Category: housing

MIL-OSI USA: With Medicaid Cut Details Looming, Cantwell Releases Snapshot Report Showing How WA’s Seniors Could Suffer

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
05.02.25
With Medicaid Cut Details Looming, Cantwell Releases Snapshot Report Showing How WA’s Seniors Could Suffer
In exclusive survey, 67 of 68 WA nursing homes say even a 5% Medicaid cut would force them to reduce long-term care services, nearly 2/3rds say they would consider closing Next week, Congressional Republicans are expected to release the details of their plan to cut $880B from the vital program
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, released a snapshot report highlighting the impact that Medicaid cuts would have on Washington state’s highly-ranked long-term care system for seniors and people with disabilities.
“Medicaid pays for essential long-term care for over 100,000 seniors and people with disabilities in the State of Washington,” said Sen. Cantwell. “As this report shows, cuts to Medicaid could force nursing homes to consider closing, strip away access to home care for seniors who want to age at home, and put dangerous stress on emergency services.”
Report highlights include:
An exclusive new survey of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) 775 WA home care workers—94% of the 3,787 respondents said that their clients would likely need care at an ER if their home care stopped.
New information on how crucial Medicaid funding is for our state’s nursing homes—on average, WA nursing homes receive 52.3% of their revenue from Medicaid.
An exclusive new survey of 68 WA nursing homes, which found that 67 of 68 would cut services if Medicaid were cut by 5% or more, and 65% would consider closing.
Statewide data showing that 105,700 Washingtonians receive home-based long-term services and supports through Medicaid.
In the coming weeks, Congressional Republicans are expected to release details of their plan to cut $880 billion from Medicaid, the federal program that insures many low-income adults and children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Medicaid is a crucial support for WA’s long-term care system, paying for home care workers that help seniors and people with disabilities stay in their homes. When these patients need a level of care that only a nursing home can provide, Medicaid can reimburse nursing homes for that care.
Based on surveys, interviews, and data from nursing homes, home care workers, emergency services providers, and area agencies on aging, the report details how Medicaid cuts would endanger a long-term health care system that is ranked #2 in the nation by AARP.
Cuts to Medicaid could devastate this system by creating a double-crisis: More people needing to go to a nursing home, combined with fewer nursing home beds. According to Lynn Kimball, Executive Director of Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington, “there are not enough nursing home beds in our region or across the state to respond to the number of people who would end up needing support if Medicaid no longer funded home care.”
Medicaid cuts would affect all Washingtonians by putting a greater burden on emergency services. Says Pat Songer, COO and Chief of EMS at Cascade Medical in Leavenworth: “Stripping Medicaid coverage from individuals in long-term or home care settings forces EMS providers to become the safety net of last resort. Without access to routine care, vulnerable patients are left with no option but to call 911 for basic health needs—putting additional pressure on an already strained emergency medical system. This policy shift doesn’t save money; it shifts cost and care to frontline responders, undermining patient outcomes and EMS sustainability, especially in rural communities.”
The full snapshot report is available HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Commend Kyrgyzstan on Eradicating Statelessness, Ask about Measures to Prevent Hate Speech and Bride Kidnapping

Source: United Nations – Geneva

The Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination today concluded its consideration of the combined eleventh and twelfth periodic reports of Kyrgyzstan, with Committee Experts commending the State on resolving all known cases of statelessness, and asking about measures to prevent hate speech and the practice of bride kidnapping.

Mazalo Tebie, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, and other Committee Experts commended Kyrgyzstan on having resolved all known cases of statelessness in 2019. They asked how the State party was bringing its legislation on statelessness in line with international standards.

Guan Jian, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, said conflicts between the country’s various ethnic groups had occurred in recent years. The State party needed to consider early detection and preventative measures to prevent hate speech. Could the delegation provide data on crimes motivated by racist hate speech occurring online and in the media?

Ms. Tebie also said there was a phenomenon in Kyrgyzstan called “ala kachuu” (bride kidnapping), in which young women or girls from marginalised and vulnerable ethnic groups were abducted by men and forced into marriage. How did the State ensure the effective implementation of laws prohibiting the practice?

In opening remarks, Marat Tagaev, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan and head of the delegation, said Kyrgyzstan fully adhered to its international obligations under the Convention. The President had approved the national development strategy until 2040, one of the main priorities of which was to ensure interethnic harmony and strengthen the unity of the people.

In addition, Mr. Tagaev said Kyrgyzstan continued systematic and continuous work on the issues of refugees, internally displaced persons and stateless persons. In 2019, it became the first country in the world to resolve all known cases of statelessness. It had also introduced a universal system that ensured 100 per cent registration of births.

On measures to address hate speech, the delegation said a new bill on the media had been prepared in 2022 which prevented the spread of disinformation online. In 2025, only 25 complaints related to online hate speech had been received by the State; the State had moved to block websites in response in seven cases.

The delegation said bridal theft was a form of violence against women. Persons who abducted women for the purpose of marriage were punished with up to seven years imprisonment, or up to 20 years for the abduction of minors. In 2022, courts found 42 individuals guilty of these crimes. In all schools, a special subject was taught that addressed kidnapping and abductions, explaining that these actions were crimes.

In concluding remarks, Michal Balcerzak, Committee Chair, said the dialogue had been very constructive, addressing many issues. The information provided by the delegation would allow the Committee to develop targeted concluding observations.

Mr. Guan, in concluding remarks, thanked the State party for its contributions to the dialogue, which had helped to make it a success.

Mr. Tagaev, in his concluding remarks, said that the Committee’s comments and questions would help the State party to strengthen measures to promote equality and prevent discrimination. Kyrgyzstan would continue to take active steps to prevent racial discrimination and implement the Convention, working in collaboration with civil society.

The delegation of Kyrgyzstan consisted of representatives of the Supreme Court; General Prosecutor’s Office; Ministry of Internal Affairs; Ministry of Health; Ministry of Labour, Social Security, and Migration; Ministry of Education and Science; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Economy and Commerce; Cabinet of Ministers; State Commission on Religious Affairs; Administration of the President; and the Permanent Mission of Kyrgyzstan to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

The Committee will issue its concluding observations on the report of Kyrgyzstan after the conclusion of its one hundred and fifteenth session on 9 May. The programme of work and other documents related to the session can be found here. Summaries of the public meetings of the Committee can be found here, while webcasts of the public meetings can be found here.

The Committee will next meet in public on Friday, 9 May at 4 p.m. to close its one hundred and fifteenth session.

Report

The Committee has before it the combined eleventh and twelfth periodic reports of Kyrgyzstan (CERD/C/KGZ/11-12).

Presentation of Report

MARAT TAGAEV, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan and head of the delegation, said that since Kyrgyzstan gained independence, the human rights and freedoms of its citizens, regardless of their racial and ethnic affiliation, had remained absolute and unchanged in the State. Kyrgyzstan fully adhered to its international obligations under the Convention. It was a multi-ethnic State with representatives of more than 100 different ethnic groups, including Uzbeks, Russians, Dungans, Uyghurs, Tajiks and other ethnic groups. The Constitution prohibited discrimination based on race, language, ethnicity, religion, origin, as well as other circumstances. The commission of a crime based on racial, ethnic, national, religious or interregional enmity was an aggravating circumstance.

Set up in 2013, the Coordinating Council on Human Rights aimed to improve the mechanisms for ensuring the protection of human and civil rights and freedoms, and the implementation of international obligations in the field of human rights. The Council included the heads of key State bodies whose activities were related to the protection of human rights, and it was headed by the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan continued systematic and continuous work on the issues of refugees, internally displaced persons and stateless persons. In 2019, it became the first country in the world to resolve all known cases of statelessness. It had also introduced a universal system that ensured 100 per cent registration of births. Draft laws on Kyrgyzstan’s accession to the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons and the 1961 Reduction of Statelessness Convention had also been submitted for public discussion.

The courts of the country applied not only the laws of Kyrgyzstan but also international treaties that had entered into force. The Convention was thus an integral part of the legal system. The President had approved the national development strategy until 2040, one of the main priorities of which was to ensure interethnic harmony, strengthen the unity of the people, and protect the rights of citizens, regardless of their ethnicity.

In November 2020, the President of Kyrgyzstan had approved the plan for the promotion of a civil identity Kyrgyz jarany (Kyrgyz citizen) for the period 2021-2026. The purpose of the plan was to develop a favourable environment for the promotion of the civic identity of Kyrgyz jarany, including through forming of a conscious understanding of the civil identity of Kyrgyz citizens; strengthening the unity of the people of Kyrgyzstan, increasing tolerance and promoting diversity; developing and promoting the State language and preserving multilingualism; promoting equal access to decision making; and increasing confidence in political institutions and public authorities. Various national and international stakeholders were involved in developing the plan.

The People’s Assembly, which included 30 ethnic associations, played an important role in strengthening interethnic harmony, and preserving languages, culture and traditions of ethnic groups living in Kyrgyzstan. In April 2025, the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations was established, which implemented State policy in the field of religious relations, strengthening interethnic harmony, providing early warning, and preventing interethnic conflicts.

Public reception offices for interethnic relations operated in 23 multiethnic districts, carrying out preventive measures, monitoring work in places where multiethnic communities lived, and promoting effective interaction with the civil sector. In 2024, these offices carried out more than 1,100 early warning and prevention measures regarding interethnic conflicts, and close to 4,000 measures over the past four years. As a result of this work, the number of interethnic incidents had decreased four-fold.

Kyrgyzstan had created a legal framework to prevent discrimination in the courts. The constitutional principle of equality before the law and the courts was reflected in the Criminal Procedure Code and laws on the status and behaviour of judges, as well as on the Supreme Court and local courts.

The State party supported members of all ethnic groups in Kyrgyzstan to preserve, study and develop their native languages. In 161 local schools, students had the opportunity to study in Uzbek. In 22 of them, education took place only in Uzbek. The State strove to implement a balanced language policy that would foster a new trilingual generation of Kyrgyz citizens who spoke the official languages and one foreign language, while ensuring guarantees for the preservation of the native languages of ethnic communities. Kyrgyzstan had developed a regulatory framework for its multilingual and multicultural education programmes.

Questions by a Committee Expert

GUAN JIAN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, said that the high-level delegation showed the great importance that the State party attached to the dialogue.

The demographic data that the State party had provided was not sufficiently comprehensive or specific. How did the State party apply the principle of self-identification in data collection on ethnicity, and how would it implement the Committee’s recommendations on data collection as soon as possible?

Mr. Guan commended the State party’s legislative work. However, in its previous concluding observations, the Committee expressed concern about the persistent lack of anti-discrimination legislation, calling on the State party to adopt such legislation in line with the Convention, with assistance from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Had progress been made in this regard? How did the Criminal Code of 2019 contribute to combatting racial discrimination? A draft anti-discrimination law was submitted to Parliament in 2023 but was subsequently removed from its agenda for revision. Why was this?

The previous concluding observations also called for compliance with Convention obligations in the judicial field. During the reporting period, law enforcement units initiated 189 criminal cases related to incitement to ethnic, racial, religious or interregional hostility. Were all these cases brought before the courts? Did the judicial system have internal guidelines for handling cases involving racial discrimination? Were there rules and procedures on cooperation between judicial bodies and the Office of the Ombudsperson on such cases? Were regular training courses on anti-racial discrimination provided for judicial personnel? Could the delegation provide examples of cases of racial discrimination where the provisions of the Convention had been invoked in, or applied by, domestic courts?

Mr. Guan expressed appreciation for the State party’s policy efforts related to racial discrimination, including the national action plan on development of the civil identity of Kyrgyz jarany (Kyrgyz citizen) for the period 2021-2026 and the national development strategy for 2018-2040. What preliminary achievements had been made by these policies, and by the State programme for the security and socioeconomic development of border areas, and what challenges remained?

The Committee was concerned that the Office of the Ombudsperson was not in compliance with the Paris Principles and that it received a low number of complaints of racial discrimination. What measures had the State party taken to strengthen the mandate of the Office to effectively promote human rights and to independently monitor and evaluate progress in the implementation of the Convention, while ensuring adequate financial and human resources to carry out its mandate? Had the State adopted a 2017 bill aiming to strengthen the independence of the institution? Why had its head been dismissed in 2023?

Mr. Guan expressed appreciation for the State party’s endeavours to prohibit and punish racist hate speech and hate crimes, including in the media and over the internet, according to its Constitution, Criminal Code and other laws. The State party had also reported that there were no recorded cases over the reporting period of racist statements in the media or incitement to hatred by politicians or public figures. However, conflicts between the country’s various ethnic groups had occurred in recent years, and development gaps and uneven opportunities between different ethnic groups in some regions still existed.

The State party needed to consider early detection and preventative measures to prevent hate speech, including awareness raising campaigns, incentives for strengthening self-regulation of media, systematic monitoring of online hate speech, and capacity building for State authorities. Could the delegation provide data on cases of hate speech and ethnic groups involved in conflict, and rates of completion of trials on such cases?

The Committee had previously called on the State party to put an end to racial profiling by the police, undertake effective investigations into all allegations of racial profiling, hold those responsible accountable, and provide effective remedies to victims, as well as to develop training programmes for law enforcement officers on identifying, investigating and prosecuting racist incidents. Mr. Guan welcomed educational seminars and training of citizens as part of the programme on Kyrgyz jarany (Kyrgyz citizen). What measures were in place to ensure that law enforcement officers did not engage in racial profiling?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said Kyrgyzstan was committed to its obligations under the Convention and took every effort to prevent racial discrimination. A bill on the rights of minorities had been prepared to strengthen legal mechanisms to prevent racial discrimination. However, Parliament had called for the revision of this bill to consider different views and proposals; this process was ongoing.

Kyrgyzstan was a poly-ethnic State. As of January 2025, the State had a population of 7.2 million. The 2022 census revealed that Kyrgyz, Uzbeks, Russians, Uyghurs and Kazakhs represented the largest ethnic groups. Citizens had the right to voluntarily report their ethnic identity in the census. The Constitution enshrined the equality of all citizens regardless of their nationality or ethnicity.

Discrimination in all forms was prohibited in Kyrgyzstan. No person could be discriminated against based on race, ethnicity or other characteristics. The State provided judicial protection from all forms of discrimination. Courts treated people equally regardless of their ethnicity. All persons subjected to discrimination could file a complaint with the courts. The Supreme Court had called on the State party to revise laws that contravened the Constitution. In cases of serious crimes such as murder and ill-treatment, discriminatory motives based on race, ethnicity, religion, language or other grounds were considered to be aggravating circumstances and could be qualified as crimes against humanity.

The Ministry of the Interior provided 1,000 hours of training for newly recruited law enforcement officers, which included classes on human rights, international human rights law, and preventing all forms of discrimination. Disciplinary cases had been brought against 5,400 officials in recent years. A service had been established for submitting complaints against law enforcement officers. There were 53 cases related to racial discrimination in 2023 and 47 in 2024. The judicial academy, from 2019, had also trained 429 judges on international human rights standards. There were judges of Russian, Tartar and Kurd ethnicity in the Supreme Court.

The Office of the Ombudsperson provided oversight on human rights issues in the State. A new constitutional law on increasing the independence and powers of the Office and bringing the Office in line with the Paris Principles had been developed. Recently, the Office’s budget had been increased to allow it to carry out its activities more effectively.

Follow-Up Questions by Committee Experts

GUAN JIAN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, asked whether the national statistics committee had a fixed term for carrying out the next census. How many staff members did the Ombudsperson’s Office have and what were their roles? What were the sources of its funding and what was its annual budget? How did it work with courts and law enforcement? Did the Office have branches in each region of the country?

A Committee Expert said racist incidents in the country seemed to have increased over the years, but disciplinary measures against the police seemed to be decreasing. In how many disciplinary cases had police officers been convicted? What were the outcomes of disciplinary proceedings?

One Committee Expert congratulated the State party on having completely eradicated statelessness. Did the State party ensure the independence of the Council of Human Rights, which was under the President’s Office? What findings had the Council made? How did it cooperate with civil society?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said that currently, 115 persons worked for the Ombudsperson’s Office, which had branch offices in seven regions. The Office’s financial resources had increased each year in recent years. The Office had departments for oversight on human rights and children’s rights, a complaints department, and a department for judicial activities. The Office monitored the rights and freedoms of citizens during both open and closed judicial proceedings. It cooperated with law enforcement agencies and monitored the compliance of these agencies with their human rights obligations.

All law enforcement agents underwent training activities on human rights. Disciplinary offences for police officers were not administrative or criminal processes; they were internal processes. Persons could submit complaints against officers via social media and email. If investigations found that crimes had been committed, cases were transferred to the Prosecutor’s Office. There had been an increase in complaints recently, which had led to an increase in disciplinary proceedings, but around half of complaints were found to be groundless.

The Kyrgyz jarany (Kyrgyz citizen) project promoted respect for diversity, social cohesion and statehood. Under the project, some 23 regions had established offices that carried out monitoring and activities to prevent interethnic conflicts, including meetings with ethnic community representatives and training activities.

The State programme on the development of border areas aimed at improving the living conditions of the population in these areas, strengthening the State border and reducing internal migration. There were plans to develop infrastructure, agriculture and electrical supply, and reduce natural disasters in these areas. The comprehensive programme of socio-economic development of regions was also in place, which included policies for the development of mountainous and border regions.

Questions by a Committee Expert

MAZALO TEBIE, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said public offices responsible for interethnic issues had received 167 requests in 2022 related to preventing discrimination against ethnic groups. What follow-up was given to these requests? Could the delegation provide data on investigations into crimes motivated by racist hate speech and hate crimes occurring online and in the media? How did the State help victims to access legal aid and support services?

Reportedly, women and girls belonging to ethnic minorities, such as Uzbeks, Tajiks and Dungans, and rural women remained underrepresented in the public and political sphere, and patriarchal norms and socio-economic barriers restricted their access to education and professional opportunities. How were they encouraged to participate in public and private life? What measures were in place to prevent gender and ethnic stereotypes? Were there quotas or mechanisms to ensure fair representation of women from ethnic minorities in decision-making bodies? How did the State party support access to basic social services for minority women?

Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community had reportedly faced difficulties in accessing health services, and were frequently exposed to blackmail, intimidation, extortion, as well as arbitrary arrests and ill-treatment. What measures were in place to include these persons in awareness raising campaigns, prevent and investigate discrimination and violence against them, and ensure their access to legal protection?

There were reports of restrictions of rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and opinion in the State party. Human rights defenders and journalists were frequently exposed to threats, stigmatisation, arrests, arbitrary detentions, and sanctions such as fines, expulsions or closures of entities. Kyrgyzstan had fallen 50 places in the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, to 122nd out of 180 countries. What was being done to prevent the intimation of human rights defenders, to guarantee freedom of expression and other fundamental freedoms, and to release detained journalists, human rights defenders and non-governmental organization leaders?

In 2024, the President promulgated a law on “foreign agents”. How would the State party address concerns related to this law, which seemingly could force some non-governmental organizations to close or self-censor? What safeguards were in place to ensure that civil society organizations could operate freely, regardless of their foreign funding? Many non-governmental organizations had reported an increase in negative attitudes to their work by State representatives. What measures were in place to protect non-governmental organizations from interference and intimidation by public authorities?

A general ban on public assemblies had been imposed in 2022 to prevent certain peaceful assemblies. Why was this ban introduced? How did the State party ensure that citizens could exercise their right to freedom of assembly? What measures were planned to prevent abuses of this ban by the police? Were there any redress mechanisms for citizens sanctioned under this ban?

New laws had been implemented that banned wearing of religious clothing, including the niqab, in public spaces, and proselytising outside places of worship. Why had these new restrictions, which ran the risk of violating the right to freedom of religion, been introduced? How did the State party protect the right to freedom of religion and prevent religious minorities from being marginalised by these laws?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said non-profit organizations played an important part in life in Kyrgyzstan, helping to solve societal problems. Amendments were brought to the law on non-commercial organizations in 2024 that aimed to ensure transparency and accountability for these organizations. Inclusion of these organizations in the State register ensured transparency in their finances.

The State party banned discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, who were guaranteed equal access to justice. In one case, it was found that a television station had recorded a member of this community without their permission; the station was issued with a fine in response.

There were 21,000 civil service employees, of which 35 per cent were women. There were 340 members of minority groups in the civil service. There were no quotas for employment in the civil service.

The draft bill on freedom of worship and religious associations sought to bring State legislation on religion in line with international norms. It included regulations on registration of religious organizations and sites and labour relations in such organizations. Freedom of worship was a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution and the legal system. There was no ban specifically on religious clothing, only a ban on covering one’s face in public institutions. Religious organizations could not proselytise, but there were no other bans on their activities.

Under State law, no one had the right to restrict peaceful assemblies. Laws prevented citizens from being forced to participate in meetings. Public authorities needed to ensure public safety, and could ban public meetings that threatened public order.

A new bill on the media had been prepared in 2022. The bill was now under review in the President’s Office. Representatives of the media fully supported this bill, which prevented the spread of disinformation online. In 2025, only 25 complaints related to online hate speech had been received by the State; the State had moved to block websites in response in seven cases.

Questions by Committee Experts

MAZALO TEBIE, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said that the State party had established several measures to prevent discrimination against minorities. How did it evaluate the effectiveness of these measures? Could women wear the niqab? How did the State party ensure freedom of religion?

There was a phenomenon in Kyrgyzstan called “ala kachuu” (bride kidnapping), in which young women or girls were abducted by men and forced into marriage. This practice was said to mainly affect women and girls from rural communities, and from marginalised and vulnerable groups. What actions had been taken to ensure the effective implementation of laws prohibiting the practice, and to raise awareness among rural communities about women’s rights? What support services were available to abducted women and girls? Did the State party have up-to-date data on the most affected ethnic groups or regions?

Another Committee Expert asked whether there was a framework for the participation of minorities in all law-making processes.

FAITH DIKELEDI PANSY TLAKULA, Committee Expert and Follow-Up Rapporteur, said that the Committee’s previous concluding observations had called on the State party to implement the views of the Human Rights Committee and pardon Azimjan Askarov, considering his poor health. The Committee deeply regretted that he had passed away five days after the State party had reported that his health was improving. What measures were in place to protect human rights defenders, journalists and non-governmental organizations working on the rights of ethnic minorities from reprisals?

A Committee Expert welcomed that there were thousands of civil society organizations in the State party. Did they take part in meetings preparing for the current dialogue? How many of these organizations had been banned?

Another Committee Expert said that in one court case concerning an attack against homosexual persons, the court had sent back the case to the prosecution. What happened to the case after this? Was the fine issued to the television station for recording a member of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community without their permission sufficient?

GUAN JIAN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, welcomed measures to promote the protection of equal rights for all ethnic groups. The Committee had previously expressed concern about the low living standards of the Mughat, characterised by high unemployment and school dropout rates; land expropriation, home demolitions and forced evictions, disproportionately affecting Uzbeks from Osh and Jalalabad and frequently carried out in the absence of due process guarantees; discrimination against Uzbeks in access to work; and the absence of remedies for persons arbitrarily dismissed from their posts following the events of 2010. What measures were implemented to address the Committee’s concerns?

Parliamentary deputies’ seats had in 2021 been reduced from 120 to 90. Representatives of minority ethnic communities had held 16 seats in 2021. What impact did the reduction of seats have on the representation of ethnic groups? As of 2022, some 11 per cent of members of local councils and four per cent of State and municipal administration staff were members of minority ethnic groups, while 3.1 per cent of police officers were from minority groups. What measures were in place to increase minority representation in these bodies and the judiciary?

Mr. Guan welcomed the State party’s efforts to promote multilingual education. The law on education stated that educational services could be provided in a foreign language. Were minority languages considered to be “foreign languages”? What financing was provided for multilingual education? There were only 2,450 ethnic Uzbeks, 125 ethnic Tajiks, and 417 Dungans studying in their mother tongues in Kyrgyzstan in 2021. Why were these numbers so low?

Many institutions had been established by the State party to address interethnic tensions, such as the public advisory councils on interethnic relations; community liaison offices; the monitoring centre of the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sport and Youth Policy; and the interagency commission. Were these organizations run by the State or non-governmental organizations? What were each of their tasks, including in implementing the Kyrgyz jarany (citizens of Kyrgyzstan) plan? What personnel did these institutions have, how were their powers divided, and how did they cooperate with law enforcement?

Related to June 2010 ethnic violence in the south of the State, among a total of 5,642 criminal cases initiated by law enforcement agencies, proceedings had been suspended in 3,919 cases, a majority of the cases, while inquiries were being conducted. What data could be provided on these suspended cases?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said bridal theft was a form of violence against women. This crime was punished under criminal legislation and punishments had recently been strengthened. Persons who abducted women for the purpose of marriage were punished with up to seven years imprisonment, or up to 20 years for the abduction of minors. No amnesty was provided to perpetrators. In 2022, courts found 42 individuals guilty of these crimes. In all schools, a special subject was taught that addressed kidnapping and abductions, explaining that these actions were crimes.

Some 97 per cent of children in the State party attended schools. The State promoted education in native tongues and official languages. More than 4,000 children were being taught in the Uzbek language, and there were also special schools teaching in other minority ethnic languages such as Tajik.

Currently, there were around 1,500 members of ethnic minorities serving as civil servants, some 35 per cent of whom were women. There were three representatives of minority ethnic groups currently serving in Parliament. Uzbeks, Dungans, Russians and Kazakhs were represented in parliamentary deputy seats, five per cent of which were held by women.

After the events of June 2010, more than 5,300 criminal cases had been launched and more than 300 people had been brought to justice, including one life sentence conviction. Investigations were based on respect for human rights and ethnicity was not a factor in the consideration of cases. Kyrgyzstan was committed to carrying out fair trials in line with international standards. There were some 42 cases involving murder, and several cases involving destruction of public and private property. Some three billion som in damages were incurred by the State.

Regarding the death in custody of Azimjan Askarov, the central prison hospital had diagnosed him with pneumonia and had provided him with treatment; however, he had rejected this treatment, leading to his death. An investigation into the death was ongoing.

The case of an alleged attack on homosexual people had been dropped after being returned to the prosecution. Regarding the case of a transgender girl recorded by a television station, courts provided financial compensation for moral damage, considering the degree of damage caused and the circumstances of the case.

Questions by Committee Experts

GUAN JIAN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, called for more detailed information on public works undertaken in Osh city without the permission of local residents, and the situation of the Mughat community, some members of which were relocated after their lands were flooded. Were affected people provided with compensation?

A Committee Expert said that racial discrimination and climate change inhibited access to health for the Mughat community. How did the State party promote access to health, safe food and drinking water for this community, and access to reproductive health rights for its women and children?

Another Committee Expert asked whether parents who refused to send their children to school were criminally prosecuted by the Ministry of Justice.

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the State party was implementing a project to digitally register all newborns, which had promoted 100 per cent registration of births in the Mughat community. Some 95 per cent of the Kyrgyz population had access to drinking water. The State party was building water pipelines to increase access to drinking water in remote communities, including to the Mughat community.

Citizens had the inalienable right to healthcare services, regardless of their ethnicity or other characteristics. The programme on State guarantees approved in 2023 aimed to improve access to medical services for vulnerable groups and increase the quality of health services.

Parents were required to send school age children to school. They had the right to choose the language of education and between public and private schools or homeschooling. A bill had been developed that called for fining of parents who refused to send their children to school.

The State party had identified sites for demolition in Osh in a project to develop public roads. Some 69 million som had been provided in compensation to persons whose homes or property were affected. Persons who felt that their property rights had been infringed by State development projects could file complaints in court.

The Coordinating Council on Human Rights was an advisory council that sought to improve the implementation of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the State party. Headed by the Deputy Prime Minister and including representatives of State authorities and the Ombudsperson, it coordinated the preparation of reports to international treaty bodies and implementation of these bodies’ recommendations.

Parliament included representatives of national ethnic groups, who were involved in drafting legislation. A web portal had also been set up that allowed citizens to make comments on legislative proposals.

Questions by a Committee Expert

MAZALO TEBIE, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the Committee welcomed the State’s initiatives regarding the protection of refugees, including planned accession to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, and the national action plan on migration management for 2022 to 2025. However, there was a high rate of rejection of applications for refugee status, and some refugees reportedly lived in precarious conditions, including in overcrowded temporary shelters with limited access to healthcare, clean water and education. Uyghur, Uzbek and Chechen refugees and asylum seekers were reportedly extremely vulnerable. What measures were in place to protect the rights of refugees and asylum seekers and promote access to residence?

In 2024, protests against migrants had been held, leading to violence against foreigners with legal residence status. What measures were in place to prevent violence against foreigners, including irregular migrants, and to provide victims with support? Migrants employed in the agricultural and construction sectors often faced precarious working conditions, with limited access to health and support services. What measures were in place to protect the rights of migrant workers, establish clear standards for the employment of migrants, and promote their integration into society? Were there institutions that assessed working conditions for migrants?

Nearly one in four Kyrgyz citizens migrated to neighbouring countries to work. These emigrants reportedly struggled to access basic services in host countries. Why did many women choose to emigrate? What measures were in place to support them, including in Russia? There were some Kyrgyz nationals in Syria and Iraq that were reportedly waiting to be repatriated. How was the State party supporting their return?

The Committee had received reports of numerous cases of extradition of refugees and asylum seekers, including Uyghurs from China and Uzbeks. How did the State party prevent refoulement? How many extradited migrants had been subjected to refoulement?

The State party had implemented a law that guaranteed the civil registration of all children. Kyrgyzstan was also the first country in the region to have resolved all known cases of statelessness; this was commendable. However, the Government had proposed amendments in 2023 to the citizenship law that prevented the conferral of Kyrgyz citizenship to the children of foreign parents born in Kyrgyzstan. This could lead to statelessness. How was the State party bringing its legislation on statelessness in line with international standards?

What measures had been taken to provide continuous training to judges and lawyers on human rights, discrimination and the application of the Convention? How many judges and lawyers had been trained?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said that in Kyrgyzstan, refugees had the right to health and education services and the right to freedom of movement. The State assessed each application for refugee status in cooperation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and promoted the integration of refugees into society. From 2019 to 2024, the State party had received around 300 appeals against decisions to refuse refugee status. Around 140 of these cases had gone to the cassation court, which had decided to grant refugee status in some cases.

Kyrgyzstan upheld the principle of non-refoulement. Extraditions could not be carried out if there was suspicion of the person involved being subjected to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. Kyrgyzstan worked with international partners to assess risks in individual cases. In 2024, the State party extradited 49 foreign citizens, including seven to the Russian Federation. None of these persons had requested refugee status.

Some 37 criminal cases had been initiated in response to violent incidents relating to 2024 protests against migrants. The State party was carrying out activities to prevent broad-scale violations against foreign nationals, including ongoing informational activities. Local populations now understood better the rights of foreign nationals.

State laws regulated the situation of stateless persons in Kyrgyzstan. Efforts to address statelessness were ongoing. The State party had devised procedures for providing the children of stateless persons with identification documents, including the 2024 project that ensured 100 per cent issuance of birth certificates to newborns.

Consular services provided for the protection of Kyrgyz citizens abroad, including migrant workers. The Ombudsperson’s Office received complaints of rights violations from migrants and implemented response measures. Children of Kyrgyz migrants needed to be able to speak basic Russian to attend school in the Russian Federation; the State party thus provided Russian language courses to these children.

The State party had trained 429 judges in 2025 on international human rights standards. The judiciary was committed to promoting diversity and equality.

In 2021, the State party repatriated more than 400 citizens from Iraq and Syria, including children. Measures had been implemented to promote the reintegration and rehabilitation of these citizens and prevent their stigmatisation.

Questions by Committee Experts

MAZALO TEBIE, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, asked whether only foreigners who did not have refugee status could be extradited. The Committee hoped that the law implementing the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 1967 Protocol would be adopted soon. If foreign women who were married to Kyrgyz men divorced, did their children keep Kyrgyz nationality? Why did the State party require foreigners to take HIV tests? The State party had developed a “compatriots of foreign nationality” card. Who were these “compatriots of foreign nationality”?

A Committee Expert said there had been a reported drop in teaching of the Uzbek language after the 2010 violence. Were nation-wide examinations conducted in the Uzbek language for students learning in that language?

Another Committee Expert asked if training course for judicial officials addressed the application of the Convention in civil and criminal cases. Were there examples of judicial decisions where the Convention was applied?

A Committee Expert congratulated the State party on eradicating statelessness as of 2019, and for developing a statelessness determination procedure. Kyrgyzstan needed to ratify the statelessness conventions and share its best practices with other nations.

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said that under national legislation, refugees could not be extradited. The State party waited until processes considering applications for refugee status concluded before considering extradition. Two draft bills on acceding to the 1951 Refugee Convention and 1967 Protocol were currently under consideration.

If one parent had Kyrgyz nationality, children could receive Kyrgyz nationality, regardless of the location of their birth. Children of stateless parents born in Kyrgyzstan were also granted Kyrgyz nationality. Persons could lose Kyrgyz nationality if they served in the army of a foreign State or if they received citizenship after submitting falsified documents. Kyrgyz citizens could change their citizenship only once; persons needed to submit documents proving their ethnic identity to change their citizenship. Divorces were not grounds for changing citizenship.

To enrol in universities in Kyrgyzstan, students needed to sit the General Republican Exam in either Kyrgyz or Russian.

Kyrgyzstan did not required foreigners to submit a certificate showing that they were HIV-negative when applying for a visa. Information related to HIV tests was not made public. Forced tests were carried out in a confidential manner based on court decisions.

Courts could apply international conventions directly. All criminal cases related to the June 2010 events had been closed, but affected persons had the right to appeal cases and seek compensation.

The children and grandchildren of Kyrgyz citizens who lived overseas had the right to apply for the “compatriots of foreign nationality” card, which allowed them to live and work in Kyrgyzstan without additional residence or work permits.

Closing Remarks

MICHAL BALCERZAK, Committee Chair, said the dialogue had been very constructive, addressing many issues. The information provided by the delegation would allow the Committee to develop targeted concluding observations.

GUAN JIAN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur, thanked the State party for its contributions to the dialogue, which had helped to make it a success. He expressed hope that the State party would follow-up on remaining unanswered questions and closed by thanking all persons who had contributed to the dialogue.

MARAT TAGAEV, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan and head of the delegation, said that the Committee’s comments and questions would help the State party to strengthen measures to promote equality and prevent discrimination. Kyrgyzstan would continue to take active steps to prevent racial discrimination and implement the Convention, working in collaboration with civil society. The State party would work to implement the Committee’s recommendations and to build an inclusive and just society.

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Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CERD.25.08E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 58,000 crore in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 58,000 crore in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh

The development works launched today will strengthen infrastructure and accelerate the growth of Andhra Pradesh: PM

Amaravati is a land where tradition and progress go hand in hand: PM

NTR Garu envisioned a developed Andhra Pradesh, Together, we have to make Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, the growth engine of developed India: PM

India is now among the countries where infrastructure is rapidly modernising: PM

Viksit Bharat will be built on four pillars – poor, farmers, youth and Women power: PM

The Navdurga Testing Range to be built in Nagayalanka will strengthen the country’s defense power just like Maa Durga, I congratulate the country’s scientists and the people of Andhra Pradesh for this: PM

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 6:44PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated, laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 58,000 crore in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh today. The Prime Minister expressed that standing on the sacred land of Amaravati, he does not see just a city but a dream coming true—a new Amaravati, a new Andhra. “Amaravati is a land where tradition and progress go hand in hand, embracing both the peace of its Buddhist heritage and the energy of building a developed India”, remarked the Prime Minister. He added that today, foundation stones and inaugurations have been laid for projects, and these projects are not just about concrete structures but the strong foundation of Andhra Pradesh’s aspirations and India’s vision for development. Prime Minister Modi extended his greetings to the people of Andhra Pradesh, offering prayers to Bhagwan Veerabhadra, Bhagwan Amaralingeshwara, and Tirupati Balaji. He also conveyed his best wishes to Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Pawan Kalyan.

Remarking that Indra Lok’s capital was once called Amaravati, and now Amaravati is the capital of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Modi emphasized that this is not a mere coincidence but a positive sign for the creation of ‘Swarna Andhra’, which will strengthen India’s path toward development. The Prime Minister highlighted that Amaravati will energize the vision of ‘Swarna Andhra’, making it a center for progress and transformation. “Amaravati is not just a city, it is a force, it is the strength that will transform Andhra Pradesh into a modern state and a power that will transform Andhra Pradesh to an advanced state”, stated Shri Modi in Telugu.

Envisioning Amaravati as a city where the dreams of Andhra Pradesh’s youth will come true, the Prime Minister highlighted that in the coming years, Amaravati will emerge as a leading city in Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Green Energy, Clean Industry, Education, and Healthcare. The Prime Minister remarked that the Central Government is fully supporting the State Government in rapidly developing the necessary infrastructure to accelerate growth across these sectors.

Shri Modi lauded Shri Chandrababu Naidu’s acumen for envisioning future tech on a large scale and implementing it swiftly. He recalled that in 2015, he had the privilege of laying the foundation stone for Praja Rajadhani, emphasising that over the years, the Central Government has extended comprehensive support for Amaravati’s development, ensuring all necessary steps for basic infrastructure. He remarked that with Shri Naidu’s leadership, the new state government has accelerated development efforts. He highlighted that key institutions, including the High Court, Assembly, Secretariat, and Raj Bhavan, are now being prioritized for construction.

“NTR Garu envisioned a developed Andhra Pradesh”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, urging collective efforts to make Amaravati and Andhra Pradesh the growth engine of a developed India, reaffirming the commitment to fulfilling NTR Garu’s dream. Addressing the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, the Prime Minister said in Telugu that it is our responsibility and something we must achieve together.

Emphasising that over the past 10 years, India has focused extensively on physical, digital, and social infrastructure, Shri Modi highlighted that India is now among the fastest-modernizing infrastructure nations in the world, and Andhra Pradesh is benefiting significantly from this progress. He noted that thousands of crores worth of road and rail projects have been allocated to Andhra Pradesh, accelerating its development. “Andhra Pradesh is witnessing a new era of connectivity, which will enhance district-to-district links and improve connectivity with neighboring states”, he stated, stressing that farmers will find it easier to access larger markets, and industries will benefit from improved logistical efficiency. Shri Modi also highlighted that the tourism and pilgrimage sectors will also gain momentum, making key religious sites more accessible. He cited the Renigunta-Naidupeta Highway as an example, stating that it will significantly ease access to Tirupati Balaji shrine, allowing devotees to visit Lord Venkateswara Swami in much less time.

Prime Minister emphasized that countries that have rapidly developed have given immense importance to their railway networks. He highlighted that the past decade has been a transformational period for Indian Railways, with the Government of India allocating record funds for railway development in Andhra Pradesh. The Prime Minister pointed out that between 2009 and 2014, the combined railway budget for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana was less than ₹900 crore, whereas today, Andhra Pradesh alone has a railway budget exceeding ₹9,000 crore, marking an increase of more than tenfold. “With the enhanced railway budget, Andhra Pradesh has achieved 100% railway electrification”, stated the Prime Minister, noting that the state now operates eight pairs of modern Vande Bharat trains, along with the Amrit Bharat train, which passes through Andhra Pradesh. He further highlighted that over the past 10 years, more than 750 rail flyovers and underpasses have been constructed across the state. Additionally, the Prime Minister stated that over 70 railway stations in Andhra Pradesh are being modernized under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, ensuring world-class infrastructure for passengers.

Underscoring the multiplier effect of infrastructure development, highlighting its direct impact on the manufacturing sector, Shri Modi noted that raw materials such as cement, steel, and transportation services benefit significantly from large-scale infrastructure projects, strengthening multiple industries. He stressed that infrastructure development directly benefits India’s youth, creating more employment opportunities. He remarked that thousands of young people in Andhra Pradesh are gaining new job prospects through these ongoing infrastructure projects.

“The foundation of a developed India rests on four key pillars—the poor, farmers, youth, and women empowerment”, the Prime Minister reiterated his statement from his address at Red Fort. He emphasised that these pillars remain central to their government’s policies, with special priority given to farmers’ welfare. He highlighted that to reduce the financial burden on farmers, the Government of India has spent nearly ₹12 lakh crore over the past 10 years to provide affordable fertilizers. He remarked that thousands of new and advanced seed varieties have been distributed to farmers, boosting agricultural productivity. The PM said that under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, farmers in Andhra Pradesh have received claim settlements worth ₹5,500 crore. Additionally, under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, more than ₹17,500 crore has been directly transferred to the accounts of lakhs of farmers in Andhra Pradesh, ensuring financial support for their livelihoods, he added.

Emphasising that India is rapidly expanding irrigation projects across the country, along with launching river-linking initiatives to ensure water reaches every farm and farmers do not face water shortages, Shri Modi underlined that with the formation of the new state government, the Polavaram Project has gained fresh momentum. He stated that millions of people in Andhra Pradesh will see their lives transformed by this project. He reaffirmed that their government is fully supporting the state government to accelerate the completion of the Polavaram Project.

Underlining Andhra Pradesh’s pivotal role in establishing India as a space power over the decades, the Prime Minister said that every mission launched from Sriharikota fills millions of Indians with pride, inspiring the country’s youth toward space exploration. He announced a major development in India’s defense sector, stating that a new defense institution has been established. He also mentioned that the foundation stone has been laid for DRDO’s new missile testing range. The Prime Minister emphasized that the Nava Durga Testing Range in Nagayalanka will serve as a force multiplier for India’s defense capabilities, drawing strength from Maa Durga’s divine power. He extended his congratulations to the nation’s scientists and the people of Andhra Pradesh for this landmark achievement.

“India’s strength lies not just in its weaponry but in its unity”, said the Prime Minister, highlighting that this spirit of unity is further reinforced through Ekta Malls, which are being set up in cities across the country. He announced that Visakhapatnam will soon have its own Ekta Mall, where artisans and craftsmen from across India will have their products showcased under one roof. He noted that these malls will connect people with India’s rich diversity, while boosting the local economy and strengthening the “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” vision.

The Prime Minister announced that this year’s International Day of Yoga (21st June) marking the 10th edition will be celebrated at Andhra Pradesh and he would also attend it. He urged the people to undertake more activities on Yoga in the next 50 days and set a world record. Remarking that Andhra Pradesh neither has shortage of dreamers nor achievers, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the state is on the right path and has picked up the right speed for growth. He urged for sustained momentum in accelerating Andhra Pradesh’s progress and concluded by reassuring his unwavering support, stating that he will stand shoulder to shoulder with them.

The Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Syed Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Union Cabinet Ministers were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

In line with his commitment to ensure world-class infrastructure and connectivity across the country, Prime Minister inaugurated 7 National Highway projects in Andhra Pradesh. These Projects include widening of various sections of National Highways, construction of Road over bridge and subway among others. These projects will further enhance road safety; create employment opportunities; provide seamless connectivity to religious and tourist places like Tirupati, Srikalahasti, Malakonda and Udayagiri Fort among others.

Prime Minister also dedicated to the nation railway projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting capacity. These projects are doubling of the rail line between Bugganapalle Cement Nagar and Panyam stations, enhancing connectivity between Rayalaseema and Amaravati and construction of a third rail line between New West Block Hut Cabin and Vijayawada stations.

Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of 6 National Highway projects and one Railway project. These Projects include widening of various sections of National highways; construction of elevated corridor, half clover leaf and Road over bridge among others. These projects will improve connectivity, inter-state travel, reduce congestion and improve overall logistics efficiency. Construction of Rail over Rail between Guntakal West and Mallappa gate stations aims to bypass freight trains and reduce congestion at the Guntakal Junction.

Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for multiple infrastructure projects that include the Legislative Assembly, High Court, Secretariat, other administrative buildings and housing buildings for over 5,200 families, worth over Rs 11,240 crore. It will also include trunk infrastructure and flood mitigation projects featuring a 320 km world-class transport network with underground utilities and advanced flood management systems, worth over Rs 17,400 crore. The Land Pooling Scheme Infrastructure projects will cover 1,281 km of roads equipped with central medians, cycle tracks, and integrated utilities across the capital city of Amaravati, worth over Rs 20,400 crore.

Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of Missile Test Range at Nagayalanka in Andhra Pradesh worth around Rs 1,460 Crore. It will comprise a launch center, technical instrumentation facilities, Indigenous Radars, Telemetry and Electro-Optical systems enhancing the country’s defence preparedness.

Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of PM Ekta Mall at Madhurawada in Visakhapatnam. It has been envisioned with the objective of fostering national integration, supporting the Make in India initiative, promoting One District One Product, generating employment opportunities, empowering rural artisans, and enhancing the market presence of indigenous products.

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MJPS/SR/SKS

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May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Create in India Challenge Season 1: Shaping India’s Creative Future

Source: Government of India

Create in India Challenge Season 1: Shaping India’s Creative Future

WAVES 2025 honours winners of 32 creative challenges under Create in India Challenge; over 750 finalists from 60+ countries converge to celebrate innovation and talent

“The journey has just begun, and we are committed to empowering India’s creative minds with initiatives like the Indian Institute of Creative Technology:” Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

“This platform is a beautiful example of how young minds are fusing creativity with technology:” MoS Dr. L. Murugan

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 8:08PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

The much-anticipated Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season 1, an initiative that has captured the imagination of creators across the globe, culminated in a spectacular ceremony at WAVES 2025, marking a significant milestone for India’s creative landscape. This monumental event honoured the winners of 32 distinct challenges, spanning every domain of the media and entertainment industry, from animation, gaming, and filmmaking to AI, music, and digital art.

Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the young creators and visionaries, calling this a historic moment. “For the first time, an award is being given purely for creativity. This journey has only just begun. With this initiative, you are stepping into a world of new opportunities. We are also launching the Indian Institute of Creative Technology like an IIT, but for training in creativity, to build a strong foundation for innovation and expression.”

Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, congratulated the participants, highlighting the dynamic energy and technological prowess of the youth. “Best wishes to all of you. This platform is a beautiful example of how young minds are fusing creativity with technology. It also reflects the strength of Nari Shakti and the future of Indian content creation,” he remarked.

Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju, reflected on CIC’s evolution. “When we began in August, there were 25 challenges across the M&E spectrum. After Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke about CIC in Mann Ki Baat in September, the participation surged. The number of challenges grew to 32. We received nearly one lakh registration. Today, 750 finalists are here and each of them is a winner,” said Shri Jaju.

The Create in India Challenge (CIC) was launched to provide a global platform for emerging talent and to showcase the vibrant creativity of young minds. The challenges spanned a wide range of categories, giving creators the opportunity to explore and push boundaries across various forms of media. From the Anime Challenge to the AI Film Making Competition, XR Creator Hackathon, each category encouraged innovative expression, bringing together creators, technologists, and storytellers from around the world.

CIC has garnered significant attention, both domestically and internationally. With entries pouring in from over 60 countries, including more than 1,100 international participants, CIC has proven to be a global success. The response underlined the ever-growing demand for opportunities to engage with creative technologies and develop new forms of media that are both innovative and influential.

The prestigious awards were presented by a stellar lineup of industry legends, including Aamir Khan, Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Akkineni Nagarjuna, Vikrant Massey, Prasoon Joshi, and Aroon Purie, alongside other dignitaries and officials.

The 32 challenges were conducted in collaboration with leading industry bodies, allowing the CIC to reach its full potential by bringing together a wide array of creative disciplines, technology-driven projects, and future-ready content.

This initiative served as a launchpad for the next generation of creators who are redefining India’s position in the global entertainment and technology ecosystem. It stands as a testament to the importance of fostering homegrown talent and celebrating innovative content creation across various media formats.

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May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025 Sessions Explore Innovations in Sports and Technology

Source: Government of India

WAVES 2025 Sessions Explore Innovations in Sports and Technology

Saudi Arabia’s Esports Ambitions Spotlighted at WAVES 2025

Vision, Investment and Innovation Drive Saudi Gaming Growth

“Media and tech today are like a helmet in your kit—essential:” Ravi Shastri at WAVES 2025

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 8:27PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

Day 2 of WAVES 2025 in Mumbai featured two forward-looking discussions on the future of sports and esports, with particular focus on how media, technology, and storytelling are reshaping global engagement.

Gaming Revolution: A Bold Vision for the Future

In a high-impact fireside chat titled “Building a Global Powerhouse: Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Gaming & Esports”, HE Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, presented the Kingdom’s sweeping plans to redefine the global esports landscape. The session, moderated by Girish Menon, Chief Strategy Officer at Jetsynthesys, explored how the Kingdom’s youth-driven policies, strategic investments, and global partnerships are transforming Saudi Arabia into an emerging hub for gaming and esports innovation.

With over 67% of its population identifying as gamers, Saudi Arabia is cultivating an ecosystem designed for long-term sustainability. From landmark events such as Gamers Without Borders to the hosting of the Esports World Cup, the country is positioning itself at the forefront of international competition.

The cornerstone of this vision is the Saudi Esports Academy which provides training across a range of fields—coaching, event production, game development—creating meaningful career pathways for young professionals. The Federation’s efforts are also supporting the rise of content creators, fostering an inclusive and scalable industry built on community engagement and cross-border collaboration.

HE Faisal emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s goal extends beyond tournaments. “This is about opportunity creation, ecosystem development, and showcasing what’s possible when a country aligns resources, vision, and talent,” he said. As the discussion revealed, the Kingdom’s approach could well shape global gaming trends over the coming decade.

The Changing Face of Sports: Media, Technology and Human Connection

Earlier in the day, a dynamic panel on “Sports, Technology, Entrepreneurship & Media – The REAL STEM” brought together voices from across the sports ecosystem. The session was moderated by producer and entrepreneur Dheer Momaya and featured cricketing icon Ravi Shastri alongside Prashant Khanna (Jiostar), Nullah Sarker (Kosmos), Vikrant Mudaliar (Dream Sports), and Dhaval Ponda (Tata Communications).

Ravi Shastri shared his insights on cricket’s transformation through media and technology. “Media and tech today are like a helmet in your kit—essential,” he remarked, reflecting on how fan engagement and athlete branding have grown. He described his own journey as “a wave”—symbolic of both personal highs and the broader evolution of the sport.

Panelists pointed to technological advances such as immersive feeds, fantasy gaming, and AI-driven content personalization as tools reshaping how fans connect with sports. Vikrant Mudaliar underlined how fantasy platforms have turned audiences from passive viewers into active participants. Prashant Khanna highlighted inclusivity tools like sign language commentary and custom visual feeds.

Nullah Sarker stressed the importance of storytelling: “Fans don’t just follow stats—they follow people.” Echoing this, Dhaval Ponda noted how live sports remain the soul of global content consumption, with technology now enabling custom viewing experiences.

The session concluded with Shastri expressing optimism: “The future of sports, tech and media is limitless. We’re only just getting started.”

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May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AIR MARSHAL NARMDESHWAR TIWARI PVSM AVSM VM TAKES OVER AS VICE CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF, INDIAN AIR FORCE

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:17PM by PIB Delhi

Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari PVSM AVSM VM took charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, IAF on 02 May 25.

The Air Marshal completed his schooling at Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun before joining the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasala, He passed out from NDA in Jun 1985 with the President’s Gold Medal. He was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Indian Air Force on 07 Jun 1986. The Air Marshal has over 3600 hours of flying experience on various types of aircraft. Besides being a Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot, the Air Marshal is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College, USA. He has also served as Directing Staff at the IAF Test Pilots’ School and the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. His extensive field experience encompasses operational testing of various weapons and systems, including a key role in operationalising the ‘Litening’ Laser Designation Pod during the Kargil Operations in 1999. He was actively involved in the flight testing of the LCA from 2006 to 2009 and later in 2018-19, wherein, as the Project Director (Flight Test) at the National Flight Test Centre, he was involved in the Final Operational Clearance of the aircraft. The Air Marshal served as the Air Attache at Paris from 2013 to 2016. He has also held appointment Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ (VB).

Prior to assuming charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, he was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at South Western Air Command. In recognition of his distinguished service, the Air Marshal was awarded the Presidential Award of Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2022, and Vayu Sena Medal in 2008.

He is married to Mrs. Richa Tiwari, a postgraduate in Cytology. The couple is blessed with two daughters.

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VK/JS/SM

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May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Explores India’s Evolving Role in the Global Streaming and Film Economy

Source: Government of India

WAVES Explores India’s Evolving Role in the Global Streaming and Film Economy

“For content to truly travel across borders, India must invest in studio infrastructure, production hubs, and technology-driven ecosystems”, says Shibasish Sarkar

While taking creative risks is essential, content portfolios must be balanced and structured: Ektaa Kapoor

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:29PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai | May 2, 2025

The breakout session on “India’s Evolving Role in the Global Film and Streaming Economy” held at Mumbai today brought together key voices shaping the future of media and content, including Shri Vikram Tanna, CEO, Eros Now and Mzaalo (Xfinite Global); Shri Shibasish Sarkar, President, Producers Guild of India; Smt. Ektaa R. Kapoor, Joint Managing Director, Balaji Telefilms; and Ms. Shalini Govil Pai, Vice President & General Manager, Android TV, Google.

Highlighting India’s deep-rooted tradition of storytelling, Shri Shibasish Sarkar spoke about the evolution of Indian cinema from a century ago to today’s dynamic streaming platforms. He stated that streaming has enabled Indian stories to find global audiences. However, for content to truly travel across borders, India must invest in infrastructure studios, production hubs, and technology-driven ecosystems. He also called for a focused, pan-India approach to institutional capital support.

Underlining that compelling storytelling lies at the heart of global success, Ms. Ektaa R. Kapoor emphasised that the more relatable and emotionally resonant a story is, the more likely it is to connect with international audiences. She said that emotions such as pain, passion, and hope are universal. She noted that while taking creative risks is essential, content portfolios must be balanced and structured to de-risk investments and ensure long-term viability in a competitive ecosystem.

Ms. Shalini Govil Pai stated that globalization is the most transformative trend in content today. She pointed out that technology has broken distribution barriers and made it easier to scale stories globally. Artificial Intelligence (AI), she added, is reshaping content creation by making production faster, more efficient, and data-driven. She urged Indian creators to leapfrog traditional methods and lead in the use of AI and technology to deliver stories that resonate across geographies. She noted that content discovery is becoming crucial, and the next wave of success will hinge on smart navigation, discoverability, and tech-led storytelling.

Observing that India’s digital-first audience behaviour requires a shift in storytelling formats, Shri Vikram Tanna said that with shorter attention spans and increased mobile consumption, content must evolve to be voice-driven, opinion-led, and immersive. He outlined three key drivers for success: redefining technology, crafting experience-led narratives, and building IPs that command loyal fandom. He identified Generative AI as a game-changing opportunity for creators and platforms alike, offering new ways to engage, monetise, and personalise storytelling.

The session concluded with a vision that India is well-positioned to become a global content powerhouse. With strategic investment in infrastructure, bold use of technology, and a commitment to authentic storytelling, India can lead the next phase of global media innovation.

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May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s Science Push Enters High Gear: Dr. Jitendra Singh Bats for Industry-Led Innovation on DST’s 55th Foundation Day

Source: Government of India

India’s Science Push Enters High Gear: Dr. Jitendra Singh Bats for Industry-Led Innovation on DST’s 55th Foundation Day

India’s Science Strategy Shifts Focus: Innovation, Industry Collaboration, and Talent Retention in Spotlight

India Gross Expenditure in R&D (GERD) has doubled in last one decade from Rs 60,196 Cr. to 1,27,38 Cr.

‘Digitalisation of Mind’ Marking India’s Quiet Socio-Scientific Shift: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

Marking the 55th Foundation Day of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined India’s evolving scientific landscape, emphasizing the need for increased industry involvement to the extent of industry led innovation, changes in approach and long-term innovation to position the country among leading global players.

Addressing a packed audience that included leading innovators, academicians, researchers and former Secretaries, Dr. Jitendra Singh traced the DST’s journey since its inception on May 3, 1971, crediting it with catalyzing India’s evolution into a science and technology powerhouse.

“The founding of DST mirrors the march of post-independence India in the field of science,” he said, highlighting how the department has bridged research and governance, turning vision into verifiable outcomes’.

The Minister hailed DST’s efforts in nurturing a nationwide research ecosystem, particularly through mission-mode programmes such as the National Supercomputing Mission, Cyber-Physical Systems, and the recent National Quantum Mission. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that DST’s interventions have not only advanced science but also driven grassroots development, with focused efforts on women, children, and marginalized communities.

The Minister spotlighted India’s rising global rankings as a measure of DST’s impact — from a dramatic leap in the Global Innovation Index (from 81st in 2015 to 39th in 2024), to securing the 3rd spot globally in start-up numbers, PhDs in science and engineering, and research publications. India is now also ranked 6th worldwide in intellectual property filings.

But the core of Dr. Jitendra Singh’s message was forward-looking: science must align with market forces. Advocating for “industry-determined innovation research,” he argued that sustainable innovation must be both driven and funded by private players. “In India, knowledge partnerships alone don’t work — industry must have skin in the game,” he quipped, underlining that private sector buy-in is essential for enduring scientific success.

He also highlighted the role of the newly formed statutory body, ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation), as a transformative force aimed at democratizing research funding and boosting university participation. Two major schemes — the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation Fund and the National Geospatial Mission — are now housed under DST’s leadership.

Calling out a quiet revolution, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to the “digitalisation of mind” that has ignited India’s scientific temper, reshaped India’s socio-scientific fabric. “Even a semi-literate person today prefers WhatsApp over writing down a number — that’s the extent of behavioural change,” he said, stressing that the real transformation lies not only in numbers but in the rise of aspiration and confidence among ordinary Indians.

The Minister didn’t shy away from calling for a strategic return of talent from abroad, urging scientists to plan their overseas journeys with a return timeline. “India today has everything to offer. It’s time we built a reverse pipeline for global talent,” he said.

Concluding on a note of optimism, Dr. Jitendra Singh declared, “This is one of the best times for science and research in India — and the best is yet to come.” The Foundation Day celebrations saw participation from Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, DST Secretary Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Dr. Sharad Sharma of iSPIRT, and Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, CBC reflecting a strong convergence of scientific, institutional, and industry leadership.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 15 landlords of subdivided units under regulated tenancies convicted of contravening relevant statutory requirements

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

15 landlords of subdivided units under regulated tenancies convicted of contravening relevant statutory requirements
The offences of these 15 landlords include (1) failing to submit a Notice of Tenancy (Form AR2) to the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation within 60 days after the term of the regulated tenancy commenced; and (2) requesting the tenant to pay money other than the types permitted under the Ordinance (including requiring the tenant to pay an amount of rent for the second-term tenancy exceeding the maximum amount of rent permitted under the Ordinance). One of the landlords committed six offences under (2) and was fined $7,200.

The RVD earlier discovered that the landlords failed to comply with the relevant requirements under the Ordinance. Upon an in-depth investigation and evidence collection, the RVD prosecuted against the landlords.

A spokesman for the RVD reiterated that SDU landlords must comply with the relevant requirements under the Ordinance, including prohibiting landlords from doing any act calculated to interfere with the peace or comfort of members of the tenant’s household, with the intention of causing the tenant to give up occupation of the SDU; or requiring the tenant to pay an amount of rent for the second-term tenancy exceeding the maximum amount of rent permitted under the Ordinance, and also reminded tenants of their rights under the Ordinance, including a four-year (i.e. two years plus two years) security of tenure. He also stressed that the RVD will continue to take resolute enforcement action against any contraventions of the Ordinance. Apart from following up on reported cases, the RVD has been adopting a multipronged approach to proactively identify, investigate and follow up on cases concerning landlords who are suspected of contravening the Ordinance. In particular, the RVD has been requiring landlords of regulated tenancies to provide information and reference documents of their tenancies for checking whether they have complied with the requirements of the Ordinance. If a landlord, without reasonable excuse, refuses to provide the relevant information or neglects the RVD’s request, the landlord commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine at level 3 ($10,000) and to imprisonment for three months. Depending on the actual circumstances, and having regard to the information and evidence collected, the RVD will take appropriate actions on individual cases, including instigating prosecution against suspected contraventions of the Ordinance. In addition, the RVD has started a new round of publicity and education work to enhance public awareness about the key offences and penalty, emphasising that the RVD proactively checks whether landlords have committed the offences under the Ordinance.
The RVD reminds that pursuant to the Ordinance, a regulated cycle of regulated tenancies is to comprise two consecutive regulated tenancies (i.e. the first-term tenancy and second-term tenancy) for an SDU, and the term of each regulated tenancy is two years. A tenant of a first-term tenancy for an SDU is entitled to be granted a second-term tenancy of the regulated cycle, thus enjoying a total of four years of security of tenure. The RVD has been issuing letters enclosing relevant information to the landlords and tenants concerned of regulated tenancies in batches, according to the expiry time of their first-term tenancies, to assist them in understanding the important matters pertaining to the second-term tenancy, and to remind them about the procedures that need to be followed about two months prior to the commencement of the purported second-term tenancy as well as their respective obligations and rights under the Ordinance. These landlords and tenants may also visit the dedicated page for the second-term tenancy on the RVD’s website (www.rvd.gov.hk/en/tenancy_matters/second_term_tenancy.html
For enquiries related to regulated tenancies, please call the telephone hotline (2150 8303) or visit the RVD’s webpage (www.rvd.gov.hk/en/our_services/part_iva.htmlIssued at HKT 18:35

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Shapiro Administration Highlights Budget Proposal to Support Pennsylvania Firefighters, Focusing on Recruitment and Retention Efforts of Allegheny County Volunteer Fire Company

Source: US State of Pennsylvania

May 01, 2025 – Ross Township, PA

ICYMI: Shapiro Administration Highlights Budget Proposal to Support Pennsylvania Firefighters, Focusing on Recruitment and Retention Efforts of Allegheny County Volunteer Fire Company

Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis joined State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook and local officials at Berkeley Hills Fire Company to spotlight the success of its live-in firefighter program and discuss how Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal supports initiatives to strengthen Pennsylvania’s fire service.

Berkeley Hills Fire Company’s recent increased focus on their successful live-in program is a powerful example of how volunteer fire departments are adapting to meet evolving staffing challenges. The program offers housing accommodations for qualified firefighters in exchange for dedicated service-an approach that can help to sustain emergency response coverage, reduce response times, and develop and retain the next generation of fire service professionals.

“Berkeley Hills Fire Company’s success with their live-in program is a shining example of the creativity and dedication that it takes to get results. While their story is not unique, many other fire departments across the state are finding increased challenges with staffing and even those that aren’t are still struggling to find funding for operations and other needs,” said Lt. Governor Davis. “The Governor’s proposed budget recognizes the value of programs like this and makes strategic investments to support fire departments across the Commonwealth. They have our backs, and we need to have theirs. Let’s get this budget passed so we can continue to live, work, and play safely in the Pennsylvania communities that we love.”

Speakers Include:
Jack Morgan, Fire Company President
Chief Dillon Coleman, Berkely Hills Fire Chief
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis
Thomas Cook, PA State Fire Commissioner
Rep. Emily Kinkead

MIL OSI USA News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyber attacks are “wake up call” for businesses – Pat McFadden
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Cyber attacks are “wake up call” for businesses – Pat McFadden

Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, will set out what action the government is taking to improve cyber security in a speech next week.
Pat McFadden led briefing with national security officials and National Cyber Security Centre CEO on Friday about support being provided to retailers

He will use keynote speech at CyberUK to say “companies must treat cyber security as an absolute priority”

Comes as National Cyber Security Centre works closely with affected organisations to provide expert advice and support

In the wake of a wave of cyber attacks on retailers, Pat McFadden will set out what action the government is taking to improve the country’s cyber security in a speech next week, as the government secures Britain’s future through the Plan for Change.

Recognising the impact such attacks have on working people as they go about their daily lives, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will highlight moves to “bolster our national defences” including through the Cyber Security Bill.

It follows a briefing he led with national security officials and NCSC CEO Richard Horne on Friday about the recent hacks and expert support being provided to retailers.

In the keynote speech at the CyberUK conference in Manchester next week, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will say:

“These attacks need to be a wake-up call for every business in the UK.

“In a world where the cybercriminals targeting us are relentless in their pursuit of profit – with attempts being made every hour of every day – companies must treat cyber security as an absolute priority.

“We’ve watched in real-time the disruption these attacks have caused – including to working families going about their everyday lives. It serves as a powerful reminder that just as you would never leave your car or your house unlocked on your way to work. We have to treat our digital shop fronts the same way.”

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is working closely with organisations that have reported incidents to them to fully understand the nature of these attacks and to provide expert advice to the wider sector based on the threat picture.

They’re also urging leaders to follow the advice on the NCSC website to ensure they have appropriate measures in place to help prevent attacks and respond and recover effectively.

In his speech next week, Pat McFadden will encourage firms from all sectors to consider what cyber protections they have in place.

In a message to business leaders across the UK, he will say: “We are ready to support you. The National Cyber Security Centre is standing ready to support businesses and provide advice, and guidance, on how to raise the cyber security bar.”

Pat McFadden will set out the action the government is taking to boost the country’s cyber protections.

He will say: “We’re modernising the way the state approaches cyber, through the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill. That legislation will bolster our national defences.

“It will grant new powers for the Technology Secretary to direct regulated organisations to reinforce their cyber defences It will require over 1,000 private IT providers to improve their data and network security.

“It will require companies to report a wider array of cyber incidents to the NCSC in the future – to help us build a clearer picture of who, and what, hostile actors are targeting.”

Last month (April) the government launched a Cyber Governance Code of Practice. This is a package of measures which shows boards and directors how they can manage digital risks and protect their businesses and organisations from cyber attacks.

It covers a range of areas, including having robust cyber strategies in place, promoting a culture in workplaces so all employees are aware of the potential cyber risks they could face in their daily work, and having incident response plans in place which will mean organisations can respond quickly to cyber incidents as they occur.

Small businesses looking to strengthen their online defences are also encouraged to engage with the NCSC’s Small Business Guide, which provides quick and easy actions to help bolster their defences and support through the Cyber Local scheme, which provides tailored funding to boost regional cyber skills.

ENDS

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Published 2 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis, Department of Local Affairs Announce Latest Round of Proposition 123 Local Planning Capacity Grant
Source: US State of Colorado

STATEWIDE — The Colorado Department of Local Affairs’ (DOLA) Division of Local Government (DLG) has awarded $1.7 million to all 11 project requests in the latest round of Proposition 123 Local Planning Capacity Grants.

“These grants are an important step towards reducing housing costs for Coloradans. By empowering local governments and helping them streamline permitting processes, we can bring more new homes to Coloradans at an affordable price,” said Governor Polis.

This initiative provides housing solutions that are versatile for eligible uses, and will help local governments provide more housing options that people can afford.

These grants support local governments in their efforts to gain compliance with the two key requirements of Proposition 123: fast track requirements and unit count commitments. All 11 initiatives were funded out of the $2.2 million available this cycle, and the Department will hold another grant round in May of this year to disperse the remaining funds.

“In alignment with the state’s priorities of building more housing people can afford and achieving our climate goals by deploying more transit-oriented communities, these new grants will help local government partners streamline processes, update land use codes, and utilize technology enhancements. We are excited to see the positive impact on housing development across the state,” said DOLA Executive Director Maria De Cambra.

The Proposition 123 Local Planning Capacity (LPC) grants are designed to expand local government planning capacity to streamline and add affordable housing incentives to local codes and processes, utilize technology enhancements to support streamlined permit review, and hire staff and consultants to support affordable housing development.

Awards Summary

The 11 awarded projects representing 17 jurisdictions, include four urban, eight rural, and five rural resort jurisdictions across the state. Since its implementation in 2023, the LPC grant has awarded a total of 64 projects in the amount of $8,725,179, supporting 100 local governments (or 48% of all of the Prop 123-eligible jurisdictions).

Building Capacity & Planning
- Clear Creek County ($96,000): Establishing a regional housing authority, creating a strategic plan, and expanding capacity.
- City of Victor ($159,680): Hiring personnel and a consultant to build capacity, inventory properties, seek funding, and redevelop blighted housing.
- Ouray County ($192,000): Hiring an Affordable Housing Services Administrator for countywide operations.
- Town of Center ($159,600): Hiring consultants for project management, master planning, IT upgrades, site inventory, ADU program implementation, and seeking funding.
- City of Durango ($183,400): Hiring personnel to streamline development review and consultants for incentives, engagement, and funding for city-owned land.
Updating Land Use & Development Codes:
- Town of Berthoud ($41,600): Hiring consultants to implement Housing Diversity Plan strategies, amend the Land Development Code, and plan for a land and water banking program.
- City of Brighton ($38,520): Hiring consultants for code changes related to ADU impact fees and GIS mapping of affordable housing.
- City of Louisville ($196,000): Hiring consultants for development code updates, expedited review strategies, and updates to impact fees and inclusionary housing.
- City of Rifle ($200,000): Hiring a consultant for Land Use & Development Code updates, alignment with the Comprehensive Plan, and community outreach.
Improving Permitting & Processes:
- City of Lakewood ($256,357): Hiring personnel to improve permit review processes, technology, inter-agency collaboration, and strategies for preserving existing affordable housing.
- Town of Eagle ($212,000): Implementing new software to automate land use file management and streamline the review process.
In addition to the upcoming application cycle of the LPC Grant (scheduled to open May 1-30, 2025), DLG has set aside $2 million of this funding to incentivize early adoption of Proposition 123 fast-track requirements. Local governments that adopt a Proposition 123-compliant expedited review process by December 31, 2025 (one year ahead of the December 2026 deadline) will receive up to $50,000 in grant funding, with no local match required. Incentives will also be available for local governments that adopt a compliant expedited development review process by June 30, 2026.

All LPC funds are only available to those local and tribal governments who have filed a Proposition 123 commitment and are eligible for Proposition 123 funds. Interested applicants must schedule a pre-application meeting with LPC Program Staff to gain access to the online application form.

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MIL OSI USA News –
May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Investing $62M in SUNY Nursing Simulation Centers
Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that nursing simulation centers will be established on three SUNY campuses as part of her signature legislation to expand simulation-based education in SUNY nursing programs. The $62 million investment includes $35 million in direct SUNY capital awards, with the remaining funds contributed by campus matches. The three nursing simulation centers will be located on the University at Buffalo, SUNY Canton and Stony Brook University campuses.

“By investing in nurses of the future, we’re investing in the talent of aspiring professionals across our state and in the health care workforce we all rely on,” Governor Hochul said. “The SUNY nursing simulation centers will make extraordinary strides toward preparing students and strengthening the pipeline of excellence in our SUNY system and beyond.”

The University at Buffalo has been designated a SUNY System-Wide Nursing Simulation Center of Excellence, envisioned as a cutting-edge hub for simulation-based education and innovation across the system. SUNY Canton and Stony Brook University have been named SUNY Regional Nursing Simulation Centers, and will serve as critical resources for the North Country and Long Island regions.

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “SUNY is committed to strengthening New York’s healthcare workforce, and today’s groundbreaking investment in nursing simulation is a testament to this commitment, and a reminder of the key role public higher education plays in health outcomes and workforce development. Following enactment of Governor Hochul’s 2023 law championed by Senators Stavisky and Fahy and Assemblymember Lupardo to establish nursing simulation, SUNY is at the forefront of simulation-based nursing education – transforming how we prepare our students to address the healthcare workforce shortage and evolving healthcare needs of New Yorkers.”

SUNY Board Trustee Eric Corngold said, “This landmark investment takes us a step closer to providing nursing simulation centers across The Empire State and further advances our work with Governor Hochul and State leadership to address local and regional workforce shortages that are affecting many of our communities. We look forward to our continued progress in providing students interested in healthcare with the resources they need and deserve to obtain an excellent public education at the best value.”

The selected campuses will provide high-quality, hands-on training for some of the most needed clinical practice areas in health care, such as labor and delivery, high acuity cases, and community health. With their investments, each campus has committed to significant prelicensure nursing program enrollment growth, leveraging the legislation Governor Hochul signed in May of 2023 permitting nursing students to complete up to one-third of their clinical training through high-quality simulation experiences.

This further enhances the Governor’s other transformative initiatives to increase the state’s health care workforce, including Nurses and Healthcare Workers For Our Future Scholarships and free associate degrees at community colleges for students pursuing high-demand fields, including health care fields, all advancing Governor Hochul’s goal of growing New York’s health care workforce by 20 percent.

SUNY’s goal to fully leverage nursing simulation aligns with recommendations from the SUNY Future of Health Care Workforce Task Force , a group convened to guide SUNY in addressing the critical health care workforce shortage. In its findings, the task force identified fully leveraging nursing simulation as one of its four priority areas for short-term action and investment. The $62 million investment will directly support prelicensure nursing program enrollment increases. Collectively, the three designated simulation centers are projected to add hundreds of new prelicensure nursing students annually, while also expanding training capacity at partner SUNY campuses across the State.

The nursing simulation investment will have the following impact across participating campuses:
- At the University at Buffalo, the new system-wide nursing simulation center will support a 34 percent increase in prelicensure nursing enrollment in the first-year post-project completion, with a projected 67 percent increase over the next decade. By leveraging cutting-edge simulation technology and telepresence robots, UB will enable expanded in-person and remote participation in hyper-realistic clinical scenarios while fostering collaboration across campuses.
- At SUNY Canton, the new regional nursing simulation center will support significant growth across all levels of undergraduate nursing programs, including a 133 percent increase at the practical nursing level, a 160 percent increase at the associate’s level, and a 192 percent increase at the baccalaureate level within five years post-project completion. SUNY Canton’s simulation space will support nursing education in the North Country, where limited clinical placement opportunities present significant challenges in training future nurses, particularly in obstetrics, labor and delivery, and pediatric care.
- At Stony Brook University, the new regional nursing simulation center will support a 19 percent increase in prelicensure nursing enrollment in the first-year post-project completion, with a projected 27 percent increase over the next five years. Stony Brook will significantly expand its simulation space footprint to enhance in-person nursing education while also leveraging advanced simulcast software technology to provide remote learning opportunities across Long Island.
State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, “I am delighted to see SUNY continuing its significant investment in its nursing simulation program. The creation of three centers at University at Buffalo, SUNY Canton, and Stony Brook University will not only address the shortage of nurses but ensure that they receive first-class training. The capacity of nursing programs will hopefully increase dramatically across all SUNY campuses. No longer will schools have to turn away qualified applicants. This is exactly the result I envisioned when the Governor signed Assemblymember Lupardo and my nursing simulation bill into law in 2023.”

State Senator April N. M. Baskin said, “This generous grant will have a profound impact on the lives of countless patients who will benefit from the training and expertise of the nurses that were fortunate to learn at the University at Buffalo, SUNY Canton, and Stony Brook University campuses. This cutting-edge medical simulation training can only improve clinical skills and enhance the professionalism of nursing students. Hands-on work by SUNY students will undoubtedly enhance actual clinical scenarios when patients’ lives are in their hands.”

State Senator Anthony Palumbo said, “This critical funding to establish a Nursing Simulation Center at Stony Brook University will help New York’s flagship university remain on the cutting edge of medical advancements in the field of nursing and will provide students with the skills and experience needed to meet today’s growing healthcare challenges. As home to Long Island’s Regional Nursing Simulation Center, SBU will equip the next generation of nurses—helping them provide the highest quality of care to patients throughout Long Island and the greater metropolitan region.”

Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “There is no experience quite like hands-on experience and with these investments, SUNY is ensuring that students in the nursing programs at the University at Buffalo, Canton and Stony Brook, are equipped with the very best tools to learn and fill in the gaps within our health care workforce.”

Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said, “This $62 million investment in SUNY’s nursing simulation centers is not only a victory for our students, but a critical step forward in building a more equitable and prepared healthcare workforce. As someone who proudly represents communities with some of the most dedicated future healthcare professionals, I know how transformative access to cutting-edge training can be. These new centers—from Buffalo to Canton to Stony Brook—will expand opportunity, increase enrollment, and prepare more nurses to serve in areas where they’re needed most. I applaud SUNY and Governor Hochul for this bold investment in the future of healthcare in New York State.”

Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest said, “As a nurse and a SUNY graduate, I’m happy to see this year’s record investment in nursing simulation centers at SUNY. Sims are absolutely critical in any nurse’s training and I’m glad to see SUNY creating regional centers that can help educate future nurses across the SUNY system.”

Assemblymember Rebecca Kassay said, “As SUNY Stony Brook’s representative in the New York State Assembly, I am thrilled to see this transformative investment in our region’s nursing education infrastructure. The establishment of a Regional Nursing Simulation Center at Stony Brook University is a critical step toward building a stronger, more resilient healthcare workforce on Long Island and across New York State. This initiative will not only expand access to high-quality, hands-on training for our aspiring nurses but will also support our hospitals, clinics, and communities by preparing more qualified professionals. I am grateful for SUNY’s leadership in pioneering innovative, simulation-based education that meets the moment and addresses our state’s urgent nursing shortage.”

Assemblymember Scott A. Gray said, “This new regional nursing simulation center represents a game-changer for SUNY Canton and the North Country. We will not only see substantial growth across our nursing programs, but more importantly, we will be able to provide our students with critical training that limited clinical placement opportunities have hindered in the past, especially in high-demand specialties like obstetrics, labor, and delivery, and pediatric care. This will ultimately lead to better healthcare outcomes for our communities.”

SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran said, “This major and transformative investment further establishes SUNY Canton as the North Country’s regional nursing education simulation center. It also will allow us to more than double access to our quality programs at all levels, allowing us to help fill the local and state-wide need for highly qualified nurses. The new simulation center will augment our hands-on learning opportunities and further strengthen SUNY Canton’s commitment to offering affordable, accessible and applied experiences with the School of Science, Health and Criminal Justice.”

University at Buffalo School of Nursing Dean Annette Wysocki said, “The School of Nursing at the University at Buffalo is grateful to Governor Hochul and honored to have been selected to establish the new SUNY System-Wide Nursing Simulation Center of Excellence that will be a major resource for SUNY system schools of nursing across New York State. The design and construction of a new simulation center will lead to educating faculty and the expert nursing workforce of the future where therapeutic advances are leading to new clinical challenges. This combined $34 million dollar investment to establish the SUNY System-Wide Nursing Simulation Center of Excellence at the University at Buffalo School of Nursing represents the largest investment ever made to develop resources for the School of Nursing and advance the future success of the nursing profession in New York state.”

Stony Brook University School of Nursing Dean Dr. Patricia Bruckenthal said, “We are grateful to Governor Hochul, SUNY, and Stony Brook University for this opportunity to expand and enhance nursing education through simulation-based learning. The Stony Brook School of Nursing NEXUS Innovation Center epitomizes our commitment to advancing nursing education through innovation and collaboration. By integrating cutting-edge simulation technologies, we are not only enhancing the clinical competencies of our students and nursing students across our region but also fostering an environment where interdisciplinary teams can engage in transformative learning experiences. This center stands as a testament to our dedication to preparing nurse leaders who will shape the future of healthcare delivery.”

Executive Vice President for Stony Brook Medicine Dr. William A. Wertheim said, “As Suffolk County’s only academic medical center, Stony Brook University is proud to be at the forefront of healthcare education and workforce development. This designation as a SUNY Regional Nursing Simulation Center reflects our long-standing commitment to preparing the next generation of nurses. Through this important partnership with SUNY, we will significantly expand access to high-quality, hands-on clinical training — helping to address the critical nursing shortage, grow the healthcare workforce and ensure our communities have the skilled professionals they need to thrive.”

This announcement builds on a series of efforts by SUNY to expand and enhance nursing education through simulation-based learning. In October, Chancellor King announced the inaugural class of the SUNY Nursing Simulation Fellowship, a key initiative to further advance the integration of simulation into SUNY nursing programs. Additionally, SUNY has invested $3.7 million through its High Needs Nursing Fund to further advance simulation-based education across 40 of SUNY’s nursing programs. Over two consecutive years, the SUNY High Needs Nursing Fund has equipped SUNY campuses with the necessary tools, training, and resources to modernize and expand simulation experiences for students.

To further support simulation-facing faculty and staff across the SUNY system, an additional SUNY System-Wide Nursing Simulation Center of Excellence dedicated to faculty training and professional development in nursing simulation is expected to be announced in the near future.

About The State University of New York

The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive system of higher education in the United States, and more than 95 percent of all New Yorkers live within 30 miles of any one of SUNY’s 64 colleges and universities. Across the system, SUNY has four academic health centers, five hospitals, four medical schools, two dental schools, a law school, the country’s oldest school of maritime, the state’s only college of optometry, and manages one US Department of Energy National Laboratory. In total, SUNY serves about 1.4 million students amongst its entire portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs. SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York. Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2024, including significant contributions from students and faculty. There are more than three million SUNY alumni worldwide, and one in three New Yorkers with a college degree is a SUNY alum. To learn more about how SUNY creates opportunities, visit www.suny.edu.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – World Press Freedom Day 3 May: defending media freedom to safeguard democracy

Source: European Parliament

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, Vice-President Sabine Verheyen and Culture and Education Committee Chair Nela Riehl stress the vital role of independent journalism.

President Roberta Metsola said: “A free press is the best shield for democracy. Journalists must be free to report without fear of censorship, intimidation, or retaliation. The European Parliament will always defend and stand up for media and press freedom – not only on World Press Freedom Day, but every day.”

Sabine Verheyen (EPP, DE), Vice-President of the European Parliament and chair of the Working Group on the implementation of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) said:

“On World Press Freedom Day, we reaffirm our commitment to one of the fundamental pillars of democracy: media freedom. Free, independent, and diverse journalism is essential to any democratic society. However, it remains under threat – even within some EU member states – and without it, democracy cannot function. The European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), passed in April 2024, is vital in addressing these challenges. It sends a strong message about the need to protect media diversity and journalistic independence across Europe. Media is more than just an industry – it shapes political discourse, drives cultural development, fosters social inclusion, and safeguards fundamental rights.

“The EMFA represents a historic milestone for the EU: for the first time, a comprehensive European law is in place to uphold press freedom and media pluralism. We have made significant legislative progress in shielding journalists from political interference and economic pressure. But these protections now need to be actively enforced.

“The EMFA is already taking effect. The first provisions have officially entered into force, with the next set to follow this month. By August 2025, the most significant parts of the law will come into effect, marking a major step in strengthening media freedom across the EU. However, the real impact of the EMFA depends on its implementation. That is why we are already monitoring the process closely to ensure that member states do not delay its enforcement. Press freedom cannot wait – we must act upon these commitments.

“On this World Press Freedom Day, we have to remember the importance of standing firm in defending media freedom. Troubling global trends remind us that indifference is not an option. Even in Europe, we must remain vigilant in upholding our democratic values. Press freedom is the backbone of democracy – defending it means protecting our freedoms and the values we hold dear.”

Nela Riehl (Greens, DE), Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education, said: “An independent press sector is an essential pillar of our democracy. We need a free press to hold our decision makers accountable, advance social change, and keep citizens informed. I am concerned about the drastic increase in young people’s exposure to news from unverified sources on social media. Quality journalism is competing with algorithms on social media platforms for our attention. To minimise the spread of harmful disinformation, the EU is now starting to regulate digital platforms, but we also need to improve media literacy, make sure people have access to accurate information, and provide education on media consumption.

“This should be a high priority for civic education, with clear targets as we work towards improved democratic resilience across Europe. As a committee, we are pushing these challenges up the European education agenda, and we welcome the first steps in this direction under the Commission’s “Union of Skills” initiative.

“My recent visit to Ukraine reminded me of the power of citizens to counter threats to democracy. When the manipulation of information is weaponised, strengthening and protecting people – namely independent journalists, reporters, media professionals, and volunteers – is a matter of security as well. Accordingly, this World Press Freedom Day, we also emphasise the need to make work environments safe for the independent press, with liveable working conditions, a supportive European infrastructure, and protection from persecution.”

The chairs of the Civil Liberties Committee, the Human Rights Subcommittee and the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield are also issuing a statement to mark the World Press Freedom Day. You can read it here (available soon).

How Parliament strengthens media freedom

In early 2024, Parliament and Council adopted new rules to protect freedom of media and the independence of journalists in the EU. The provisions of the Media Freedom Act (EMFA) will become fully applicable in EU member states as of 8 August 2025.

These provisions should ensure transparency of media outlet ownership and of allocation of state advertising, strengthen public media independence, and secure robust protection for journalists and their sources. To ensure visibility and pluralism, digital platforms will be prevented from arbitrarily deleting or restricting independent media content.

A directive to protect journalists and civil society activists against strategic lawsuits seeking to silence critical voices must be transposed into national law in all EU member states by 7 May 2026.

Every year, the European Parliament rewards outstanding journalism that promotes or defends the core principles and values of the European Union, such as human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, and human rights. The fifth edition of the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism will be launched later this month.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: New recycling facility contract announced
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

An artist’s impression of the new materials recovery facility to be built in Hume.
In brief:
- A new recycling facility for the ACT will be built in Hume.
- Veolia will partner with the ACT Government to design, build and operate the new facility.
- The facility will have world-leading technology to recover and sort recyclable materials.
- It is expected to be operational in 2028.
A new recycling facility for Canberra is on the way.

Veolia will partner with the ACT Government to design, build and operate the new facility.

This will be built within the current bounds of the Hume Resource Recovery Estate on Recycling Road in Hume.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026.

World-leading technology

The Government selected Veolia as its industry partner after a competitive procurement process last year.

Veolia is a leader in water, energy, and waste management. It will bring world-leading technology to Canberra to build one of the country’s most advanced materials recovery facilities.

Veolia will run the facility under a long-term contract for 20 years, once it is operational.

A state-of-the-art facility

The new facility will be able to sort paper and cardboard, glass, plastic, steel and aluminium.

Its sophisticated technology will increase recovery rates, producing high purity in materials for recycling and resource recovery.

Technology includes:
- a glass purification plant
- sophisticated automatic recognition
- screens to separate paper
- laser optical identification with air jets to separate plastics
- powerful magnets to extract metals.
Supporting Canberra and its future

The new, larger facility will be able to process up to 115,000 tonnes of mixed recyclables per year.

This supports a growing Canberra and changing consumer behaviour that is contributing to increases in recoverable material over time.

Additional benefits

The project will create more than 130 new jobs.

Removing the need to transport the ACT’s recyclable materials interstate will have a further environmental impact.

A new education space will also be built. This will allow the community and school groups to visit and learn about how recyclable products are processed, to be transformed into renewed items.

Capabilities and features of the new facility include:

Improved recycling facilities
- Sorting: advanced optical sorting to better separate, identify, sort and segregate recycling to higher purity levels, reducing contaminants for better quality end market products.
- Glass recycling: glass crushing and washing facilities to provide better quality crushed glass that can be used in a wider range of products.
- Container recycling: improved and expanded baling processes for Container Deposit Scheme materials.
Improved environmental aspects
- Greenstar rating: the building will be designed to meet specific Greenstar requirements to reduce the facility’s carbon footprint.
- Wastewater management: wastewater capture treatment and reuse with stormwater management infrastructure to achieve environmental compliance.
Advanced management systems
- Fire management: advanced fire detection and suppression systems.
- Data collection: sophisticated data collection, management, and analysis systems.
- Flexibility to incorporate new innovations, improvements in technology and adapt to changing recycling priorities and materials.
State-of-the-art fire detection, mitigation and control systems will safeguard the site from fires. These can be caused by items such as lithium batteries or gas bottles finding their way into the recycling stream.

Non-recyclable or flammable items should not be put in recycling bins. This does happen from time to time, though, warranting the need for these extra safety measures.

Interim recycling

Canberrans can rest assured that the items they put in their yellow household bins are still being recycled.

Until the new facility is complete, recycling services will continue to be delivered by the current contractor, Re.Group.

The new recycling facility is funded via a joint investment of $26 million from the ACT and Australian governments.

The construction program includes the demolition of the previous material recovery facility, which is expected to commence around mid-2025.

The facility is expected to be operational in 2028.

Read more like this

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MIL OSI News –
May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Energy Department Lifts Regulations on Miscellaneous Gas Products

Source: US Department of Energy

WASHINGTON— The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the withdrawal of the determination of miscellaneous gas products as a covered consumer product under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA). This action is yet another step toward President Trump’s pledge to lower costs for the American people by expanding choice and cutting red tape. By withdrawing this rule, DOE will exempt miscellaneous gas products—a category that includes decorative hearths and outdoor heaters—from a range of unnecessary regulations on their manufacture and sale.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Energy is returning to common sense – and that means giving the American people the ability to choose which heaters they use in their own backyards,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said. “To date, rescinding or delaying unnecessary consumer regulations such as this have saved the taxpayers nearly $24 billion – and we’re just getting started.”

“Previous DOE rulemaking on this subject lumped together several products that are dissimilar in form and function, subjecting manufacturers to an awkward and unnecessary regulatory framework,” Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Lou Hrkman said. “By withdrawing the previous determination and repealing these unclear definitions, the Trump Administration is sending a clear signal that these markets will be allowed to thrive without fear of undue government interference.”

Prior to today’s action, miscellaneous gas products were classified as covered products under Part A of Title III of the EPCA, and therefore potentially subject to burdensome standards for energy conservation. The withdrawal of this classification, along with the repeal of the definitions for “miscellaneous gas products,” “decorative hearth product,” and “outdoor heater” from the Code of Federal Regulations, will allow the market for these products to freely develop without needing to account for new conservation standards from DOE.

In addition to today’s action, DOE has officially withdrawn four proposed conservation standards, simplified its water-conservation standards by repealing a convoluted definition of “showerhead,” requested public comment on measures that would deregulate the market for portable electric spas, and further delayed the implementation of efficiency standards for manufactured housing, walk-in coolers and freezers, efficiency standards for gas instantaneous water heaters and commercial refrigeration equipment, and test procedures for central air conditioning and heat pumps. DOE is also soliciting public feedback on changes to the rulemaking process for conservation standards that would reduce costs and restore freedom for consumers and manufacturers alike.

The effective date of this final rule is 30 days after publishing in the Federal Register. For further details, read the full text of the final rule.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Las Vegas Man Sentenced To Over 13 Years In Prison For Coercion And Enticement Of Multiple Children

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced Thursday by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 160 months in prison to be followed by 15 years of supervised release. Denzel Renyal Michael Loyd’s sentence follows his conviction for four counts of coercion and enticement after he solicited multiple children to engage in prostitution. The defendant utilized Facebook to contact the minors and solicit them to engage in sexual acts, send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves, and prostitute themselves on his behalf.

“Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of the offense,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Over the span of a few months, the defendant, a self-described pimp, solicited numerous minors to send him sexually explicit photographs and videos of themselves, induced them to engage in various sex acts – at least one victim complied to his sex demands in exchange for food, and attempted to convince the victims to engage in prostitution. The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work closely with the FBI to protect our youth from predators, and we will seek justice for victims.”

“Denzel Renyal Michael Loyd deserves each and every day of his 13-year prison term,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI. “This sentence delivers a message to anyone intent on harming children. The FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting children from the clutches of offenders like Loyd. Every time a child predator is brought to justice, potential victims are spared immeasurable harm.”

In addition to imprisonment, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, Loyd must register as a sex offender and keep the registration current.

United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.

The FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Jean Ripley and Supriya Prasad prosecuted the case with the assistance of the Department of Justice Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).

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

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

###

MIL Security OSI –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Hawaii Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Elderly Orange County Victim Out of Nearly $2 Million that Cost the Victim His Home and His Yacht

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SANTA ANA, California – A Hawaii man has pleaded guilty to a federal criminal charge for defrauding a 78-year-old Orange County victim out of nearly $2 million by false promises of brokering the sale of the victim’s yacht, the Justice Department announced today.

John Tamahere McCabe, 42, of Kailua, Hawaii, pleaded guilty Thursday to one count of wire fraud.

According to his plea agreement, McCabe offered to help the victim sell his yacht. What the victim didn’t know was McCabe used fabricated documents to change the ownership of the yacht to McCabe’s name. Once in his name, McCabe then diverted the proceeds to his own personal bank account and used most of the proceeds for his own personal purposes.

McCabe further convinced him to transfer his million-dollar Irvine residence into a McCabe-controlled limited liability company (LLC), claiming that it would protect the victim’s most-valuable asset and provide tax benefits. Without the victim’s knowledge or consent, McCabe caused himself to be the sole manager of the LLC and caused $1 million in loans to be taken out and secured by the victim’s residence, draining all its equity.

Once McCabe spent the loan proceeds, he defaulted on the loans and the victim’s residence was sold at a foreclosure sale, leaving the victim homeless. Through this scheme, McCabe defrauded the victim out of approximately $1,814,000.

United States District Judge Fred W. Slaughter scheduled an October 16 sentencing hearing, at which time McCabe will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

The FBI investigated this case with the help of the Irvine Police Department.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Waier is prosecuting this case.

If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. English, Spanish and other languages are available.

MIL Security OSI –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Statement on FY26 Budget Request Defense Topline

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
LOUISVILLE, KY – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chairman, Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement on the outlined President’s budget request:
“It is peculiar how much time the President’s advisors spend talking about restoring peace through strength, given how apparently unwilling they’ve been to invest accordingly in the national defense or in other critical instruments of national power. In March, the Trump Administration missed a tremendous opportunity to answer their predecessors’ chronic underinvestment in the U.S. military with robust, full-year funding for FY25. Now, it appears the Trump Administration’s FY26 defense budget request will double down on the Biden Administration’s material neglect for the glaring national security threats challenges about which they speak with great alarm.
“Make no mistake: a one-time influx reconciliation spending is not a substitute for full-year appropriations. It’s a supplement. OMB accounting gimmicks may well convince Administration officials and spokesmen that they’re doing enough to counter the growing, coordinated challenges we face from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and radical terrorists. But they won’t fool Congress. The correct response to the most dangerous threats to U.S. interests in decades is not a fifth straight budget request that proposes a real-dollar cut to the U.S. military.
“America cannot expect our allies to heed calls for greater annual defense spending if we are unwilling to lead by example. Fortunately, Presidential budget requests are just that: requests. Congress will soon have an opportunity to ensure that American power – and the credibility of our commitments – are appropriately resourced. I hope and expect that my colleagues will join me in placing America’s national security first as we begin the FY26 appropriations process.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Want to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage? Leave your phone at home

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Una Cunningham, Professor emerita, Department of Teaching and Learning, Stockholm University

The yellow shell symbol that marks the path of the Camino de Santiago. Armando Oliveira/Shutterstock

Pilgrimage offers a chance to disengage from the everyday and think deeply about what is important. Leaving home and spending some time on the move with no concerns other than putting one foot in front of the other can be life-changing.

Pilgrimage has been described as a liminal experience, which means you are neither at home nor at your destination, caught between two existential levels. Many people return home feeling transformed.

Since the mid-1990s, the numbers of people walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route to what the faithful believe to be the tomb of Saint James the Apostle in northwestern Spain have rocketed. And they continue to rise, probably approaching the numbers who made the pilgrimage in the middle ages, when up to 2 million people are believed to have walked each year.

Medieval pilgrims prepared for pilgrimage by setting their financial and spiritual affairs in order: writing a will and going to confession. Pilgrimage was seen as a rite of passage, or an individual quest where social status and networks were traded for anonymity and poverty in constant mobility. Arrival conveyed salvation, or perhaps a cure or a mystical revelation.

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Contemporary, postsecular pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago is often undertaken at turning points in the pilgrim’s life, for psycho-existential motives. Pilgrimage allows you to take time out from your life. Authenticity and simplicity are valued and will show you that you actually need very little. Slow mobility facilitates introspection and may have transformative effects.

At the same time, you can prepare for a pilgrimage as for any other activity, using the digital tools at your fingertips to gather information from official apps and online communities, possibly to learn some Spanish, and to make decisions in the planning of the route, accommodation, equipment and training. It is possible to arrange everything in advance, but you risk becoming hyper-informed, losing the opportunities for discovery, wonder and surprise that are part of pilgrimage.

Technology during your pilgrimage

I research online Camino forums. They are divided on the use of technology (such as smartphones) while actually on pilgrimage.

Unbroken digital interaction with family and friends at home will thwart some of the goals of your journey. Instead of being fully in the moment you will remain socially present in a symbolic world somewhere else, with all the worries of that world close at hand.

You’ll also miss opportunities to trust your intuition, and the community of pilgrims you meet on the Camino. You don’t need a map. The trail is blazed with yellow arrows and stylised scallop shells. Without a phone you can plan your next day’s walk using a guidebook and if you want to book a bed for the next day, the albergue (pilgrim hostel) staff can help.

The Camino path is well signposted.
Soloviova Liudmyla/Shutterstock

Many see a Camino pilgrimage as an opportunity for a digital detox and attempt to at least regulate the amount of time spent with a smartphone. But even if you keep your phone in your backpack during the day and concentrate tech time to the evening, you will be interrupting the separation from your life at home that is necessary if your pilgrimage is to be a liminal experience. When you catch up on news, email and family, you step back into the everyday.

Live blogging and vlogging from the Camino is encouraged by prospective pilgrims lurking in the Camino forums. Those who have already completed one or more Caminos comment to relate and vicariously relive their own Camino experiences. Live turn-by-turn reports are also appreciated by those undertaking virtual pilgrimage.

After your return home you can join the ranks of veterans who retell their pilgrimage to the online community and contribute with advice to prospective pilgrims. But doing this while on the Camino focuses your attention to other people and places rather than the here and now.

The liminal experience that was supposed to bring the pilgrim to insight does not always happen, due, at least partly, to digital distraction and incomplete extraction from the everyday environment. In the words of Camino anthropologist Nancy Frey, use the Camino as a chance for disconnection. If you must take a phone, keep it turned off in your backpack – strictly for emergencies.

Una Cunningham 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. Want to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage? Leave your phone at home – https://theconversation.com/want-to-walk-the-camino-de-santiago-pilgrimage-leave-your-phone-at-home-252676

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Can drinking champagne reduce your risk of sudden cardiac arrest? Here’s why it’s only a small part of the story

Source: The Conversation – UK – By David C. Gaze, Senior Lecturer in Chemical Pathology, University of Westminster

Lomb/Shutterstock

“My only regret in life is that I didn’t drink enough champagne,” the English economist and philosopher John Maynard Keynes (1883–1946) is reported to have said. As it turns out, there may be a surprising ounce of truth to that quote.

Picture this: a glass of champagne – bubbly, crisp and, for many, reserved for toasts and celebrations. Now imagine it being mentioned in the same sentence as a way to help prevent sudden cardiac arrest: a condition where the heart abruptly stops beating, killing tens of thousands each year, often without warning. Sounds too good to be true, right?

Yet, a Canadian study has uncovered a curious link. Using data from over half a million people in the health research database the UK Biobank, researchers found that those who consumed moderate amounts of white wine or champagne had a lower risk of experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Surprising, especially given the widely held belief that red wine, not white, is what benefits the heart.

To rule out coincidence, the researchers double-checked their findings using genetic data – and the connection seemed to hold firm. This suggests there might be more to the story than chance alone.

The study didn’t stop at wine. It explored more than 100 lifestyle and environmental factors tied to sudden cardiac arrest, including diet, exercise, air pollution, emotional wellbeing, body composition and education levels – all of which have been independently associated with risk. The conclusion? Up to 63% of sudden cardiac arrest cases could potentially be prevented by addressing these risk factors.

Among all the protective factors identified, a few stood out: fruit consumption, regular computer use (yes, really) and moderate drinking of white wine or champagne were all linked to a reduced risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Why? That remains uncertain.

One theory is that white wine contains antioxidants that may support heart health. Another possibility is that people who drink these types of beverages may also be more affluent and more likely to engage in other healthy behaviour, such as eating well, exercising regularly – and have access to better healthcare.

Read more:
Wealth, wellness and wellbeing: why healthier ageing isn’t just about personal choices

But before you pop a cork in celebration, a word of caution: alcohol remains a complex and often contradictory player in heart health. Other large-scale studies suggest a U-shaped relationship between alcohol and cardiovascular disease. Non-drinkers may have a certain level of risk, moderate drinkers of one glass of wine a day may see some benefit, but heavy drinking sharply increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart failure.

One observational study involving over 400,000 participants even found that moderate drinking could raise the risk of arrhythmias, which in some cases can lead to sudden death.

So while champagne may offer a hopeful glimmer, it’s no magic bullet. The study’s broader message was clear: it’s the overall lifestyle that matters most. Better sleep, regular physical activity and a balanced diet significantly reduced the risk of sudden cardiac arrest – and could prevent nearly one in five cases.

On the flip side, obesity, high blood pressure and chronic stress were among the strongest risk factors, along with lower education levels and exposure to air pollution. These findings underscore that preventing sudden cardiac arrest isn’t just about personal habits: it’s also about the environments we live in and the policies that shape them. Cleaner air, better education and easier access to nutritious food could all play a role.

Sudden cardiac arrest is not entirely random. Many of the contributing factors are within our control. Managing stress, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, getting quality sleep – and yes, perhaps enjoying the occasional glass of white wine – can all help. But the real power lies in stacking small, healthy choices over time. Prevention is rarely about a single change; it’s about the cumulative effect of many.

And in case you were wondering: Keynes suffered a series of heart attacks in 1946, beginning during negotiations for the Anglo-American loan in Savannah, Georgia. He described the process as “absolute hell”. A few weeks after returning to his farmhouse in Firle, East Sussex, he died of a heart attack at the age of 62.

Maybe he was right about drinking more champagne after all.

David C. Gaze 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. Can drinking champagne reduce your risk of sudden cardiac arrest? Here’s why it’s only a small part of the story – https://theconversation.com/can-drinking-champagne-reduce-your-risk-of-sudden-cardiac-arrest-heres-why-its-only-a-small-part-of-the-story-255708

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: From vigorous brushing to clear aligners, here’s what might be causing your gums to recede

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Flavio Pisani, Senior Clinical Lecturer in Periodontology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Central Lancashire

sruilk/Shutterstock

One of the most common concerns patients bring to the dental chair is receding gums. Often, the immediate assumption is: “I must have gum disease.” While this can be true, gum recession isn’t always a clear-cut sign of disease. In fact, many people don’t notice any problem until they begin to experience tooth sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods – or they notice their smile changing, with more visible tooth surfaces or small gaps appearing between the teeth.

Dentists often respond to this concern with a quick fix: applying white composite fillings near the gum line. While this may help with sensitivity in the short term, it can make the problem worse over time by contributing to further gum recession.

Gum disease – also known as periodontitis – is a serious condition. Symptoms such as bleeding when brushing, drifting teeth, persistent bad breath, or tooth mobility should always be investigated. However, gum recession can have other causes, too.

Even ex-fiances of Jennifer Lopez can develop gum disease.

Perhaps surprisingly, one of the biggest culprits behind receding gums is actually overzealous brushing. Using too much force or brushing with the wrong tools – like a hard-bristled toothbrush – can gradually wear away gum tissue. Electric toothbrushes can help by reducing pressure, especially newer models that light up when you brush too hard. But in reality, many people focus more on how long they brush than how they brush. Even the smart apps that pair with these toothbrushes usually highlight brushing time in each area, rather than pressure applied.

That’s why teaching proper brushing technique is so important. The best method will vary depending on a patient’s individual tooth and gum structure – and it should always aim to remove plaque effectively while using gentle, consistent pressure. If someone is doing well with a manual toothbrush and has a solid technique, there’s no reason to switch to an electric one.

Another growing cause of gum recession is cosmetic tooth straightening with clear aligners. While aligners are effective for aligning teeth quickly, they’re often paired with fixed retainers – wires bonded behind the teeth to hold them in place. Over time, this can cause the roots to drift outside the natural bone housing of the jaw, resulting in gum tissue shrinking away from the teeth.

Solutions

The good news is that there are solutions. Every case is unique, but with the right knowledge and techniques, dentists can help patients restore both gum health and appearance.

For cases where the gum tissue has receded significantly, there are several surgical options depending on the patient’s needs and goals.

For functional concerns, a technique called the free gingival graft is commonly used. This involves transplanting a thin layer of tissue – usually taken from the roof of the mouth (the palate) – to create a band of tough, pink gum around the base of the teeth. This helps patients brush comfortably without irritating the soft tissue of the gum. While this procedure can slightly reduce recession, the main goal is improving durability and comfort, not aesthetics. The graft is often visibly different in colour and texture.

For cosmetic concerns, more advanced “plastic surgery” techniques are available. One popular method involves carefully lifting the local gum tissue, inserting a tissue graft beneath it (again, typically taken from the palate), and stitching it in place. This “sandwich” approach thickens the gums and gives them a healthier appearance. The graft acts as a scaffold for the existing gum tissue to grow back over, improving both form and function.

These procedures are safe, effective and minimally invasive. They’re typically performed under local anaesthetic in a dental practice and require only a few days of recovery with over-the-counter pain relief. For anxious patients, conscious sedation can also be used – a technique where medications are used to relax a patient during a medical procedure, allowing them to remain awake and alert while feeling less nervous and potentially less aware of what’s happening.

Long-term studies show these techniques to be reliable, with a success rate of up to 93% and minimal relapse even five years after surgery.

The most important step in managing gum recession is a comprehensive patient assessment. While cosmetic concerns matter, the real priority is making sure gum disease isn’t being overlooked. Periodontitis is a silent and progressive condition, leading to chronic inflammation, bone loss and eventually tooth loss.

More importantly, research links periodontal disease to systemic health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even dementia. Protecting our gums isn’t just about maintaining a nice smile – it’s about safeguarding our overall health.

Flavio Pisani 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. From vigorous brushing to clear aligners, here’s what might be causing your gums to recede – https://theconversation.com/from-vigorous-brushing-to-clear-aligners-heres-what-might-be-causing-your-gums-to-recede-255123

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Over $10 Million in SBA Relief Approved to Assist Kentucky State Rebuild After Severe Storms

Source: United States Small Business Administration

ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $10 million in federal disaster loans to support Kentucky businesses, nonprofits, homeowners, and renters affected by severe storms, straight-Line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurring Feb. 14 through Mar. 17, 2025. As of May 2, 2025, the SBA has provided over $2.4 million to businesses/EIDL and over $7.8 million to residents in the wake of this disaster.

“Surpassing $10 million in disaster loans reflects more than just numbers — it represents small businesses reopening, families returning home and communities rebuilding stronger,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “These loans provide vital support for recovery, and we encourage anyone still in need to apply before the deadline.”

SBA has extended the physical damage loan applications. Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is still available to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations for working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDLs are available regardless of whether the organization suffered any physical property damage and may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is May 25, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Nov. 24, 2025.

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About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL OSI USA News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — Bay St. George RCMP seeks public’s assistance locating stolen vehicle that fled from police

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Bay St. George RCMP is seeking assistance from the public in locating a stolen vehicle that fled from police in Stephenville on the evening of May 1, 2025.

Shortly before 8:30 p.m. last night, Bay St. George RCMP attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Gallant Street in Stephenville. The vehicle failed to stop for police and fled the area in a dangerous manner. In the interest of public safety, police did not pursue the vehicle.

A short time later, at approximately 9:15 p.m., police received a report of a stolen vehicle from a residential property on Hillview Avenue in Stephenville which occurred sometime earlier that day. The stolen vehicle, a 2018 brown Mazda CX5 SUV, with NL licence plate JHC530, matched the vehicle that fled from police. An image of a similar vehicle is attached.

The investigation is continuing.

Bay St. George RCMP asks the public to check for possible surveillance footage of the vehicle on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Anyone having information about the current location of the stolen vehicle, the driver, or any other information about this incident is asked to contact police at 709-643-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

MIL Security OSI –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: How Trump’s tariffs could hit developing economies – even those not involved in the trade war

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Selim Raihan, Professor of Economics, University of Dhaka

The world has witnessed a resurgence of protectionism since Donald Trump returned to the White House. So-called “reciprocal” tariffs, imposed on all US trading partners at varying degrees based on the tax they charge on American goods, have been one of the hallmark features of Trump’s economic policy. They aim to correct what he perceives as “unfair” trade practices.

In early April, Trump said many countries had “ripped us off left and right” and declared “now it’s our turn to do the ripping”. His administration swiftly imposed sweeping tariff increases, with some of the highest rates falling on poorer countries like Laos and Lesotho.

A 90-day suspension was eventually made for most of these tariffs, and Trump has now softened duties on imported cars and car parts. But the danger remains high. No one can be certain that the initial reciprocal tariffs will not be reinstated.

Developing countries, many of which rely heavily on the export of manufactured goods to the US, will be keeping a keen eye on what happens next.

We employed the Global Trade Analysis Project model to analyse the possible effects of US tariffs on trade and economic growth. The model captures interactions and feedback among economic agents (households, firms and governments), markets, sectors and regions in the world economy.

It can be used to forecast the effect of trade reforms on various indicators such as production, welfare, income, prices and trade flows. Based on certain assumptions, the changes are likely to be seen in between two and three years.

We used simulations to compute the effects of Trump’s tariff regime under two alternative scenarios. In the first, which reflects the global trade situation at the time of writing, baseline tariffs are levied on all countries at 10%. The duties are 25% on goods from Canada and Mexico, and 145% on China. Retaliatory duties by China on US goods are set at 125%.

In the second, across-the-board reciprocal tariffs are imposed on countries at the levels Trump declared in his initial plan on April 2. This is in addition to the 145% tariff on Chinese goods, 25% on those from Canada and Mexico and a 125% duty by China on imports from the US.

Winners and losers

As shown by the graph below, our simulations suggest the US tariff regime will distort export patterns worldwide. The most painful effects will fall on China and the US itself.

Chinese exports would shrink by 10.8% in the first scenario and 10.9% in the second. The US would suffer an even larger loss of 11.7% and 14.9%, respectively.

The model suggests that other major US trading partners such as Canada and Mexico would also experience deep export declines of over 5% in both scenarios. Roughly 75% of Canada’s exports head south towards the US.

Among the developing Asian economies, Nepal, Pakistan and the Philippines would experience substantial export declines. This is particularly the case in the second scenario, with losses ranging from 2% to 4.4%. These countries are particularly vulnerable to reciprocal tariffs because they rely heavily on exports and are deeply tied to global supply and production chains.

Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam may benefit in the first scenario due to a possible diversion of trade. These countries, which are known for having some of the lowest labour costs in the world, offer cheap alternatives for goods that US importers would previously have sourced from China.

But they are expected to lose the majority of these benefits in the second scenario under a full reciprocal tariff regime. The exceptions are Cambodia and Indonesia, which our simulations suggest will retain positive export growth – albeit reduced to 1.6% from 4% for Cambodia and unchanged at 0.7% for Indonesia.

This may be because Cambodia and Indonesia have slightly more diversified export baskets than countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and trade with more partners. However, these gains are likely to be short lived if global uncertainties continue.

Major advanced economies such as Japan, the UK and EU will lose exports by a moderate amount. And the Middle East, north Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America (excluding Brazil) will see similar declines.

The second graph presents a concerning picture of how trade disruption could affect GDP, which economists use to measure the size of a country’s economy. The US and China are again set to suffer the steepest GDP losses, of 0.3% in the US and 1.9% in China under the second scenario. This confirms the well-established economic consensus that trade wars are mutually destructive.

Under the second scenario, most emerging and developing economies would suffer modest GDP declines between 0.3% and 1%. Thailand (1%), Malaysia (0.9%), Brazil (0.9%) and Vietnam (0.9%) are the worst hit countries in this category.

Like most of the developing countries in Asia, which are not directly involved in the trade war, many countries in Latin America, the Middle East, north Africa and sub-Saharan Africa would still face hits to their GDP. This underscores the global interconnectedness of trade and investment flows.

The simulations confirm what economists have been asserting for years: trade wars do not have winners. While some countries do benefit in the short term by way of trade diversion, the total losses are high and developing countries are not immune from the damage.

However, there are strategies developing countries can employ to improve their resilience to global trade disruptions. This includes diversifying their export markets by, for example, establishing stronger trade ties in regional blocs.

One example is the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, a free trade agreement between the Asia-Pacific nations of Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Such ties can be strengthened further.

Developing countries should also use this turbulent period to streamline customs, upgrade port infrastructure and improve logistics. This can reduce costs, enhance competitiveness and help developing economies engage more deeply in international trade.

No country is exempt from disruptions to global trade. But those with diversified economies, strong regional linkages and resilient trade infrastructure will weather the turbulence more successfully.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. How Trump’s tariffs could hit developing economies – even those not involved in the trade war – https://theconversation.com/how-trumps-tariffs-could-hit-developing-economies-even-those-not-involved-in-the-trade-war-255435

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Three strategies to help European carmakers regain their edge

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Francesco Grillo, Academic Fellow, Department of Social and Political Sciences, Bocconi University

sylv1rob1/Shutterstock

Even before US president Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on all imported cars, European automakers had been facing a multitude of challenges. Sales have slumped and manufacturers face rising costs, while Chinese rivals have rapidly been gaining market share.

The day before the tariffs announcement, the combined market capitalisation of Europe’s five major automakers (Volkswagen, Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Renault) stood at around US$212 billion (£159 billion). This total is less than a quarter of the value of Tesla alone.

Yet the five European giants sell 25 million vehicles annually, accounting for a third of all cars purchased worldwide. Tesla, despite losing half of its market value since the beginning of the year, only just makes the top 15 automakers. It sells less than a third of what Stellantis alone delivers.

This essentially means that financial markets no longer believe that European carmakers can make money out of a business they have been dominating for almost a century.

The crisis does, in fact, stem from the obsolescence of the technology upon which the entire industrial model of the car was built.

The invention of German engineer Karl Benz, later made widely accessible to millions of consumers by American entrepreneur Henry Ford, was far more than just a product.

Cars enabled people to go anywhere whenever they wanted. This fuelled the last industrial revolution and one of the greatest leaps in human prosperity.

However, more than 100 years after the first assembly lines appeared in Detroit, the dream has stalled. In a world where economic and environmental resources are increasingly scarce, an entire industrial model looks unsustainable.

Why? Because it became inefficient.

A privately owned car is used for only 5% of its potential lifetime. It remains idle and occupying valuable parking space for the other 95%. It carries an average of just 1.2 passengers, utilising only a quarter of its capacity.

If an alien were to observe human civilisation, it might conclude that humans have lost that special ability that made them so different from all other species: to do more with less.

Additionally, around 80% of cars are still powered by fossil fuels that cost significantly more than electricity per mile. This is despite economies of scale that are bringing down the price of purchasing a plug-in electric vehicle (EV).

These issues have hit the European – and also the US – automotive industries hard. These regions were the birthplace of the industry itself. For CEOs and policymakers, who often belong to a generation (and a gender) steeped in traditional automotive culture, finding solutions has proven difficult. However, there could be a clear path forward.

Here are three ideas to bring the European automotive industry in the 21st century.

1. Become more competitive by attracting EV rivals

China has already secured a technological advantage in this field – similar to the dominance once held by Volkswagen when it first established factories in Shanghai.

In the same week when BYD announced that it has surpassed Tesla in terms of revenues of electric cars, the Chinese automaker also revealed that it had developed a system to charge an electric car with 400km (249 miles) of range in five minutes.

BYD and other Chinese manufacturers export less than 10% of their products to the EU. They will survive any import duty that the EU imposes on them. Instead of fearing Chinese automakers, the EU should entice them to establish production facilities in the bloc, encouraging competition and innovation within its borders.

2. Sell services and symbols

New business models should focus on selling services as well as objects. This trend is prevailing in many industries, and carmakers should embrace it to develop partnerships with organisations that can make driving a less wasteful experience. Autonomous driving technology, for example, offers the chance to take vehicle-sharing to a much wider customer base.

And European automakers should trade on their history as a symbol of expertise and longevity. This is not so different to what camera-maker Kodak has done to survive to the digital revolution. It is notable that Ferrari is now worth more than its bigger sister company Stellantis.

3. Governments must get involved

For the transformation to succeed, governments must play a role. It is not about propping up the European industry with subsidies or treating cars as the new steel industry. Rather, it is about designing and implementing the infrastructure that the future of mobility requires.

The Fiat Topolino brought private transport to the masses.
Dan74/Shutterstock

A century ago, European cities were completely restructured to transition from horse-drawn carriages to the first Fiat Topolinos rolling out of the Mirafiori factory.

Today, we need new charging networks and dedicated lanes for electric and autonomous vehicles. This is already happening in China clearly showing that without a significant modernisation of infrastructure innovation does not happen.

The impact of tariffs

Trump’s tariffs will hurt – badly. Volkswagen, which exports two thirds of its production outside western Europe, will suffer most after assuming that its “people’s cars” could be sold indiscriminately to different populations.

However, the era of tariffs should serve as a wake-up call rather than a death sentence. The European automotive sector must use this challenge to reinvent itself, just as it did in the post-war era.

In the 1960s, countries like Italy and France combined industrial strategy of the likes of Fiat and Renault with a vision of the future. This alignment of industrial ambition and pragmatic policymaking was a key part of post-war reconstruction.

Now European leaders must embrace the same spirit of bold, forward-thinking innovation to build a transport system that is capable of setting global standards. The automotive crisis is not just an industry-specific issue. It demands a revival of both vision and pragmatism.

Francesco Grillo is affiliated with Vision, an independent European Think Tank. Vision is the convenor of two global conferences: on “the Europe of the Future” (in Siena) and on “global governance of climate change” (in Trento).

– ref. Three strategies to help European carmakers regain their edge – https://theconversation.com/three-strategies-to-help-european-carmakers-regain-their-edge-255259

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senate Democrats Demand Investigation into Elon Musk’s Alleged Abuse of White House Position for Personal Gain

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, led a coalition of senior Senate Democrats in sending a letter to President Donald J. Trump demanding an investigation into reports that senior White House advisor Elon Musk has used his government role to improperly advance his personal business interests abroad. The senators cited recent reporting on a disturbing pattern in which Musk allegedly leveraged high-level access to U.S. trade policy to pressure foreign governments – including India, South Africa, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Pakistan, and Lesotho – into granting favorable treatment to his satellite internet provider Starlink in apparent exchange for U.S. policy concessions. These allegations, if true, would constitute a serious violation of federal ethics laws and a profound breach of public trust.
“Public servants must serve Americans, not their own bank accounts,” the senators wrote. “These alleged actions are an egregious breach of public trust, degrade our credibility with allies and partners, and potentially violate U.S. laws.”
In addition to Warner, the letter was signed by Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ranking Member, Senate Finance Committee; Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair, Senate Appropriations Committee; Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ranking Member, Senate Budget Committee; Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member, Senate Armed Services Committee; Chris Coons (D-DE), Ranking Member, Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense; Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member, Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs; Ed Markey (D-MA), Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship; Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works; Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member, Senate Agriculture Committee; Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member, Senate Foreign Relations Committee; and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.
The letter details instances of Musk meeting with foreign leaders – including those from India and Bangladesh – inside the White House complex and the Blair House, shortly before their governments fast-tracked regulatory approvals for Starlink. In one example, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission issued what was described as “the swiftest recommendation” in its history for a Starlink license shortly after officials requested a delay in U.S.-imposed tariffs and met with Musk on White House grounds.
The senators noted that these developments came amid ongoing U.S. trade negotiations, raising serious questions about potential quid pro quo arrangements. The senators further warned that allowing a special government employee to influence foreign trade decisions to benefit their private ventures represents not only a potential legal violation but a corrosion of America’s international credibility.
The senators also condemned the misuse of taxpayer-funded government properties for personal business dealings, writing, “The White House and the Blair House are not merely buildings – they are enduring symbols of American democracy and service. To use this public property for personal enrichment is not only a betrayal of the public trust – it also sends a dangerous signal that power is not a solemn responsibility, but an asset to be exploited for personal gain.”
The lawmakers called on President Trump to launch a full investigation into Musk’s conduct, to publicly disclose the findings, and to provide Congress with a complete account of Musk and his associates’ use of government positions for personal benefit.
A copy of the letter is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens are the positive and progressive antidote to Reform after local election results

Source: Green Party of England and Wales

2 May 2025 by Green Party

The Green Party is celebrating another record-breaking year having taken their councillor numbers to a new record high. Greens delivered impressive results with gains in counties like Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Devon while breaking through onto councils for the first time in areas where Reform dominated, including in Staffordshire and Leicestershire.

Co-Leader Carla Denyer MP said:

“The Green Party has broken new records by increasing our number of councillors for the eighth year running. While Labour and the Conservatives have buckled under the Reform insurgency, Greens just keep growing.

“Two party politics is dead and five party politics in England is the new norm. We have taken seats off the Tories and Labour and have shown we can be the positive and progressive antidote to Reform, holding their vote back in some places while breaking through onto other councils where Reform dominated.”

Co-leader Adrian Ramsay added:

“These elections have shown that Labour needs a complete reset. The government needs to listen to the anger and disquiet over our NHS being in crisis, winter fuel allowance being cut from many pensioners and the removal of benefits for many ill and disabled people. It needs to increase taxes for the super-rich so our councils can be properly funded to provide the local services that people are crying out for.

“Going into these elections Greens were already in administration in over 40 Councils and on the back of these results this is likely to increase. With over 850 councillors compared to a likely 650 or so, Greens still have many more councillors than Reform.

“Green councillors also have a track record of being community champions, offering hope and practical solutions on the housing crisis, cost of living, climate breakdown and protecting public services. They will continue to work hard all year round and the Green Party will carry on growing our representation at all levels of government.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Tonko, Pressley Demand Investigation Into Trump’s Attack on Smithsonian Museums, Brazen Attempt to Whitewash History
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20), Co-Chair of the Congressional Museum Caucus, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) led 69 of their colleagues on a letter to the Inspector General of the Smithsonian Institution demanding an investigation of the impact of Donald Trump’s harmful Executive Order attacking Smithsonian museums – namely, the American Art Museum, the American Women’s History Museum, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture – attempting to erase histories of marginalized communities.

Created by Congress in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has a clear mandate to operate as a non-partisan and autonomous museum, education, and research complex, free from political influence. Not only is it home to dozens of museums, libraries, education and research centers, and the National Zoo within Washington, D.C., but the Smithsonian also coordinates with over 200 affiliate organizations in nearly every state – all of which could be impacted by the proposed cuts and erasure of race and culture in the Executive Order.

“On March 27, 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14253, which would infringe on the independence of the Smithsonian Institution to carry out its core mission to provide Americans and the world with the tools and information we need to forge our shared future,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter to Smithsonian Inspector General Nicole Angarella. “The funding cuts and content directives will undoubtedly have a devasting impact on the preservation and integrity of American history and culture.”

The Trump Administration’s executive order specifically directs the Smithsonian Institution to remove exhibits and narratives it considers ‘divisive’ or ‘race-centered’, politicizing the Smithsonian’s foundational purpose and eroding public trust. Both the National Museum of African American History and Culture Act and the National Museum of the American Latino Act were enacted with strong bipartisan support, reflecting a shared commitment across party lines to explore, document, and interpret the central role of race and cultural identity in American history. Additionally, the funding cuts and content mandates would have a significant trickle-down effect on local museums and cultural organizations across the United States, diminishing the Smithsonian’s ability to provide guidance, professional development, and travel exhibits to smaller museums.

“Conditioning funding on adherence to prescribed, right-wing ideology jeopardizes the Smithsonian’s legal compliance oversight and its capacity to document American history and culture accurately,” the lawmakers continue. “It is both ironic and self-defeating to demand that the Smithsonian Institution adhere to content mandates banning race, as doing so undermines the very rationale for the creation of these museums.”

The lawmakers are requesting an inspector general investigation and report on findings including:
- An audit of the operational and financial implications of the proposed content mandate and funding cuts, including the consequences on the Smithsonian Affiliates;
- An audit of the expected impact on existing contractual obligations;
- An analysis of EO 14253’s compliance with statutory requirements established by Congress;
- Any documentation of deaccessioned artifacts following EO 14253 and plan to prevent the destruction or sale of cultural and historical artifacts; and
- A recommendation for the Smithsonian Board of Regents on how to adhere to statutory law and the institutions’ public trust responsibilities.
“Our shared responsibility is to ensure that the Smithsonian remains a source of inspiration and learning for all, free from undue political interference,” the lawmakers wrote.

A copy of the letter is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Marystown — Prohibited driver arrested by Burin Peninsula RCMP, refuses roadside breath test

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Seventy-two-year-old Alvin Roff of Mortier was arrested by Burin Peninsula RCMP on April 30, 2025, for driving while prohibited.

On Wednesday evening, as part of an ongoing investigation into a previous report of prohibited driving involving Roff, Burin Peninsula RCMP attended his residence in Mortier. Roff was prohibited from driving as part of his sentencing for a previous conviction of an impaired driving offence.

While in the area of the home, police observed a vehicle pull into the driveway and observed Roff as he exited the driver seat. He was arrested for prohibited driving. During the arrest, the officer observed signs of alcohol impairment and provided Roff with a demand for a roadside screening test. He refused to provide a breath sample. His vehicle was seized and impounded.

Roff was held in police custody overnight and attended court on May 1, 2025. He is charged with prohibited driving and refusing to provide a breath sample. Roff was released by the court on a number of conditions and is scheduled to appear in court again at a later date.

RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

MIL Security OSI –

May 3, 2025