahead by purchasing their first home, farm, herd, or flock.”
    New Zealanders are encouraged to sign the petition online at www.kiwisaverforkiwifarmers.nz or at Federated Farmers’ Fieldays site D70.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –