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  • MIL-OSI Global: Drinking pee to improve health is an ancient practice – but the risks outweigh the evidence

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    KK_face/Shutterstock

    TV star Ben Grylls says he does it for survival – and teaches his reality show contestants to do the same. Mexican boxer Juan Manuel Márquez practised this therapy to train for his 2009 fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr (he lost). Former Indian prime minister Morarji Desai claimed a daily glass of the stuff was a remedy for many diseases and contributed to his longevity.

    What is the therapy these celebrities practice? Urophagia, also known as urine therapy, is the practice of drinking urine.

    Whether the urine is your own, someone else’s or even obtained from an animal, people have been drinking pee as medicine for thousands of years. Most claims about urine therapy are based on anecdotes or ancient texts with no robust scientific evidence to support the benefits of urine therapy. There is evidence to show that drinking urine has a number of health risks, however,

    In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, urine was used to treat asthma, allergies, indigestion, wrinkles and even cancer. The Roman poet Catullus believed urine helped to whiten teeth – possibly due to its ammonia content.

    As a rudimentary test for diabetes, doctors used to taste urine to check how sweet it was. Now, of course, we have urine test strips to check for glucose in the urine.

    In 1945, British naturopath John W. Armstrong published a book called “The Water of Life: A Treatise on Urine Therapy.” He claimed that drinking one’s own urine and massaging it into the skin could cure major illnesses.

    Historically, drinking pee to treat illnesses may have made sense because of a lack of medical alternatives. But, as the urine-sipping celebrities above show, the practice is still followed today.

    There are reported cases of using urine for home remedies to treat seizures in children in Nigeria. The China Urine Therapy Association claims that drinking and washing with urine can cure constipation and skin sores.

    Waste not, want not?

    Urine is made by the body to get rid of waste. It is mostly made up of water (about 95%) and several waste products, including urea (2%), which is made by the liver after breaking down proteins in the body, creatinine, which is left over from energy-releasing processes in the muscles, and salts. If urine is just waste, how could drinking it be beneficial?

    The kidneys act as regulators – not just to get rid of any toxins but to remove anything that it doesn’t need. For example, excess vitamins that aren’t needed by the body are found in urine.

    Drinking urine means these vitamins and minerals are getting recycled instead of being wasted – this also goes for other hormones, proteins and antibodies that can be found in urine. However, the amounts of these substances in a glass of urine are unlikely to be enough to be beneficial and a vitamin supplement may be more effective.

    Some advocates of urine therapy believe it can help prevent allergic reactions and control autoimmune conditions. The antibodies in the urine are supposed to make the immune system stronger.

    Other modern uses also include cleansing and detoxification – some people have claimed that continually drinking recycled urine leads to cleaner urine and blood by removing toxins and leading to better overall health.

    However, there’s no scientific evidence to support any of these claims.

    Some social media influencers claim that urine has healing properties and drinking or applying it to the skin can help skin conditions such as acne and infections. As mentioned, urine does contain urea, which is often added to skin care products as a moisturiser. But the concentration of urea in urine is unlikely to be high enough to have this effect.

    Urine also contains dehydroepiandrosterone, a steroid hormone produced by the body that declines with age, which has been marketed as an anti-ageing ingredient – but there isn’t enough data to demonstrate its efficacy.

    Risky business

    Some advocates of urine therapy believe that urine is sterile. However, research has found that urine naturally contains low levels of bacteria and research shows that bacteria can further contaminate the urine when it leaves the body. Drinking urine, then, can introduce bacteria and toxins into the gut and potentially cause further illness like stomach infections.

    Urine becomes more concentrated when it comes out again – the kidneys may have to work harder to filter out the excess, putting extra strain on them. The kidneys need water to process these salts.

    Drinking urine means you have to pee out more water than you get from it, which speeds up dehydration – it’s similar to drinking seawater. Some drugs, such as penicillin antibiotics or heart medicines, are also excreted in the urine – by drinking urine, it can cause toxic levels of these drugs to build up in the body.

    Mainstream medical communities do not endorse urine therapy as it lacks scientific evidence. Small amounts of urine drinking are unlikely to be harmful. But for tangible health benefits, other therapies with scientific evidence may be the way to go.

    Dipa Kamdar 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. Drinking pee to improve health is an ancient practice – but the risks outweigh the evidence – https://theconversation.com/drinking-pee-to-improve-health-is-an-ancient-practice-but-the-risks-outweigh-the-evidence-253353

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Children from poorer families do worse at school – here’s how to understand the disadvantage gap

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ceri Brown, Associate Professor (Reader) in Education, University of Bath

    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    The problem of the disadvantage gap – also known as the attainment gap – is a persistent one in education in England. It refers to how children from certain groups, such as those from poorer backgrounds, ethnic minorities or who have been in care, do worse at school than their peers.

    It’s a central concern of the recent interim report of the ongoing review into England’s national curriculum, which points out that the current system is not working well for everyone.

    The disadvantage gaps between groups can be measured in different ways. The more simplistic way is to consider outcome measures, such as exam results, in isolation.

    For example, at the end of their primary schooling, eleven-year-olds in English state schools take standardised key stage assessments – SATs. These results are used to calculate the disadvantage gap index. The index ranks all pupils in the country and assesses the difference in the average position of disadvantaged pupils and others. It shows whether the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers is widening or closing.

    A disadvantage gap of zero would indicate that there is no difference between the average performance of disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged pupils. According to the Department for Education’s figures for 2023-24, the disadvantage gap index at this level is 3.13 in children’s key stage scores. While it had been decreasing between 2011 and 2018, the gap rose to the highest level since 2012 in 2022.

    For GCSEs, taken at age 16, the disadvantage gap index is 3.92. It has decreased slightly after widening in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

    Measuring progress

    A more sophisticated analysis of the disadvantage gap can be made by comparing the rate of progress that children achieve through their schooling career. Children in English state schools take a baseline assessment when they first enter their reception year, and their progress from this point can be measured by comparing with their SATs key stage results in year six.

    Ideally, all children would progress in their learning at the same rate. But research by one of us (Nadia Siddiqui) shows that pupils from persistently low socioeconomic groups do not progress at the same level as their counterparts.

    A recent longitudinal research study – meaning that it has tracked the same participants over years – has shown that since the pandemic, there has been a very big impact on the reading and maths progress of primary school children from poorer backgrounds.

    At secondary level, progress can be measured by comparing children’s progress from their SATs at the end of primary school with their GCSE exam results. This measure is called “progress 8”. It indicates how much a secondary school has helped pupils progress from their point of entry at year seven, when compared to a government-calculated expected level of improvement.

    The progress 8 measure focuses on the progression children make from their starting points, as opposed to fixating only on the end points in children’s learning.

    The disadvantage gap can be measured using test results to gauge progress over time.
    panitanphoto/Shutterstock

    The government uses this measure not to compare individuals, but rather schools to see how much value has been added by each school relative to other schools. But it also measures the progress of key groups, such as children receiving free school meals or of different ethnicities.

    The latest data shows that pupils from poorer backgrounds – those eligible for free school meals – made less progress than their peers. This was the case in every ethnic group.

    Reducing the gap

    In the last few decades, a number of education policies have been introduced to narrow the disadvantage gap determined by household poverty.

    Direct funding to improve educational targets is a popular approach and has been adopted in countries across the world. This means schools receive additional funding for admitting disadvantaged pupils. This money should be spent on evidence-informed interventions for improving educational outcomes of disadvantaged pupils.

    Since 2010, schools in England have been incentivised by pupil premium funding to invest directly in the academic learning of disadvantaged pupils if they are not reaching expected levels. Schools receive funding for each pupil who is, or has been, eligible for free school meals, and for those who have been in care.

    Pupil premium funding has changed the pattern of intake of disadvantaged pupils by schools. Segregation of poorer and wealthier pupils, in which pupils from poorer households are clustered in particular schools, has reduced. Schools now take more of a mix of children from poorer and wealthier backgrounds.

    This is good because mixed schools create fairer and more inclusive societies where pupils are better equipped to succeed in diverse environments. What’s more, the relative disadvantage gap has slightly improved for pupils at primary school.

    The evidence on interventions for disadvantaged pupils is still evolving. For practical reasons, approaches to improving the academic disadvantage gap are mainly applied at school level.

    However, in some places, area-based funding schemes, which channel funding to selected regions of particular high poverty, have been introduced. Our research is exploring the extent to which this may be a feasible way to narrow the disadvantage gap.

    Ceri Brown receives funding from UKRI (ESRC) and the Mayor of London’s Violence Reduction Unit.

    Nadia Siddiqui receives funding from UKRI, EEF, British Council.

    – ref. Children from poorer families do worse at school – here’s how to understand the disadvantage gap – https://theconversation.com/children-from-poorer-families-do-worse-at-school-heres-how-to-understand-the-disadvantage-gap-235706

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: More than 100 projects in the healthcare sector are being implemented under the Construction program

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    As part of the comprehensive state program “Construction”, supervised by the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services, in 2025, construction, renovation and implementation of 109 facilities and activities in the healthcare sector are underway. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “Today marks World Health Day. This is a reason to pay attention to the work on developing healthcare infrastructure. In recent years, a number of significant projects in the healthcare sector have been implemented in Russia. Among them are modern multidisciplinary hospitals equipped with advanced medical equipment, renovated outpatient clinics that meet all the requirements for patient comfort and safety, as well as specialized medical centers where innovative diagnostic and treatment methods are being implemented. As part of the comprehensive state program “Construction”, we are building, updating and implementing 109 facilities and events in the healthcare sector. Among them are the construction of federal children’s rehabilitation centers in Yevpatoria and Novosibirsk Oblast, a new multidisciplinary medical center of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia in Yalta and many other institutions,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    Thus, the Federal Children’s Rehabilitation Center, which is being built in Yevpatoriya by specialists from the PPC “Unified Customer in the Sphere of Construction”, is intended for children with diseases of the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, somatic and other diseases. An administrative building with an area of about 2 thousand square meters has already been put into operation after a complete restoration. In addition, a consultative and diagnostic building and a hospital building with 300 beds have been erected, which are now being equipped. Also under construction is a boarding house for children and parents, a hostel for medical personnel for 225 places and a building with a dining hall.

    “The Federal Children’s Rehabilitation Center in Crimea is being built on the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin. In Podolsk, Moscow Region, such a facility has already been operating since 2023. Another large facility is the Federal Children’s Rehabilitation Center in Novosibirsk Region. On the territory of the medical institution, a hospital building with 300 beds and the main building are being built. Recently, specialists began to build a boarding house building, where young patients will live with their parents. Its area will exceed 8 thousand square meters,” said Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Yuri Gordeyev.

    Also in St. Petersburg, a clinical building of the N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center is being built. The new building will include an admissions department, a 204-bed hospital, bone marrow transplant, resuscitation and intensive care departments. An operating block with 8 operating rooms is planned to provide high-tech care to cancer patients. This will allow the center to expand scientific research and training of specialists.

    Another landmark building in the Northern capital is the new building of the Research Institute of Children’s Oncology, Hematology and Transplantology named after R.M. Gorbacheva, which is a division of the First Saint Petersburg State Medical University named after Academician I.P. Pavlov. The building, with an area of 17 thousand square meters, includes a hospital with 110 beds, bone marrow transplant departments, resuscitation and intensive care, 5 operating rooms and a blood transfusion department.

    A treatment and diagnostic building for the Center for Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology is being built in Moscow. The building will include admission departments for adults and children, a radiation diagnostics department, a 40-bed hospital, 2 operating rooms, a 6-bed intensive care unit, and a sterilization department. The center will provide assistance to patients with lymphomas, skin tumors, and severe dermatosis.

    In addition, a multidisciplinary medical center of the FMBA is being built on the Crimean peninsula, in the resort city of Yalta, which will provide emergency, planned and high-tech care in key areas: surgery, cardiology, oncology, pediatrics and resuscitation. The center will include a clinic, a diagnostic department, classrooms and housing for employees.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Ukraine: Mine contamination is lethal legacy of Russia’s invasion

    Source: United Nations 2

    Peace and Security

    An estimated 100 million people in more than 60 countries and territories live under the threat of landmines and explosive ordnance – with war-torn Ukraine now the most heavily contaminated country in the world – the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) said on Monday.  

    Millions of mines have been scattered across the battlefields of Ukraine since the full-scale Russian invasion on 24 February 2022, making it the most dangerous place for unexploded weapons today.

    Rising toll

    And as armed violence escalates worldwide, the UN agency says that the number injured and killed by mines and other explosive ordnance rose by 22 per cent in 2024. That amounts to more than 1,000 extra victims compared to 2023, according to the specialized UN agency, which was established in 1997.

    Around 85 per cent of the victims of explosive ordnance worldwide are civilians and more than half are children.  

    Many of those at risk live in places where there is active conflict. But for some, the menace endures decades after the fighting ends.

    Force for good

    Mine action has existed for decades and has earned recognition as a key enabler for long-term peace and security, as well as development.

    “You can’t have full access to agriculture and food security if there are mines in the ground,” said James Staples, Chief for Policy, Advocacy, Donor Relations at UNMAS.

    “Children can’t go to school…You can’t create job…People can’t return to their homes, whether they’re IDPs or refugees,” Mr. Staples said, referring to internally displaced persons.

    Surging conflicts

    The surge in conflict is making the work of mine action specialists like UNMAS more difficult.  

    “We are seeing a number of conflicts growing both in terms of number in scope and in scale,” the UNMAS policy chief told journalists in Geneva, ahead of the mine action community’s annual conference in the Swiss city from 9 to 11 April.

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed that message in his call to action on mine-clearance amid a “tragically surging” threat. “Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices continue to threaten lives, hinder humanitarian aid and peacekeeping and block rebuilding,” he said.

    In frontline regions of Ukraine, UN agencies also support awareness-building efforts to protect children from landmines. 

    Live-saving lessons

    “If we see one, we must call the police so they can remove it,” said Kira, a seven-year-old in the southeast city of Zaporizhzhia.

    Taking the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF)-partnered classes is Anna Popsui, Senior Inspector at the State Emergency Service, who says that she and her colleagues always give out stickers and colouring books once the lesson is over.

    “We also have lessons on what to do if they find themselves trapped under rubble,” adds Ms. Popsui.

    ‘Unimaginable horror’

    In a related development, a Russian strike on the city of Kryvyi Rih in central Ukraine on Friday killed at least 18 people and wounded another 75 including nine children. Most were playing at a park when the missile hit.

    The UN Human Rights Office in Ukraine called the attack the deadliest single strike harming children it has verified since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of the country in February 2022.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington State Ferries to update Triangle route backup schedule ahead of busy summer season

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Visit the online open house April 7-18 to comment on the two-boat backup schedule

    SEATTLE – Washington State Ferries is updating the backup two-boat Triangle route schedule ahead of the busy summer travel season. The route serves more than 2 million customers each year who travel between West Seattle, Vashon Island and South Kitsap County, via Southworth.

    Ferry riders are encouraged to participate in an online open house with the draft schedule to share their input. Customer engagement was essential to developing the draft schedule, thanks to feedback from community members and feedback from WSF crewmembers.

    “Since we moved to the two-boat Triangle route schedule in 2020, we’ve heard extensively from customers and crews on the route,” said Jason Rogers, WSF planning manager. “Our customers want more reliable and consistent service that they can count on, and crews need a more realistic schedule to better support that reliability”.

    The previous two-boat schedule had not been updated in a decade and was designed for very occasional use during emergencies.

    Triangle route schedule update open house information

    When: Monday, April 7, through Friday, April 18

    Where: engage.wsdot.wa.gov/triangle-route-schedule-update-project/

    Details: The online open house is available anytime for the public to visit, review materials and ask questions via the contact form.

    Free internet access

    Free, temporary internet access is available to those who do not have broadband service in locations throughout the state. To find the nearest Drive-In WiFi Hotspot visit: www.commerce.wa.gov/building-infrastructure/washington-state-drive-in-wifi-hotspots-location-finder/

    While WSF is excited to return to three-boat service on the Triangle route this summer, due to ferry and crew availability, there may be times when WSF will need to use a two-boat schedule.  

    The route will remain on the current two-boat schedule until June 30, when three-boat service starts. Then the “new” two-boat schedule will become the backup schedule in the event of a service reduction. 

    WSF, a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation, is the largest ferry system in the U.S. and safely and efficiently carries tens of millions of people a year through some of the most majestic scenery in the world. For breaking news and the latest information, follow WSF on X, Facebook and Instagram.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Money laundering gang who exploited Russia-Ukraine war jailed

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two people have been jailed for a combined 13 years for laundering more than £6 million, after an investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s economic crime team.

    The group used criminal money to purchase vans and lorries in the UK and sold them to Ukraine. The earnings were then converted into cryptocurrency. They exploited the legitimate demand in Ukraine for vehicles as part of their war effort, and the lack of cryptocurrency regulation, to maximise their profit and made millions in just over a year.

    Valeriy Popovych, 52, (08.09.1972) of The Avenue, Sudbury‐on‐Thames, and Vitaliy Lutsak, 43, (07.08.1981) of Shortmead Drive, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, were sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court on Monday, 7 April, following a five-week trial.

    Oksana Popovych, 42, (19.03.1983) of The Avenue, Sudbury‐on‐Thames is due to be sentenced on Friday, 30 May at Wood Green Crown Court.

    They were all found guilty of transferring criminal property and running an unregistered money service business, following an investigation by the Met.

    The criminal enterprise enabled Valeriy and Oksana Popovych and to purchase a second house in South West London for just under £1 million.

    Detective Constable Harry Davies, from the Metropolitan Police, who led the investigation, said:

    “This was a thorough and complex investigation into an organised crime gang operating internationally, I’d like to thank the dedicated officers and our partners for their work in bringing this group to justice.

    “Mr Popovych presented himself as a hardworking, legitimate tradesman and used his reputation within the second-hand lorry market to clean criminal cash. He also callously saw the conflict in Ukraine as a lucrative business opportunity.

    “The sentences given to the group today show how committed we are in tackling organised crime groups and the serious risk they pose to our communities.”

    The investigation

    Valeriy Popovych ran an export business, Sprint Commercial Ltd, purchasing vehicles in the UK from legitimate traders and selling them in Ukraine. His wife, Valeriy Popovych, was also employed by the business.

    He would purchase the goods with criminal cash, the money was deposited in Ukraine and converted to cryptocurrency.

    Lutsak acted as the money co-ordinator and would send the Popovychs to collect criminal cash from ‘customers’ in the UK. During the investigation officers found more than $14million in cryptocurrency had passed through his “cyrptowallets” stored on his computer.

    A part of the laundered cash was controlled by a Russian National called Semen Kuksov, who was convicted on Friday, 27 October 2023 at Southwark Crown Court, under the National Crime Agency’s (NCA) Operation Destabilise.

    Kuksov was sentenced to five years and seven months’ imprisonment at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, 1 February 2024.

    The arrests

    Acting on intelligence, on Wednesday, 28 June 2023, police stopped a vehicle in Twickenham in which Valeiry Popovych was the passenger. Following a search of the vehicle Met officers found more than £60,000 in cash and arrested him at the scene.

    During a further search at his address on Gloucester Road, Feltham, officers recovered £130,000 in cash. This was seized, alongside a laptop and mobile devices.

    Following Popovych’s arrest, extensive investigations by the Economic Crime Unit discovered the link with Oksana and Lutsak, who were arrested at their homes on Wednesday, 15 May 2024. Lutsak was charged on the same day.

    Valeriy and Oksana Popvych were charged on Tuesday, 14 June 2024.

    They were all found guilty by the jury on Wednesday, 5 March 2025 at Wood Green Crown Court.

    A variety of complex evidence was obtained by officers, including chats, money transactions, CCTV, cryptocurrency wallets and call logs.

    The Met’s economic crime unit worked with partner agencies including the NCA, HM Revenue and Customs and the Financial Conduct Authority to conduct a robust investigation.

    Messages outlined key times in which Valeriy and Popovych visited addresses to collect cash.

    The most crucial element was an Excel spreadsheet, named ‘V Enf Acc’. This document proved the group laundered over £6 million between August 2022 and June 2023.

    Valeriy Popovych and Vitaliy Lutsak were were both sentenced to six years and six months’ imprisonment.

    They were all found guilty of transferring criminal property over the value of £6 million under Section 327 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and running an unregistered money service business under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017.

    Negeen Momtahen, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said:

    “Together, these defendants used an export business as a front to launder millions of pounds of criminal cash across borders. They attempted to conceal the source of this illicit money by using secret token exchanges and cryptocurrency.

    “Money laundering is not a victimless crime – it is the financial lifeline which enables criminals to profit from their illegal activities.

    “Last year we convicted other key members of this same money laundering network. I hope this latest prosecution demonstrates our ongoing determination to dismantling these criminal operations and bringing all involved to justice.

    “We will be pursuing confiscation proceedings against the defendants to remove any available criminal benefits gained from this enterprise.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint statement at the 58th Session of the UN Commission on Population and Development

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Joint statement at the 58th Session of the UN Commission on Population and Development

    Joint statement on the 58th Session of the UN Commission on Population and Development delivered by Sierra Leone on Monday 7 April 2025, on behalf of Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Eswatini, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guinea, Honduras, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Tuvalu, Ukraine, Uruguay, Zambia and the United Kingdom.

    We are making this collective statement to emphasise the urgent need for action to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3. Health is a human right and a foundation of sustainable development, driving economic growth, social cohesion, and individual dignity.

    Over the past decades, significant progress has been made in many areas of health. We have seen a reduction in maternal and child mortality, expanded access to modern contraceptive methods as well as maternal and newborn medicines and commodities, improvements in adolescent health and education, addressing sexually transmitted diseases including HIV, and a decline in child and early forced marriages. These achievements give us hope for a healthier future.

    However, significant challenges persist, and the urgent need for equal access to health services and opportunities for healthy lives remains out of reach for many.

    Health inequalities stemming from complex, interrelated factors such as economic disparities, social exclusion, significant financial hardship, discrimination, and unequal access to resources, has a profound impact on individuals and communities. These inequalities manifest in poor health outcomes, lower life expectancy, reduced household income, and weaker national economic growth potential. Income inequality exacerbates vulnerabilities, limiting access to health services in low-income countries and disadvantaged communities. Social disparities rooted in gender, race, age, class, religion, and ethnicity perpetuate stigma, violence, and adverse health determinants.

    Economic disparities within and among countries remain significant, impacting the lives of many individuals. Far too many people are unable to access essential health services or are forced to forgo care due to unaffordability. Rising out-of-pocket health costs are pushing millions into poverty, hindering the realisation of Universal Health Coverage. Conflicts and climate change are straining health systems and the health workforce, contributing to stagnating maternal mortality rates, growing mental health challenges, and the inability of health systems to cope with the rise of non-communicable diseases.

    Equitable, inclusive, and resilient health systems are essential to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being. It is imperative to prioritize universally accessible, quality, and comprehensive primary healthcare services. Sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights must enable individuals to make free and informed decisions about their health and their lives. Addressing the social determinants of health – such as poverty, malnutrition, education, water and sanitation, and gender inequality – is critical for achieving inclusive economic growth that strengthens and benefits all of society.

    The health and well-being of adolescents and youth also demands greater attention – they require better access to health services, education, and information that enable them to make informed decisions about their lives.

    Investing in health, particularly sexual and reproductive health, is not just a matter of well-being, but also a powerful driver of economic growth. UNFPA estimates that allocating an additional $79 billion by 2030 to expand maternal health and family planning services could yield $660 billion in economic benefits by 2050—preventing 400 million unplanned pregnancies, 1 million maternal deaths, 6 million stillbirths, and 4 million newborn deaths, while also enhancing workforce participation and economic productivity (UNFPA, 2022). Similarly, closing the women’s health gap more broadly could further accelerate economic progress, with the World Economic Forum projecting a potential boost of at least $1 trillion annually to the global economy by 2040.

    Greater investments in health infrastructure, workforce capacity, and innovative solutions like digital health can improve service delivery and expand access to services. Strengthening and expanding the global health workforce is at the heart of this. We must address health workforce shortages, ensure equitable distribution, enhance training and pay attention to sustainable retention strategies.

    It is vital that we, as policymakers, health organizations, and civil society, address disparities within and among countries, ensuring that people in vulnerable situations, including women, children, older persons, migrants, people with disabilities, and those in extreme poverty, have access to quality, comprehensive health services without financial hardship and discrimination. Our role in promoting responsive health systems that cater to the unique needs of at-risk individuals are key to sustainable and inclusive progress.

    A healthier population is central to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The ICPD’s Programme of Action has guided countries toward inclusive, equitable policies advancing health and gender equality. By strengthening health systems and addressing inequalities, we can work toward a world where all people can live healthy, productive and fulfilling lives.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AUKUS partnership strengthened with Prime Minister appointing new Special Representative

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    AUKUS partnership strengthened with Prime Minister appointing new Special Representative

    Sir Stephen Lovegrove appointed as the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on AUKUS.

    Britain will maximise the benefits of AUKUS and unlock more opportunities across the historic partnership, following the Prime Minister appointing Sir Stephen Lovegrove as his Special Representative on AUKUS today. 

    AUKUS is a landmark security and defence partnership between the UK and two of its oldest and closest partners, Australia and the United States. It will enable Australia to field a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines in the Indo Pacific; strengthen the defence industrial bases of both the UK and the US; and accelerate the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies by all three countries. The AUKUS submarine programme is set to generate 7,000 additional British jobs, supporting the government’s Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth. 

    Sir Stephen will support the Defence Secretary and the National Security Adviser to drive the AUKUS programme forward. He brings a wealth of experience, having served as National Security Adviser at the time of the AUKUS announcement in 2021, the Prime Minister’s Defence Industrial Adviser, and as the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence.      

    Last year, the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary commissioned Sir Stephen to conduct a Review of the UK’s progress against its core commitments under AUKUS, identifying barriers to success, and setting out recommendations on how to unlock further areas of opportunity, both nationally and with the US and Australia.  Sir Stephen presented his findings to the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary earlier this year. His report will be shared with US and Australian partners and a public version released in due course. 

    Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

    AUKUS is a historic partnership which reinforces peace and stability across the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific, and will also provide thousands of highly skilled jobs and investment in communities across the UK.  It shows how defence can be an engine for growth across our three nations while keeping us secure at home, and strong abroad.

    Sir Stephen is fully committed to ensuring the UK plays a leading role within AUKUS and holds widely respected national security experience.  

    I am very grateful to him for taking up this appointment and look forward to working closely with him and our partners in the US and Australia as we take the AUKUS partnership to new heights.

    Prime Minister’s Special Representative on AUKUS, Sir Stephen Lovegrove, said:

    When the AUKUS partnership was announced in 2021 it was regarded, rightly, as the most significant capability collaboration since the Mutual Defence Agreement of 1958.  

    Since then, the strategic relevance of AUKUS has only increased. It is a uniquely powerful partnership which will develop and deliver cutting-edge capabilities, help to revitalise Britain’s defence industrial base and provide sustained employment for thousands of people across the UK, US and Australia. 

    I am delighted to accept the role as the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on AUKUS and I look forward to starting work immediately to help maximise the potential of this vital partnership.

    Sir Stephen will begin his role as Special Representative tomorrow. He is travelling to Washington DC this week to present his Review findings to the US government and will then travel to Canberra to share findings with the Australian government after the conclusion of the Australian federal election.    

    The AUKUS partnership is supporting more unified defence and industrial collaboration, better information and technology sharing and greater resilience. The development of SSN-AUKUS and new cutting-edge military technologies under AUKUS Pillar’s One and Two will help grow the UK’s industrial base and improve the enabling environment. It represents a multi-billion-pound investment into UK industry, supporting thousands of new British jobs.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Children diagnosed with malnutrition on Samos island Greece

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    A Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) medical team has reported six cases of malnutrition among children in the Samos closed controlled access centre (CCAC) in Greece, which houses asylum seekers. This is the first time MSF has identified malnutrition in the facility since we began working there in 2021.

    Six children aged six months to six years were diagnosed with severe or moderate acute malnutrition— a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention to prevent further deterioration. However, paediatric care remains inadequate, not only in the CCAC but across all of Samos island.

    Additionally, cash assistance for asylum seekers has been halted since June, leaving families without the means to buy essential, nutritious food for their children.

    Refugee families already endure extreme hardships traveling through multiple countries while facing food insecurity and a lack of medical care. Children are especially vulnerable to the cumulative effects of prolonged malnutrition.

    The Greek authorities and European Union institutions must ensure a healthy and safe environment for refugee children, including adequate paediatric healthcare. Cash assistance should also be reinstated so that families can afford nutritious food.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Carbajal, Brownley, Panetta Demand the Trump Administration Halt its Illegal Plans to Close Facilities Vital to the Central Coast

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    Reps. Carbajal, Brownley, Panetta Demand the Trump Administration Halt its Illegal Plans to Close Facilities Vital to the Central Coast

    Washington, April 7, 2025

    Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) sent a letter to Acting Administrator Stephen Ehikian of the General Services Administration over the planned illegal closures of crucial facilities across the Central Coast. The planned closures will impact U.S. Department of Interior (DOI), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and United States Forest Service (USFS) facilities in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties.

    “These are critical agencies that help support our local economies’ vitality and the American way of life,” wrote the lawmakers. “Efforts to justify these closures as a measure to help better serve the American people is, at best, disingenuous.”

    The full text of the letter is available
    As Representatives of the Central Coast, we write to demand that you halt planned facility closures at the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Forest Service (USFS) that would impact our constituents in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. These are critical agencies that help support our local economies’ vitality and the American people. These indiscriminate closures, done in an arbitrary and capricious manner, are antithetical to our Constitution and values as Americans.
    Trying to shutter the physical locations for these vital agencies is reflective of the illegal actions undertaken by DOGE to undermine the effectiveness of our government rather than working to improve it to better serve our constituents and the American people.
    DOI was created by an act of Congress in 1849 and is critical in managing our nation’s cultural heritage— including our public lands, which have been a boon to our local recreational economies. In fact, California is home to the nation’s largest active outdoor industry economy, contributing $73.8 billion in economic spending annually. This is not by coincidence. California is also home to nine national parks—more than any other state. The Central Coast of California alone is home to the Channel Islands National Park and Pinnacles National Park. The positive contribution to our economies is reflected by the fact that in 2023, 36.2 million visitors to California’s national parks spent $3.2 billion, supporting 39,678 jobs.
    Likewise, NOAA is essential to America’s innovation and economic vitality. Under the Department of Commerce, NOAA is tasked with the critical mission to provide daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and support marine commerce. NOAA’s mission is carried out by some of our nation’s top scientists. The products and cutting-edge research generated by NOAA helps support more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product. Everyday Americans rely on NOAA’s science for basic day-to-day needs like determining the weather. This information is critical for commercial and public safety needs. It is NOAA’s data that helps provide the public with free and lifesaving alerts when Americans are facing natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires.
    Furthermore, with more than $59 billion in agricultural sales, California leads the nation as the top producer of agricultural products in the United States. Throughout the world, California was the world’s largest agriculture producer in 2022. Closing USDA offices only serves to harm American families and our farmers who rely on USDA to ensure food safety, manage our natural resources, and support our food supply chains and economic well-being.
    Finally, the U.S. Forest Service manages 193 million acres of public lands and provides potentially life-saving expertise in fire management. Our constituents are no strangers to wildfires. Fires in the Western United States have only become larger, more destructive and deadly. We cannot pretend that this is not a reality that many Americans are experiencing.
    Efforts to justify these closures as a measure to help better serve the American people is, at best, disingenuous. As outlined above, these agencies are critical to our nations and region’s wellbeing and help maintain our economic vitality to support our way of life. Again, we demand that you cease these office closures. Further we ask that you let us know under what authority are you acting to close these offices without, at the very least, consultation with Congress—a co-equal branch of government.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: With aid blockade into its second month, misery deepens for Gazans

    Source: United Nations 2

    Humanitarian Aid

    Amid the ongoing Israeli aid blockade and bombardment of Gaza, aid teams warned on Monday that civilians trapped there face multiple daily challenges as relief supplies run critically low.

    In a joint statement, the heads of the UN’s aid agencies warned that “we are witnessing acts of war in Gaza that show an utter disregard for human life,” with Israeli displacement orders forcing hundreds of thousands to flee – with nowhere safe to go.

    “With the tightened Israeli blockade on Gaza now in its second month, we appeal to world leaders to act – firmly, urgently and decisively – to ensure the basic principles of international humanitarian law are upheld.

    “Protect civilians, facilitate aid, release hostages – renew a ceasefire,” they urged.

    Trapped, starved, bombed

    More than 2.1 million Gazans are being “trapped, bombed and starved again,” top UN officials said.

    Any assertions that there is sufficient food inside the Strip to feed everyone is far from the reality on the ground, they added.

    Over the weekend the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) announced the closure of 21 malnutrition treatment centres in Gaza, owing to the resumption of hostilities and the recent evacuation orders issued for areas where the centres were operating.

    The development came as the UN agency warned that more than one million children in Gaza have been impacted by the Israeli embargo.

    Spokesperson Abu Khalaf condemned the blockade while confirming it has thousands of aid parcels waiting to be delivered to Gaza.

    Milk supplies dwindle

    Complementary food supplies for infants in Gaza have now run out, he said, with only enough ready-to-use milk left to feed 400 children for a month.

    UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestine refugees and the largest in Gaza, highlighted the increasingly dire impact of Israel’s 2 April decision to stop allowing all humanitarian and commercial supplies into the enclave.

    Media reports citing the Gazan health authorities on Sunday said that Israeli strikes killed at least 32 people, including over a dozen women and children.

    In other reports, the Israeli military was alleged to have completely destroyed almost all homes in Rafah and isolated the southern city from the rest of the enclave.

    “It’s been over a month since the State of Israel banned the entry of aid and commercial supplies into #Gaza,” UNRWA said. “Stocks are getting low and the situation is becoming desperate.”

    Although the United Nations agency continues to provide assistance “with whatever supplies remain”, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) on Friday reported that its 25 subsidized bakeries have had to close.

    Stocks are dwindling and prices of the few remaining items in shops have soared because no food aid nor cooking gas is entering Gaza.

    “Poor kids are looking all day for food to eat, and they can’t find any,” said Jalila Abu Laila, at a camp for displaced Gazans in the north of the enclave. “Basically, nothing is available; they might only get some rice from the good people who give some out, but in general, we are unable to provide anything.”

    Israeli cities also reportedly came under attack on Sunday – including the southern city of Ashkelon – after Palestinian fighters Hamas claimed responsibility for firing rockets at Israel.

    Israel’s military said around 10 projectiles were fired, but most were successfully intercepted. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Community Wellness Bus Project Launching in Saskatoon

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 7, 2025

    The province’s third mobile wellness bus will open its doors April 9 in Saskatoon, offering residents a new way to access primary health care services.

    Saskatoon is the most recent community to benefit from a mobile Community Wellness Bus. The launch is part of the Government of Saskatchewan’s $2.4 million investment for the purchase and retrofitting of three wellness buses, located in Saskatoon, Regina and Prince Albert.

    “It is wonderful to see the progress being made with primary care in our province,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “Wellness buses provide another avenue for residents to receive the care they need closer to home.”

    Community Wellness Buses will provide basic primary care and mental health and addictions services. Services will vary based on population and the needs of the community; not all locations will have the same services, as supports will be customized based on patient needs.

    “It’s encouraging to see the positive impact of community health initiatives in our province,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said. “Mobile clinics are making health care more accessible to vulnerable individuals by bringing essential services directly to residents and contributing to better health care outcomes.”

    The Saskatoon bus will be located primarily at 2023 Morse Road (near the old Farmer’s Market) from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. Clients are encouraged to call 306-380-1000 for up-to-date location and schedule information.

    A wellness bus was announced in Prince Albert on March 21 and residents can call 306-940-9943 for location and hours of operation.

    The Regina wellness bus has been operational since February 12 and is currently operating Monday to Friday 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the rear parking lot of the Lawson Aquatic Centre located at 1717 Elphinstone Street.

    Services offered by wellness buses may include:

    • basic health assessments (physicals);
    • health education;
    • chronic disease monitoring;
    • ·vaccinations;
    • take home naloxone (THN) kits and training;
    • sexually transmitted and blood borne infection (STBBI) point of care testing;
    • ·opioid agonist therapy/withdrawal management;
    • reproductive health services/supplies;
    • mental health and addiction assessments and counselling/referrals;
    • wound care, stitches, routine health care;
    • referral to housing, social services;
    • referral to addictions and mental health treatment and services;
    • connection to culturally relevant Indigenous services (traditional medicine, connection to spiritual services and Elders); and
    • ·other primary health care services.

    “Through the Community Wellness Buses, we are fostering respect and compassion by meeting individuals where they are,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Physician Executive for Integrated Saskatoon Health Dr. Mark Fenton said. “By eliminating barriers to care, we ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to compassionate, culturally responsive, and stigma-free support.” 

    Health care staff on the bus will include a nurse practitioner, a licensed practical nurse, and assessor coordinators who offer referrals to community supports.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The 2025-26 Budget Delivers More Affordability Measures for Saskatchewan Residents

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 7, 2025

    The 2025-26 Budget delivers affordability for the people of Saskatchewan. In this year’s budget, record investments are being made in health care, education and community safety, in addition to delivering more affordability measures than ever before. 

    “This budget follows through on our promise to ensure Saskatchewan remains the most affordable place in Canada to live, work, raise a family and start a business,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Jim Reiter said. 

    The taxation changes introduced in the 2025-26 Budget, including the initiatives in The Saskatchewan Affordability Act, provide over $250 million in tax savings this year. This is in addition to the more than $2 billion in affordability measures in each and every budget.

    Included in these changes are the largest personal income tax reduction in the province since 2008 by raising the basic personal exemption, spousal and equivalent-to-spouse exemption and dependent child exemption by $500 a year for the next four years – over and above the impact of indexation. Upon full implementation, an additional 54,000 residents will no longer be paying provincial income tax. 

    “This year’s budget reduces income taxes for every resident, family and small business in the province,” Reiter said. “It also helps make life more affordable for seniors, families with children, persons with disabilities, caregivers, new graduates, first-time homebuyers, people renovating their homes and more.”

    Families benefit from the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit, helping individuals or couples cover costs associated with fertility treatments. Doubling the Active Families Benefit tax credit and raising the qualifying income threshold to $120,000 will make accessing children’s sports, arts, cultural and recreational activities more affordable. 

    Seniors receive an increase in the senior supplement amount by $500 annually for the next four years, starting in 2025 – over and above the impact of indexation. An increase to the Personal Care Home Benefit will help more than 2,000 low-income seniors with the cost of living in a licensed personal care home. 

    The Graduate Retention Program has also increased, with a maximum benefit of $24,000 for students who live and work in Saskatchewan after graduating from a post-secondary institution. The Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship provides up to $3,000 for Grade 12 students who will be attending post-secondary institutions in the province. 

    Making housing more affordable is also a priority. As a result, all education property tax mill rates have been reduced to absorb the increase in property assessment values and ensure this assessment year is revenue neutral for the province. This change will save property owners in the province more than $100 million annually. Reinstating the Home Renovation Tax Credit saves residents up to $420 and seniors $525 annually in provincial income tax. The First-Time Homebuyers’ Tax Credit maximum benefit increased to $1,575, making homeownership more attainable for first-time homebuyers, and the PST Rebate on New Home Construction was made permanent. 

    The 2025-26 Budget also delivers for individuals receiving income assistance, with a two per cent increase for nearly 20,000 Saskatchewan Income Support clients and more than 18,000 Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability clients. Beginning July 1, 2025, the Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit will increase by five per cent annually for the next four years – over and above the impact of indexation – benefiting more than 300,000 individuals and families in the province. 

    Affordability measures are also increasing for persons with disabilities and caregivers. The Disability Tax Credit and the Disability Tax Credit supplement for children under 18 both increase by 25 per cent, in addition to indexation. The Caregiver Tax Credit also increases by 25 per cent, in addition to indexation, which provides financial support for families who care for adult children or parents with physical or mental impairments.

    In addition to measures that help make life more affordable, the 2025-26 Budget includes measures that support our growing province. The Small Business Tax Rate permanently remains at one per cent, which benefits more than 35,000 small businesses and saves them over $50 million annually in corporate income taxes. The Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Tax Credit provides a non-refundable tax credit for individuals or corporations that invest in the equity of eligible Saskatchewan small and medium enterprise, while the Saskatchewan Class 1 Truck Driver Training Rebate Program supports individuals seeking their commercial driving licence. 

    To learn more about the Government of Saskatchewan’s affordability measures and other 2025-26 Budget initiatives, visit: budget.saskatchewan.ca.         

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Braddon restaurant awarded for sustainable choices

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Clement Chauvin, Head Chef and sole owner of Les Bistronomes. Photo credit Canberra Times and Gary Ramage.

    Clement Chauvin, Head Chef and sole owner of Les Bistronomes, has taken out the Waste Minimisation Award at the 2024 Climate Choices Business Awards.

    He has been acknowledged for his creative and community-minded sustainability initiatives.

    The Awards recognise climate leaders in the business arena across eight categories.

    Les Bistronomes was celebrated for making sustainable choices for everything from sourcing ingredients to disposing waste.

    “It was wonderful to receive the award,” said Clement.

    “As a chef, I’m aware that my produce comes from mother earth and the land we live on. It makes sense to be considerate of the earth that gives us the food that nurtures and feeds us all,” he said.

    Some of the ideas Les Bistronomes was recognised for as part of the award came about during COVID.

    “It was a difficult time, but it really created community around our restaurant, and led to some great ideas for sustainability and waste minimisation,” Clement said.

    The idea to create a ‘green card’ came about from a woman who donated 80 kilograms of Jerusalem artichokes to Clement. She had an excess and didn’t know what to do with them.

    “I wanted to repay her in some way, and that’s when the idea came,” he said.

    “Local home growers in Canberra can bring in their raspberries, flowers, lemons, rhubarb or homegrown veggies in exchange for a 10 per cent discount at the restaurant.”

    This initiative reduces food waste and grows community connection, as well as limiting food miles.

    Les Bistronomes also gives growers food scraps for their compost.

    This is a way of sequestering carbon and returning nutrients to the soil. Their approach is not only great for the business, but also gives back to the local community.

    Clement has now established strong relationships with a number of locals who love growing fruits and vegetables and who regularly supply food for the restaurant.

    “I now work with two local ladies, and we plan out crops so that the restaurant has a steady and seasonal supply of produce,” he said.

    The Sustainable Business Program

    Clement said the future for Les Bistronomes is to go all-electric and move to solar if he can.

    He has reached out to the ACT Government’s Sustainable Business Program to help him.

    The program has technical experts who can provide all ACT businesses with free advice on ways to improve their energy efficiency; including transitioning off gas with rebates of up to $10,000, installing solar panels and battery storage.

    “The Sustainable Business Program helped me look at what options were available to improve sustainability, but from an infrastructure point of view,” Clement said.

    “We’re looking to switch from gas to electric induction cooking and we’re investigating how we can use solar to offset electricity costs.”

    Find out more about the Sustainable Business Program and the other Climate Choices Business Awards winners.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Illinois Businesses, Nonprofits and Residents Affected by South Terrace Apartment Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – In response to an Administrative disaster declaration issued April 2, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans for Illinois businesses, nonprofits and residents affected by the South Terrace Apartment fire occurring on Feb. 22.  

    The disaster declaration covers Cook County, which is eligible for both Physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. EIDLs are also available to eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the adjacent counties of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will in Illinois, as well as Lake County in Indiana. 

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

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

    Businesses and homeowners may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes.  

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

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

    Beginning Monday, April 7, 2025, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Cook County to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.  

    The DLOC hours of operation are listed below: 

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) 
    Cook County 

    Justice Village Hall 

    7800 S Archer Road 

    Justice, Illinois 60458 

    Opening:  Monday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

    Hours: Monday – Friday – 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

    Saturday – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

    Closed: Sunday  

    Permanently Closing: Saturday, April 19, 2 p.m. 

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

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan. 

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

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 2, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is January 2, 2026. 

    ### 

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MPUC TO HOLD PUBLIC WITNESS HEARING IN THE 10 PERSON COMPLAINT CONCERNING AN INCREASE IN RATES PERTAINING TO LORING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

    Source: US State of Maine

    April 7, 2025

    Hallowell, Maine– The Maine Public Utilities Commission will hold a public witness hearing in the 10 Person Complaint Concerning an Increase in Rates Pertaining to Loring Development Authority.

    Wednesday, April 16, 2025 6:00 p.m. Northern Maine Community College Edmund Conference Center Presque Isle, Maine Remote participation available

    Members of the public who are not a party to this case may present testimony or comments to the Commission on the issues in this proceeding. A sign language interpreter will be available. For more information regarding remote participation please email PUCPublicHearing@maine.gov

    All public documents in the case are available on the Commission’s Online Case Management System. Please reference Case #2024-00300.

    About the Commission The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for all ratepayers, while also helping achieve reductions in state greenhouse gas emissions. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service, gas safety and Dig Safe. Philip L. Bartlett, II serves as Chair, Patrick Scully and Carrie Gilbert serve as Commissioners.

    Learn more about the Commission at www.maine.gov/mpuc

    Learn more about the Commission at www.maine.gov/mpuc CONTACT: Susan Faloon, Media Liaison CELL: 207-557-3704 EMAIL: susan.faloon@maine.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming National Guard aviation ranks among the top in national readiness

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    Wyoming National Guard

    By Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas

    CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The Wyoming Army National Guard’s Army Aviation Support Facility achieved the second-highest operational readiness ranking for the 2024 fiscal year and secured the number one spot for the first quarter of the 2025 fiscal year.

    The achievement is the result of optimized work schedules, a dedicated maintenance team, and a focus on crew readiness, according to Maj. Lauren Gurney, commander of Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 211th Aviation Regiment, and facility commander.

    “Our Soldiers are the foundation of our success,” Gurney said. “We’ve been able to implement optimized work schedules that maximize maintenance windows and flight training periods, allowing us to maintain high aircraft availability and ensure our crews are always ready.”

    The Wyoming Army Guard Aviation unit plays a role in state and federal missions, including search and rescue operations. Through strategic scheduling, the unit has enhanced its response time by 22% over previous years.

    “Our 24/7 coverage capability ensures that our crews are well-rested and prepared to serve as a sword and shield for the state,” Gurney said. “This improvement in response time directly contributes to our effectiveness in time-sensitive situations.”

    Maintaining this high level of readiness presents challenges, including budget constraints and the risk of personnel burnout. The unit has adopted a team-based approach to rotating crews and utilizing flight training periods to mitigate these concerns.

    Sgt. 1st Class Keith Snipes, production noncommissioned officer in charge at AASF, emphasized the importance of tracking aircraft maintenance and availability.

    “We use the Army’s Aircraft Notebook system to monitor the operational status of each aircraft,” Snipes said. “This allows us to project flight schedules and maintenance needs efficiently, ensuring our aircraft remain mission ready. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, we achieved a 94 percent operational readiness rate—14 percent above the Department of the Army’s standard for National Guard units.”

    Col. Dane Rodgers, state Army aviation officer for the Wyoming Army Guard, highlighted the risk assessment process that supports both safety and readiness.

    “Our risk assessment process is continuous, from mission receipt to execution,” Rodgers said. “Pilots and their aircrews conduct a comprehensive review of crew conditions, weather and mission specifics before every flight. This information is then evaluated by mission briefers and higher command to ensure that risks are mitigated before approval.”

    A key factor in the unit’s success is its highly skilled team of maintainers and aircrew, including specialists like Spc. Paxton Hunt, an aircraft mechanic and crew chief at AASF.

    “Everyone here takes ownership of their assigned aircraft, which fosters a strong sense of responsibility and accountability,” Hunt said. “We work as a team to ensure all aircraft are mission ready at all times. Preventative maintenance, including routine inspections and major overhauls, plays a huge role in keeping our aircraft in peak condition.”

    Looking ahead, Gurney emphasized that the primary goal is not just to maintain top rankings but to ensure long-term operational safety and effectiveness.

    “Our priority is always the safety of our crews and aircraft,” Gurney said. “While achieving a high operational readiness ranking is a significant accomplishment, our true success lies in ensuring that every Soldier returns home safely after every mission.”

    Sgt. 1st Class Kort Riker, a UH-60 helicopter repairer/aircrew member assigned to Wyoming’s Army Aviation Support Facility, performs an inspection on a HH-60M Black Hawk at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on March 19, 2025. The Wyoming Army National Guard’s Army Aviation Support Facility achieved the second-highest operational readiness ranking for the 2024 fiscal year and secured the number one spot for the first quarter of the 2025 fiscal year. The Wyoming Army Guard Aviation unit plays a role in state and federal missions, including search and rescue operations. Through strategic scheduling, the unit has enhanced its response time by 22% over previous years. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Miguel Zaragoza Fuentes consolidates his legacy with projects that drive international energy transformation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CIUDAD JUÁREZ, Mexico , April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Miguel Zaragoza Fuentes, founder and president of Grupo Zeta, has played a significant role in developing the energy sector in Mexico and Latin America.

    With a long-term business perspective, he has supported strategic projects to improve the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) while contributing to regional economic activity and environmental initiatives.

    Energy infrastructure with global reach

    One of the key milestones in Zaragoza Fuentes’ career has been developing and operating LPG storage and distribution facilities across several countries. Notably, the plant in Escombreras, Spain, stands out as a project approved by environmental authorities, meeting high standards of safety, operational efficiency, and environmental compliance.

    At the same time, Grupo Zeta has expanded its operational network in Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, Panama, and El Salvador, contributing to the region’s energy infrastructure. These efforts have improved access to reliable energy while supporting job creation and local economic growth.

    Sustainability and innovation as strategic axes

    Miguel Zaragoza Fuentes’s management model is based on constant modernization and environmental commitment. The company has incorporated technologies that optimize its operations, such as low-emission transport vehicles and storage systems that minimize gas leaks, aligning itself with international best practices in energy sustainability.

    Zeta Gas has also promoted high-impact environmental programs, such as the “Zeta Gas, the Ecological Flame” project, launched in Guatemala in 2014. This initiative seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions using LPG as a clean energy alternative.

    Social responsibility and community engagement

    As part of its broader approach, the company has supported reforestation campaigns in local communities. These initiatives aim to restore deforested areas and promote environmental awareness with residents’ active participation.

    “Every project we undertake reflects a clear business philosophy: responsible growth, purposeful technology, and energy serving the collective well-being,” said Miguel Zaragoza Fuentes.

    The projects developed under his leadership have delivered tangible results in the energy sector and have been recognized for their innovative approaches and social contributions. Zeta Gas has received awards for adopting clean technologies and is committed to operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.

    Contact:

    Miguel Zaragoza Fuentes
    info@miguelzaragozafuentes.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/87695efb-2d11-49bd-9552-399595c835ba

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The EU Health Data Space is here to make travelling in the EU easier!

    Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)

    If you need medical help abroad, doctors can now access your records to make sure you receive the right treatment.

    And whilst on your travels, you can pick up prescriptions prescribed by your doctor back home!

    Your health data is secure! Only the professionals you choose can access your data with your consent.

    The EU will provide high-level security for your data across all member states.

    Your health is safe in the EU Health Data Space!

    #EUHealthDataSpace #HealthSecurity #dataprivacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sYpv6CxLfM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Sunation Energy Announces Closing of Second and Final Tranche of Registered Direct Offering Generating Gross Proceeds of $5 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RONKONKOMA, N.Y., April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SUNation Energy, Inc. (“SUNation” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SUNE), a leading provider of sustainable solar energy and backup power solutions for households, businesses, and municipalities, today announced the second and final closing of its previously announced securities purchase agreement with certain institutional investors for the purchase and sale of 4,347,826 shares of the Company’s common stock (or common stock equivalents in lieu thereof), Series A warrants to purchase up to an aggregate 17,391,306 shares of the Company’s common stock and Series B warrants to purchase up to an aggregate 17,391,306 shares of the Company’s common stock at an effective purchase price of $1.15 per share (or common stock equivalents in lieu thereof) and associated warrants in a registered direct offering (the “offering”) priced at-the-market under Nasdaq rules, for gross proceeds of $5 million.

    Together with the approximately $15.0 million in gross proceeds from the previously announced first tranche closing completed on February 27, 2025, the Company raised approximately $20.0 million in aggregate gross proceeds from the offering before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company.

    “The completion of this offering marks an important milestone for SUNation and its shareholders,” said Scott Maskin, Chief Executive Officer. “We applied a portion of the proceeds from the first tranche of the offering to repay in full $9.4 million in senior and junior secured loans, which materially improved our balance sheet, stabilized our operations, and enhanced our cash flow. The closing of this second tranche provides us with greater financial flexibility to continue to pay down contractual obligations, invest in the future of SUNation and pursue our long-term growth objectives, including strategic acquisitions of regionally strong solar companies across the United States. We continue to meet head-on the challenges that face our industry and remain confident in the opportunities that lie ahead.”  

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund its operations, including for working capital, potential strategic transactions, payment of certain debt obligations, and for other general corporate purposes. 

    Roth Capital Partners acted as the exclusive placement agent for the registered direct offering.

    The securities in the offering described above are being offered by the Company pursuant to a “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-267066) previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and declared effective by the SEC on September 2, 2022 and an additional registration statement on Form S-3MEF filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) with the SEC, which became automatically effective on April 7, 2025. The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, including a prospectus supplement, forming a part of the effective registration statement, relating to the offering that will be filed with the SEC. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov or by contacting Roth Capital Partners at 888 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach CA 92660, by email at rothecm@roth.com.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

    About SUNation Energy, Inc.

    SUNation Energy, Inc. is focused on growing leading local and regional solar, storage, and energy services companies nationwide. Our vision is to power the energy transition through grass-roots growth of solar electricity paired with battery storage. Our portfolio of brands (SUNation, Hawaii Energy Connection, E-Gear) provide homeowners and businesses of all sizes with an end-to-end product offering spanning solar, battery storage, and grid services. SUNation Energy, Inc.’s largest markets include New York, Florida, and Hawaii, and the company operates in three (3) states.

    Forward Looking Statements 

    Our prospects here at SUNation Energy Inc. are subject to uncertainties and risks. This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934. The Company intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbor provided by the foregoing Sections. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations or forecasts of future events, can be affected by inaccurate assumptions, and are subject to various business risks and known and unknown uncertainties, a number of which are beyond the control of management. Therefore, actual results could differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this presentation. The Company cannot predict or determine after the fact what factors would cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements or other statements. The reader should consider statements that include the words “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “estimates”, “plans”, “projects”, “should”, or other expressions that are predictions of or indicate future events or trends, to be uncertain and forward-looking. We caution readers not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional information respecting factors that could materially affect the Company and its operations are contained in the Company’s filings with the SEC which can be found on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Contacts:
    Scott Maskin
    Chief Executive Officer
    +1 (631) 823-7131
    smaskin@sunation.com

    SUNation Energy Investor Relations
    IR@sunation.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Vasquez Leads All House Democrats in Defending Federal Workers’ Collective Bargaining Rights

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Gabe Vasquez joined Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Mark Pocan (WI-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Steven Horsford, (NV-04) and Debbie Dingell (MI-06) to lead every single House Democrat in calling on President Trump to rescind his executive order stripping collective bargaining rights from over 1 million federal employees. The lawmakers highlighted the illegality of the order and called on the President to restore the collective bargaining rights that federal employees are statutorily entitled to.

    “Collective bargaining is the strongest tool that workers have available to create a fair workplace,” wrote the lawmakers. “This action strips away those hard-earned rights – which have been upheld by presidents from both parties for decades – from federal workers who keep our country running, including nurses who care for veterans, inspectors who keep our food safe to eat, teachers who educate our children, and so many more.”

    “Furthermore, this EO not only undermines the principles of fair labor practices but also threatens the efficiency and effectiveness of the federal government, jeopardizing the delivery of critical services to the American people,” continued the lawmakers. “The freedom to join a union and collectively bargain is central to achieving the American dream for millions of American workers. This action is the single most anti-worker and anti-union presidential action since Ronald Reagan fired striking air traffic controllers in 1981, and it must be reversed immediately.”

    “We urge you to immediately rescind this harmful, unlawful EO and to reaffirm the rights of federal workers to unionize and collectively bargain. The American people deserve a federal workforce that is protected, respected, and empowered to carry out its duties effectively,” concluded the lawmakers.

    While Congress granted the President narrow authorities to exclude some agencies from collective bargaining, those exclusions can only be made if that agency has a primary function in intelligence, counterintelligence, investigative, or national security work, and only if the statute cannot be applied “in a manner consistent with national security requirements and considerations.”  However, this Administration has made clear that the EO’s exclusions are not based on national security concerns, but instead as retaliation for labor unions defending their members’ rights and making it easier to fire federal employees.

    A full copy of the letter can be found here. The letter was signed by every single House Democrat.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at Jaguar Land Rover: 7 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    PM remarks at Jaguar Land Rover: 7 April 2025

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer gave remarks at Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing site in the West Midlands.

    Thank you Rachel and thank you Adrian.  

    And can I just say a big thank you to the entire workforce here. Some of you are here with us this afternoon. I just want to say thank you for showing us what you do. We have been able to see some of the skill and experience that you put into this incredible product, years and years in the making and the technology.

    But thank you also for making us proud to be British, because as each car rolls off here, that is rolling off your production line. That is your commitment, your toil, your work, your professionalism. But it is then a product which you should be rightly proud of, and we are really proud of as a country. 

    I know how much you put into that, and I want you to know just how much we appreciate what you do. 

    Thank you for everyone for joining us this afternoon. 

    Jaguar Land Rover, our leading exporter of goods, employing thousands of people across the West Midlands and beyond. 

    That proud symbol of British engineering brilliance. And brilliance is the right word. It is our industrial heritage, but also in my strongly held view, it is our industrial future, not just our heritage. 

    My message to you is simple: these are challenging times, but we have chosen to come here because we are going to back you to the hilt. 

    I think it’s really significant that after the announcement on Wednesday, we had Adrian with us in Downing Street at 7 o’clock the next morning, and here we are on Monday, so read into that a statement of intent because it is a statement of intent about how important this is for you, for us and for the country. 

    As Rachel has said, there is no doubt about the challenge, but this is a moment for cool heads.

    No one wins from a trade war. 

    But it is also a moment for urgency. 

    Because we have to rise, together as nation to the great challenge of our age, and it is the great challenge to renew Britain so that we are secure in this era of global instability. 

    Nobody is pretending that tariffs are good news. You know that better than anyone.  

    25% tariffs on automative exports. 10% on other goods. 

    That is a huge challenge to our future. The global economic consequences could be profound. But this moment has also made something very clear. 

    That this is not a passing phase. And just as we’ve seen with our national security and defence, particularly in relation to the war in Ukraine, now with our commerce and trade, 

    This is a changing and completely new world. 

    An era where old assumptions, long taken for granted, simply no longer apply. 

    Before the election – I called it an age of insecurity. And that is the right phrase. Insecurity. Because that’s how this is felt in the lives of working people. Insecurity and worry for builders, for carers, for nursers, for factory workers like people here in Coventry, working harder and harder for the pound in their pocket, yet watching this rising tide of insecurity threaten to sweep away the things we cherish in our communities. 

    Trust me – I know people will be feeling that right now. 

    But to those people, I say, we have your back. 

    This government will not just sit back and hope. 

    That is how politics has failed you in recent years. 

    Attempting to manage crises without fundamental change just leads to managed decline. 

    So no – we’re going to seize the possibilities. 

    Fight for the future. On defence spending, on AI, on clean British energy and on manufacturing, including car building.

    Make those forces work for Britain. Rewire our economy and our state so that once again they serve the interests of working people. 

    This is why we are rewiring the state completely.  

    Ripping up the regulation that stops it being a force for good. 

    Building new homes, new towns, new infrastructure. 

    Accelerating the investment that will finally unlock the potential of every community.  

    And let me be really clear as well. Our future is in our hands. 

    And so of course – we will keep calm and fight for the best deal with the US and we have been discussing that intensely in the last few days. 

    But we’re also going to work with our key partners to reduce barriers to trade across the globe. 

    Accelerate trade deals with the rest of the world and champion the cause of free and open trade – right across the globe. And just like car building, that has always been our heritage – and we won’t turn our backs on it now. 

    And look, when it comes to the US, I will only strike a deal if it is in the national interest. If it is the right thing to do for our security. If it protects the pound in the pocket that working people, across our country, work so hard to earn for their family. 

    That is my priority. That is always my priority. Strength abroad – security and renewal at home. 

    And on that journey of renewal we take another step today with our car industry. 

    You know, there are people in this country who love to talk down our manufacturing. They say – we don’t make anything important anymore. ‘That’s not Britain’. Well – I would invite anyone who thinks like that to come here and see what you do in this factory. 

    Anyone who is talking down manufacturing. Come here to Jaguar Land Rover and see what you are doing and they wouldn’t say that again. 

    Because just as I’ve said, when we were going around earlier, what I saw made me proud.

    And I hope that if I feel proud of what you are doing, you are entitled to feel proud of what you are doing. 

    This is British brilliance in the flesh. 

    You’re making cars here – but you’re also representing our country with each car as it departs. That’s the pride that always goes with making things. 

    And I’ve said it many times before, but I will say it again: my dad worked in a factory. He was an engineer. He made things with his hands. And he taught me as I was growing up, you should value the things that we make.

    And that’s what brilliant about manufacturing. And manufacturing shapes the identity of a place. This place, and of a community and a country. And that’s how it gets in your blood.  

    Which is why electric vehicles are so important. Yes – of course it’s about the climate and you won’t hear me undermining the urgency of that cause. 

    But it’s also about taking the pride, the heritage, the identity of places like this and securing it for the future. 

    That’s what the previous government never understood. The link between manufacturing and who we are as a country. 

    But those days are over. They are finished. This is a government of industrial renewal.

    Because my choice, in this volatile world is to back British brilliance. 

    I believe that British car companies should be at the forefront of the electric revolution. This is a race we belong in. 

    And so I think EV targets are a good thing. 

    They are good for the climate. Good for business certainty and investment. Good for British manufacturing. 

    But I accept – those targets have to work for British manufacturers.  

    And I don’t want British firms, like this one put in a position where you have to pay a hefty fine or buy credits from foreign EV companies. 

    So today – we’re going to introduce much more flexibility into EV mandates.  

    We’re going to help car companies based in Britain reach the targets in a way that supports growth. 

    We’re going to cut any fines – which I do not want or expect to see – by 20% and any money that is raised – would be invested directly back into support for the British car industry. 

    We’re also going to take action on hybrids because these cars make a massive difference to reducing emissions. 

    I mean, if you drive a Toyota Prius around town. Or, perhaps if you work here, a Range Rover you probably spend a lot of the time in electric mode. So I think for these vehicles a 2030 ban is too soon. So we’ll push that back to 2035 – for all hybrids. That’s a new step we are taking and a new announcement today. 

    And because we’re not ideological about how we cut carbon emissions, we’ll also make sure that cleaner, efficient, petrol cars sold before 2030 count towards your EV mandate. That will be good for British car manufacturers like this one. 

    As Rachel has said, we are also putting £2.3 billion pounds into the British car industry, giving people tax breaks worth hundreds of millions of pounds a year to help them switch to electric. 

    Improving charging infrastructure. That is a massive factor when people are thinking about switching and our approach means we are seeing a new public charging point popping up every half an hour.

    Because this is the moment when we back British business and charge up the electric revolution. 

    British electric cars running off clean British power, made by British workers. 

    British cars for British workers! 

    And as you know by the way switching to electric can also save you up to £1100 a year so if we get this right it can help the cost of living as well. 

    But look – it’s not just our car industry we need to back. 

    In the coming days and weeks, we are going to use industrial policy to shelter British business from the storm. 

    Take our life sciences sector, another shining example of British brilliance. An absolutely pivotal part of our export economy. We’re going to back them, as well. 

    We’re going to rip up the red tape. Cut the stifling bureaucracy that slows down clinical trials. Now Britain used to be better at this but we’ve taken our foot off the pedal.  

    The latest data says it takes over 250 days to set up a clinical trial. I’m going to slash that to 150.  

    And on top of that, I can also announce – a new investment up to £600 million in a new Health Data Research Service. A welcome partnership with the Wellcome Trust strengthening the genome cluster in Cambridge. 

    Making sure that patient data in our NHS is unlocked for the public good. An opportunity for growth – but more importantly to save lives with cutting edge medicine and Britain is so good at this. 

    We saw that in the pandemic. And we now need to pick up the pace again. This country has never waited around for history to shape us. We have shaped history – and we will do so again now. 

    Take our future into our hands. Do everything necessary to defend our national interest. 

    Strengthen our alliances, increase our defence power, support our businesses, jobs and workers. 

    Rebuild, in defiance of a volatile world, our industrial strength. 

    That is the purpose of this Government. Security and renewal. The world may be changing but we are driving forward securing our future with a clear Plan for Change.  

    Thank you. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kugler, Inflation Dynamics and the Phillips Curve

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    .

    April 07, 2025
    Inflation Dynamics and the Phillips Curve
    Governor Adriana D. Kugler
    At Ec10b Principles of Economics Lecture, Department of Economics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts

    Governor Adriana D. Kugler presents a lecture about inflation dynamics and the Phillips Curve to students in Harvard University’s Ec10b Principles of Economics class on Monday, April 7, 2025.
    In the lecture she discusses how pandemic-era inflation came in a series of waves: food, core goods, core services and housing. She then talks about the Phillips curve as a model to capture inflation dynamics. Finally, Governor Kugler explores additional augmentations to the Phillips curve model that could help better explain the most recent inflation episode.
    Here are the slides from her presentation.

    Last Update: April 07, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Honors Crime Victims and Survivors During 2025 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN ANTONIO – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) April 6–12, by recognizing recent criminal cases involving victims.

    This year’s NCVRW theme—Connecting Healing—recognizes that shared humanity drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins. The annual observance challenges us to build a world where every connection built through KINSHIP — between survivors, advocates, and communities — holds the potential to heal. It asks us to ensure that resources are available to all survivors and that we show up for one another with empathy and intention.

    With a dedicated team of prosecutors and victim assistance professionals who work together to ensure victims of crime receive the services and support they need, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and is home to an estimated population of 7.6 million people.

    “Federal crimes against victims will not be tolerated in this district—regardless of whether they are violent crimes, drug crimes, or white collar,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “It is a priority of our prosecutors, our victim assistance specialists, and the entire Department of Justice, that we advocate in the best interests of victims and that crime victims have access to proper effective resources.”

    Recently prosecuted cases include the 40-year federal prison sentence of Saint Jovite Youngblood in Austin for four counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Youngblood committed wire fraud against his victims by claiming Mexican drug cartel members were planning to commit violence against them. Youngblood falsely claimed to have been part of the U.S. Army’s Delta Force special operations unit and offered protection to his victims from the cartels in exchange for money. Youngblood also represented that funds obtained from his victim “investors” would be paid back with a significant return on the money. Instead, Youngblood used most of the money on junkets to Las Vegas to gamble in casinos. Over the course of his scheme, Youngblood defrauded 32 victims for more than $12 million, which he was ordered to pay in restitution.

    In Waco, a former U.S. sailor was sentenced to life in federal prison after a jury found him guilty of coercion and enticement of a minor. Bailey Warren Lowe used a Snapchat account to request sexually explicit images from a 13-year-old girl on multiple occasions. If she acted slowly or the photos did not meet his expectations, Lowe would become angry and threaten to expose her. On one occasion, in early 2022, Lowe drove to the minor’s residence, where they engaged in sexual activity in his vehicle. Lowe did not use a condom and, when the minor repeated that she was 13 years old, he demanded she not tell anyone about them because he was 22 and could get in trouble. An FBI investigation revealed multiple chat conversations and instances of sexual exploitation between Lowe and additional victims between the ages of 10 and 15 years old.

    In July 2024, an Odessa man was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for carjacking and discharging a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence. Isaac Ramirez Carrasco carjacked a couple on Jan. 30 by pointing a shotgun at the driver and ordering both occupants out of their vehicle. The victim did not initially comply, and Carrasco fired the shotgun at least one time in the air before returning his aim to the victim. The couple ultimately exited the truck and Carrasco drove away in it. Odessa Police were able to track the truck to a nearby residence, where they also located Carrasco and the shotgun.

    In November, Alex Georges Tannous, of Ain-Akrine, Lebanon, was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio to 240 months in prison for wire fraud. Tannous told his victims he was a prince from Dubai who was charged with bringing U.S.-based businesses to market in Dubai. He claimed millions were available, but that an initial payment from the victim was required to initiate the flow of funds. Once the funds were secured, he used the money to support his lavish lifestyle and the lifestyles of multiple family members. In total, Tannous stole more than $2 million from his victims. In addition to his 20-year federal prison sentence, he was ordered to pay $2.2 million in restitution.

    And most recently, David Manuel Garcia was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison on March 20 for engaging in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign place. Garcia had traveled from the U.S. to Mexico between July 2003 and August 2008 and engaged in forced sexual acts with a minor victim under the age of 18, which resulted in the birth of two children. Records indicate that the victim was 13 years old at the time of the first birth, and 15 years old when she gave birth to the second child.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas will commemorate NCVRW 2025 throughout the week in various ways. Most publicly, employees will be encouraged to wear this year’s theme colors of “midnight,” “mauve,” and “melon,” or colors closely similar, on Thursday, April 10. Community members across the district and beyond are invited to join the U.S. Attorney’s Office in this endeavor, using the hashtag #NCVRW2025 and tagging @USAO_WDTX on X (formerly known as Twitter), as a symbol of solidarity.

    On April 9, the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) will host the 2025 NCVRW Candlelight Vigil at 3:30pm (EST) to pay tribute to victims of crime and the many dedicated professionals and volunteers who advocate on their behalf. We hope you’ll save-the-date and join via the livestream at www.ovc.ojp.gov/live or www.justice.gov/live.

    NCVRW began in 1981 to honor victims and survivors of crime, raise awareness of victims’ rights and services and recognize the dedication of those who work with crime victims.

    For more ideas on supporting crime victims, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: E Ink Marquee™ Highlights Technological Breakthrough for Electrophoretic Displays at Touch Taiwan 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BILLERICA,Mass., April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — E Ink (8069.TW) the originator, pioneer, and global commercial leader in electronic paper (ePaper) technology, today announced its latest technological breakthrough with E Ink Marquee™. E Ink successfully developed a 4-particle color system that allows for vibrant color with an extended temperature range for outdoor and digital out of home (DOOH) signage.

    E Ink Marquee stands out for its exceptional energy efficiency and broad temperature range, making it ideal for outdoor deployments. Unlike conventional LCD and LED displays, Marquee’s thermal performance reduces the need for complex cooling systems, offering a cost-effective outdoor signage solution. Moreover, Marquee’s ability to seamlessly switch pages expands its versatility across various applications, from interactive street furniture displays to dynamic advertising platforms, enabling seamless integration with brand activations and programmatic campaigns.

    “The future of E Ink is becoming more colorful with our E Ink Marquee innovation,” said Johnson Lee, CEO, E Ink. “E Ink Marquee will be a cornerstone of our organization and define the future of display technology across industries.”

    Preliminary performance metrics for E Ink Marquee’s full-color application features an operating temperature range between -20 and 65 °C., with ongoing development of the newest displays focused on reaching sizes as large as 75” diagonal and update times between 5-7 seconds.

    “Building upon our pioneering ePaper foundation established in 1997, E Ink Marquee represents an exciting evolution.” said Edzer Huitema, US CTO, E Ink. “We expect E Ink Marquee to redefine the digital display industry and challenge people’s perception of E Ink and what is possible.”

    While E Ink Marquee’s roadmap is still being defined, Touch Taiwan 2025 serves as an important opportunity to showcase the recent breakthrough and provide a glimpse into the future of digital displays. If visitors would like to experience the latest E Ink technology demonstrations, they can visit booth #L717 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center from April 16-18. E Ink Marquee will also be shown at Display Week in San Jose, CA from May 13-15.

    E Ink’s ePaper technology is energy-efficient and non-emissive, reducing power consumption and carbon emissions compared to paper and LCDs. Solar-powered ePaper signage can run entirely on renewable energy, ideal for net-zero initiatives. Through its PESG framework, E Ink delivers low-carbon solutions that accelerate this transition. According to FTSE Russell, 99.9% of the company’s product sales revenue is green, and Moody’s has verified E Ink’s green loans as compliant with Green Loan Principles, awarding a positive sustainability score. These achievements highlight E Ink’s strong environmental performance and alignment with international standards.

    About E Ink

    E Ink Holdings Inc. (8069.TWO), based on technology from MIT’s Media Lab, provides an ideal display medium for applications spanning eReaders and eNotes, retail, home, hospital, transportation, logistics, and more, enabling customers to put displays in locations previously impossible. E Ink’s electrophoretic display products make it the worldwide leader for ePaper. Its low power displays enable customers to reach their sustainability goals, and E Ink has pledged using 100% renewable energy in 2030 and reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2040. E Ink has been recognized for their efforts by receiving, validation from Science-Based Targets (SBTi) and is listed in both the DJSI World and DJSI Emerging Indexes. Listed in Taiwan’s Taipei Exchange (TPEx) and the Luxembourg market, E Ink Holdings is now the world’s largest supplier of ePaper displays. For more information please visit www.eink.com. E Ink. We Make Surfaces Smart and Green.

    Contact:
    V2 Communications for E Ink
    eink@v2comms.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e2fda7da-28df-4d0a-8ad8-38b9a3ca0a68

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cbe5deea-4bd6-4961-bd83-cb4972606c76

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Sudan on the brink of civil war: bold action from the international community is needed

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Madhav Joshi, Research Professor & Associate Director, Peace Accords Matrix (PAM), Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies and Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame

    South Sudan is likely to return to full-blown civil war unless the international community takes a radical approach to stabilise the country and re-engage in the peace process.

    Since its formation in 2020, South Sudan’s unity government has not been steady. President Salva Kiir has reshuffled the cabinet, weakening the presence of the main opposition party, SPLM-IO. He’s previously fired two of the country’s five vice-presidents to promote his allies.

    The unity government was formed as part of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan. This agreement was negotiated and signed in September 2018 to end years of violence between forces loyal to Kiir on one hand and Riek Machar on the other.

    The agreement had a 36-month transition period. It established a unity government to reform institutions, draft a constitution, ensure transitional justice and conduct the country’s first election.

    Seven years into the implementation process, however, South Sudan has yet to fulfil many of the peace deal’s commitments. These include demobilisation, disarmament and reintegration of combatants, and training and establishing necessary unified forces.

    The timeline for holding elections, another benchmark of the transition, has been extended until December 2026. This moves the completion of the transition process to February 2027 from the initial January 2021. It is the fourth such mutually agreed extension.

    The challenges of the slow implementation of the peace agreement escalated in March 2025, with violent clashes in the Upper Nile State and a political crisis. First vice-president Machar was put under house arrest. Reports say a convoy of more than 20 heavily armed vehicles forcefully entered Machar’s residence, disarmed his bodyguards, and held him and his wife Angelina Teny. Teny is South Sudan’s interior minister.

    Read more: Kiir and Machar: insights into South Sudan’s strongmen

    It is my view that the current crisis has little to do with the recent clashes. This crisis in South Sudan has been long in the making. It has its roots in the country’s faltering peace implementation process.

    As part of my ongoing research, I have gathered data on the content and implementation of 42 comprehensive civil war peace agreements in 33 countries dating back to 1989. In none of these agreements and countries have I observed delays in implementation like in South Sudan – or the arrest of a main opposition leader who is a signatory to a peace agreement.

    South Sudan’s path to peace since its independence in 2011 has been challenging. Key to achieving stability is the peace process itself. The international community must lead a radical push to get signatories to the 2018 peace deal to implement it. This approach is necessary for regional peace and stability – the ongoing violence could easily escalate and merge with the Sudan war and drag in Uganda.

    What’s happening

    The current crisis in South Sudan began in early March 2025 when the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces clashed with the White Army militia group. The White Army took control of the town of Nasir in the oil-rich Upper Nile State.

    South Sudan’s kleptocratic leaders have been quick to associate Machar, the SPLM-IO leader, with the White Army. This is largely because the militia group primarily recruits from the Nuer ethnic group, which Machar belongs to.

    However, at the centre of these latest tensions – fanned by a slow peace implementation process – are leaders looking to strengthen their political dominance to gain unhindered access to revenue from natural resources. South Sudan’s economy is heavily reliant on oil.

    The training and deployment of unified forces, and establishment of a Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing are lagging behind. So are constitutional and electoral reforms, including a census to determine voter numbers, as well as a hybrid court for war crimes and a reparations authority.

    Read more: Violence in South Sudan is rising again: what’s different this time, and how to avoid civil war

    The implementation process began to slow down when military leaders loyal to Kiir started to co-opt generals loyal to Machar. Leadership positions within the army were divided between military officials loyal to Kiir, Machar and other groups in June 2023. This diluted SPLM-IO’s influence in the unity government.

    Rising tensions led to the Tumaini Peace Initiative, launched in May 2024 and hosted by the Kenyan government. This initiative aimed to bring other armed groups under the fold of the peace process. However, it undermined the 2018 peace deal by not tying the initiative to the revitalised agreement.

    Over several rounds of peace talks, it has became clear that a segment of the ruling elite wants to influence the implementation of the 2018 deal to control political power – and therefore, South Sudan’s resources. The unfolding events show an effort to hold the peace process hostage towards this end.

    A narrow path forward

    The path to peace and stability in South Sudan is challenging. In my research, I have examined situations where multiple armed groups either continue to fight or new ones emerge in conflict situations.

    My research consistently shows that the implementation of comprehensive peace agreements stabilises such situations by addressing security uncertainties, reforming institutions and addressing underlying grievances.

    Read more: What makes peace talks successful? The 4 factors that matter

    Stakeholders in South Sudan must prioritise the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement. Since the signatory parties are unwilling to implement the agreement, someone must step in to fill this void. With the entire peace process held hostage and key signatories of the peace agreement sidelined, this narrow path forward can only be charted with the support of and pressure from the international community.

    – South Sudan on the brink of civil war: bold action from the international community is needed
    – https://theconversation.com/south-sudan-on-the-brink-of-civil-war-bold-action-from-the-international-community-is-needed-253555

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister turbocharges medical research

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Prime Minister turbocharges medical research

    Better and faster access to NHS data for researchers with gold standard security and privacy measures.

    • Latest in a series of pro-growth measures to build a strong, resilient economy with more well-paid jobs.     
    • Changes will help make Britain the best country in the world for medical research, driving growth that puts more money in people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.
    • Next step in delivering the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy and unlocking the potential of the Oxford‑Cambridge Growth Corridor.

    The Prime Minister has today announced action to accelerate the discovery of life-saving drugs, improve patient care and make Britain the best place in the world for medical research.

    The Government and the Wellcome Trust will invest up to £600 million to create a new Health Data Research Service. This will transform the access to NHS data by providing a secure single access point to national-scale datasets, slashing red tape for researchers.

    Clinical trials will also be fast-tracked to accelerate the development of the medicines and therapies of the future, with the current time it takes to get a clinical trial set up cut to 150 days by March 2026 – where latest data collected in 2022 was over 250 days. This will be achieved by cutting bureaucracy and standardising contracts so time isn’t wasted on negotiating separate details across different NHS organisations, and ensuring transparency by publishing trust level data for the first time.

    Through this new drive, patients will have improved access to new treatments and technologies. We already saw the power of health data during the pandemic and this will allow the NHS to make huge strides in patient care.

    The changes are a major boost for the life sciences sector as the Government goes further and faster in delivering the Plan for Change and reshaping our economy in response to the new era of global insecurity.

    They follow key steps to support the British car industry and form part of our modern Industrial Strategy, which includes life sciences. Full plans will be published alongside the Spending Review later this year.

    Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said:

    The new era of global insecurity requires a Government that steps up, not stands aside.

    That is why we are going further and faster in reshaping our economy and delivering our Plan for Change.

    Life sciences, like our brilliant car industry, is a great British success story.

    The measures I am announcing today will turbo-charge medical research and deliver better patient care. I am determined to make Britain the best place in the world to invest in medical research.

    That is not just good for patients and their families. It means growth that puts more money in working people’s pockets with more, better paid jobs.

    Patient confidentiality will continue to be held to a gold standard with these changes – with rigorous security measures being in place, like anonymity and virtual locked rooms, to ensure no one’s health data is compromised.

    The Health Data Research Service brings access to data for medical research into one secure and easy-to-use location, meaning a researcher doesn’t have to navigate different systems or make multiple applications for information for the same project.

    This improvement – which will begin from the end of 2026 – will speed up the process and could set the UK on a path to cure cancer, dementia, and arthritis quicker, which will improve patient outcomes and help turbocharge the economy.

    It follows the recent decision to scrap NHS England to do away with unnecessary bureaucracy and make government work better for people, patients, and the economy.

    The new service will be housed at the Wellcome Genome Campus in Cambridgeshire, where Wellcome is building a range of new R&D lab and office spaces to expand the current campus’s capacity for innovative genomics and biodata companies.

    Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said:

    Our Plan for Change will unleash the unparalleled power of NHS data, catalysing our efforts to fix the broken health service.

    We will unblock the barriers preventing our greatest scientists from safely accessing what they need to save patients’ lives – while keeping data secure.

    This venture will drive vital investment into the UK and put us at the epicentre of breakthroughs in science.

    If we can combine the care of the NHS with the ingenuity of our world-leading scientists, our health service could truly become the envy of the world.

     Science Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Building an NHS fit for the future is central to this government’s Plan for Change. Ensuring our research community can access the data which will drive untold improvements for patients across the country is key to that ambition.

    This is a service which has truly transformative potential – giving health experts access to the insights they need to drive forward more research and more clinical trials quicker than ever before.

    Protecting the data and anonymity of patients is non-negotiable. That’s why we’re also putting robust protections in place to make sure the incredible benefits we will all receive from this service will never come at a personal cost.

    Professor Sir Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, said:

    Improving health for future patients and future generations depends on medical research, and that depends on data.

    Bringing health data together will allow scientists to understand diseases, to prevent them and to develop new treatments more quickly and more effectively to improve future health.

    John-Arne Røttingen, Chief Executive of Wellcome, said:

    There is so much more we could learn from health data in this country by joining it up better.

    The new service will give researchers a way to easily harness the data held across different parts of the NHS. The simpler it is to analyse data or identify patients to join clinical trials, the more quickly we can improve our understanding of illness and develop new treatments.

    Providing a single, secure service for approved researchers will take away the significant overhead associated of locating, accessing and comparing disparate datasets. It will create opportunities for patients to access new treatments through trials that would otherwise have been hard to arrange or conduct.

    We’re pleased to be providing our support to help establish the new service quickly. This public-philanthropic partnership will put public trust in the use of health data at the heart of its approach.

    Dr Vin Diwakar, National Director of Transformation at NHS England, said:

    We’ve seen over the past few years the vital role that research plays in improving healthcare – from the rollout of the Covid vaccine to the development of new cancer treatments – and this new service will transform how that research is carried out.

    The Health Data Research Service will remove the complexities of accessing data through multiple systems while making sure the very highest security and privacy measures remain in place, including using secure data environments to protect patient confidentiality and ensure NHS data doesn’t leave NHS IT systems.

    We’ll continue to seek feedback from the public as we develop the service and will only allow access to NHS data where there is likely to be a direct benefit to NHS patients – so that health researchers can get the data they need faster, and patients can benefit from advances in treatments much sooner.

    Executive director of policy at Cancer Research UK, Dr Ian Walker, said:

    This is a welcome and much-needed investment from the government. The information held within NHS data could help to improve our understanding of diseases like cancer and contribute to the creation of effective new treatments.

    Despite its huge potential, access to this data has long been a significant challenge for the research sector, and anything that unleashes the power of NHS data, whilst protecting the security and anonymity of patients, will help enormously.

    The UK can lead the world in data science for the benefits of patients both at home and abroad. It will be essential to consult with patients every step of the way.

    STAKEHOLDER REACTION

    Professor Cathie Sudlow, Former Chief Scientist and Strategic Advisor, Health Data Research UK, and author of the Sudlow Review: Uniting the UK’s Health Data: A Huge Opportunity for Society, said:

    Today’s announcement of a Health Data Research Service, a central recommendation of my recently published review of the UK’s health data landscape, is a major step forward for UK health research. It has the potential to be a game-changer, by accelerating secure, trustworthy, data-driven research to improve patient care and public health for the tens of millions of people in this country and beyond.

    The service should enable faster, more reliable access for approved researchers to the data needed to tackle society’s most pressing health research needs – to develop and test new approaches for preventing, diagnosing and treating health conditions such as cancer, dementia, heart disease, depression, arthritis and infectious outbreaks. It should support better studies, quicker answers for the health and care system and, ultimately, faster, better outcomes for patients and their families.

    Turning this investment from the UK Government and Wellcome into something that delivers will demand focus, cooperation across multiple organisations,  attention to detail and – crucially – ongoing, meaningful involvement of patients, public and health and care professionals. However, with the UK’s rich health data assets and strong life sciences and data science research capabilities, I am confident that we can make this work for everyone’s benefit.

    Nicola Perrin, Chief Executive of the Association of Medical Research Charities, said:

    The announcement of a Health Data Research Service is excellent news – for patients, for the NHS and for UK life sciences. Sustained, ringfenced funding – from the Government and Wellcome as a charitable funder – is the best way to unlock the power of NHS data to transform research and to improve health outcomes. 

    This partnership is exactly what is needed to help to ensure a trustworthy approach, and to build confidence among public, patients and healthcare professionals which will be so crucial for success. We look forward to engaging closely with the new HRDS as the plans develop, building on and consolidating the multiple initiatives that currently exist for data access.

    Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden, said:

    I’ve seen first-hand how harnessing NHS data can accelerate and improve cancer research – so today’s news is hugely welcome for cancer patients and researchers alike. 

    By offering our world leading researchers a centralised, convenient and highly secure central hub for medical research, innovative and potentially life changing developments could become more likely, helping to transform cancer patient lives.

    Emma Walmsley, Chief Executive Officer, GSK, said:

    We welcome the ambition and urgency of today’s announcements on health data and clinical trials. The UK has unique potential to bring health data securely together with an NHS system that recognises the value of innovation, to accelerate and deliver the next generation of medicines and vaccines for patients. This offers value to society and to the economy. What matters now is execution at pace and we stand ready to support.

    Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:

    This is a game-changing initiative that could drive faster progress for people with dementia and bring us closer to a cure. Better access to high-quality NHS data will help researchers understand the diseases behind dementia in greater detail, spot those at risk sooner, and develop effective new treatments more quickly.

    The UK is home to some of the most detailed, nationwide, life-long health datasets in the world, with huge potential to transform how we prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat major health conditions. But right now, researchers face barriers that stop them unlocking this data’s full, life-saving power. By cutting red tape around data access and clinical trials, the UK can accelerate the development of new diagnostics and treatments, and become a magnet for global investment. Dementia is the nation’s biggest killer, and with no treatments currently available on the NHS that slow or stop the condition, this momentum couldn’t come at a more urgent time.

    To make the new Health Data Research Service work, people affected by dementia must be at the heart of how the system is designed. With the right safeguards in place, trusted access to NHS data can be a powerful force for good – helping the UK lead the world in life sciences and transform the outlook for everyone affected by dementia in the UK.

    Dr Samantha Walker, Director of Research and Innovation at Asthma + Lung UK, said:

    The new health data service has the potential to make a huge difference to the health of the nation. Improved access to such a wealth of data is fantastic news for health research, and will help researchers better understand lung disease, which will affect 12 million people in the UK during their lifetime.

    Decades-long underinvestment has left lung research on life support. But this new investment into data will help scientists better understand early development and progression of lung disease, ultimately leading to better diagnosis, treatment and management.

    Every five minutes, someone in the UK dies a from lung condition. ​Urgent action is needed to increase investment into lung research to give everyone fighting for breath a future. Because breakthroughs can happen and when they do, they save lives. Our vision is a world where everyone has healthy lungs.

    Professor James Leiper, Director of Research at the British Heart Foundation, said:

    This investment in the huge potential of data science is a welcome and farsighted move.

    Health data has the power to give us unparalleled insights into cardiovascular disease, and will supercharge research which promises to save lives in the years to come.

    Ensuring cardiovascular researchers have simplified access to the wealth of data the NHS holds, while also ensuring security and patient confidentiality, will place the UK at the cutting edge of data science for health. We look forward to hearing further detail on plans in the coming months.

    Jacob Lant, Chief Executive at National Voices, said: 

    As patients, our health records can fuel a revolution in medical research that will both help the NHS and ensure communities across the country get faster access to groundbreaking new treatments.

    The Government’s new partnership with the Wellcome Trust can unlock this potential by offering scientists easier access to data, but crucially also giving the public concrete guarantees around data security and anonymity. This is vital to building the public trust needed to move forward and realise the full benefits of modern medical research.

    Dr. Sam Barrell, CEO of LifeArc, said:

    Rapid, transparent, and secure access to high-quality linked health data is essential for translation of research into tangible patient benefit. This is especially crucial for those with rare diseases, where large-scale data and international collaboration are vital.

    Today’s funding announcement is a welcome signal to the sector that the UK is committed to making life science life changing, powered by health data.

    Kieran Winterburn, Alzheimer’s Society’s Head of National Influencing, said:

    Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. Research will beat dementia, but we need to make it a reality sooner – through more funding, more partnership working, better access to data and more people taking part in dementia research.

    That’s why Alzheimer’s Society welcomes the Prime Minister’s announcement today that red tape will be slashed for researchers, with a new secure, single access point to NHS data. Dementia researchers can face gridlock with a lengthy and complex process to access NHS data, navigating through various systems to gather the information they need for vital population and clinical studies.

    As well as improving access to existing data, we also need to see improvements in the recording, analysis and collation of health data generally. There’s a serious disconnect between the scale and urgency of dementia as a condition and the relative scarcity of existing data on it. Having more data on dementia published will be crucial to improving diagnosis, care, and service planning.

    We’re so proud that Alzheimer’s Society-funded research 30 years ago led to the breakthroughs in disease-modifying treatments we’ve seen recently.  Research we fund now, powered by better access to data, will be pivotal in unlocking more breakthroughs.

    Dr Jeanette Dickson, Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, said:

    We know the UK can deliver high quality international practice-changing research and this tremendous initiative will enable our scientists to perform at their best by providing safe access to essential data – which in turn will improve care, speed up innovation and drive economic growth.

    Anna Steere, Head of Understanding Patient Data, said:

    This is a really welcome step toward improving how health data is used to speed up research and deliver public benefit. Research shows that people are generally supportive of their data being used in this way — but they want to see transparency, strong governance and security at the heart. We are pleased to see a commitment to working with patient groups in shaping how the service is designed and run. Getting this right from the outset is key to building lasting public confidence.

    Professor Ford is also the Co-Founder and Director of the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank in Wales, said:

    I am really delighted to hear of this recent announcement, which will bring a very substantial and much needed investment into the UK’s data infrastructure. The SAIL Databank looks forward to playing its part in making the new exciting vision a reality.

    The National Data Guardian, Dr Nicola Byrne, said:

    Access to data is essential for researchers and innovators to transform great ideas into real health improvements. With the right safeguards in place, the public is eager to see data used to drive new treatments, improve services, and tackle health inequalities.

    To maintain the public’s trust, it’s crucial that data security, clear public benefits, and full transparency around data access and use remain at the forefront. I look forward to working with others to ensure the new Health Data Research Service meets these expectations, unlocking the power of data to benefit patients and the public alike.

    Professor Andrew Morris, Director of Health Data Research UK, said:

    As a doctor and researcher, the announcement of a Health Data Research Service is a day many of us have been waiting for. It is a big investment in the future health of the nation. 

    We have a rich abundance of health data in this country thanks to the NHS. The team at HDR UK demonstrated for the first time last year that UK wide studies harnessing data on 68M people is possible for public benefit. But the system remains slow and fragmented which means that safe and secure research using the data is delayed or prevented for months and years. This is stalling advances that could benefit millions of patients and is wasting taxpayers’ money and medical charity donations invested in research.

    A Health Data Research Service was the main recommendation of the Sudlow Review, which offered a set of solutions to tackle these problems and for which Health Data Research UK provided the secretariat. So I am delighted that within a few months of publication.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Government plans do not go far enough on rent controls

    Source: Scottish Greens

    07 Apr 2025 Housing

    Greens reacts to SNP plans for weak rent controls

    More in Housing

    The Scottish Government’s Housing Bill amendments do not go far enough in tackling sky high rents or supporting tenants, say the Scottish Greens.

    The comments, from Green MSP Maggie Chapman, come as the government has published amendments to the upcoming Housing Bill that would allow rent increases to the level of the CPI annual rate of inflation plus 1%, up to a maximum increase of 6% in rent control areas.

    There are no plans in place to provide protection for tenants since the government allowed protections introduced by the Scottish Greens to expire last week.

    Ms Chapman said: 

    “The Housing Bill can and must be the biggest extension of renters rights since devolution, and should finally end the grip that the landlord lobby has on the rights and wellbeing of tenants.

    “That is what was at the heart of the Bill that Patrick Harvie introduced when he was a Green Minister.

    “I don’t believe that what the government is proposing goes far enough. It certainly doesn’t live up to the scale of the crisis that far too many are facing. They would see above inflation hikes even in areas where rents and living costs have been allowed to spiral out of control.

    “We will be publishing proposals in the days ahead that will take a very different approach and will offer support and stability to people and families on the frontline of the housing emergency.

    “Homes are for living in and not for squeezing every last penny of profit from. Everyone deserves a warm, comfortable and affordable place to call home, and it is crucial that the Housing Bill delivers that.”

    Last week the Scottish Government allowed renter protections introduced by the Scottish Greens to expire, removing an effective cap on the worst rent hikes.

    Ms Chapman added: 

    “By allowing renter protections to expire the Scottish Government has thrown people to the mercy of a broken market and rogue landlords who have proven that they cannot be trusted.

    “There are few things that create as much anxiety and poverty as rip-off rents. Our parliament and our government needs to lead the way and make Scotland the best country it can be for renters rights.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Sierra Financial Holdings Acquires Preferred Security Life Insurance Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sierra Financial Holdings, LLC (Sierra) today announced that it closed on the acquisition of Preferred Security Life Insurance Company, a Texas-Domiciled Life Insurance Carrier (PSLIC). John F. Sexton, Charles T. Ferdin and Craig Haack currently serve on the Board of Directors of Sierra Financial Holdings, LLC.

    John Sexton, Managing Partner of SFH, stated “PSLIC is a superb life insurance carrier, and the company is a perfect fit to Sierra’s Strategic Plan. PSLIC provides ideal synergies with our other portfolio companies, and we look forward to incorporating PSLIC into Sierra’s family of financial services organizations”.

    Craig Haack, Managing Partner of SFH affirmed that “adding PSLIC to our roster enhances our growing financial services platform. There is a great deal of interest in the mortgage industry to partner with Life Insurance companies as an outlet for residential whole loans.” Charles Ferdin, Managing Partner added that “as a Latino, the ability to offer financial protection and security to the Latino family is critical – PSLIC’s life insurance platform combined with our unique distribution strategy perfectly complements the wide array of mortgage loan and other financial service products that we currently offer. The acquisition of PSLIC will further expand our reach to the growing Latino market.”

    About Sierra Financial Holdings, LLC – Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Sierra is a privately held company focused on the financial services industry. Since 2010, our family of independent financial services organizations have provided a full line of insurance and mortgage portfolio products to the primarily Latino market. The companies include:

    Sierra Mortgage Capital, LLC – a nationwide closed loan mortgage conduit that acquires first lien residential whole loans from approved mortgage bankers and retail lenders.

    Sierra Lending Group, LLC – a retail residential mortgage originator specializing in products that serve the Latino market in Texas.

    Sierra Lending Corporation – a California-based retail residential mortgage originator specializing in products that serve the Latino market in California.

    Sierra Insurance Services, LLC – a Houston-based insurance agency specializing in life insurance products that cater to the Latino market.

    About Preferred Security Life Insurance Company – Founded in 1994, PSLIC is a Texas-Domiciled Stipulated Premium life insurance carrier with operational headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

    CONTACT
    news@sierrafinancialholdings.com
    4550 Post Oak Place Dr, Suite 244
    Houston, TX 77027
    (713) 629-6300
    www.SierraFinancialHoldings.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: South Sudan on the brink of civil war: bold action from the international community is needed

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Madhav Joshi, Research Professor & Associate Director, Peace Accords Matrix (PAM), Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies and Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame

    South Sudan is likely to return to full-blown civil war unless the international community takes a radical approach to stabilise the country and re-engage in the peace process.

    Since its formation in 2020, South Sudan’s unity government has not been steady. President Salva Kiir has reshuffled the cabinet, weakening the presence of the main opposition party, SPLM-IO. He’s previously fired two of the country’s five vice-presidents to promote his allies.

    The unity government was formed as part of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan. This agreement was negotiated and signed in September 2018 to end years of violence between forces loyal to Kiir on one hand and Riek Machar on the other.

    The agreement had a 36-month transition period. It established a unity government to reform institutions, draft a constitution, ensure transitional justice and conduct the country’s first election.

    Seven years into the implementation process, however, South Sudan has yet to fulfil many of the peace deal’s commitments. These include demobilisation, disarmament and reintegration of combatants, and training and establishing necessary unified forces.

    The timeline for holding elections, another benchmark of the transition, has been extended until December 2026. This moves the completion of the transition process to February 2027 from the initial January 2021. It is the fourth such mutually agreed extension.

    The challenges of the slow implementation of the peace agreement escalated in March 2025, with violent clashes in the Upper Nile State and a political crisis. First vice-president Machar was put under house arrest. Reports say a convoy of more than 20 heavily armed vehicles forcefully entered Machar’s residence, disarmed his bodyguards, and held him and his wife Angelina Teny. Teny is South Sudan’s interior minister.



    Read more:
    Kiir and Machar: insights into South Sudan’s strongmen

    It is my view that the current crisis has little to do with the recent clashes. This crisis in South Sudan has been long in the making. It has its roots in the country’s faltering peace implementation process.

    As part of my ongoing research, I have gathered data on the content and implementation of 42 comprehensive civil war peace agreements in 33 countries dating back to 1989. In none of these agreements and countries have I observed delays in implementation like in South Sudan – or the arrest of a main opposition leader who is a signatory to a peace agreement.

    South Sudan’s path to peace since its independence in 2011 has been challenging. Key to achieving stability is the peace process itself. The international community must lead a radical push to get signatories to the 2018 peace deal to implement it. This approach is necessary for regional peace and stability – the ongoing violence could easily escalate and merge with the Sudan war and drag in Uganda.

    What’s happening

    The current crisis in South Sudan began in early March 2025 when the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces clashed with the White Army militia group. The White Army took control of the town of Nasir in the oil-rich Upper Nile State.

    South Sudan’s kleptocratic leaders have been quick to associate Machar, the SPLM-IO leader, with the White Army. This is largely because the militia group primarily recruits from the Nuer ethnic group, which Machar belongs to.

    However, at the centre of these latest tensions – fanned by a slow peace implementation process – are leaders looking to strengthen their political dominance to gain unhindered access to revenue from natural resources. South Sudan’s economy is heavily reliant on oil.

    The training and deployment of unified forces, and establishment of a Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing are lagging behind. So are constitutional and electoral reforms, including a census to determine voter numbers, as well as a hybrid court for war crimes and a reparations authority.



    Read more:
    Violence in South Sudan is rising again: what’s different this time, and how to avoid civil war

    The implementation process began to slow down when military leaders loyal to Kiir started to co-opt generals loyal to Machar. Leadership positions within the army were divided between military officials loyal to Kiir, Machar and other groups in June 2023. This diluted SPLM-IO’s influence in the unity government.

    Rising tensions led to the Tumaini Peace Initiative, launched in May 2024 and hosted by the Kenyan government. This initiative aimed to bring other armed groups under the fold of the peace process. However, it undermined the 2018 peace deal by not tying the initiative to the revitalised agreement.

    Over several rounds of peace talks, it has became clear that a segment of the ruling elite wants to influence the implementation of the 2018 deal to control political power – and therefore, South Sudan’s resources. The unfolding events show an effort to hold the peace process hostage towards this end.

    A narrow path forward

    The path to peace and stability in South Sudan is challenging. In my research, I have examined situations where multiple armed groups either continue to fight or new ones emerge in conflict situations.

    My research consistently shows that the implementation of comprehensive peace agreements stabilises such situations by addressing security uncertainties, reforming institutions and addressing underlying grievances.



    Read more:
    What makes peace talks successful? The 4 factors that matter

    Stakeholders in South Sudan must prioritise the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement. Since the signatory parties are unwilling to implement the agreement, someone must step in to fill this void. With the entire peace process held hostage and key signatories of the peace agreement sidelined, this narrow path forward can only be charted with the support of and pressure from the international community.

    Madhav Joshi 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. South Sudan on the brink of civil war: bold action from the international community is needed – https://theconversation.com/south-sudan-on-the-brink-of-civil-war-bold-action-from-the-international-community-is-needed-253555

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –