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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Global: Severance: what the hit show can teach us about cybersecurity and human risk

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Oli Buckley, Professor in Cyber Security, Loughborough University

    What if your work self didn’t know about your personal life, and your home self had no idea what you did for a living? In Apple TV’s Severance, that’s exactly the deal: a surgical procedure splits the memories of employees into “innies” (who only exist at work) and “outies” (who never recall what they do from nine to five).

    On the surface, it sounds like an ideal solution to a growing cybersecurity problem of insider threats, such as leaks or sabotage by employees. After all, if an employee can’t remember what they accessed at work, how can they leak it, sabotage it, or sell it?

    As someone who has researched insider threats for the last decade I can’t help but see Severance as a cautionary tale of what happens when we try to eliminate threats without understanding people.

    The threat from within

    Insider threats really hit prominence in the wake of high-profile incidents like Chelsea Manning and Edward Snowden, who both leaked top secret government information. These threats are one of the most persistent challenges in security because unlike “traditional” hackers, insiders already have access to sensitive systems and information.

    They might act maliciously, stealing trade secrets or exposing data, or accidentally, through phishing links or lost devices. Either way, the consequences can be more serious because of the unprecedented levels of access someone has while working within an organisation.

    While we often think of the high-profile cases in the first instance, the reality of most insider incidents is far less dramatic. Think of the disgruntled employee who downloads a client database before leaving, or the well-meaning staff member who shares a sensitive file via the wrong link.

    In fact, one of the most iconic examples of an insider threat in fiction is Jurassic Park. The entire catastrophe begins, not with a dinosaur, but with a software engineer, Dennis Nedry, who disables the park’s security in an attempt to steal trade secrets. It’s a reminder that even the most sophisticated systems can be undone by a single rogue employee.

    Organisations try to manage this through access controls, behaviour monitoring and training. But people are unpredictable. Insider threats sit at the messy intersection of human behaviour, organisational culture and digital systems.

    This is where Severance strikes a chord. What if you could eliminate the human risk altogether, by turning employees into separate, tightly compartmentalised selves? In the show, workers at the shadowy Lumon Corporation have no memory of their job outside the office and vice versa.

    In a sense, it’s the ultimate form of “need to know.” An “innie” can’t tell anyone what they do because they don’t know anything beyond their desk. It’s a very elegant, although ethically problematic, solution for someone working in security. However, as the series unfolds, it becomes clear that the levels of control on offer through the process of severance come with a terrible cost.

    The problem with control

    The innies in Severance are trapped in an endless workday, unable to understand the meaning or value of their tasks. They form bonds, question authority and ultimately rebel. Ironically, it is the severed employees, the ones who are most closely controlled in the company, who become the greatest insider threat to Lumon.

    This mirrors something we know from real organisations: excessive surveillance, control and secrecy often backfires. For instance, Amazon has faced repeated criticism over its use of tracking technologies to monitor warehouse workers’ movements and productivity, with reports suggesting this has contributed to high stress, burnout and even rule-breaking as workers try to “game” the system.

    A 2022 study published in Harvard Business Review found that employees who feel overly monitored are significantly more likely to break rules or engage in counterproductive behaviour – undermining the very goals of workplace surveillance. If people feel undervalued or mistreated, they’re more likely to become disengaged or actively hostile. Security systems that ignore culture and trust are therefore often brittle.

    What Severance gets right is that insider threats are emotional and ethical problems as much as technical ones. They stem from how people feel about their role, their autonomy and their identity within a system. This is something that we can’t simply patch within a piece of software.

    Lessons from fiction

    Thankfully, no company in the real world is proposing surgical memory separation, at least not yet. But in an age of algorithmic management, increasing surveillance, and growing concerns about privacy, Severance resonates. It forces us to ask just how far should we go in the name of security?

    The answer isn’t to separate people from their work, but to build systems that are secure and respectful of the people within them; something increasingly backed by research.

    That means better design, clearer boundaries and a workplace culture that values openness, not just compliance. For example, implementing clear expectations around work hours and communication norms can help prevent burnout and promote wellbeing.

    Encouraging open communication channels, such as anonymous feedback systems, empowers employees to voice concerns without fear, fostering a culture of trust. Additionally, designing physical workspaces that promote collaboration, like open-plan areas and communal lounges, can enhance team cohesion and reflect organisational values.

    If we follow the example set by Lumon and try to remove all risk then we lose something far more essential – the humanity at the centre of our systems and organisations. Ultimately, removing that human focus could be the most significant vulnerability of all.

    Oli Buckley receives funding from Jason R.C. Nurse receives funding from The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Responsible AI UK.

    – ref. Severance: what the hit show can teach us about cybersecurity and human risk – https://theconversation.com/severance-what-the-hit-show-can-teach-us-about-cybersecurity-and-human-risk-255024

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rent control consultation published

    Source: Scottish Government

    Views sought on exemptions from rent control and where rent could be increased above cap.

    A consultation has been published on potential for certain exemptions from rent controls or increases above the rent cap.

    Last year, the Scottish Government set out its plans for long-term rent controls in the Housing (Scotland) Bill, which will help create a fairer, better-regulated rented sector for tenants and landlords.

    Tenants, landlords and others in the rented sector are being asked to share their views on possible exemptions to the rent cap, for example in connection with mid-market and Build to Rent properties.

    The consultation also considers where landlords could be allowed to increase rents above the cap, for example where there have been improvements to their property or where rents have consistently been charged at a level below market rates.

    Views are also being sought on how Ministers’ regulation-making powers could be used to clarify how private sector joint tenancies are ended.

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “The rent control proposals we have published as part of the Housing Bill are just some of the measures we are taking to improve lives and work towards achieving our goal of ending child poverty in Scotland.

    “Our rent control proposals will help provide certainty for tenants by keeping them in their homes and ensure rents remain affordable during a cost-of-living crisis.

    “Rental properties are a crucial element of our efforts to tackle the housing emergency and we want landlords to have the confidence to invest and continue to provide good quality, affordable homes.

    “We have published this consultation as part of our ongoing engagement with those who will be affected by rent control.  The responses will help us strike the right balance between supporting tenants, whilst ensuring the rights of landlords are protected and we continue to support investment in the rented homes we need.”

    Background

    Housing (Scotland) Bill – Scottish Government consultations – Citizen Space

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local Plan – Inspectors to begin examination hearings

    Source: St Albans City and District

    Publication date:

    The examination hearings for a Local Plan for St Albans District are to start with an opportunity for objectors to raise any concerns.

    Two Planning Inspectors, Matthew Birkinshaw and Thomas Bristow, are to assess whether St Albans City and District Council’s Local Plan is sound and complies with all legal requirements.

    They are to begin their task by hearing from organisations who have opposed the Local Plan (LP) which the Council submitted to the Government five months ago.

    The hearings will take place in public at the Council Chamber in the Civic Centre, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, on Tuesday 29 April to Friday 2 May.

    Anyone wanting to follow the proceedings can do so online with the Council providing a live webcast of the event.

    Only those who have been invited by the Inspectors to participate will be allowed to speak at the hearings.

    They are entitled to be represented by a legal advocate such as a solicitor or barrister with expertise in planning law.

    The hearings’ main purpose is to allow the Inspectors to probe arguments put forward by objectors about the LP’s soundness or legal compliance.

    On the opening day, they will consider the LP’s legal compliance while on the Wednesday, they will deal with housing growth and strategy.

    Thursday is due to be taken up by the principle of Green Belt issues, though not specific sites, while the final day will be reserved for any other business.

    The Council may be asked by the Inspectors to respond to any of the objections that are raised and is also entitled to expert legal representation.

    Amanda Foley, the Council’s Chief Executive, said:

    Producing a Local Plan is one of the most challenging and complex tasks that a planning authority is required to undertake.

    The Local Plan that we submitted for examination in November last year is the culmination of more than three years’ work including extensive public consultations.

    We are pleased that the examination process will shortly get underway with the first stage allowing for the Inspectors to look in depth at objections.

    Supporters of the LP, the Council apart, will not be heard at these hearings, so it may seem a little one sided. However, it is only fair that the Local Plan goes through a robust test such as this.

    Following these stage one hearings, the Inspectors will hold a further set of hearings to consider the main issues at a date yet to be decided.

    The Inspectors will then compile a report for the Council with its initial findings, setting out their conclusions and any modifications to the LP which they deem necessary.

    The LP is a blueprint for the sustainable growth of St Albans District over the next 16 years.

    It identifies land suitable for future housing and commercial development as well as the necessary infrastructure.

    The proposed LP allows for the building of 15,000 new homes in the District up to 2041 at designated sites. This figure is in accordance with national planning policy guidelines and will include 1,200 social rent properties.

    It also provides for £750 million of new infrastructure including nine primary schools, four secondary schools, improvements to public transport, locations for 15,000 jobs, green spaces and health facilities.

    You can find out more about the hearings including how to access the webcast here.

    Media contact: John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727 819533, john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: VE Day commemoration

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    PLANS to mark the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day in Dundee are well underway.

    The city’s commemoration, which forms part of a national marking of the date, will be hosted by Lord Provost Bill Campbell.

    Starting with a short service of remembrance and thanks on the steps of the Caird Hall attended by local clergy and church leaders, invitations are also being extended to councillors, other politicians, council leaders and veterans.

    Organisations representing veterans, military organisations, cadet forces and reserves are being encouraged to parade on the City Square.

    Lord Provost Bill Campbell said: “We must never forget the sacrifice made on all fronts, including at home, in the Second World War and it is important that we and future generations always remember the ultimate price many paid to maintain freedom from totalitarian and genocidal regimes.

    “Dundee citizens in every branch of the armed services and on every front in the conflict gave their lives or were in some way affected by the Second World War.

    “We would like the people of the city to join us in the City Square on Saturday 10 May 2025, to pay tribute, and mark VE Day commemorating the surrender of German forces to the Allied powers at the end of World War II.” 

    Further details of the event and timings will be announced nearer the date.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning reforms to slash a year off infrastructure delivery

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Planning reforms to slash a year off infrastructure delivery

    Clean energy projects, reservoirs, railway lines, and other major infrastructure to be built faster, under changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill

    Clean energy projects, public transport links, and other major infrastructure will on average be delivered at least a year faster, as the government accelerates planning reforms to unleash growth and restore Britain’s rightful place as a world leader in building.

    Burdensome statutory consultation requirements unique to major infrastructure projects will be scrapped, through amendments to the pro-growth Planning and Infrastructure Bill, cutting down the average two-year statutory pre-consultation period by half and paving the way for new roads, railways, and windfarms that will bolster the country’s connectivity and energy security.

    Developers currently spend significant time and money on long, technical documents resulting in communities feeling fatigued and confused, which is a direct result of overly complex planning rules that are leaving working people deprived of the things their areas need to thrive. It also disincentivises developers making improvements to projects for fear of having to re-consult, even if in the community’s best interest.

    Recognising community voices remain vital, the government will bring this process in line with planning applications for major housing schemes, and set out new statutory guidance to promote meaningful local engagement without repeating these flaws. This will allow changes to be made dynamically based on community feedback, reducing delays and potentially saving over £1 billion for industry and taxpayers this Parliament. These changes will help ensure Britain is open for business, attracting billions of pounds of new private investment.

    This will go even further in streamlining infrastructure delivery through the government’s landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill, as part of the Plan for Change to power and heat homes with clean energy, raise living standards, create well-paying jobs, and put more money into the pockets of working people and families. The reforms will also boost the government’s efforts to build 1.5 million homes by making it easier to deliver the roads, reservoirs and energy generation needed so we can restore the dream of homeownership to families across the country.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said: 

    “Critical national infrastructure is key to Britain’s future and security – so we can’t afford to have projects held up by tiresome requirements and uncertainty, caused by a system that is not working for communities or developers and holding back our true potential.

    “We are strengthening the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to make sure we can lead the world again with new roads, railways, and energy infrastructure as part of the Plan for Change, whilst ensuring local people still have a say in our journey to get Britain building.”

    Alongside statutory guidance for developers on applications, the Planning Inspectorate will maintain high standards for accepting projects – informed by community engagement. Local authorities will also be made aware of proposed applications so that they can continue to play an important role informing and advising on developments, as well as advocating for local interests.

    As a result, local people can still object and share their views but in a more effective way, with developers given the flexibility to adapt their schemes as needed without restarting the process: reducing delays and costs for projects, including datacentres, reservoirs, and solar farms, while ensuring local people’s voices are heard.

    Meanwhile the government is already taking action – consenting more nationally significant solar projects since the start of the Parliament compared to the whole of the previous one, including the Mallard Pass Solar Project in Lincolnshire, and making the largest ever investment in offshore wind, as we deliver our Plan for Change milestone of 150 decisions on major infrastructure projects by the end of the Parliament.

    Examples of delays under current system:   

    • Fens Reservoir: Over 1,000 days in pre-application due to a number of issues including around consultation requirements, expected submission in December 2026, supplying 250,000 homes with water.   
    • National Grid – Bramford to Twinstead: 717 days in pre-application for 29km of overhead lines and underground cables.   
    • Hinkley Point C: Three years in pre-application consultation; Sizewell C spent around seven-and-a-half years at this stage.  

    Wider reforms in the Bill will streamline and speed up planning decisions, remove blockers to major infrastructure and housing delivery, and support environmental goals through the new Nature Restoration Fund to achieve win-win outcomes for both nature and the economy.

    These changes build on the recent OBR forecast confirming the government’s planning overhaul, through an updated National Planning Policy Framework, will drive UK housebuilding to its highest level in over 40 years and boost the economy by £6.8 billion by 2029/30.

    Notes to editors:

    Carl Trowell, President of Strategic Infrastructure, National Grid, said:

    “Consulting with communities and stakeholders will always be a fundamental part of the way we at National Grid develop and shape our projects. We welcome the Government’s proposal today which will ensure that consultation and engagement can be more effective and targeted. This will accelerate the path to delivering critical infrastructure while continuing to ensure the views of local communities are heard.”

    Benj Sykes, UK Country Manager, Ørsted said:

    “Ørsted welcomes the ongoing work of the Government to reform the planning system, including these changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. Engaging and working with communities and other stakeholders in the pre-application stage has always been central to our work developing new energy projects and will remain so; the changes being introduced will allow everyone involved in these engagements to focus on the issues that matter to stakeholders and local communities, and to our developments.”

    James Robottom, Head of Policy, Renewable UK said:

    “This announcement represents a significant step forward for the renewable energy industry, as it will enable us to speed up the delivery of vital infrastructure projects to boost the UK’s energy security, grow the economy and help us to reach the Government’s target of clean power by 2030.  The industry has a long track record of engaging early and closely with local communities and a wide range of environmental stakeholders, and this will continue as we want to carry on building projects with local support by giving communities a clear voice in the decision-making process. We look forward to feeding into the new guidance that will enable us to spend more time engaging with key stakeholders on the most important issues for each new project on a case by case basis and lead to even higher quality engagement and positive outcomes for nature.” 

    Sam Richards, CEO of pro-growth campaign group Britain Remade, said:

    “Today’s bold reforms to cut red tape and get vital infrastructure delivered faster are a big step toward unlocking clean energy, better transport, and the homes Britain desperately needs. Too often consultation is a long and expensive box ticking exercise. By slashing delays and encouraging real community engagement, the government is backing growth, investment, and the kind of national renewal we all want to see.”

    Adam Berman, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Energy UK said:

    “Energy UK is fully behind the Government’s mission to speed up the planning system, unlocking the investment in clean energy we need to secure our future power needs. More targeted engagement with statutory consultees will result in faster and more appropriate applications, allowing relevant public bodies to focus on planning applications that matter most to them.”

    Richard Greer, Fellow, Climate & Sustainability Services, Arup:

    “Building on the Planning and Infrastructure Bill with further legislative improvements will be essential to delivering the Government’s ten-year Infrastructure Strategy and its pipeline of projects across transport, energy, water, and the new economy sector (such as data centres).  A step-change in infrastructure delivery requires a comprehensive package of reforms that streamlines the entire project lifecycle.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Relaxation by the water: Russpass invites you to tours of the Southern and Northern river terminals

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The modern Northern and Southern river terminals are among the favorite places for Muscovites and tourists to relax. During the summer season, you can go on a short or multi-day river cruise from their piers. The terminals have all the necessary conditions for guests to spend their time comfortably and excitingly. The buildings house museums, cafes, souvenir shops and much more. And all year round, free entertainment events are held here, city holidays are celebrated and festivals are organized.

    For guests of river stations, a tourist travel service Russpass has created a selection of educational excursions. For example, you can take an unforgettable tour of the Northern River Terminal with a guide or organize an independent walk. And you can learn about the history of the Southern River Terminal and its architecture with the help of a fascinating audio excursion.

    Admire the beauty of the Northern River Terminal and explore its surroundings

    Building Northern River Station built in 1937. Architects Alexey Rukhlyadev, Vladimir Krinsky, sculptor Ivan Efimov, ceramic artist Natalya Danko and other professionals managed to create a real architectural monument. After its opening, the Northern River Terminal quickly became one of the most recognizable symbols of the capital.

    Almost five years ago, the historic building was carefully restored. The one-and-a-half-meter porcelain panels on its walls were completely restored. They were created by hand by the ceramic artist Natalia Danko. During the restoration, 24 majolica medallions were repainted according to the author’s drawings. Each of them depicts different scenes, but together they create the atmosphere of the era: the main construction projects of the five-year plan – the Central Theater of the Red Army, the Palace of Soviets on the site of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Kievskaya metro station. A star crowning the spire also shone above the building. Its rays were covered with gilded copper sheets and strewn with semi-precious stones. Now the Northern River Terminal is a cultural heritage site of regional significance and is popular with Muscovites and tourists.

    The excursion will help you admire the beautiful building of the Northern River Terminal and learn many historical facts about its construction and role in the life of Moscow “Northern River Station: Palace and Port of Five Seas”.

    An experienced guide will conduct the tour. You can choose a convenient time for the walk and buy a ticket in the Russpass service. The tour will begin in Druzhby Park. On its territory, tourists will see sculptures and monuments, including copies of the famous works “Bread” and “Fertility” by Vera Mukhina. In the central part of the park, guests will see a nine-meter sculptural composition “Friendship” by Alexander Rukavishnikov. Then, the participants of the walk will go to the building of the Northern River Terminal. Here, the guide will tell you how the Moscow Canal and the station were built in the 1930s. Tourists will also examine majolica medallions and other decorative elements. In addition, they will learn what monuments are on the territory of the river terminal and what films were filmed here during the Soviet era.

    For those who like to explore the city on their own, Russpass offers a route “Northern River Terminal and its environs”. Users of the service are recommended to visit nine places located along the banks Khimki reservoir, including the station building. There you can visit an exhibition dedicated to the history of the Northern River Station and learn a lot of interesting things about it. For example, about how polar explorers left for expeditions from here in the 1940s. The building also houses a souvenir shop and the Volga-Volga restaurant. A fascinating and picturesque walk with the Russpass service will end on the opposite bank of the Khimki Reservoir in the Severnoye Tushino Park.

    During the summer navigation season, from the piers of the Northern River Terminal you can go on a long cruise or an hour-long boat trip along theMoscow River. In addition, it is convenient to get from the station by river transport to the piers of Khimki (30 minutes on the way) and Zakharkovo (10 minutes on the way). Thus, residents of five districts of Moscow and a neighboring city of the Moscow region can significantly reduce their travel time.

    Learn about Soviet architecture and the seas that can be reached from Moscow

    Southern River Terminal opened after reconstruction two years ago. Now it is one of the landmarks of Moscow. The building was built in 1985 according to the project of the architect Yuri Kogan. It is stretched along the river and is shaped like a ship. Open terraces and panoramic glazing create the impression of decks. The station is decorated with a clock tower, which is crowned with a spire. On the facade there are bright architectural elements – five female figures in the antique style. They are allegories of the seas with which Moscow is connected by river routes: the Azov, Black, Caspian, Baltic and White.

    On the first floor of the station building there is a waiting room, a buffet and a souvenir shop. On the second floor there is a library area with books about Moscow, as well as a media room where public discussions and meetings, film screenings and other events for children and adults take place. In addition, guests can go out onto the roof of the building, which offers wonderful views of the Dream Island amusement park, the Moscow River, and the Nagatinsky Bridge.

    The exhibition area of the Moscow Transport Museum is located on the territory of the Southern River Terminal. Here, key events in the development of the Moscow River starting from the 18th century are presented in chronological order. Visitors can also see archival photographs, video chronicles, a collection of travel tickets and ship models.

    Those who want to learn more detailed information about the Southern River Terminal and its surroundings can listen to an audio tour prepared by the service RosspasIt is recorded in podcast format and is available on any electronic device.

    The Russpass service began operating in 2020. During this time, it has grown into a full-fledged ecosystem. Thanks to the service, it is easy to plan a trip, book tickets and a hotel, and select excursions. The online publication “Russpass-magazine” will help you learn everything about traveling around Russia. Since June 2023, the portal “Russpass. Business” has been operating for representatives of the tourism industry.

    The digital tourist service Russpass was developed on the initiative of the Moscow Government. The project is supervised by the capital Tourism Committee together withDepartment of Information Technology.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153018073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Several streets in the center and west of the capital will be closed in connection with the motorcycle festival

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The traffic pattern on several streets in the center and west of the capital will temporarily change this weekend. This is due to the 12th Moscow Motofestival. It will take place on April 26.

    From 09:00 on April 25 to 07:00 on April 27, traffic will be restricted on the section of University Square from Kosygina Street to Universitetsky Prospekt. From 08:00 to 19:00, traffic will be closed on the section from Michurinsky Prospekt to house 28, building 22 on Kosygina Street (towards Leninsky Prospekt) and on University Square from Universitetsky Prospekt to Kosygina Street.

    At 12:00, the column of motorcyclists will start from Vorobyovy Gory, make a circle around the Garden Ring and return back. Thus, from 11:40 on April 26, it will be impossible to drive along the outer side of the Garden Ring, as well as along Kosygina Street from house 28, building 22 to Vorobyovskoye Highway, along Vorobyovskoye Highway from Kosygina Street to Berezhkovskaya Embankment and along Berezhkovskaya Embankment to Tarasa Shevchenko Embankment. There will also be no traffic on Bolshaya Dorogomilovskaya Street in the area of the Borodinsky Bridge and on the bridge itself, as well as on the section of Smolenskaya Street from the Borodinsky Bridge to the Garden Ring. As the motorcyclist column passes, traffic will resume.

    In addition, on April 26 from 12:30 to 15:00, traffic will be closed on a section of Kosygina Street (towards Vorobyovskoye Highway) from house 28, building 22 to Michurinsky Prospekt.

    From 08:00 to 12:00 it will be impossible to drive in the far right lane of Universitetsky Prospekt in the area of Universitetskaya Square (in the direction of Michurinsky Prospekt).

    This year, the motorcycle festival is dedicated to the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The program for participants and guests will be held at the observation deck of Vorobyovy Gory. Visitors will enjoy performances by artists, motorcycle club competitions, quizzes, prize draws, an exhibition of historical equipment and much more. For the first time in the history of the festival, military motorcycles from the Motors of War Museum will take part in the motorcycle rally.

    From 20:00 on April 23 to 18:00 on April 27, the parking pocket on University Square at the intersection with Kosygina Street will be closed. From 00:01 on April 25 until the end of the event, parking will also be prohibited on Berezhkovskaya Embankment, at the exit from Borodinsky Bridge to Tarasa Shevchenko Embankment, on University Square from University Avenue to Kosygina Street, and on the section of Kosygina Street from Michurinsky Avenue to house 28, building 22 on Kosygina Street.

    Drivers are advised to plan their route in advance and choose detours. Detailed information on road changes is available at official website Traffic Management Center.

    You can read the full list of traffic restrictions atMoscow transport website.

    Quickly find out the main news of the capital in the official telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153026073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI AND BLUMENTHAL SLAM TERMINATION OF CRITICAL CRUISE LINE SANITATION PROGRAM AMID GROWING REPORTS OF ILLNESS OUTBREAKS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to Acting Director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Susan Monarez criticizing the elimination of all full-time staff at the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), a vital program that works to prevent and control public health incidents and disease outbreaks aboard cruise ships. In their letter, Matsui and Blumenthal cite recent reports of illnesses spreading on cruise ships, including norovirus. The decimation of the VSP comes at a time of cuts, freezes, and firings at the CDC from the Trump Administration’s Department of Government Efficiency.

    “Through routine inspections, training of cruise ship personnel, and responses to and documentation of outbreaks aboard cruise ships, the VSP protects and promotes public health for cruisegoers everywhere. This critical information helps the traveling public make informed decisions before they sail,” wrote the lawmakers. “It is therefore confounding that the VSP has been swept up in the indiscriminate cuts that were initiated recently at the CDC.”

    “As we saw with the rampant spread of COVID-19 aboard cruise ships in the early days of the pandemic, these environments provide a prime opportunity for the transmission of disease. That is why it is absolutely critical that the CDC maintains the office and staff responsible for dealing with outbreaks on cruise ships. Severely reducing or eliminating the program that holds CDC’s subject matter expertise on this issue is short-sighted, and will ultimately lead to more illnesses,” continued Matsui and Blumenthal.

    The full text of the letter can be found below.

     Dear Acting Director Monarez,

     We are extremely alarmed by reports that all full-time employees of the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) have been terminated.[1] As news of the worst outbreak aboard a cruise ship this year is making headlines, it is incomprehensible that the officials responsible for protecting the health of the cruise-going public would be abruptly terminated.[2]

     The VSP is a vital program that works to prevent, control, and publicize public health incidents aboard cruise ships.[3] Through routine inspections, training of cruise ship personnel, and responses to and documentation of outbreaks aboard cruise ships, the VSP protects and promotes public health for cruisegoers everywhere.[4] Among its most important functions are VSP’s maintenance of databases of outbreaks in its jurisdiction and inspection scores for cruise ships.[5] This critical information helps the traveling public make informed decisions before they sail. It is therefore confounding that the VSP has been swept up in the indiscriminate cuts that were initiated recently at the CDC. According to reports, the CDC’s Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, which housed the VSP, was decimated by staff losses.[6] 

    Elimination of the VSP is especially concerning now, when just last month a massive norovirus outbreak was reported on a luxury cruise liner travelling from England to the Caribbean.[7] This outbreak aboard the Queen Mary 2 sickened 224 passengers and 17 crew members.[8] And indeed, while this is the most widespread cruise ship outbreak so far this year, it is far from the first. According to the database maintained by the VSP, there have already been thirteen confirmed outbreaks aboard cruise ships in the first three months of 2025, sickening almost 1,400 people this year alone.[9]

     As we saw with the rampant spread of COVID-19 aboard cruise ships in the early days of the pandemic, these environments provide a prime opportunity for the transmission of disease. That is why it is absolutely critical that the CDC maintains the office and staff responsible for dealing with outbreaks on cruise ships. Severely reducing or eliminating the program that holds CDC’s subject matter expertise on this issue is short-sighted, and will ultimately lead to more illnesses. 

    It is therefore critical to understand CDC’s plan to continue its vital cruise ship monitoring efforts, in the absence of the VSP. To that end, we request answers to the following questions by May 6, 2025:

    1. Please describe what plans, if any, the CDC has for eliminating the VSP.
      1. Please describe what metrics, if any, were used when evaluating the potential elimination of the VSP.
    2. Please describe how the CDC intends to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect public health aboard cruise ships in the absence of the VSP.
    3. How many employees working for the VSP have left since January 20, 2025? Please include employees who accepted a deferred resignation offer, had their employment terminated, or were placed on administrative leave.
    4. Will CDC continue to update its inspection scores database so the travelling public can make informed decisions when planning a cruise?
    5. Will CDC continue to update its database of outbreaks to ensure the public has access to critical public health information about illnesses on cruise ships?

     We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your timely response. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets US CNAS NextGen fellows

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-04-18
    President Lai meets US delegation from Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific
    On the afternoon of April 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Senator Pete Ricketts, chairman of the United States Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. In remarks, President Lai said we hope to promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US, to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation. The president said that by deepening cooperation, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. He said a more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome you all to Taiwan. I want to take this opportunity to especially thank Chairman Pete Ricketts and Ranking Member Chris Coons for their high regard and support for Taiwan. Chairman Ricketts has elected to visit Taiwan on his first overseas trip since taking up his new position in January. Ranking Member Coons made a dedicated trip to Taiwan in 2021 to announce a donation of COVID-19 vaccines on behalf of the US government. He also visited last May, soon after my inauguration, continuing to deepen Taiwan-US exchanges. Thanks to support from Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons, the US Congress has continued to introduce many concrete initiatives and resources to assist Taiwan through the National Defense Authorization Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, bringing the Taiwan-US partnership even closer. For this, I want to again express my gratitude. There has long been bipartisan support in the US Congress for maintaining security in the Taiwan Strait. Faced with China’s persistent political and military intimidation, Taiwan will endeavor to reform national defense and enhance whole-of-society defense resilience. We will also make special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP, up from the current 2.5 percent, so as to enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. We look forward to Taiwan and the US continuing to work together to maintain peace and stability in the region. We will also promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US. We hope to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation, jointly promoting prosperity and development. We believe that by deepening cooperation through the Taiwan plus one policy, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. A more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. In closing, I wish Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons a smooth and successful visit. Chairman Ricketts then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his hospitality. He said that he and his delegation have had a wonderful time meeting with government officials, industry representatives, and the team at the American Institute in Taiwan. Highlighting that Taiwan has long been a friend and partner of the US, he said their bipartisan delegation to Taiwan emphasizes long-time bipartisan support in the US Congress for Taiwan, and though administrations change, that bipartisan support remains. Chairman Ricketts stated that the US is committed to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and that they want to see peace across the Taiwan Strait. He also stated that the US opposes any unilateral change in the status of Taiwan and that they expect any differences between Taiwan and China to be resolved peacefully without coercion or the threat of force. To that end, he said, the US will continue to assist Taiwan in its self-defense and will also step up by bolstering its own defense capabilities, noting that there is broad consensus on this in the US Congress. Chairman Ricketts stated that they want to see Taiwan participate in international organizations and memberships where appropriate, and encourage Taiwan to reach out to current and past diplomatic allies to strengthen those bilateral relationships. He pointed out that the long economic relationship between the US and Taiwan is important for our as well as the entire world’s security and prosperity. He also noted that there are many opportunities for us to continue to grow the economic relationship that will help create more prosperity for our respective peoples and ensure that we are more secure in the world. Chairman Ricketts emphasized that they made this trip early on in the new US administration to work with Taiwan to develop three points: security, diplomatic relations, and the economy. He stated that in the face of rising aggression from communist China, the US will provide commensurate help to Taiwan in self-defense and that they will continue to provide the services and tools needed. In closing, Chairman Ricketts once again thanked President Lai for the hospitality and said he looks forward to dialogue on how we can continue these relationships. Ranking Member Coons then delivered remarks. Mentioning that their delegation also visited the Philippines on this trip, he said that there and in Taiwan, they have been focused on peace, stability, and security, and the ways for deepening and strengthening economic and security relations. He noted that 46 years ago, the US Senate passed the Taiwan Relations Act, adding that it was strongly bipartisan when enacted and that support for it is still strongly bipartisan today. Its core commitment, he said, is that the US will be engaged and will be a partner in ensuring that any dispute or challenge across the strait will be resolved peacefully, and that Taiwan will have the resources it needs for its self-defense. Ranking Member Coons said that between people, friendships are deepest and most enduring when they are based not just on interests but on values, and that the same is true between the US and Taiwan. Free press, free enterprise, free societies, democracy – these core shared values, he said, anchor our friendship and partnership, making them deeper. He remarked that they are grateful for the significant investment in the US being made by companies from Taiwan, but what anchors our partnership, in addition to these important investments and investments being made by Taiwan in its own security, are the values that mobilize our free-enterprise spirit and our commitment to free societies. In Europe in recent years, Ranking Member Coons said, an aggressive nation has tried to change boundaries and change history by force. He said that the US and dozens of countries committed to freedom have come to the aid of Ukraine to defend it, help it stabilize, and secure its future. So too in this region of the world, he added, the US and a bipartisan group in the US Senate are committed to stable, secure, peaceful relations and to deterring any unilateral effort to change the status quo by force. In closing, he said he is grateful for a chance to return to Taiwan after the pandemic and that he looks forward to our conversation, our partnership, and the important work we have in front of us. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    Details
    2025-04-17
    President Lai meets New Zealand delegation from All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan  
    On the morning of April 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government of New Zealand for reiterating the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait on multiple occasions since last year. He also stated that this year, the Taiwan-New Zealand economic cooperation agreement (ANZTEC) is being implemented in its complete form. The president expressed hope that deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among our indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a warm welcome to all of our guests. New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan was established in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the deepening of Taiwan-New Zealand relations. I would like to thank Members of Parliament Stuart Smith and Tangi Utikere for leading this delegation, and thank all our guests for demonstrating support for Taiwan through action. We currently face a rapidly changing international landscape. Authoritarian regimes continue to converge and expand. Democracies must actively cooperate and jointly safeguard peace, stability, and the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region. Since last year, the government of New Zealand has on multiple occasions reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for these statements and demonstrations of support. This year, ANZTEC is being implemented in its complete form. We look forward to exploring even more diverse markets with New Zealand. Deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. Taiwan and New Zealand share the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights, and parliamentary diplomacy is a tradition practiced by democracies around the world. Looking ahead, our parliamentary exchanges and mutual visits are bound to become more frequent. This will enable us to explore even more opportunities for cooperation and further deepen and solidify the democratic partnership between Taiwan and New Zealand. Thank you once again for making the long journey to visit us. I wish you a fruitful and successful trip. I also hope that everyone can take time to see more of Taiwan, try our local cuisine, and learn more about our culture. I hope our guests will fall in love with Taiwan. MP Smith then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great pleasure and an honor to be received by President Lai. The MP, noting that President Lai already covered many of the points he planned to make, went on to say that New Zealand and Taiwan share many values. He indicated that both are trading nations that rely on easy access for imports and exports, and that is why freedom of navigation is so important. That is why New Zealand had a naval vessel sail through the Taiwan Strait, he said, to underline the importance of freedom of navigation and our mutual security. MP Smith said that they look forward to building stronger relationships and enhancing the trade between our two nations. He added that New Zealand has much to offer in the field of geothermal energy to assist Taiwan, and mentioned that New Zealand is third largest in terms of the number of rocket launchers for satellites, which could assist Taiwan with communications in the future. New Zealand has other products as well, he said, but looks for assistance from Taiwan’s technology and technological sector. Lastly, MP Smith stated that he looks forward to a long and prosperous relationship between Taiwan and New Zealand. MP Utikere then delivered remarks, indicating that like Taiwan, New Zealand is a nation that is surrounded by ocean, which means that they rely on strong partnerships with communities of interest all around the globe. He said that the all-party parliamentary friendship group that was established and that they are a part of goes a long way in ensuring that a secure relationship between our two parliaments can continue to prosper. The MP also thanked Taiwan’s Representative to New Zealand Joanne Ou (歐江安) and her team for their work, which has ensured the success of the delegation’s visit. He said that the delegation experienced meetings with ministers in Taiwan’s government, members of the legislature, and those from the non-government organization sector as well. He also said that they enjoyed the opportunity to visit Wulai, and that the strength of the connections between the indigenous peoples of Taiwan and the indigenous peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand is something that certainly landed with members of the delegation. MP Utikere noted that he will take up President Lai’s offer on experiencing more of Taiwan, and will spend a few extra days in Tainan, which he understands has a very special place in the president’s heart, adding that he looks forward to his time and experiences there. The MP concluded his remarks by saying that this will be a relationship that continues to go from strength to strength. After their remarks, the New Zealand delegation sang the Māori song “Tutira Mai Nga Iwi” to extend best wishes to Taiwan. Also in attendance at the meeting were New Zealand Members of Parliament Jamie Arbuckle, Greg Fleming, Hamish Campbell, Cameron Luxton, and Helen White.  

    Details
    2025-04-15
    President Lai meets delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister Panapasi Nelesone 
    On the afternoon of April 15, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development Panapasi Nelesone and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Tuvalu for its staunch and long-term backing of Taiwan’s international participation. The president said he looks forward to our nations deepening bilateral ties in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology and working together toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a very warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and Madame Corinna Ituaso Laafai as they lead this delegation to Taiwan. Our distinguished guests are the first delegation from Tuvalu that I have received at the Presidential Office this year. During my visit to Tuvalu last year, I met and exchanged views with Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and the ministers present. I am delighted to meet you again today and thank you once again for the hospitality you accorded my delegation. The culture of Tuvalu and the warmth of its people are not easily forgotten. Tuvalu’s support for Taiwan has also touched us deeply. I want to take this opportunity to thank Tuvalu for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation over the past several decades. Our two countries have supported each other like family and have together made contributions in the international arena. Last Tuesday, I received the credentials of Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae and expressed my hope for Taiwan and Tuvalu continuing to deepen bilateral relations. This visit by Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone is an important step in that regard. Our two countries will be signing a labor cooperation agreement and an agreement concerning the recognition of training and certification of seafarers. This will expand bilateral cooperation at multiple levels and bring our relations even closer. Taiwan and Tuvalu are maritime nations and share the values of democracy and freedom. Our two countries have stood shoulder to shoulder to protect marine resources and address the challenges posed by climate change and authoritarianism, and we aspire to work toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. Our nations have produced fruitful results in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology. I anticipate that, with the support of Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and our distinguished guests, we can continue to employ a more diverse range of strategies to begin a new chapter in our diplomatic partnership. Together, we can make even greater and more concrete contributions to regional development. Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his kind words of welcome and the warm hospitality extended to his delegation. On behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, he conveyed their gratitude to the president and the people of Taiwan for the generous support, as well as for the enduring friendship we share. He said that Taiwan’s steadfast commitment to our bilateral relationship has been instrumental in advancing our shared values of democracy, resilience, and sustainable development. From vital development assistance to cooperation in health, education, and climate change resilience, he added, Taiwan’s contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of the people of Tuvalu.  For Taiwan’s recent generous donation of shoes for Tuvaluan primary school students, Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone expressed thanks to President Lai. He commented that these gifts, which underscore a deep commitment to the welfare of their youth, transcend mere material support; they are symbols of care, friendship, and hope for the future generations. Noting that our bilateral relationship is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for sustainable development in the Pacific, he expressed confidence that this partnership will continue to flourish and will serve as a beacon of cooperation and solidarity within our region.  The delegation also included Tuvalu Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour, and Trade Paulson Panapa; Minister of Public Works, Infrastructure Development and Water Ampelosa Tehulu, and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Tuvalu Ambassador Faavae.

    Details
    2025-04-10
    President Lai pens Bloomberg News article on Taiwan’s response to US reciprocal tariffs
    On April 10, an article penned by President Lai Ching-te entitled “Taiwan Has a Roadmap for Deeper US Trade Ties” was published by Bloomberg News, explaining to a global audience Taiwan’s strategy on trade with the United States, as well as how Taiwan will engage in dialogue with the aim of removing bilateral trade barriers, increasing investment between Taiwan and the US, and reducing tariffs to zero. The following is the full text of President Lai’s article: Last month, the first of Taiwan’s 66 new F-16Vs rolled off the assembly line in Greenville, South Carolina. Signed during President Donald Trump’s first term, the $8 billion deal stands as a testament to American ingenuity and leadership in advanced manufacturing. Beyond its economic impact – creating thousands of well-paying jobs across the US – it strengthens the foundations of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.  This deal is emblematic of the close interests shared between Taiwan and the US. Our bond is forged by an unwavering belief in freedom and liberty. For decades, our two countries have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in deterring communist expansionism. Even as Beijing intensifies its air force and naval exercises in our vicinity, we remain resolute. Taiwan will always be a bastion of democracy and peace in the region. This partnership extends well beyond the security realm. Though home to just 23 million people, Taiwan has in recent years become a significant investor in America. TSMC recently announced it will raise its total investment in the US to $165 billion – an initiative that will create 40,000 construction jobs and tens of thousands more in advanced chip manufacturing and R&D. This investment will bolster the emergence of a new high-tech cluster in Arizona. Taiwan is committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in manufacturing and innovation. As a trade-dependent economy, our long-term success is built on trade relationships that are fair, reciprocal and mutually beneficial. Encouraging Taiwanese businesses to expand their global footprint, particularly in the US, is a vital part of this strategy. Deepening commercial ties between Taiwanese and American firms is another. These core principles will guide our response to President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. First, we will seek to restart trade negotiations with a common objective of reducing all tariffs between Taiwan and the US. While Taiwan already maintains low tariffs, with an average nominal rate of 6%, we are willing to further cut this rate to zero on the basis of reciprocity with the US. By removing the last vestiges to free and fair trade, we seek to encourage greater trade and investment flows between our two countries. Second, Taiwan will rapidly expand procurement of American goods. Over the past five years, rising demand for semiconductors and AI-related components has increased our trade surplus. In response to these market trends, Taiwan will seek to narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy, agriculture and other industrial goods from the US. These efforts will create thousands of new jobs across multiple sectors.  We’ll also pursue additional arms procurements that are vital to our self-defense and contribute to peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait. During President Trump’s first term, we secured $18 billion in arms deals, including advanced fighter jets, tanks and anti-ship missiles. Future purchases, which are not reflected in trade balances, build on our economic and security partnership while being essential to Taiwan’s “Peace Through Strength” approach. Third, new investments will be made across the US. Already, Taiwanese firms support 400,000 jobs throughout all 50 states. Beyond TSMC, we also see emerging opportunities in electronics, ICT, energy and petrochemicals. We will establish a cross-agency “US Investment Team” to support bilateral trade and investment – and we hope that efforts will be reciprocated by the Trump administration. Fourth, we are committed to removing non-tariff trade barriers. Taiwan will take concrete steps to resolve persistent issues that have long impeded trade negotiations. And finally, we will strongly address US concerns over export controls and improper transshipment of low-cost goods through Taiwan. These steps form the basis of a comprehensive roadmap for how Taiwan will navigate the shifting trade landscape, transforming challenges in the Taiwan-US economic relationship into new opportunities for growth, resilience and strategic alignment. At a time of growing global uncertainty, underpinned by growing Chinese assertiveness, closer trade ties are more than sound economics; they are a critical pillar of regional security. Our approach is long-term and principled, grounded in a lasting commitment to our friendship with the US, a firm belief in the benefits of fair and reciprocal trade, and an unwavering dedication to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We are confident that our shared economic and security interests will not only overcome turbulence in the international trade environment – they will define the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    Details
    2025-04-08
    President Lai receives credentials from new Tuvalu Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae  
    On the morning of April 8, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lily Tangisia Faavae. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to her new post and thanked Tuvalu for its long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation. The president also noted that joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. He expressed his hope that we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure today to receive the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu Lily Tangisia Faavae. On behalf of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my warmest welcome to you. Last year, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Tuvalu celebrated 45 years of diplomatic relations. Prime Minister Feleti Teo visited Taiwan in May last year for the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao and again in October for our National Day celebrations. When I visited Tuvalu last December, I was warmly received by the government and people of Tuvalu, and I deeply felt that our two countries were like family. Ambassador Faavae’s posting to Taiwan demonstrates the importance Prime Minister Teo places on our ties. Widely recognized for her exceptional talent, Ambassador Faavae is an outstanding official with extensive experience in public service. Moreover, during her term as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, she voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. I believe that with her assistance, our two nations will further advance cooperation and exchanges. I want to thank the government of Tuvalu for long supporting Taiwan’s international participation. Furthermore, joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. Last year, Prime Minister Teo and I signed a joint communiqué on advancing the comprehensive partnership between Taiwan and Tuvalu. Going forward, we will stand together in tackling the challenges we face, including climate change and expanding authoritarianism. And we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. Once again, I warmly welcome Ambassador Faavae to her new post in Taiwan. Please convey warmest regards from Taiwan to Prime Minister Teo and all of our friends in Tuvalu. I wish you all the best in work and life during your term in Taiwan. Ambassador Faavae then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor and privilege to meet with President Lai today as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to Taiwan, and to present to him her letter of credence. She then extended, on behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, her warmest greetings and deep respect to the president and people of Taiwan. The letter of credence, she noted, signifies the trust and confidence that her government and governor-general have placed in her to represent their nation and to foster and strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our countries. Ambassador Faavae said that our two countries have enjoyed a longstanding relationship of 45 years based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. She added that we have collaborated, and continue to do so, in such fields as education, health, climate change adaptation and sea level rise mitigation, agriculture, clean energy, and internet connectivity.  Ambassador Faavae pointed out that Tuvalu remains committed to deepening ties with Taiwan and that it values people-to-people connections and our shared Austronesian heritage. She noted that the people of Tuvalu, a small developing nation, have greatly benefited from Taiwan’s advanced technical expertise and diverse financial assistance. She said she believes Tuvalu and Taiwan share a common interest and are united in our efforts and commitment to upholding democracy, peace, stability, and prosperity for our people and making the world better and safer.  Ambassador Faavae stated that as ambassador of Tuvalu to Taiwan, she pledges to work diligently and respectfully to enhance our bilateral relations, promote mutual understanding, and facilitate collaboration in areas of shared concern. The ambassador said she looks forward to collaborating closely with the Taiwan government and other stakeholders to achieve our common objectives and to continue building a more prosperous and harmonious future for our nations. In closing, she thanked President Lai for the opportunity to serve and to further the enduring friendship between our two countries.  

    Details
    2025-04-06
    President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
    On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 23 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/G1g7P0HWxeU

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81Ck-rhwxsI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 23 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1g7P0HWxeU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

    Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage from flooding every year.

    Ghana’s president, John Dramani Mahama, has established a task force to find ways of improving flood resilience in the country. This is partly driven by an increase in flooding incidents in cities such as Accra and Kumasi in the last decade.

    We are urban planning and sustainability scholars. In a recent paper we analysed whether flooding in Accra, Ghana’s capital, was caused by climate change or poor land use planning.

    We conclude from our analysis that flooding is caused by poor and uncoordinated land use planning rather than climate change. We recommend that the physical planning department and other regulatory agencies are equipped to ensure the effective enforcement the relevant land use regulations.

    Mixed push factors

    The Accra metropolitan area is one of the 29 administrative units of Ghana’s Greater Accra region. It is the most populous region in Ghana, with over five million residents, according to the 2021 Housing and Population Census.

    We interviewed 100 households living in areas such as Kaneshie, Adabraka and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. These areas experience a high incidence of floods. Representatives of agencies such as the Physical Planning Department of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, the National Disaster Management Organisation and the Environmental Protection Agency were interviewed too, about:

    • the nature and areas most prone to flooding in the study area

    • the frequency of flooding

    • land use planning and regulations and their influence on flooding.

    About 40% of the people we interviewed attributed flooding to both weak enforcement of land use regulation and changes in rainfall patterns. Most of the households (52%) said floods in Accra were the result of weak enforcement of land use regulations, while 8% blamed changes in land use regulations.

    We also analysed recorded data on flood incidence and rainfall. We found no correlation between increased rainfall and flooding. For example in 2017 there was a decrease in rainfall, but an increase in flooding.

    This finding points to the fact that rainfall isn’t the only factor contributing to flooding in the city.

    The agencies and city residents reported that between 2008 and 2018, they could see that more people were encroaching on the city’s wetlands by building homes and commercial infrastructure. This has changed the natural flow of water bodies. The Greater Accra Metropolitan and its environs has major wetlands such as Densu Delta, Sakumo Lagoon and Songor Lagoon.

    Interview respondents noted that the siting of unauthorised buildings and the encroachment on buffer zones of water bodies in the city could have been averted. They blamed political interference in the enforcement of land use regulation. The government makes the situation worse in two ways, they said:

    • planning standards and regulations are neglected in the development process. The processes involved in acquiring development permits are cumbersome and expensive, so people go ahead and develop without permits.

    • regulatory institutions and authorities are ineffective. This is clear from the fact that planning happens chaotically. No attention is given to the ecological infrastructure that’s needed.

    The way forward

    We conclude that land use malpractices remain the dominant causes of flooding in Accra. They include:

    • poor disposal of solid waste, which eventually blocks drains and results in water overflow during heavy rains

    • building on wetlands as a result of non-compliance or non-enforcement of land use regulations.

    There is an urgent need for Ghana’s cities to adopt best practices in waste management. These include recycling of plastic waste and composting for urban agriculture. An environmental excise tax was introduced in 2011 to fund plastic waste recycling and support waste management agencies.

    The increasing encroachment on wetlands should be addressed through the strict enforcement of buffer regulations. Planning authorities and the judiciary can collaborate on this. The city must also encourage green infrastructure, like rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavement, street trees and rain harvesting systems. Research has shown these to be environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approaches to managing storm water.

    Another suggested approach is the introduction of the polluter pays principle in city management. This is a system where city residents who are involved in the pollution of the environment are made to pay for the cost of mitigating the impact. Residents who dispose of waste indiscriminately and encroach on wetlands would be made to pay for the cost of the environmental degradation. Cities such as Barcelona and Helsinki have applied this principle in the management of their industrial discharge and contaminated waste.

    Finally, there should be incentives for city residents to promote environmental sustainability. For example, a deposit refund system has been introduced in several states in the US and Australia. In this system, consumers are made to pay a deposit after purchasing items that can be recycled, such as plastic bottles, and the deposit is reimbursed to the consumer after the return of the empty bottles to a retail store.

    – Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause
    – https://theconversation.com/flooding-incidents-in-ghanas-capital-are-on-the-rise-researchers-chase-the-cause-254000

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First prisoners arrive at new 1,500-place jail

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    First prisoners arrive at new 1,500-place jail

    The first prisoners have been locked up at a new jail that will create nearly 1,500 prison places, helping to cut crime and make streets safer today as part of the Government’s Plan for Change (23 April).

    • New prison built to cut crime and keep dangerous offenders locked up 

    • Part of Government’s Plan for Change to make streets safer 

    • 2,400 prison places already delivered since July

    HMP Millsike in Yorkshire is now operational, making it the first of four new jails to be opened as part of the pledge to create 14,000 extra prison places by 2031, keeping dangerous offenders locked up.  

    This extra capacity will help keep the public safe by making sure the country never runs out of space again.  

    As a Category C “resettlement” prison, HMP Millsike has been designed with a clear aim – cutting crime and reducing reoffending. It includes 24 workshops and training facilities aimed at getting offenders into work on release and away from crime for good, so fewer people become victims in the future.     

    Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, James Timpson, said: 

    HMP Millsike is a vital part of our Plan for Change, building 14,000 new prison places by 2031.  

    This modern prison has been designed to cut crime. This prison will force offenders to turn their backs on crime, delivering safer streets and ensuring there are fewer victims in the future.” 

    The prison is the size of 39 football pitches and comes fitted with security technology to combat the drugs, drones and phones that have plagued prisons in recent years and risked the safety of frontline officers.   

    This includes reinforced barless windows to deter drone activity, hundreds of CCTV cameras, and X-ray body scanners to spot and stop contraband entering the prison.  

    The prison will be operated by Mitie Care and Custody. Education and workplace training provider PeoplePlus will give offenders the tools they need to find work on release and stay on the straight and narrow. 

     Russell Trent, Managing Director, Immigration and Justice, Mitie Care & Custody said:  

    As the first prisoners arrive at HMP Millsike, our focus is on building safer communities by creating an environment that promotes problem solving and self-determination to help the rehabilitation process enabling prisoners to break the cycle of reoffending.  

    As a resettlement prison, every element including the design, facilities and technology is purposfully structured so that prisoners leave HMP Millsike qualified, employable and ready to integrate and contribute to society.” 

    With the country still using many of its Victorian prisons, HMP Millsike has been built to also stand the test of time. Its use of modern materials and fittings will keep running and repairs costs to a minimum for taxpayers.   

    Its opening is a major milestone in the government’s 10-year prison capacity strategy published in December. This plan includes 6,400 places through new houseblocks and 6,500 places via new prisons. One thousand rapid deployment cells will be rolled out across the estate while more than 1,000 existing cells will be refurbished.    

    It follows a £2.3 billion investment to deliver these prison builds, with a further £500 million going towards vital building maintenance across prisons and the probation service by the end of March 2026. The strategy will work alongside the Independent Sentencing Review to ensure the most serious offenders can always be sent to prison to protect the public. 

    Background information 

    • The first prisoners arrived today, and the population will steadily increase each week to ensure a safe and stable ramp-up process. 

    • Ramp up will be strictly monitored and can be adjusted or paused should the safety or stability of the prison require it. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: A “Need for Chaos” Powers Some Americans’ Support for Elon Musk

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    Who are the Americans that want to tear down social institutions?  Answers by Kevin Arceneaux, Director of Sciences Po’s Centre for Political Research (CEVIPOF) and Dannagal G. Young, Professor at the University of Delaware. An article initially published by our partner The Conversation.

    A video of a Las Vegas Tesla dealership that had been set on fire by anti-Elon Musk protesters was posted on March 18, 2025, by an account on X called EndWokeness.

    The next day Musk replied to the post, “Some people just want to watch the world burn,” an iconic line from the 2008 Batman film “The Dark Knight.” Alfred, the Wayne family’s faithful butler, says the line to Bruce Wayne – Batman – to describe the motivations behind the Joker’s chaotic acts of violence.

    Musk – and Alfred – was right. Some people do, in fact, say they think that society should be burned to the ground. It’s part of a psychological measure political psychologists created called “need for chaos.”

    New data from the Center for Political Communication at the University of Delaware suggests that those people – the ones who want society to burn – are the ones with more, not less, trust in Musk. They also report more trust in the Department of Government Efficiency, the government entity Musk advises, which the Trump administration claims it created to cut government waste and fraud.

    Yet, critics point out that Musk and DOGE’s seemingly indiscriminate approach to spending cuts risks damaging the infrastructure necessary for American innovation.

    This desire to watch the world burn doesn’t come out of nowhere.

    Fear of losing status

    Somewhat like the Joker, whose perpetual sense of victimhood – “You wanna know how I got these scars?” – drove his need for chaos and destruction, people can develop a need for chaos in response to a sense that they are losing.

    When political psychologists introduced this concept of “need for chaos” in 2021, they described it not as a psychological trait, but as a character adaptation that occurs when some people experience a cultural and political situation that makes them feel like they are losing status and power. For some people, this feeling triggers a desire to “burn it all down” – “it” being society, institutions, the world – maybe to rebuild it all anew, or maybe just to see it all destroyed.

    Only a small percentage of the U.S. population – less than 15% – tends to score high in need for chaos. But even so, understanding this minority is important to gaining insight into this political moment.

    For example, people who score high in need for chaos exhibit greater support for political violence and a willingness to knowingly share hostile and false information online. And in our data, those higher in need for chaos report holding more trust in Musk, DOGE and Trump than people who score lower in the need for chaos measure.

    Who wants to burn it down

    We are political psychologists who study the link between psychological traits and political beliefs. Last month, the University of Delaware’s Center for Political Communication ran a national survey that we designed to understand where the public stands on various political issues and how those beliefs relate to psychological traits, including need for chaos.

    In our national study of 1,600 Americans conducted between Feb. 27-March 5, 2025, by YouGov, we asked respondents how much they agreed or disagreed with the following statements:

    • “I fantasize about a natural disaster wiping out most of humanity such that a small group of people can start all over”

    • “I think society should be burned to the ground”

    • “We cannot fix the problems in our social institutions; we need to tear them down and start over”

    • “I need chaos around me – it is too boring if nothing is going on”

    Similar to prior work by author Kevin Arceneaux and his colleagues, our data shows that a very small number – fewer than 20% of the sample – agrees strongly or agrees somewhat with each item.

    However, looking at need for chaos among groups of varying ages, education levels and media habits, we find the highest need for chaos scores among people under age 40, those with less education, and those who pay the least attention to politics.

    Musk fans more inclined to ‘tear down’ social institutions

    A nationally representative survey of 1,600 Americans taken between Feb. 27 and March 5, 2025, found that 18.2% of all Americans “strongly agreed” or “somewhat agreed” with the statement: “We cannot fix the problems in our social institutions; we need to tear them down and start over.” People who expressed “a lot” or “a great deal” of trust in presidential adviser and billionaire Elon Musk were more inclined to agree than the average American. People with lower levels of trust in Musk, or none at all, were less likely to agree with the desire to tear things down and start again.

    The results have a margin of error of +/-2.5 percentage points. (credits: Chart: The Conversation, CC-BY-NDSource: University of Delaware Center for Political Communication)

    Burning it down through government policy

    Our new data also shows that while people highest in need for chaos report having more trust in Musk, DOGE, and President Trump, these chaos-seeking folks report having less trust in “people in general,” journalists or the federal government. These findings hold even when statistically accounting for other factors, among them party, race, gender, education and ideology.

    Musk’s penchant for wielding chainsaws as a symbol of DOGE’s work provides some insight into why chaos seekers may like what they see in Musk.

    It’s not clear exactly what Musk’s aim is with his work at DOGE, as he eliminates the jobs of hundreds of thousands of government workers.

    What is clear, however, is that by many accounts, the mass firings and the gutting of agencies, like the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Institute for Peace, are sowing chaos. And a significant portion of Americans want just that.

    Cover image caption: There’s a sizable group of Americans who agree with the phrase “I think society should be burned to the ground.” (credits: Anton Petrus-Moment/Getty Images)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sheffield payroll director banned after company went into liquidation with £2.5 million VAT bill

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Sheffield payroll director banned after company went into liquidation with £2.5 million VAT bill

    The company substantially under-declared the amount of tax it had to pay in 2020 and 2021

    • Hubert Omukhulu failed to declare the correct amount of VAT his Remedy Payroll Solutions Ltd company was required to pay  

    • VAT returns submitted by the company in a 15-month period between June 2020 and September 2021 suggested it had little more than £250,000 to pay 

    • In reality, the company owed more than £2.5 million in tax

    The boss of an umbrella company which failed to pay more than £2.5 million in VAT has been banned as a director. 

    Hubert Omukhulu, 36, failed to accurately declare the amount of VAT Remedy Payroll Solutions Ltd had to pay in 2020 and 2021. 

    The inaccurate returns Remedy Payroll Solutions submitted suggested the company had no VAT to pay in 2020 and just over a quarter of a million pounds in 2021. 

    However, this was an under-declaration of more than £2 million according to calculations from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

    Omukhulu, of Nethershire Lane, Sheffield, has now been disqualified as a company director for eight years.

    Kevin Read, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    Hubert Omukhulu allowed his payroll supply company to substantially under-declare the amount of VAT it owed in 2020 and 2021. 

    More than £2 million in VAT was not paid by the company. This money should have gone towards funding vital public services such as the NHS, schools and our nation’s defence. 

    Omukhulu’s conduct falls well below the standards the Insolvency Service expects which is why he has been banned as a company director until 2033.

    Debbie Porter, Assistant Director of Fraud Investigation Service at HMRC, said:

    We are determined to create a level playing field that allows honest businesses to thrive which is why it’s crucial we work closely with the Insolvency Service and other partners to act against rogue directors.  

    The majority pay the tax that is due, but we will pursue those who refuse to play by the rules.

    Remedy Payroll Solutions was established in May 2020 with Omukhulu as its sole director.  

    The company initially had its registered office as Omukhulu’s home address in Sheffield before switching it on several occasions between addresses in Romford and Hainault. 

    Remedy Payroll Solutions submitted three VAT returns in 2020 claiming it had no tax to pay in that year. 

    The company submitted another three returns in 2021, claiming it had a combined £264,276 to pay in VAT. 

    HMRC investigated Remedy Payroll Solutions’ bank accounts and contacted its customers. Through their investigations, they calculated that £2,584,044 was owed by the company in VAT. 

    Remedy Payroll Solutions went into liquidation in July 2022. 

    Omukhulu claimed there was third-party involvement in the running of Remedy Payroll Solutions but failed to provide any evidence of this when asked by the Insolvency Service. 

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted a disqualification undertaking from Omukhulu and his ban started on Thursday 17 April.  

    The undertaking prevents him from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New survey shows the extent of class privilege in UK journalism

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Imke Henkel, Lecturer in Journalism and Media, University of Leeds

    UK journalism has a class problem. This statement will not surprise most people familiar with UK newsrooms. What is astonishing, though, is the scarcity of empirical data that could help us better understand the extent to which class inequality affects journalists and their work.

    For the first time, research by my colleagues and me an for the report UK Journalists in the 2020s uses a representative sample of UK journalists to measure their socioeconomic background. The vast majority of our respondents came from a privileged background, measured by their schooling and by the job held by their main household earner when they were a child.

    Previous research on this issue was based on considerably more limited data. In July 2009, a report commissioned by the then Labour government found that journalism was one of two professions that had experienced the biggest decline in social mobility (the other being accountancy).

    Research by the Sutton Trust established repeatedly (most recently in 2019), that leading news editors, broadcasters and newspaper columnists are about six to seven times more likely to be privately educated than the general population, a typical marker for privilege in Britain.

    Some of the best data we have regarding UK journalists’ social class was collected by the National Council for the Training of Journalists, who since 2017 has regularly published reports on the diversity among UK journalists.

    However, as the report’s author Mark Spilsbury concedes, the findings have a considerable margin of error. The report uses data from the UK Government Labour Force Survey, and only extrapolates its figures for the small fraction of journalists within that workforce.

    Our report, for the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford, draws on a survey that media researchers Neil Thurman, Sina Thäsler-Kordonouri and I conducted between September 27 and November 30 2023.

    We used data from the 2021 Census for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland and from the Roxhill Media database to estimate the total number of UK journalists to be 68,279. Given how notoriously reluctant journalists are to respond to surveys, already swamped as they are with similar requests, we sent our questionnaire to 16,497 randomly selected participants.

    We considered journalists to be those who worked for a media outlet with an identifiable focus on news, and who earned at least 50% of their income from journalism or worked at least 50% of their working week as a journalist. To be included in our survey, respondents also needed to work for a news outlet with a UK base and that was aimed, at least in part, at a UK audience.

    After data cleaning, we retained a final sample of 1,130 respondents, a sufficient size to achieve a confidence level of at least 95% and a maximum error margin of 3%.

    Our survey is part of the international Worlds of Journalism Study, which uses the same core questionnaire across 75 countries. The survey covers a wide range of topics, including journalists’ demographics, working conditions and their experience of safety and wellbeing.

    For the UK study, we added two questions regarding journalists’ socioeconomic background. First, we asked what job the main earner in their households held when the respondents were 14 years old. Second, we asked about the school journalists attended: fee-paying private or state primary and secondary school, non-fee-paying selective secondary school (such as grammar school) or a school not in the UK.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    The question on parents’ occupation allowed respondents to write in the title of the relevant job. We coded the replies manually using the nine categories of the Office for National Statistics’ 2020 Standard Occupational Classification.

    Seventy-one percent of journalists in our sample came from a privileged background, with the main earner in their childhood household holding a job within the three top categories of the classification. Only 12% of our respondents came from a working-class background (sales and customer service occupations; process, plant and machine operatives and elementary occupations).



    Read more:
    Know your place: what happened to class in British politics – a podcast series from The Conversation Documentaries

    We lack the data for an outright comparison with the general population. But the 2021 census gives an indication. It shows that 23.3% of the main earner in all households in England and Wales held a job in the highest AB social grade, about equivalent to the top three categories in our classification. Nearly double (43.9%) fell into the social grade C2 and DE, roughly equivalent with our bottom three categories.

    Journalists’ privilege also shows in their schooling. Twenty-two percent of journalists in our sample attended a fee-paying secondary, and 13% attended a fee-paying primary school. Around 6% of the general pupil population in England attends private schools, and fewer in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

    Does privilege matter?

    Our data does not suggest that a privileged upbringing makes it more likely for journalists to hold a top management position. Where it does make a difference, though, is whether they work for national media or outlets with international presence (like the Guardian or the Financial Times). Of those who do only 9% come from a working-class background, while 72% come from a privileged one (the rest come from the middle groups in our classification).

    In contrast, 20% of journalists working for local and regional outlets (including regional arms of national outlets, such as BBC Wales) have a working-class background, and 57% grew up in a more privileged household.

    Our survey also shows other areas of inequality. An interesting one is age. Both women and journalists from an ethnic minority background seem to drop out of the profession after the age of 50. Journalists with an Asian or Black background in particular remain underrepresented compared to the overall population, as they were in 2015.

    Female journalists are also still less well paid, less likely to have a permanent contract or to hold a top management role than their male colleagues. They also more often report feeling stressed out. Their disadvantage against their male colleagues may well be a reason.

    New survey data shows that of those who work for national media, 72% are from a privileged background.
    Zeynep Demir Aslim/Shutterstock

    One reason for the privileged background of so many journalists will be that journalism has become a thoroughly academic profession. Nine out of ten journalists in our sample were university educated.

    In an increasingly complex world, there may be good reasons for those who report on it to undergo an academic training. However, as some scholars have argued, trust in journalism not only depends on accurate and reliable reporting, but also on emotional and social factors that are essential for the relationship between journalists and audiences.

    Given the lack of trust in news and rising news avoidance among UK audiences, the inequalities our report found should be of concern. If journalists are found to belong to a privileged elite they are less likely to be trusted by the general public. Reliable data on the inequalities that shape the journalism profession is a necessary start to tackle this problem.

    Imke Henkel 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. New survey shows the extent of class privilege in UK journalism – https://theconversation.com/new-survey-shows-the-extent-of-class-privilege-in-uk-journalism-254838

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens lodge plans to tackle holiday home growth where housing costs are highest

    Source: Scottish Greens

    23 Apr 2025 Finance

    Homes are for living in and not for profiteering.

    More in Finance

    The Scottish Greens are lodging plans to tackle the housing crisis in the areas where it is worst by cracking down on the spread of holiday homes.

    At present, someone buying a second or holiday home anywhere in Scotland must pay a tax known as the Additional Dwelling Supplement. 

    New proposals, lodged by Ross Greer MSP as an amendment to the upcoming Housing Bill, would create a further charge on top of this in areas where rent control measures are introduced.

    In some communities such as Lochranza on the Isles of Arran over a third of houses are holiday homes. This trend pushes up housing costs and often forces young people to move out of their own communities in search of an affordable place to live.

    Since the last election the Scottish Greens have doubled the Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS) from 4% to 8% and given councils the power to double Council Tax on holiday homes. 

    The reforms have had the desired effect on house purchases, with 2455 fewer second homes bought last year than in 2023, the largest decrease in a decade. ADS will also raise more than a quarter of a billion pounds for public services in the current financial year. 

    Greer’s amendments would allow for further targeted efforts to reduce holiday home ownership in areas where the housing crisis is particularly acute by increasing the Additional Dwelling Supplement in rent control zones. At present, this tax can only be increased or decreased nationwide, with targeted changes not possible.

    Ross Greer said:

    “Many of the areas where rent is highest are the same ones being filled up with far too many holiday homes. This reduces the number of houses available for people to actually live in and pushes up prices for both renters and first-time buyers.

    “Everyone should be able to access a good quality, affordable home. Yet, all across Scotland people are being priced out of the communities they grew up in by holiday homes and buy-to-let landlords.

    “This simple proposal will help people trying to find a home in areas where the housing crisis is at its worst. The money raised will come from those who are already wealthy enough to buy extra properties, something totally outwith the reach of most people.

    “The housing market is broken. Far too many properties are being used as cash cows for short-term lets and holiday homes, and it is renters who are paying the price. We badly need to shift the balance and free up more homes for those who really need them.”

    Mr Greer added:

    “The changes already delivered by Green MSPs have reduced the number of second and holiday homes bought each year, freeing up more properties for people who need a home to live in and raising millions of pounds for vital services like schools and hospitals.

    “We need to build on this success and ensure that the communities where rent is highest are the ones where people are supported the most.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reeves: I will always act to defend British interests

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Reeves: I will always act to defend British interests

    Chancellor Rachel Reeves travels to Washington DC for her first spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    The Chancellor has pledged to “stand up for Britain’s national interest”, as she heads to Washington DC for her first spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    During a three-day visit to the United States, Rachel Reeves is set to hold meetings with G7, G20 and IMF counterparts about the changing global economy. She will make the case for open trade that provides stability for businesses and security for working people. The Chancellor will underline the importance of tackling barriers to trade to kickstart economic growth, supporting businesses and putting more money in working people’s pockets.

    Earlier this month the Chancellor announced over £400 million of trade and investment deals with the Indian Government across a range of business sectors, including defence, financial services, education, and development. In recent weeks the government has acted to save British Steel, safeguarding the future of steelmaking in the UK and protecting 2,700 jobs in Scunthorpe and up to 37,000 jobs in the wider supply chain, announced a £20 billion boost to UK Export Finance which will give thousands of British access to government-backed financing and announced new measures to give British car makers certainty and stability, and to support them on the transition to electric vehicles. Earlier this month over 3 million workers in shops, restaurants and workplaces across the UK received a pay boost worth £1,400 a year for an eligible full-time worker, while also rolling out free breakfast clubs in primary schools putting £450 a year in the pockets of working parents and protecting the payslips of working people from higher taxes.

    She will hold discussions with finance ministers about the opportunities to strengthen economic ties with Britain, including members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Talks with European finance ministers will also focus on going further and faster to increase defence spending and improve cooperation in response to continued Russian aggression and the invasion of Ukraine.

    Reeves will hold her first in person meeting with her US counterpart Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about working together to deepen the UK-US economic partnership through a new trade agreement.

    In Washington, the Chancellor will also meet with business leaders to talk about the government’s Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth. She will champion Britain as the best place to live, work and grow a business, highlighting the government’s ambition to go further and faster to tackle the barriers to investment. By backing the builders not the blockers, through reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework – which alone is expected to deliver an extra 170,000 homes by 2029/30, as well upcoming the Planning and Infrastructure Bill and a government pledge to cut the administrative cost of regulation on business by a quarter, making Britain the best place to do business and drive economic growth.

    Speaking ahead of her visit, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    The world has changed, and we are in a new era of global trade. I am in no doubt that the imposition of tariffs will have a profound impact on the global economy and the economy at home.

    This changing world is unsettling for families who are worried about the cost of living and businesses concerned about what tariffs will means for them. But our task as a government is not to be knocked off course or to take rash action which risks undermining people’s security.

    Instead, we must rise to meet the moment and I will always act to defend British interests as part of our Plan for Change. We need a world economy that provides stability and fairness for businesses wanting to invest and trade, more trade and global partnerships between nations with shared interests, and security for working people who want to get on with their lives.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Founder of UK Mortgage Centre shares five biggest mistakes people make when buying a house

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WARRINGTON, United Kingdom, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A property and mortgage expert has shared the five most common mistakes people make when purchasing a home.

    Sam Fox, the founder of UK Mortgage Centre, issued his advice as the market gets set to enter its most frenetic period of 2025.

    Spring is always one of the most popular periods of the year to buy a house, with May 31, 2024, being the busiest day of the year to move home last year.

    And latest data indicates 2025 is going to be equally as busy.

    According to Zoopla, the property market is being swamped with listings, and there are 11 per cent more homes for sale now compared to this time last year.

    Zoopla estimates the average estate agent now has 33 homes for sale compared to 29 last year.

    Making the right decisions at the right moment will therefore be key for anyone looking to buy a property.

    Property expert Sam, who has helped support thousands of people to move home, said: “The market is very competitive, but as always, there are good deals out there to capitalise upon if you take the right steps.”

    “In my experience, the buyers who do best are the ones who prepare in advance and have a clear plan. You can’t neglect the groundwork. Preparation is everything; understand your budget, your options, and the bigger picture before you commit to anything.”

    Sam breaks down five of the most common mistakes buyers make, along with his advice on how to stay a step ahead:

    1. Viewing homes without knowing your budget
    “This still happens more often than you’d think. People fall for a home emotionally, only to discover they’re chasing something out of reach. Before falling in love with a home, it’s so important to know exactly what you can afford. An agreement in principle tells you exactly what you can afford, saving time and setting expectations. Without it, buyers risk disappointment and delays. In markets like Swindon, where house prices have reached up to seven times the average salary, being financially clear-headed isn’t optional, it’s essential.”

    2. Believing all mortgage brokers are the same
    “Many buyers assume that every broker offers access to the same deals. This isn’t the case, Some brokers are tied to just a few lenders. That means you might miss out on a better deal elsewhere. A whole-of-market broker searches exactly that, the whole-of-market – searching up to thousands of products.

    “Some lenders are restricted to specific lender panels or driven by commission incentives, which can influence the advice they give. In today’s shifting mortgage market the right adviser doesn’t just find you a product, they help you make a better long-term decision.”

    3. Overlooking the real cost of homeownership
    “A mortgage might be your biggest bill, but it is far from the only one. There’s council tax, insurance, gas and electric, and saving for any unexpected repairs. People budget for their monthly repayments but forget to factor in what I call ‘life costs’. The things that always pop up. These hidden costs can stretch your budget thin if you’re not prepared. From energy bills to boiler repairs, make sure you have accounted for the full picture, not just the mortgage.”

    4. Making an offer without doing your homework
    “Getting caught up in the excitement of a property is natural. However, rushing into an offer without understanding the market can be a misstep. Check what similar homes have sold for in the area you’re looking to buy. Talk to estate agents and ask questions. Zoopla data shows that two-fifths of sellers accepted offers at least 5% below the asking price in early 2024, meaning there’s usually room to negotiate.

    5. Damaging your credit mid-application
    “This one is all about timing. Once your mortgage application is in progress, don’t take out any more credit like purchasing a new car on finance. Once you’re in the final stages of a mortgage application, it’s not the time to make big financial moves.

    “Lenders often do final checks just before completion. A sudden dip in your credit score or an increase in debt can lead to your mortgage offer being pulled, even at the last minute. The advice here is simple: don’t touch your credit until you’ve got the keys.”

    Sam concluded: “Buyers should treat the process with excitement but go slow and steady. This is one of the biggest purchases you will ever make. With the average mortgage term stretching 35 years and household budgets under pressure, careful planning is more than just sensible; it is essential.”

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f50b0ee5-f30b-4b25-a78f-46de1c482e6a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Traffic will be restricted in central Moscow on April 23

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Traffic will be restricted on several streets in central Moscow on April 23. This is necessary to prepare for the Victory Parade.

    The traffic will be closed from 21:00 until the end of the event. It will be impossible to drive along the following sections of Tverskaya Street: from Mokhovaya Street to Tverskoy Boulevard and from Bolshaya Bronnaya to Bolshaya Sadovaya Street. The restrictions will also affect 1-ya Tverskaya-Yamskaya, Mokhovaya, Okhotny Ryad, Bolshaya Nikitskaya Streets and the exit onto Tverskaya Street from the Mayakovskaya metro station (from house 2, building 2 to house 2, building 1 on 1-ya Tverskaya-Yamskaya Street). On Tverskoy and Strastnoy Boulevards, in Bolshoi Putinkovsky Lane, traffic may be slightly delayed.

    In addition, on April 23, it will be impossible to use some of the underground pedestrian crossings across Tverskaya Street — they will also be closed. From 21:00 until the end of the event, crossings across Tverskaya Street near the Tverskaya and Pushkinskaya metro stations and the Central Telegraph building will be restricted. At the same time, pedestrian crossings near the Okhotny Ryad and Mayakovskaya metro stations will be open. Changes are possible.

    According to the Traffic Management Center, a number of streets and embankments in the city will be closed to traffic on April 23 and 29, as well as May 3, 7 and 9.

    Thus, restrictions will be introduced on April 23 on Tverskaya, Okhotny Ryad, Mokhovaya and Bolshaya Nikitskaya streets. On April 29 and May 3 – on Bolshaya Sadovaya, Novy Arbat streets, as well as on the Bolshoy Kamenny Bridge.

    On April 29, May 3, 7 and 9, traffic will be closed on Volgogradsky Prospekt, Garden Ring, Novy Arbat, Bolshaya Polyanka, Tverskaya, Solyanka, Petrovka streets and the central embankments.

    Also, in the area of Taganskaya Square, two-way traffic will be organized from 16:30 on April 29 to 03:00 on April 30, from 16:30 on May 3 to 03:00 on May 4, and from 05:00 to 13:00 on May 7 and 9.

    Underground pedestrian crossings will be closed on April 29, May 3, 7 and 9 on sections of Volgogradsky Prospekt, Garden Ring, Tverskaya and Novy Arbat streets. The underground pedestrian crossing near the Mayakovskaya metro station will be open.

    In addition, parking will be prohibited in areas with temporary restrictions.

    Pedestrians and drivers should be careful and choose alternative routes in advance. You can read more about traffic restrictions on pre-holiday and holiday days here on the website mos.ru, unified transport portal AndMoscow transport website.

    Quickly find out the main news of the capital in the official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153036073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Investors received 53 plots from the city at a preferential rate of one ruble per year

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since March 2022, investors can rent land in the capital for one ruble per year to expand existing and create new production facilities. During this period, the city has transferred 53 land plots as part of the implementation of large-scale investment projects (MaIP), said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Providing land for the construction of production facilities at a preferential rate of one ruble per year allows businesses to reduce their costs of creating jobs and to quickly establish production of products necessary for the life and development of the city. Over three years, investors have already leased more than 270 hectares of land. They will house enterprises in the field of electronics, food industry, construction materials production, furniture, as well as other facilities with a total area of about 2.3 million square meters. After the implementation of the projects, over 23 thousand new jobs will be created. Thanks to the support measure, entrepreneurs will save about 1.9 billion rubles during this time,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The city views the funds lost from rent as investments in the capital’s economy, which will have a multiplier effect. This is expressed in increased budget revenues, as well as in industrial growth.

    “By 2030, in accordance with the industrial development strategy, at least 13 industry clusters will appear in the capital. By order of Sergei Sobyanin, the city transferred some of the land plots for the creation of new production facilities to investors at a preferential rate of one ruble per year as part of large-scale investment projects. Modern environmentally friendly enterprises for the production of food and innovative construction products will be built on them,” said the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

    Maxim Liksutov.

    Plots at a preferential rate are provided to investors in all administrative districts of the capital, with the exception of the Central District. Most of them – 13 with a total area of over 167 hectares – are located in the territory of TiNAO.

    As noted by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman, a large industrial cluster focused on the production of food products is being formed in the Krasnopakhorsky District. For the construction of production facilities with a total area of almost 580 thousand square meters, the city has allocated five sites – this is over 96 hectares of land, on which a distribution center for a meat processing plant, enterprises for the production of dairy, bakery, confectionery products, and ready-made meals will be built. Thanks to the city’s support, investors will be able to save about 800 million rubles over five years.

    The plots are provided to investors as part of the implementation of large-scale investment projects – this is a special status that can be received, for example, by production complexes, innovation centers, social institutions, transport, sports, business and other facilities. For their construction, the city provides land for rent. Such support contributes to the creation of new jobs and the development of the capital’s infrastructure.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152993073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

    Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage from flooding every year.

    Ghana’s president, John Dramani Mahama, has established a task force to find ways of improving flood resilience in the country. This is partly driven by an increase in flooding incidents in cities such as Accra and Kumasi in the last decade.

    We are urban planning and sustainability scholars. In a recent paper we analysed whether flooding in Accra, Ghana’s capital, was caused by climate change or poor land use planning.

    We conclude from our analysis that flooding is caused by poor and uncoordinated land use planning rather than climate change. We recommend that the physical planning department and other regulatory agencies are equipped to ensure the effective enforcement the relevant land use regulations.

    Mixed push factors

    The Accra metropolitan area is one of the 29 administrative units of Ghana’s Greater Accra region. It is the most populous region in Ghana, with over five million residents, according to the 2021 Housing and Population Census.

    We interviewed 100 households living in areas such as Kaneshie, Adabraka and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. These areas experience a high incidence of floods. Representatives of agencies such as the Physical Planning Department of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, the National Disaster Management Organisation and the Environmental Protection Agency were interviewed too, about:

    • the nature and areas most prone to flooding in the study area

    • the frequency of flooding

    • land use planning and regulations and their influence on flooding.

    About 40% of the people we interviewed attributed flooding to both weak enforcement of land use regulation and changes in rainfall patterns. Most of the households (52%) said floods in Accra were the result of weak enforcement of land use regulations, while 8% blamed changes in land use regulations.

    We also analysed recorded data on flood incidence and rainfall. We found no correlation between increased rainfall and flooding. For example in 2017 there was a decrease in rainfall, but an increase in flooding.

    This finding points to the fact that rainfall isn’t the only factor contributing to flooding in the city.

    The agencies and city residents reported that between 2008 and 2018, they could see that more people were encroaching on the city’s wetlands by building homes and commercial infrastructure. This has changed the natural flow of water bodies. The Greater Accra Metropolitan and its environs has major wetlands such as Densu Delta, Sakumo Lagoon and Songor Lagoon.

    Interview respondents noted that the siting of unauthorised buildings and the encroachment on buffer zones of water bodies in the city could have been averted. They blamed political interference in the enforcement of land use regulation. The government makes the situation worse in two ways, they said:

    • planning standards and regulations are neglected in the development process. The processes involved in acquiring development permits are cumbersome and expensive, so people go ahead and develop without permits.

    • regulatory institutions and authorities are ineffective. This is clear from the fact that planning happens chaotically. No attention is given to the ecological infrastructure that’s needed.

    The way forward

    We conclude that land use malpractices remain the dominant causes of flooding in Accra. They include:

    • poor disposal of solid waste, which eventually blocks drains and results in water overflow during heavy rains

    • building on wetlands as a result of non-compliance or non-enforcement of land use regulations.

    There is an urgent need for Ghana’s cities to adopt best practices in waste management. These include recycling of plastic waste and composting for urban agriculture. An environmental excise tax was introduced in 2011 to fund plastic waste recycling and support waste management agencies.

    The increasing encroachment on wetlands should be addressed through the strict enforcement of buffer regulations. Planning authorities and the judiciary can collaborate on this. The city must also encourage green infrastructure, like rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavement, street trees and rain harvesting systems.
    Research has shown these to be environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approaches to managing storm water.

    Another suggested approach is the introduction of the polluter pays principle in city management. This is a system where city residents who are involved in the pollution of the environment are made to pay for the cost of mitigating the impact. Residents who dispose of waste indiscriminately and encroach on wetlands would be made to pay for the cost of the environmental degradation. Cities such as Barcelona and Helsinki have applied this principle in the management of their industrial discharge and contaminated waste.

    Finally, there should be incentives for city residents to promote environmental sustainability. For example, a deposit refund system has been introduced in several states in the US and Australia. In this system, consumers are made to pay a deposit after purchasing items that can be recycled, such as plastic bottles, and the deposit is reimbursed to the consumer after the return of the empty bottles to a retail store.

    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. Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause – https://theconversation.com/flooding-incidents-in-ghanas-capital-are-on-the-rise-researchers-chase-the-cause-254000

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at St George’s Day reception: 22 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    PM remarks at St George’s Day reception: 22 April 2025

    Prime Minister’s remarks from the St. George’s Day reception in Downing Street.

    Maro, it’s fantastic to see you up here and to hear you talk about the pride of pulling on an England jersey.

    I think it’s something we’ve dreamt of doing all our lives, though I only got to pulling on a replica.

    But it’s really important, that sense of pride that you described by the simple act of putting on a shirt, a sports shirt, and I think that pride and joy is hugely important.

    And as for your reminder of St George I’ve got a few ideas about what we could feed the dragon.

    But look it’s amazing just to look out and see so many people here, Tony Adams here in his red suit.

    He won’t remember this, but Vic and I drove along the Cotswolds years ago and he was out for a walk and I screeched to halt and insisted on shaking his hand, so it’s great to see you again.

    But it’s a really fantastic group of people and thank you so much for coming here to be in Downing Street with us.

    This is where I work and live just upstairs but it’s also your building and I’m really keen to get across this sense that this isn’t just a remote place where the government is, but that we are here to serve our communities and serve our country.

    So this is your place just as much as it is mine, it’s your right to be here and my privilege to invite you here as guests, so you are very welcome, to test and push us and to tell us what your ideas are and have the opportunity to put your fingerprints on everything we’re doing as a government.

    And of course – as a proud Englishman, this is a particularly special occasion: St. George’s Day. And it’s the eve of the day to revel in all the wonder and joy of our country.

    You see that reflected in this reception and I think it’s one of the biggest we’ve had here in Downing Street running all the way through to the rooms at the back with some fantastic people.

    We’ve got Pimms, we’ve got English sparkling wine and we’ve got our brilliant showcases with Melton Mowbray pork pies, Lancashire Eccles cakes, Bakewell tarts and gin from Exmoor distillery. We were going to have Morris Dancers too at one point, but we’re saving them for the next Cabinet away day instead.

    Because one of the great things about this country is we have so many wonderful traditions and so many individual, personal reasons that make us proud to be English.

    For me – it always starts with football of course. I was there at Wembley in Euro 1996. I was there at Wembley in 2021 and I was there also last year when we went to Germany, where we came so close again.

    But that still makes the nation proud. Though whatever it is, whether it’s football, festivals, cricket, Shakespeare – his birthday tomorrow of course, or our music – from Elgar to the Rolling Stones, our art – from Tracy Emin to Turner or our universities, inventions and innovations – the world’s first vaccine was an incredible moment, the world wide web, the computer and of course our landscape.

    Everyone in this room will have their favourite spots. Whether it’s rocky coves and beaches in Cornwall or the incomparable beauty of the Lake District.

    My late mum struggled to walk, so she decided to have all her holidays in the Lake District where the only thing you can do is walk, but that summed her up.

    And we still go there with our children now. But you also have the Chalk Hills of the North Downs where I grew up: this is a beautiful country, rich with pride, potential and creativity. 

    It’s also a country where a person like me who grew up working class and a person like the previous occupant, Rishi Sunak, an English Hindu, can both become Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. That for me is something I think we should always be proud of and never take for granted. 

    Because, while this is a day for celebration, we cannot be under any illusions that there is a never-ending fight for our flag and what it represents. I’ll put it this way, when I was standing in the old Wembley in 1996 – not many people sat down that day, it felt like that whole tournament embodied the best of our country.

    Yet now – there are people trying to sow division in our communities, people taking the red and white of our flag, like the bunting downstairs, with them, as they throw bricks at businesses… 

    The day after the terrible Southport incident last year, I went up to take the opportunity to shake the hands of the first respondents of police and ambulance workers, you’ll now have seen what they all faced.

    As I simply said thank you, almost all said to me they were just doing their job, but of course they weren’t, and it’s just incredible to think about what they were doing, and they were all back in work the next day to help clear up.

    By the time I got back to London that very day, we had people throwing bricks at the very same police officers I was shaking hands with.

    And that’s why the battle for our flag is really important because that is what happened and that was only last year. So, we have to fight for our flag and for our values.

    Because it was the aftermath of the riots that showed what it means to be English. It marked the coming together of a country.

    People who got together the morning after, all across Britain with shovels, brooms, and brushes, to clean up their communities. Rebuilding walls, repairing damage and it’s in that spirit that we reclaim our flag and that was incredibly uplifting to go from rioting to people coming out to do what they could for our country.

    So that’s what we must do for our country, for English decency, honour and fairness. Wrench it out of the hands of those who want to divide this nation and reclaim it for good.  

    Because that flag doesn’t belong to me as Prime Minister or any group or political party and that is the point.

    It belongs to all of us to England, in all its wonder and diversity. And we should be proud of that flag, we must never concede it, because it is an expression of our values and our patriotism.

    And patriotism – for me is about serving the country we love. That’s what drove me when I was Chief Prosecutor, serving people who’d faced appalling crimes and injustice. People like John and Penny Clough who are with us today – they lost their daughter in an appalling crime and came to see me many years ago in their journey for justice and have become friends of mine.

    And it’s what drives me today – when I say I want to make working people’s lives better.

    It’s at the heart of this Government, what’s written through our Plan for Change: putting money in people’s pockets; getting public services back on their feet so they serve the public in the way that people deserve; making our streets safer so we can all enjoy our communities; building the homes working people need, which are an aspiration and opportunity for so many; breaking down barriers to opportunity and honouring Britain’s veterans – by making sure there are “homes for heroes”.

    As we also protect our national security with the biggest defence investment since the end of the Cold War. 

    We know this won’t be easy and we’re living through a time of uncertainty which I’m sure everyone in this room can feel that over the past six months. Whether that’s through defence, national security or the global economy.

    But moments like this, as we come together to celebrate St. George’s Day are a reminder of all our nation has been through over generations and the values that have endured.

    The creativity, resilience and good will and humour that have remained a constant through the ages and will endure for generations to come.

    So, let’s be proud of our national identity, let’s pay tribute to all those who keep our country going from the generations who laid down their lives to keep us free, to those serving our country today. Our armed forces, our NHS staff, our teachers and the small businesses who serve their community. 

    Let’s remember our shared history, our shared inheritance and the values that have endured. And most of all, let’s hear it for England and for St. George! Thank you very much.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia needs bold ideas on defence. The Coalition’s increased spending plan falls disappointingly short

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Layton, Visiting Fellow, Strategic Studies, Griffith University

    Just as voting has begun in this year’s federal election, the Coalition has released its long-awaited defence policy platform. The main focus, as expected, is a boost in defence spending to 3% of Australia’s GDP within the next decade.

    If elected, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton says a Coalition government will spend A$21 billion over the next five years to bring defence spending to 2.5% of GDP. It would aim to reach 3% five years after that.

    This sounds impressive, but as shadow Defence Minister Andrew Hastie notes, this isn’t a huge increase, given it’s over many years.

    In dry fiscal planning terms, Labor’s defence spending plan would amount to 2.23% of GDP in budget year 2028–29, while the Coalition’s plan would be expected to reach around 2.4% by that time.

    While the Coalition’s costings are yet to come, its plan is arguably affordable – if need be through deficit financing.

    What’s in the Coalition plan?

    The Coalition’s extra money would go to numerous capabilities:

    • purchasing 28 extra F-35 joint strike fighter jets from the United States

    • accelerating the infrastructure and shipyard building capacity in Western Australia (some in Hastie’s electorate) to support the AUKUS submarine plan

    • improving Australian Defence Force (ADF) recruitment and retention

    • and boosting “sustainment” (that is, maintenance of military equipment, weaponry and systems and personnel training).

    Hastie is particularly enthusiastic about improving the Australian defence industrial base, which he says involves ramping up purchases of defence equipment from small and medium-size enterprises.

    There is some logic to this. In the past few years, some spending on new acquisitions has been shifted to sustainment. This was necessary, as the long-term defence plan when Labor came to power in 2022 did not accurately estimate how much money would be needed for the new equipment then entering service.

    This is not unusual. There is always optimism within the Department of Defence that new equipment will be cheaper to operate than it actually turns out to be.

    Given significant money has already been moved to sustainment under Labor defence budgets over the past few years, it’s plausible we don’t actually need as much money for this as the Coalition asserts.

    This might be fortunate as the F-35 purchase is likely to be considerably more than the $3 billion the Coalition touted last month, given inflation and issues with the program in the US.

    Problems with the plan

    The biggest problem with Dutton’s plan is the same one faced by both the Morrison and Albanese governments. Strong rhetoric is consistently at odds with slow progress on defence force modernisation. The Coalition policy continues this bipartisan tradition.

    Hastie repeated several times at his news conference with Dutton in Perth that the country faces the “most dangerous strategic circumstances since the second world war”.

    Yet, this sense of urgency is not reflected in the extra $21 billion in spending the Coalition is proposing. The F-35 fighter jets, the major centrepiece of the plan, are unlikely to be in service until the first half of the 2030s.

    Similarly, the naval shipbuilding (which is necessary and already in train) also won’t begin to deliver greater capacity until well into the next decade.

    The only high-priority item outlined by the Coalition appears to be accelerating spending on the infrastructure needed to base US and UK nuclear attack submarines in Western Australia from 2027.

    Hastie said on Radio National Breakfast that a drive through the area where this infrastructure is being built would reveal few signs of any progress, particularly when it comes to housing.

    This comment highlights a policy incoherence problem for both parties. Accelerating the construction of defence infrastructure will drag tradies away from building homes for other Australians – and contribute to construction cost increases.

    The Coalition’s planned cuts in skilled worker migration will further exacerbate this problem.

    This throws up another issue. The Coalition has criticised Labor for cutting or delaying defence equipment projects costing some $80 billion while in government, yet it has offered no plans to return these specific projects to the defence budget.

    As Hastie observed, these cuts and delays were, in part, to land-force capabilities, such as the infantry fighting vehicle program. A shift to a more maritime focus and away from equipment better suited to wars in the Middle East is reasonable, given the stress both parties have placed on China’s naval buildup.

    Little to feel inspired about

    Interestingly, Hastie said on Radio National Breakfast that AUKUS is “a structural imposition” the current defence budget can’t meet.

    This suggests that when the AUKUS deal was agreed to under former Prime Minster Scott Morrison, there was inadequate funding for the program and it is now consuming other defence acquisition plans.

    Given this, the Coalition’s plans to grow defence spending to 3% of GDP in ten years may be prudent – and necessary – mainly to meet the looming AUKUS funding shortfalls. This again may be problem for both parties, given their strident support for AUKUS at seemingly any cost.

    Hastie is keen to increase Australian self-reliance, in part, through building up the Australian defence industry.

    However, the Coalition plan doesn’t offer many specifics on how Australian industry will benefit. Instead of buying yet more American-built F-35s, for instance, the Coalition could have given thought to buying the innovative Ghost Bat uncrewed air vehicles made in Queensland.

    This shortcoming highlights the biggest disappointment with the Coalition plan. It is “steady as she goes” approach in a world of increasing volatility.

    There really needs to be some fresh thinking on defence, particularly given the growing doubts about the Trump administration’s stance on its security alliances. Australia may need to be more self-reliant as Hastie claims, but this policy platform – as well as Labor’s – won’t achieve this possibility.

    The reason the Coalition is emphasising the 3% of GDP figure is that there are no new ideas. A great opportunity for an imaginative recasting of Australian defence has been missed.

    This piece is part of a series on the future of defence in Australia. Read the other stories here.

    Peter Layton 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. Australia needs bold ideas on defence. The Coalition’s increased spending plan falls disappointingly short – https://theconversation.com/australia-needs-bold-ideas-on-defence-the-coalitions-increased-spending-plan-falls-disappointingly-short-255106

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

    Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage from flooding every year.

    Ghana’s president, John Dramani Mahama, has established a task force to find ways of improving flood resilience in the country. This is partly driven by an increase in flooding incidents in cities such as Accra and Kumasi in the last decade.

    We are urban planning and sustainability scholars. In a recent paper we analysed whether flooding in Accra, Ghana’s capital, was caused by climate change or poor land use planning.

    We conclude from our analysis that flooding is caused by poor and uncoordinated land use planning rather than climate change. We recommend that the physical planning department and other regulatory agencies are equipped to ensure the effective enforcement the relevant land use regulations.

    Mixed push factors

    The Accra metropolitan area is one of the 29 administrative units of Ghana’s Greater Accra region. It is the most populous region in Ghana, with over five million residents, according to the 2021 Housing and Population Census.

    We interviewed 100 households living in areas such as Kaneshie, Adabraka and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. These areas experience a high incidence of floods. Representatives of agencies such as the Physical Planning Department of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, the National Disaster Management Organisation and the Environmental Protection Agency were interviewed too, about:

    • the nature and areas most prone to flooding in the study area

    • the frequency of flooding

    • land use planning and regulations and their influence on flooding.

    About 40% of the people we interviewed attributed flooding to both weak enforcement of land use regulation and changes in rainfall patterns. Most of the households (52%) said floods in Accra were the result of weak enforcement of land use regulations, while 8% blamed changes in land use regulations.

    We also analysed recorded data on flood incidence and rainfall. We found no correlation between increased rainfall and flooding. For example in 2017 there was a decrease in rainfall, but an increase in flooding.

    This finding points to the fact that rainfall isn’t the only factor contributing to flooding in the city.

    The agencies and city residents reported that between 2008 and 2018, they could see that more people were encroaching on the city’s wetlands by building homes and commercial infrastructure. This has changed the natural flow of water bodies. The Greater Accra Metropolitan and its environs has major wetlands such as Densu Delta, Sakumo Lagoon and Songor Lagoon.

    Interview respondents noted that the siting of unauthorised buildings and the encroachment on buffer zones of water bodies in the city could have been averted. They blamed political interference in the enforcement of land use regulation. The government makes the situation worse in two ways, they said:

    • planning standards and regulations are neglected in the development process. The processes involved in acquiring development permits are cumbersome and expensive, so people go ahead and develop without permits.

    • regulatory institutions and authorities are ineffective. This is clear from the fact that planning happens chaotically. No attention is given to the ecological infrastructure that’s needed.

    The way forward

    We conclude that land use malpractices remain the dominant causes of flooding in Accra. They include:

    • poor disposal of solid waste, which eventually blocks drains and results in water overflow during heavy rains

    • building on wetlands as a result of non-compliance or non-enforcement of land use regulations.

    There is an urgent need for Ghana’s cities to adopt best practices in waste management. These include recycling of plastic waste and composting for urban agriculture. An environmental excise tax was introduced in 2011 to fund plastic waste recycling and support waste management agencies.

    The increasing encroachment on wetlands should be addressed through the strict enforcement of buffer regulations. Planning authorities and the judiciary can collaborate on this. The city must also encourage green infrastructure, like rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavement, street trees and rain harvesting systems.
    Research has shown these to be environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approaches to managing storm water.

    Another suggested approach is the introduction of the polluter pays principle in city management. This is a system where city residents who are involved in the pollution of the environment are made to pay for the cost of mitigating the impact. Residents who dispose of waste indiscriminately and encroach on wetlands would be made to pay for the cost of the environmental degradation. Cities such as Barcelona and Helsinki have applied this principle in the management of their industrial discharge and contaminated waste.

    Finally, there should be incentives for city residents to promote environmental sustainability. For example, a deposit refund system has been introduced in several states in the US and Australia. In this system, consumers are made to pay a deposit after purchasing items that can be recycled, such as plastic bottles, and the deposit is reimbursed to the consumer after the return of the empty bottles to a retail store.

    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. Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause – https://theconversation.com/flooding-incidents-in-ghanas-capital-are-on-the-rise-researchers-chase-the-cause-254000

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: All singing, all dancing at Portsmouth SEND Local Offer Live

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Families in Portsmouth are invited to a special event at Cosham Community Centre on Wednesday 30 April from 10:30am to 2:30pm for Local Offer Live.

    Organised by Portsmouth City Council, the event brings together services and groups who support families who have children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

    Parents/carers can also take part in free dance and performance workshops with their children at the event.

    Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

    “Local Offer Live provides families with the information they need to live happy and healthy lives in the city. Community groups and services come together to offer advice and signpost individuals.

    “The introduction of Boogie Mites and Identical Dance helps families to have fun and be active together. These sessions are free and a great way to meet other parents/carers.”

    Identical Dance is a unique performance group where children are encouraged to be themselves and make new friends. Their session will take place at 11:15am with families invited to learn simple techniques to dance at home.

    Boogie Mites is an interactive music and dance group exclusively for families of children and young people with additional needs. This workshop will take place at 12:30pm. The session gives children the creative flair to dance to music through easy-to-follow routines.

    Families will need to arrive before the workshop begins as sessions will start promptly. Trained facilitators will be available during each session to support everyone.

    Local Offer Live is one-way parents/carers and professionals can learn more about services in the city with 20 exhibitors in attendance on the day.

    For those who are unable to make the event, the Portsmouth SEND Local Offer website is a comprehensive resource designed to support children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The website provides detailed information about the services and support available in the PO1 – PO6 area.

    For more information on Local Offer Live and to register for a ticket, please visit portsmouthlocaloffer.org.uk/live.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A well-appointed space for recreation and sports will appear in the Presnensky district under the KRT program

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In Presnensky District, a land plot will be reorganized under the program of integrated development of territories (IDT). The corresponding draft resolution posted on the Moscow Government website. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman.

    “According to the KRT project, it is planned to reorganize a 0.48-hectare site between Khodynskaya and Presnensky Val streets. As a result, the territory will be transformed into a comfortable, well-appointed public space, which will also include an open area for sports. The site will be landscaped and provided with a convenient street and road network. The territory will become part of an already established residential area near the Ulitsa 1905 Goda metro station,” said Maxim Gaman.

    This is already the second project in the Presnensky district within the framework of the integrated development program of territories. In total, it is planned to reorganize 1.24 hectares of land here.

    According to the KRT program, multifunctional city blocks are created, where roads, comfortable housing and all the necessary infrastructure are designed on the site of former industrial zones and inefficiently used areas. Currently, 302 KRT projects with a total area of about 4.2 thousand hectares are at various stages of development and implementation in the capital. This work is underway on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153009073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Employment – Authenticity over Authority – 63% of professionals admit to leaving a previous employer because they didn’t resonate with leadership

    Source: Robert Walters

    Two thirds of professionals (63%) have admitted that one of the leading reasons for leaving a previous employer is because they did not have a ‘connection’ with their management or leadership team.  

    A further 68% stated that their exit was due to ’empty promises’ from management – with professionals feeling that leaders who fail to act on commitments erode trust.

    The findings come from a new report from global talent solutions business – Robert Walters – which highlights ‘Human-centric Leadership’ as a key trend that will be required of any business that wants to be successful in 2025 and beyond.  (ref. https://www.robertwalters.co.uk/insights/hiring-advice/e-guide/top-talent-trends-in-recruitment.html )

    Gerrit Bouckaert – CEO of Robert Walters Recruitment – comments:  

    “In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, leadership success will be easier to achieve when leaders put people first – more so now than ever as professionals fear the role of AI and whether it will be considered as a job replacement.  

    “We will always need people in the workplace. And much like you would invest in your technology with R&D and improvements, the same goes for your people.  

    “Business leaders that foster psychological safety, flexibility, and continuous learning will build stronger, more engaged teams – and ultimately, a more successful business.”

    Transactional Relationships  

    The report highlights the downfall of when a leader lacks genuine interest – with 62% stating that they feel disengaged when leaders only communicate when they need something.

    71% of employees say they can tell when leaders are being insincere in their optimism, with many reporting this as ‘forced enthusiasm.’

    Gerrit adds: “Leaders who fail to engage personally with their teams not only risk losing loyalty, but also some valuable insight on the company and ideas for improvement or future growth.”  

    Inauthentic Leadership  

    When asked what the common traits were for poor or inauthentic leadership, professionals responded with:

    Lack of Transparency (72%) – Employees lose faith in leaders who withhold information or fail to explain decisions.

    Inconsistency (66%) – Leaders who say one thing but do another struggle to earn long-term respect.

    Avoiding Accountability (44%) – A failure to admit mistakes or take responsibility leads to a culture of blame.

    Ignoring Employee Wellbeing (30%) – Leaders who prioritise profit over people create a toxic work environment.

    Micromanagement (28%) – A lack of trust in employees’ abilities can stifle innovation and motivation.  

    Playing Favourites (22%) – Unequal treatment of team members fosters resentment and disengagement.

    Route to Success

    Findings from the Robert Walters Talent Trends 2025 report include that companies are 1.5x more likely to retain high performers when leaders display a human-centric organisational focus.

    In fact, companies are 2.6x more likely to meet objectives as a ‘people-first’ organisation. Gerrit outlines top tips on how organisations (and its leaders) can become more human-centric:  

    Offer coaching and development: Leaders should receive coaching on the principles of human-centric leadership—including empathy, emotional intelligence, leading with authenticity, active listening, and inclusivity. If you don’t have this expertise in-house, consider outsourcing coaching and development programs.

    Deliver clear communication: Open, transparent and regular communication is key in a human-centric approach. Companies should build an environment where ideas are freely shared and valued, and where constructive feedback is encouraged. Simple things such as open Q&A’s to the office floor or having an open-door policy for questions – be it in-person or via email.  

    Don’t forget about culture: Shifting to a human-centric approach may require a significant change in company culture. This may involve redefining company values, rethinking performance metrics and revamping reward systems to align with human-centric principles.

    Engage your employees: Organisations should focus on understanding the needs of their employees to develop strategies to increase employee engagement. This could involve creating more opportunities for collaboration, promoting work-life balance and implementing recognition and reward systems.

    About Robert Walters  

    With more than 3,200 people in 31 countries, Robert Walters Group delivers recruitment consultancy, staffing, recruitment process outsourcing and managed services across the globe. From traditional recruitment and staffing to end-to-end talent management, our consultants are experts at matching highly skilled people to permanent, contract and interim roles across all professional disciplines, including: Accountancy & Finance, Banking & Financial Services, Engineering, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal, Sales & Marketing, Secretarial & Support, Supply Chain & Procurement. www.robertwaltersgroup.com  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The capital is accepting applications for participation in the competition for entrepreneurs “You Can Do It!”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow is accepting applications for the “You Can Do It!” competition for entrepreneurs. It is aimed at increasing business activity, replicating successful practices of scaling microbusinesses into small and medium ones, increasing the number of entrepreneurs in the capital and improving their image.

    Participation in the competition is free, you can submit an application on the State Budgetary Institution portal “Small Business of Moscow” (MBM). until May 12. Contestants must talk about their products or services, the benefits their activities bring to society and how they plan to develop their business. The jury will determine the winners in 12 nominations intended for entrepreneurs from various fields. These include:

    — “Beauty Creator” (services related to beauty and health);

    — “Moscow manufacturer” (the best brand of the “Made in Moscow” project);

    — “Entrepreneur with a Big Heart” (social business);

    — “Almost Picasso” (design);

    — “The Learned Cat” (tutoring and training);

    — “Network Expert” (franchise business);

    — “Maestro of Taste” (cleaning);

    — “Service owner” (tourism and hotel business);

    — “Sales Genius” (online sales and online stores);

    — “Fashion trendsetter” (services related to the production of clothing, footwear and accessories);

    — “Director of Experiences” (event organization);

    — “Jack of all trades” (household services and repairs).

    The winners will be named during Moscow Entrepreneurship Week. They will receive bonuses for promotion in the online classifieds service Avito Services, which is a co-organizer of the competition, as well as PR support from MBM in federal and regional media as part of the media project “Small Business – Big Stories”.

    The “You Can!” competition is being held for the third time. During its holding, more than 900 applications were submitted. In 2024, the most popular nominations among the participants were for entrepreneurs engaged in tutoring and training, providing services in the field of beauty and health, as well as for manufacturers of clothing, footwear, accessories and jewelry.

    Among the winners of last year was the master of Afro-braiding Larisa Malikova. She won in the nomination for entrepreneurs providing services in the beauty and health sector, which became a real breakthrough in her career. Thanks to the win, Larisa paid for the rent of the studio where she works with the prize money. She spent the money saved on professional development. Now she is mastering coloristics in order to introduce expert dreadlock coloring into her range of services. The story of her success was also told on the pages of the MBM media project “Small Business – Big Stories”, which attracted even more attention to her creativity and professionalism.

    Another winner of a well-deserved victory was Maria Maksimova, a talented entrepreneur and creator of a unique studio of life-size flowers. The “You Can Do It!” contest not only brought her recognition, but also became an impetus for the rapid growth of her business. Maria changed her status from self-employed to individual entrepreneur. In just a few months, she moved to a spacious premises, expanded her client base and began collaborating with major customers, bringing grandiose projects to life. Today, Maria’s works decorate significant events.

    The competition is being held as part of the implementation of the federal project “Small and medium entrepreneurship and support for individual entrepreneurial initiative”, which is part of the national project “Efficient and competitive economy”, as well as the Moscow Mayor’s strategy for supporting the capital’s entrepreneurship.

    State Budgetary Institution “Small Business of Moscow”, subordinate To the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow, helps people open and develop their own businesses in the capital. In business service centers, everyone can learn about financial and non-financial measures of state support.

    Free educational and business events are held for entrepreneurs: forums, seminars, trainings, conferences, which help to improve professional competencies and find like-minded people.

    You can also get advice on opening and running a business and learn more about current measures to support entrepreneurs in Moscow on the MBM website MBM.Mos.ru and by phone: 7 495 225-14-14.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153012073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Three houses for the implementation of the renovation program will appear in Nauchny Proezd under the KRT project

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    As part of the integrated development program (IDT) in the capital, a planning project for a 6.6-hectare site at 11a Nauchny Proezd has been approved. Residential buildings will be built here to implement the renovation program. This was reported by Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “A residential block will be built on a site in the Cheryomushki area for the purposes of the renovation program. Three apartment buildings with built-in and attached non-residential premises will be erected there, as well as an administrative building for the city’s public utilities. In total, 173.9 thousand square meters of real estate are planned to be built on this site. As a result of the project, more than 330 jobs will be created,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    There are three metro stations within walking distance of the future residential area: Kaluzhskaya on the Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya Line, Vorontsovskaya and Zyuzino on the Big Circle Line. The site will be reorganized by an operator appointed by the city from 2024.

    “In addition to the construction of real estate, it is planned to provide the quarter with a convenient street and road network. Thus, two new local streets will be built here and sections of Nauchny Proezd will be reconstructed with the installation of sidewalks. Work will also be carried out on the improvement and landscaping of the territories adjacent to the houses with a total area of almost one hectare,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    Housing for the implementation of the renovation program is being built not only on specially selected territories and on the site of previously resettled houses, but also on sites being reorganized under the KRT program.

    As noted by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky, the total area of apartments in new buildings erected for the purposes of implementing the renovation program will be approximately 105.2 thousand square meters. New housing will be provided to about 3.5 thousand Muscovites. Elevators will be installed in the entrances, rooms for concierges and storage rooms for strollers and bicycles will be equipped.

    The first floors will be made non-residential. In the future, pharmacies, leisure and educational centers for children, private medical clinics and other social and domestic infrastructure facilities will open here.

    According to the program of integrated development of territories, multifunctional urban quarters are created, where roads, comfortable housing and all necessary infrastructure are designed on the site of former industrial zones and inefficiently used areas. Currently, 302 KRT projects with a total area of about 4.2 thousand hectares are at various stages of development and implementation in the capital. The work is underway on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin.

    Previously Sergei Sobyanin said on resettlement under renovation in Timiryazevsky district.

    Renovation program approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153005073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –