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  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Heinrich Join Colleagues in Urging USDA to Reinstate Hispanic-Serving Institution Fellowship Program That Has Served New Mexico Students and Educational Institutions

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Senators to USDA: “The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide”
    NMSU Was Part of 2024 Fellowship Program That Supported our Nation’s Agricultural Workforce
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and 9 of their colleagues in calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to immediately reinstate its HSI E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellowship Program. The program, suspended by the Trump administration, supports the nation’s agricultural workforce while uplifting professionals and students of all backgrounds at HSIs, including non-Latino students. Last year, staff at NMSU was selected for the 2024 EKDLG Fellowship Program.
    USDA established the nonpartisan EKDLG Fellowship Program in 1998, designing the program to strengthen educational partnerships between faculty, staff, and administrators from HSIs and USDA. These partnerships support professional development, workforce development, and exposure opportunities for Hispanic-Serving Institutions nationwide, offering critical insight and understanding of the federal government.
    “USDA’s partnership with HSIs and Hispanic Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities (HSACUs) plays a vital role in establishing a collaborative relationship and creating a nationwide network of educators working with USDA to help grow the next generation of the American agricultural workforce,” wrote the Senators.
    “The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide,” continued the Senators. “We urge you to immediately reinstate the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program, similar to Department’s reinstatement of the 1890 National Scholars Program, and to collaborate with Congress to ensure its long-term stability.”
    Programs like the USDA EKDLG Fellowship Program are built to help students reach their full potential and reinforce America’s agricultural workforce pipeline. The 2024 EKDLG Program included eight fellowships in Texas, six in Arizona, five in California, four in New York, two in Illinois, one in New Mexico, one in Colorado, one in New Jersey, one in Florida, one in Connecticut, and one in Washington.
    Hispanic-Serving Institutions are not-for-profit institutions of higher learning with 25 percent or higher total undergraduate Hispanic or Latino full-time students. There are 600 HSIs in the United States that enroll over 5.2 million Hispanic students, two-thirds of all Hispanic undergraduates, and 32.2 percent of total Pell Grant recipients — empowering and improving communities.
    In addition to Senators Luján, Heinrich, Padilla, and Klobuchar, the letter is also signed by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
    The letter is endorsed by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) and UnidosUS.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Rollins,
    We write to express our significant concerns about the suspension of the USDA Hispanic-Serving (HSI) E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellowship Program and to ask that you immediately reinstate it.
    The EKDLG Fellowship Program was established in 1998 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the program has had consistent support from every presidential administration since its establishment. The program strengthens educational partnerships between faculty, staff, and administrators from HSIs and USDA.
    The EKDLG Fellowship Program is non-partisan and supports increasing the professional development, workforce development, and exposure opportunities for faculty, staff, and students nationwide. USDA’s partnership with HSIs and Hispanic Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities (HSACUs) plays a vital role in establishing a collaborative relationship and creating a nationwide network of educators working with USDA to help grow the next generation of the American agricultural workforce. These fellowships are open to faculty, staff, and administrators of all backgrounds that are employed at HSIs or Hispanic-Serving School Districts and students of all backgrounds are eligible to participate.
    HSIs are economic engines and shape our nation’s agricultural workforce. In 2022, HSIs enrolled 5.2 million students, including 66% of all Hispanic undergraduate students and over 31% of all college students in non-profit postsecondary institutions in the country. Programs like the EKDLG Fellowship Program equip educators with the tools to help students reach their full potential and support the nation’s agricultural workforce pipeline. For example, the list of 2024 EKDLG participants shows the program’s nationwide impact:
    1. University of Houston, Sugar Land, Texas
    2. New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico
    3. The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
    4. Arizona Western College, Yuma, Arizona
    5. Coastal Bend College, Beeville, Texas
    6. Adams State University, Alamosa, Colorado
    7. California State University, Chico, Chico, California
    8. Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey
    9. Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas
    10. Mesa Community College, Mesa, Arizona
    11. Hartnell College, Salinas, California
    12. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
    13. City Colleges of Chicago, Harold Washington College, Chicago, Illinois
    14. Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
    15. Maricopa Community Colleges, Tempe, Arizona
    16. University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
    17. Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove, Illinois
    18. Northern Arizona University, Yuma, Arizona
    19. University of California, Santa Barbara, California
    20. Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, California
    21. University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas
    22. CUNY New York City College of Technology, Brooklyn, New York
    23. CUNY Hunter College, New York, New York
    24. Florida International University, Miami, Florida
    25. California State University, Fresno, California
    26. Arizona State University, Mesa, Arizona
    27. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
    28. The University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, Texas
    29. Mt. Adams School District #209, White Swan, Washington
    30. The Urban Assembly New York Harbor School, New York, New York
    31. John Bowne High School, Flushing, New York
    The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide.
    We urge you to immediately reinstate the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program, similar to Department’s reinstatement of the 1890 National Scholars Program, and to collaborate with Congress to ensure its long-term stability.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces 30-Day FEMA Extension for Individual Assistance

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces 30-Day FEMA Extension for Individual Assistance

    Governor Stein Announces 30-Day FEMA Extension for Individual Assistance
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, FEMA granted Governor Josh Stein’s request for a 30-day extension for disaster survivors to apply for FEMA’s individual assistance (IA) program. The new deadline is April 7, 2025. Governor Stein released the following statement on the extension: 

    “Thank you to FEMA and the Trump Administration for granting North Carolina’s request to extend the individual assistance program and to our Congressional delegation for its support. This is a positive step forward, and I urge affected residents from western North Carolina to apply for FEMA funding to help them get back on their feet.

    “We continue to seek adequate funding from Congress and the General Assembly for the ongoing recovery efforts. The people of western North Carolina need more federal support to build back stronger.”

    Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Forsyth, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lee, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Nash, Polk, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Surry, Swain, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, Yadkin, and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians with uninsured losses from Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible to apply for FEMA assistance.

    Last month, Governor Stein requested an additional $19 billion in federal funds to restore infrastructure, support home repair and renovation, and reduce impacts from future natural disasters. He also invited North Carolinians to participate in the finalization of an Action Plan for distributing $1.4 billion awarded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development.

    There are several ways to apply: 

    1. (Most Recommended): Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in your community. Visit fema.gov/drc to locate the closest location.
    2. Call the FEMA hotline at 1-800-621-3362 between the hours of 7am and midnight.
    3. Go online to disasterassistance.gov 

    Survivors who have insurance are encouraged to file a claim for disaster-caused damage with your insurance company before they apply for FEMA assistance. Survivors do not need to wait for an insurance settlement to apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA may provide financial assistance to eligible survivors who are uninsured or underinsured. 

    If you have been denied for FEMA assistance, you can submit an appeal by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center in your community, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by going online to disasterassistance.gov. You can also visit https://legalaidnc.org/project/disaster-relief-project/ .

    Finally, disaster survivors that need assistance or resources to aid in recovery can call the North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program (NC-DCM) at 1-844-746-2326 or visit ncdps.gov/Helene/dcm. NC-DCM is currently assisting over 2,700 cases and has taken over 8,500 calls since December. With over 500 resources and partnerships available, the NC-DCM case managers can help to find solutions for individual disaster survivor needs to help facilitate their recovery.  

    Mar 7, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Introduces Bill to Reduce US Dependence on China and Other Adversaries for Critical Minerals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) reintroduced the Intergovernmental Critical Minerals Taskforce Act to decrease the United States’ reliance on adversarial nations like China for critical minerals.
    “The United States should not depend on communist China to keep our critical mineral supply chain running. Relying on China for critical minerals means relying on our adversary for batteries, medical supplies, and military equipment,” said Lankford. “We need to prioritize American-produced energy solutions and give US suppliers a seat at the table.”   
    China is currently the dominant supplier for more than half of America’s critical mineral imports. These minerals are essential for the manufacturing of electric vehicle batteries, military equipment, and other technology crucial to American economic competitiveness and homeland security. The bill would address this threat to our manufacturing supply chains by creating an intergovernmental task force to find opportunities for increased domestic production and recycling of critical minerals. Lankford was joined on the bill by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI).
    The Intergovernmental Critical Minerals Taskforce Act requires the President to create a task force and appoint representatives from federal agencies who must consult with state, local, and Tribal governments. The task force will work to determine how to address national security risks associated with America’s critical mineral supply chains and identify new domestic opportunities for mining, processing, refinement, reuse, and recycling of critical minerals. The legislation would also require the task force to publish a report to Congress and publish findings, guidelines, and recommendations to combat the United States’ reliance on China and other foreign nations for critical minerals. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Sentenced After Kicking in Door and Shooting at Ex

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Bryce Tyler Pyle, 36, for First Degree Burglary in Indian Country and Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Judge Russell ordered Pyle to 168 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release.

    In July 2024, Pyle drove to his former girlfriend’s home with their child in the car. At some point, Pyle kicked open the former girlfriend’s door and pointed a handgun at her and another person in the home. The former girlfriend demanded that Pyle leave. When Pyle returned to his car, he intentionally fired his gun toward the house before leaving. The former girlfriend noticed their child crying in the backseat of the car when Pyle drove off.

    The former girlfriend called Pyle and convinced him to return their child. Pyle then entered the home a second time and began destroying property. While Pyle was in the home, police officers intercepted and detained him.

    Pyle is a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

    The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Dowdell prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clinton, Indiana, Woman Pleads Guilty to Murder-for-Hire

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    URBANA, Ill. – A Clinton, Indiana, woman, Davetta Cox, 32, pleaded guilty on March 7, 2025, to using facilities of interstate commerce in a murder-for-hire scheme. Sentencing for Cox has been set for July 18, 2025, at the U.S. Courthouse in Urbana, Illinois.

    At the hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long, Cox admitted to seeking to hire someone she believed to be a hitman to kill another individual. During the hearing, the government provided information that Cox had offered the supposed hitman $6,000 to murder another individual.

    Cox was arrested in January 2024 and remains in the custody of the United States Marshals Service, pending sentencing. Cox faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment; up to a $500,000 fine; and up to a six-year term of supervised release.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, Champaign Resident Agency, and the Illinois State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Ritzer is representing the government in the prosecution. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Decatur Siblings Sentenced to Multiple Decades in Prison for Kidnapping Local Businessman

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Two Decatur siblings, Ademeko Maclin-Carney, 26, and Ausarian Carney, 23, were sentenced on March 5, 2025, to thirty and twenty-four years in federal prison, respectively, to be followed by multi-year terms of supervised release, for kidnapping and seeking ransom for a Decatur businessman on March 24, 2022.

    During a five-day jury trial from October 7-11, 2024, the government presented evidence that Maclin-Carney lured a local businessman to an abandoned house in Decatur under the pretense of seeking a flooring estimate for the home. When the victim arrived to provide the flooring estimate, Maclin-Carney greeted him using an alias and led him inside, where she pepper-sprayed him in the eyes as he stood up from taking a measurement. As this was happening, her brother, Carney, entered from another room, pressed a firearm into the victim, and told him it was going to be a “very bad day” for him. After ordering the victim to the ground while holding him at gunpoint, Carney then zip-tied the victim’s hands, duct-taped his face, and put a bag over his head. The siblings instructed the victim that they wanted $400,000 for his release, otherwise they would kill him.

    The kidnappers moved the victim to various locations, at one point instructing him to make a ransom call to his wife at their family business. Though the victim instructed his wife not to call the police, she nonetheless called 911 and the Decatur Police Department responded and began their investigation. Maclin-Carney went to the victim’s business and saw members of the Decatur Police Department there, which spurred her and Carney to again move the victim and to eventually dump him, zip-tied with a bag over his head, in the back of an abandoned van. The victim, left alone on a bed of broken glass in the rain, eventually pried a hand free and escaped his zip ties. He ran to a local business, where the authorities were contacted and came to his aid.

    Meanwhile, the Decatur Police Department was conducting an extensive investigation and had located the victim’s car, which the defendants had dumped in an alleyway in Decatur. The defendants also had placed the victim’s belongings in the car, along with a notebook that listed the address of the home from which he had been abducted, the alias that had been used by Maclin-Carney, and traces of pepper spray that had been used against the victim. Ultimately, law enforcement discovered that the notebook contained the fingerprints of both defendants. Using this information, the Decatur Police were able to locate and search the home where the victim had been abducted and find more evidence implicating the two defendants.

    The victim identified Maclin-Carney before and during the trial as the kidnapper who lured him to the home for the flooring estimate. A variety of forensic evidence, including fingerprints, DNA, business video footage, trace fiber evidence, and cellular location data all demonstrated that the siblings perpetrated the kidnapping. The jury convicted both siblings of kidnapping on October 11, 2024.

    At the sentencing hearings before U.S. District Judge Stephen McGlynn on March 5, 2025, Judge McGlynn noted that the victim and his family would suffer long-lasting psychological trauma from the incident. Judge McGlynn also noted that neither defendant expressed remorse for the crime.

    In imposing the thirty-year sentence for Maclin-Carney, Judge McGlynn highlighted that she was the leader of the kidnapping, specifically noting her research about the victim, his family, and his business before the crime. The court also noted that Maclin-Carney had researched the penalty for “third-degree murder” in the leadup to the kidnapping. After her arrest, Maclin-Carney also took steps while in pretrial detention both to prevent the victims from testifying against her, and to manufacture an alibi through false testimony about her own and her brother’s whereabouts during the kidnapping. Maclin-Carney had two prior violent felony convictions, both for aggravated battery, prior to committing this kidnapping.

    In imposing the twenty-four-year sentence for Carney, Judge McGlynn noted that although Maclin-Carney was the mastermind of the operation and had a more serious criminal history, Carney was still the gunman and the muscle. Carney had been, in every way, a partner to his sister’s crime, had pressed the firearm into the victim multiple times to force his compliance, and like his sister, never expressed regret or remorse for his actions.

    “The defendants’ violent kidnapping of the victim in this case shows their avarice for ill-gotten gains at any cost, including the terror they inflicted on the victim and his family,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore. “The significant sentences here reflect the gravity of the defendants’ crimes. I want to thank our law enforcement partners – the Decatur Police Department, the FBI, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service – who all did excellent work investigating this crime.”

    “Kidnapping cases are incredibly traumatic, and this one was no different,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan D. Freres. “The husband and wife victims of this offense showed immense courage throughout this ordeal, including testifying at the trial. Throughout, I was deeply moved by their strength and faith. I am also deeply appreciative for all the hard work of law enforcement in investigating this case.”

    “This case is a testament to the outstanding dedication and collaboration between the Decatur Police Department, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in bringing these suspects to justice,” said Decatur Police Chief Shane Brandel. “The investigators worked tirelessly on this complex case, demonstrating exceptional skill and commitment to ensuring public safety. We are grateful for our strong partnerships and the unwavering pursuit of justice by the prosecutors who brought this case to a successful conclusion. Most importantly, our thoughts remain with the victim, and we hope this resolution brings them a measure of healing and justice.”

    “Quite often, successful investigative outcomes require resources from a variety of law enforcement partners,” said FBI Springfield Field Office Acting Special Agent in Charge Karen Marinos. “The Decatur Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, and FBI Springfield brought their best to the table. Those efforts held the offenders accountable and led to justice for the victim.”

    The statutory penalty for kidnapping is up to life imprisonment, followed by up to five years of supervised release.

    The Decatur Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshal’s Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan D. Freres and Douglas F. McMeyer represented the United States in the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Angela Merkel highlights multilateralism’s role in global co-operation, women’s participation in trade

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Angela Merkel highlights multilateralism’s role in global co-operation, women’s participation in trade

    In her lecture titled “Empowering women through multilateral cooperation”, Dr Merkel highlighted the importance of establishing rules and standards to ensure women have equal access to economic opportunities. She underscored that supply chain diversification presents unique opportunities for women, particularly in emerging and developing economies. She called on more women to be engaged in these expanding markets and for countries to draw on a broader talent pool, driving innovation and growth.
    The former German Chancellor noted that global institutions like the WTO play a significant role through initiatives such as the Informal Working Group on Women and Trade and various other initiatives that produce empirical evidence of the benefits of multilateralism for women. Additionally, the WTO collaborates with other international bodies, such as the World Bank, the International Development Fund (IDF) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), to advance policies that enhance women’s participation in the global economy. These partnerships aim to create equitable trade policies that ensure women’s access to finance and opportunities in global markets, she said.
    Beyond women’s rights, Dr Merkel emphasized the broader significance of multilateralism in achieving economic stability. Acknowledging the current challenges of multilateral cooperation, she called on the audience to maintain strong convictions about what international cooperation has achieved in recent decades in terms of economic growth and poverty reduction around the world.
    Stressing the relevance of the WTO as the organization that accounts for 98 per cent of global trade,  Dr Merkel stressed the pivotal role the multilateral trading system has played in providing global economic stability, fostering international trade and promoting open and fair markets to the advantage of both industrialized and developing countries. Drawing from the lessons from past global economic crises, she emphasized the role governments and international organizations have played in mitigating financial and health crises and enabling economic resilience.
    One of the priority areas for discussion she mentioned was the WTO Appellate Body and the need to restore it as it has an essential role in enforcing trade agreements and maintaining the credibility of the organization. Ensuring there is an Appellate Body that has teeth and is operational will be central to global trade governance in the future, she noted.
    The former German Chancellor said the European Union is proof that multilateralism is complicated but with sufficient political will it offers a win-win solution for all. She expressed hope that all the important players on the international trade scene would be able to understand this and not reject the fact that the path of consensus always leaves the doors open for mutual benefits. 
    In her welcoming remarks, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala referred to Dr Merkel as a “stalwart supporter” of the multilateral trading system and the WTO. She is someone who was a “central actor in the global arena” over a 16-year tenure that was marked by economic and health crises, she added.
    DG Okonjo-Iweala highlighted persistent gender gaps in political and business leadership, within societies and homes, and in organizations such as the WTO. “For all the progress we have made, we still have a long way to go. But Dr Merkel has helped us envision a more equal world. When Olaf Scholz succeeded her as Chancellor in December 2021, a generation of German boys discovered that the country’s top job could also be done by a man,” she said.
    DG Okonjo-Iweala also reflected on the “grave challenges” the international economic order is currently confronting. She emphasized that despite all of its shortcomings the system has for 80 years enabled unprecedented prosperity and poverty reduction. “Conflict and climate change are exacting a growing human toll. Progress on economic development and gender equality is stalling. Rising economic uncertainty is diminishing people’s prospects – nowhere more so than in the poorest countries,” she said.
    In this context, DG Okonjo-Iweala stressed the importance of the WTO and the need for members to be mindful of the power of cooperation and understanding. She cited an early speech of Dr Merkel to the European Parliament where she said that in order to reach agreements, things must be looked at through other people’s eyes. “We need more of that here,” she said.
    The Director-General mentioned her recent trip to Washington D.C., where she met with the Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer. Despite criticisms of the WTO in a recently released report, the US signalled its intent to remain engaged in the organization, she said. This suggests there is an opportunity to address their concerns through existing WTO mechanisms, reinforcing the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation within the organization, she added.
    Dr Merkel’s lecture was followed by a fireside chat moderated by Richard Quest, CNN’s international business correspondent. Held in conjunction with International Women’s Day, the lecture and discussion served as an opportunity to highlight female leadership and women’s empowerment in international economic governance.
    A recording of the event can be viewed here.
    Presidential Lecture Series
    The lecture series provides a platform for distinguished speakers from all walks of life, ranging from presidents, prime ministers and high-level politicians to business leaders, scientists, authors and philanthropists, to discuss multilateral cooperation and global governance issues, including trade-related matters and sustainable development goals. Several lectures are held annually at the WTO’s headquarters in Geneva.
    More information on the lecture series is available here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Human Rights Committee Congratulate Zimbabwe on Passing a Law Abolishing the Death Penalty, Raise Questions on Land Reform and Judicial Independence

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Rights Committee today concluded its consideration of the second periodic report of Zimbabwe on how it implements the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.  Committee Experts congratulated the State for passing a law that officially abolished the death penalty, while raising questions on land reform and the independence of the judiciary.

    A Committee Expert congratulated the State party for passing the law that officially abolished the death penalty on 31 December 2024, which was a historic step forward, demonstrating the country’s commitment to protecting the fundamental right to life and human dignity of its people.  The Expert asked about measures Zimbabwe would take to incorporate the abolition of the death penalty into the Constitution and commute all death sentences that were pending rehearing.

    Another Committee Expert said a reliable report indicated that expropriated white-owned farms were often redistributed to the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front elite, allowing high-level officials to bypass the one-farm-per-official policy.  What were the objective criteria for land redistribution, and what mechanisms ensured transparency and impartiality?

    One Expert said reports indicated that judges who had failed interviews had been appointed to the High Court, and that the judicial promotion process was not subject to the same level of public scrutiny as initial appointments.  How did the State party ensure that the public interview process was respected in practice, and that judges remained fully independent, including in high-profile cases involving the Government?

    Responding to questions, the delegation said Zimbabwe had embarked on phases of land reform, from 1980 to 2000 and from 2000 to the present day.  These reforms aimed to address inequalities in the country and decongest rural areas, as well as to enhance agricultural productivity.  The process continued to be fine-tuned, including through the Global Compensation Agreement signed in 2021, which outlined a mutual agreement to the payment of 3.5 billion United States dollars in compensation.  The payment of compensation was ongoing.

    The delegation said the Constitution stated that courts needed to operate free from interference.  In Zimbabwe, judges were not elected by the people, but rather were appointed by the President after consultation with the independent Judicial Service Commission, which had its own budget and was able to pay salaries for judicial officers, safeguarding them from outside influence.  A digital case management system had also increased judicial independence, ensuring the judiciary had sole autonomy regarding the allocation of cases to judges, without influence from the Executive.

    Presenting the report, Nobert T. Mazungunye, Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and head of delegation, said Zimbabwe was proud of the advancements achieved through significant legislative reforms, administrative measures and its strong commitment to democratic processes.  One of the most significant achievements in Zimbabwe’s human rights trajectory was the enactment of the Death Penalty Abolition Act on 31 December 2024, a historic milestone in the country’s development.

    On the death penalty, the delegation added that some 48 inmates who were due to be executed had had their executions halted.  They would all be brought before the court before renewed sentencing.   A bill to amend section 48 of the Constitution, a step in ensuring the death penalty was abolished, had been introduced by a member of the opposition to Parliament and was supported by the Government.

    Mr. Mazungunye said it was important to acknowledge that Zimbabwe continued to face a heavy burden due to the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures imposed by some Western countries.  These had suffocated Zimbabwe’s economy and undermined the Government’s capacity to fully implement programmes and initiatives that were critical to promoting and protecting civil and political rights.

    In concluding remarks, Mr. Mazungunye expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in dialogue with the Committee.  The State was dedicated to implementing the necessary steps to ensure the rights enshrined in the Covenant were fully realised by all Zimbabweans.

    Changrok Soh, Committee Chairperson, extended sincere appreciation to the high-level delegation of Zimbabwe for their willingness to engage in a constructive dialogue with the Committee.  Mr. Soh thanked all those who had contributed to the dialogue.

    The delegation of Zimbabwe was made up of the Permanent Secretary for Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and representatives of the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs; Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services; Zimbabwe Republic Police; Inter-Ministerial Committee; Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion; Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage; Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; and the Permanent Mission of Zimbabwe to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-third session is being held from 3 to 28 March 2025.  All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 3 p.m. on Monday, 11 March to begin its consideration of the seventh periodic report of Mongolia (CCPR/C/MNG/7).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the second periodic report of Zimbabwe (CCPR/C/ZWE/2).

    Presentation of Report

    NOBERT T. MAZUNGUNYE, Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and head of delegation, said Zimbabwe was proud of the advancements achieved through significant legislative reforms, administrative measures and its strong commitment to democratic processes.  The journey had been marked by a strong dedication to establish a more transparent, inclusive and participatory political environment.  One of the most significant achievements in Zimbabwe’s human rights trajectory was the enactment of the Death Penalty Abolition Act on 31 December 2024, a historic milestone in the country’s development.  By abolishing the death penalty, Zimbabwe had taken a decisive step towards aligning its legal framework with international human rights standards.  This Act represented a transformative shift in the country’s legal landscape; it replaced existing statutes with sentences focused on rehabilitation, proportionality and justice.

    The Constitution and the Electoral Act were amended to further enhance transparency, credibility, and inclusivity in the electoral processes.  These amendments extended the women’s quota for members of Parliament by two Parliamentary terms.  A youth quota was introduced and implemented in the National Assembly as well as a 30 per cent women’s quota for the local authorities.  To enhance transparency, 2023 harmonised elections were carried out in 46 counties and 17 continental and regional bodies.  Zimbabwe was party to the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance of the African Union, reinforcing the country’s commitment to ensuring free, fair and transparent elections.

    To enhance welfare of citizens, including those in the diaspora, in December 2021, the Government launched the biometric e-passport and had since continued to ramp up the establishment of e-passport centres in destinations like South Africa and the United Kingdom, to ensure efficient, secure and expeditious passport processing for citizens living abroad.  The Government also enacted the Freedom of Information Act and the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act, providing for the constitutional rights of expression and freedom of the media.  The Act also provided for protection of the rights of freedom of assembly, association, demonstration and petitioning.

    A key step towards enhancing access to justice in Zimbabwe had been the decentralisation of courts, the Legal Aid Directorate, the Pre-Trial Division and the Community Service to districts, significantly reducing the geographical barriers faced by citizens in accessing judicial services.  The introduction of a performance management system for the judiciary improved its efficiency and effectiveness, and the Integrated Electronic Case Management System rolled out in superior courts was now being cascaded to the lower courts.  Zimbabwe had passed into law the Prisons and Correctional Service Act, which included explicit provisions on rehabilitation and correctional services which were not provided for in the previous statute.

    In 2024, Zimbabwe established an Independent Complaints Commission under the Independent Complaints Act, the mandate of which was to ensure transparency and fairness between the country’s security institutions and the public.  Citizens could report grievances against security personnel without fear; the Commission had the authority to investigate complaints, misconduct and abuse of power.

    It was important to acknowledge that the country continued to face a heavy burden due to the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures imposed by some Western countries.  These had suffocated Zimbabwe’s economy and undermined the Government’s capacity to fully implement programmes and initiatives that were critical to promoting and protecting civil and political rights.  The economic constraints caused by these illegal economic sanctions had hindered the provision of essential resources for governance, infrastructure development and social services.  Zimbabwe condemned these sanctions and continued to call for their immediate and unconditional removal.  Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe was steadfast in its commitment to promoting and protecting all civil and political rights.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert congratulated the State party for passing the law that officially abolished the death penalty on 31 December 2024, which was a historic step forward, demonstrating the country’s commitment to protecting the fundamental right to life and human dignity of its people.  However, it appeared that there were still some issues that needed to be addressed by the State party to further affirm its commitment in this regard. The Committee was aware that notable steps had been taken by the State party in terms of improving respect for human rights in the country, however some issues of concern remained.

    It was understood that the State party was in the process of aligning subsidiary legislation to conform with 2013 Constitutional provisions, which was a welcome development. However, there were concerns that some of the ongoing Constitutional amendments had yielded regressive results that restricted rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association, including the Patriot Act, and the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act, among others.  What measures would the State party take to repeal legislative amendments that apparently impeded the exercise of fundamental rights and freedoms provided in the Constitution and the Covenant?  Would Zimbabwe withdraw the Private Voluntary Organization Bill and ensure the autonomy of civil society organizations to operate without reprisals? What steps would be taken to expedite the alignment of existing laws to ensure that such laws were fully in conformity with the Constitution and its obligations under the Covenant?

    Could the State party provide relevant examples of cases in which the provisions of the Covenant had been invoked by national courts?  Could the exact place of the Covenant in the hierarchy of laws in Zimbabwe’s legal system be clarified?  What measures were being taken to raise awareness of the Covenant among the public, Government officials, judges, lawyers and prosecutors?  The State party was considering ratification of the first Optional Protocol of the Covenant, which was a welcome development.  Could a timeline for this process be provided?

    The information provided by the State party regarding the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission, including the functional mandates given to it under its establishment Act, were well noted and appreciated.  However, reports indicated that the Commission still faced several challenges in discharging its legal mandates in practice.  What steps did the State party plan to take to provide sufficient financial and human resources to the Commission to enable it to carry out its mandate? The Commission’s independence appeared to be threatened by the backlash from the Executive, when the latter sought to cover up accountability.  What steps would the State party take to ensure the independence of the Commission free from undue interference by the Executive, including aligning the Commission’s Act with the 2013 Constitution?  What steps would be taken to adopt a clear, transparent, participatory and merit-based process for the selection and appointment of the senior leadership of the Commission?

    The Expert welcomed the ruling of the High Court of Zimbabwe that section 2(1) of the Termination of Pregnancy Act of 1977 was unconstitutional and invalid.  This ruling broadened access to safe and legal abortion for minors and survivors of rape, including marital rape.  What steps would the State party take to revise the relevant provisions of the Termination of Pregnancy Act with a view to bringing it into conformity with the ruling of the High Court?  Reports from several stakeholders indicated that women continued to face barriers in accessing basic sexual and reproductive health services and unsafe abortions, contributing significantly to the high maternal mortality rate in Zimbabwe.  Could updated statistics on maternal and infant mortality in urban and rural areas be provided?  What efforts were underway to reduce high rates of maternal mortality and ensure full and unimpeded access to sexual and reproductive health services and contraception?

    Zimbabwe had taken a commendable step in passing the 2024 Death Penalty Abolition Act, marking a significant milestone toward affirming the fundamental right to life and human dignity in the nation’s history.  However, it appeared that further steps needed to be taken by the State party to remove any uncertainty about its firm commitment towards abolishing the death penalty.  What measures would Zimbabwe take to remove the provision which allowed for the reinstatement of the death penalty in cases of states of emergency; to ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the Covenant; incorporate the abolition of the death penalty into the Constitution of Zimbabwe; and commute the sentences of all persons sentenced to death that were pending rehearing?

    The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission had a clear constitutional foundation.  However, it was allegedly being operated to target political opponents and used as a tool for short-term arbitrary detentions.  Who nominated the eleven members of the Commission and what criteria guided their selection?  How was the organization administered in practice?  Additionally, the Committee has received information that in May 2018, a new entity was established, seemingly bypassing the Commission.  Did the new entity have a constitutional basis?  How was it currently operating?  What types of cases had been brought to the anti-corruption courts, and what was the ratio of those that had resulted in convictions or penalties?

    A reliable report indicated that expropriated white-owned farms were often redistributed to the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front elite, allowing high-level officials to bypass the one-farm-per-official policy.  What were the objective criteria for land redistribution, and what mechanisms ensured transparency and impartiality?  What measures had the State party implemented to prevent threats against magistrates and judges handling corruption cases?  Could information be provided on specific cases, particularly those of Hopewell Chin’ono, an award-winning journalist, and Jacob Ngarivhume, the leader of the political group Transform Zimbabwe?

    Zimbabwe faced serious environmental challenges but was a party to numerous treaties and had demonstrated strong commitment to various programmes and strategies aimed at addressing these issues.  How did the Government assess their effectiveness, and what measures were in place to strengthen enforcement?  Concerns had been raised about illegal mining in Chimanimani National Park, allegedly involving park rangers; what actions were being taken to address these issues?  How was international climate-related funding being redistributed, particularly at the local level?  Could a more detailed explanation of the current disaster risk management strategies be provided?  Was knowledge of disaster preparedness, including early warning systems, widely disseminated among local communities?  How did the Government ensure that vulnerable populations were adequately informed and equipped to respond to disasters?

    Did the State party plan to accede to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance?  Were there any obstacles preventing accession?  Could the State party confidently assert that the existing provisions fully covered torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment?  What oversight mechanism did the State party have in place to ensure the protection of torture and enforced disappearances?  Could the State party provide statistical data on the number of complaints received regarding misconduct by law enforcement and the security forces, and the corresponding investigations?  Could information be provided on human rights training provided to judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement and security forces?

    Another Expert said the Committee had several questions regarding the State party’s efforts to combat impunity for past violations of the Covenant.  The oldest of these incidents related to the Chihambakwe Commission established to investigate atrocities committed by State security forces in the Matabeleland and Midlands provinces in the 1980s.  Why was the Commission’s report never published?  Had the National Council of Chiefs’ Community Engagement Manual been implemented?  What was the status of the community engagement programme announced in July 2024 to promote healing in the two provinces?  Would the previous granting of amnesty to security forces affect the State party’s ability to hold perpetrators accountable?  The Committee also had questions about election-related violence in 2008, when State security forces engaged in abductions, arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings, with no substantial investigations taken nor any prosecutions of the perpetrators.  What steps would be taken to address these issues?

    In 2018, security forces killed six individuals and injured 35 others in acts of electoral violence.  Zimbabwe created an International Commission of Inquiry to investigate this violence, but the State party had reportedly not implemented the recommendations of the Commission; what steps would be taken to address this?  The Committee commended Zimbabwe for creating the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission, which investigated hundreds of complaints and provided redress to victims.  What concrete steps would the State party take towards achieving the unfulfilled objectives of the Commission? 

    Credible reports had been received of widespread discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, including that individuals had been fired or forced to resign from their employment due to their sexual orientation, often after being harassed. What measures were being taken to prevent discrimination on all grounds prohibited by the Covenant, including sexual orientation?  Did Zimbabwe have plans to adopt foreign funding restrictions for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex rights advocates?  Would the State party consider decriminalising consensual same-sex relations?  What measures were planned to enhance the participation of persons with disabilities in political processes, as well as their social inclusion?  Could statistical data on complaints of discrimination be provided?  The Committee was disturbed by reports of hate crimes and hate speech against individuals based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or HIV status.  Could information be provided on investigations into these incidents, and other measures taken to prevent and punish hate crimes and hate speech, including by public officials?

    What measures were being taken to improve the implementation of existing laws and policies to ensure gender equality in public and political life?  The Committee commended the State party for amending the Data Protection Act to criminalise online gender-based violence.  Could information on its implementation and efforts to raise public awareness be provided?  What remedies were provided to victims?

    Another Expert commended Zimbabwe for the large component of women in the delegation, which was great to see.  Reports from different sources had shown that despite the enactment of the Domestic Act in 2006, 25 years ago, domestic violence remained a serious problem, and prosecution was rare.  Could information be provided on recent measures to prevent, combat and eradicate all forms of violence against women, including sexual and domestic violence? What steps were taken to address the issue of femicide, and to prevent and track it?  What had been done to encourage the reporting of cases by victims; address the low rates of prosecution of cases of violence against women; and to investigate the cases of sexual violence committed by security forces in January 2019, and bring perpetrators to justice?

    There were allegations of unlimited time for pre-trial detention, especially for political detainees. What measures were being taken to ensure the full respect of basic procedural safeguards for detained persons? What steps had been taken to reduce the use and duration of pretrial detention and to use non-custodial alternative measures?  Could the delegation comment on the situation of juvenile detainees, as well as on reports of arbitrary arrests and detention of political opposition, trade union leaders and protestors?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said a bill was in place to ensure civil society organizations declared their sources of funding.  There were around 4,000 civil society organizations on the ground in Zimbabwe. Amendments were part of a host of measures Zimbabwe had taken to align itself to the mutual evaluation issued in 2016 by the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group, where it was rated compliant in 20 out of 40 recommendations.  Now it was rated as compliant in 30 out of 40 recommendations.

    Those exercising freedom of expression should not infringe on other people’s rights. Legislation aimed to ensure that police were present to offer security and to regulate gatherings.  Out of 234 laws which had been identified as requiring alignment with the Constitution, just 15 remained outstanding.  A statutory instrument was passed in 2024 which banned illegal mining.

    The Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission was appointed in consultation with the President and the Judicial Services Commission.   The Committee on Standing Orders was also consulted.  The State had an obligation to fund its own institutions and the Human Rights Commission. Approval for external funding was necessary in any democratic society, as this could be an avenue for money laundering.

    Atrocities had occurred in rural areas, and chiefs were coordinating a programme for the healing of victims and their families.  There was talk of compensation to be provided to the families of victims. Church leaders were also involved in these activities.

    Zimbabwe had removed the death penalty, and the defence act had been amended, with the section on the death penalty no longer in place.  Zimbabwe had started the process to amend legislation to ensure the right to abortion could be enjoyed by women.

    The Zimbabwean Constitution discouraged same-sex marriages.  There were same-sex couples in Zimbabwe who lived peacefully in the country.  However, marriage between these people could not be permitted in law due to the State’s customs.  It was possible that this could change in the future.

    Section 85 of the Constitution dealt with the enforcement of fundamental rights, and courts were flooded with citizens seeking redress under this section.  The Constitution had an educational philosophy which was human rights based.  Zimbabwe had progressed tremendously in the appointment of women in higher positions, with the Prosecutor-General and Attorney General both being women.  The Constitution had also been amended to provide for female quotas in Parliament.  Every elected member of Parliament was entitled to a constituent development fund.

    All victims of violence were provided adequate protection under Zimbabwean law.  It was not true that members of the opposition were denied bail.  The Executive did not interfere with the deliberation of court cases.  The denial of bail was subject to the law; this was the prerogative of the judiciary and not the Executive.

    Zimbabwe had embarked on phases of land reform, from 1980 to 2000 and from 2000 to the present day. These reforms aimed to address inequalities in the country and decongest rural areas, as well as to enhance agricultural productivity.  They had been successfully implemented and were irreversible.  The process continued to be fine-tuned, including through the Global Compensation Agreement signed in 2021.  The agreement outlined a mutual agreement to the payment of 3.5 billion United States dollars in compensation.  The payment of compensation was ongoing and was a work in progress.

    The National Peace and Reconciliation Commission had closed but had not completed its mandate, due to financial restraints.  The Government was making significant strides to ensure there would be a replacement, as healing was still needed.  A body like the Commission would be beneficial to the country, as it would complement the work being undertaken by the chiefs.

    Civil society organizations were always invited to contribute to reports, and those who were willing provided their inputs.  The Government always held consultations with these organizations.

    Zimbabwean legislation took precedence over international laws.  When international laws were not in conflict with Zimbabwean laws, the courts normally used the international laws to ensure justice was served.  So far, seven out of nine human rights treaties had been ratified. Consideration of ratification of the remaining two was ongoing.

    Regarding the death penalty, meetings had been held with the relevant stakeholders to operationalise the act.  Some 48 inmates who were due to be executed had had their executions halted.  They would all be brought before the court before renewed sentencing.  Prior to this, a list of all inmates on death row would be compiled.  The circumstances of each accused person would be considered separately, including how they had behaved in prison, when it came to issuing their new sentence.

    Laws ensured no one in Zimbabwean society was discriminated against, particularly based on gender and disability. A national disability policy had been established in 2021, focusing on non-discrimination.

    Following the reforms to the Constitution, an accused person who was arrested needed to be brought before the courts within 48 hours, meaning long periods of pretrial detention no longer existed.  Courts were even open on Saturdays for this purpose.  If longer detention was required, this had to be specially requested.

    Following the events of the August 2018 election, a Commission of Inquiry was established by the President.  The report issued by the Commission found that there was no evidence to suggest that the six individuals in question were killed by State security forces.

    It was a crime to abuse a woman, and women who had been abused had reported their cases to the police.  Issues of abuse were often linked to relationships, which made prosecution complicated.  In Zimbabwe, there were no selective approaches when it came to bringing accused persons before the courts.

    Follow-Up Questions by Committee Experts

    Committee Experts asked follow-up questions on whether there was evidence that civil society organisations had funded terrorist activities in Zimbabwe; the proposed registration of non-governmental organizations; whether the death penalty would be abolished in the Constitution, and whether there were plans to ratify the second Optional Protocol to the Covenant; discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons in the workforce, and specific provisions addressing it in the Criminal Code; how the legal framework around hate speech was applied and how reports on hate speech were investigated; the experience of the State party in implementing the act on cyber violence, and other steps taken to prevent cyber violence against female political candidates; and the operations of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and statistics around cases brought to courts and convictions enacted.

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the amendment of section 48 of the Constitution was the first step in ensuring the death penalty was abolished.  The abolition of the death penalty was an ongoing process.  A bill to amend section 48 had been introduced by a member of the opposition to Parliament and was supported by the Government.

    The private voluntary organization bill aimed to regulate the operations of the private voluntary organizations.  Its objectives included combatting financial crimes and monitoring funds, and ensuring private voluntary organizations operated transparently and used donor funds responsibly.  The bill included provisions to monitor foreign funding sources to ensure they aligned with national interests.  It addressed counter-financing of terrorist activities, including by identifying terrorist groups posing as private entities.  These amendments were part of a host of measures taken since the mutual evaluation report issued in 2016.

    State legislation criminalised cyber bullying and protected private data.  The Government firmly rejected any acts of torture and enforced disappearance.  It was firmly committed to upholding the rule of law.  The Government remained committed to ensuring a safe and conducive environment for women’s participation in politics.  There were no recorded cases of online harassment against female candidates.  Any woman who experienced online harassment was encouraged to report it. Investigations of hate speech followed due process.  Zimbabwe’s legal framework ensured juveniles were provided special care and protection in the justice system.  There was no selective evaluation of the law in Zimbabwe; all law enforcement agencies were expected to abide by the law.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said the Committee had received information that as of March 2020, the prison occupancy rate had reached 129 per cent and the conditions therein were harsh, due to overcrowding, poor sanitary conditions and a lack of medical care. There was only one prison holding boys alone, while girls were held with women.  Boys were frequently assaulted by older prisoners, despite the authorities’ attempts to keep them in separate cells.  What measures were being taken to address overcrowding, including through pre-trial detention centres?  Could the delegation clarify whether basic services were being denied to those in places of deprivation of liberty?  Were juveniles and adults kept separately?  Were monitoring visits conducted to places of deprivation of liberty?

    Could information on the legal and regulatory framework governing the right to freedom of expression and its compatibility with the Covenant be provided?  What measures were in place to protect journalists from attacks and arbitrary detention?  How was it ensured that all cases of violence against journalists were investigated?  Could the State party comment on refusals to grant radio licences, which were important in a society where many people relied on the radio for information, and media shutdowns?

    The Committee had serious concerns about the Government’s approach to dealing with peaceful assembly.  Had the State party made any progress toward ensuring that the laws governing freedom of assembly were in full conformity with the Covenant?  Could the delegation comment on allegations of the disproportionate presence of the military at peaceful assemblies, and of excessive use of force resulting in injuries and killings in August 2018 and January 2019? Could information be provided about complaints received in the last eight years concerning this serious issue, investigations conducted and punishments issued to perpetrators, as well as redress provided to the victims.

    The Committee was concerned about child abuse in the State party, including incest, infanticide, child abandonment and rape.  Reports indicated that 15,000 cases of child abuse had been received via the national helpline.  Despite legal prohibition, some rural families and religious sects continued to force girls into underage marriages.  The proportion of orphans in the country remained high, most of whom had lost one or both parents to HIV.  These children were more likely to be abused and not enrolled in schools and were vulnerable to HIV and homelessness.  Could information be provided on measures taken to combat child abuse, corporal punishment and traditional harmful practices, including child marriages?  What had been done to assess the situations of orphans, homeless children and children with disabilities in the State party?  What was the current minimum age of criminal responsibility?  Were there any plans to raise it to over ten years?

    Another Expert said the Committee appreciated steps to reduce the judicial backlog, including through the integrated electronic case management system and the restructuring of the courts.  However, reports described barriers to accessing the case management system; how were these being addressed?  What steps was the State party taking to ensure timely and efficient access to justice, including in high profile cases?  The Committee commended steps taken to strengthen Zimbabwe’s free legal aid system. Did the State party intend to provide additional resources for legal aid services?  Would it consider extending legal aid to all cases?

    The Committee understood that judges were appointed through public and merit-based interviews. However, reports indicated that judges who failed these interviews had been appointed to the High Court, including in June 2024, and that the judicial promotion process was not subject to the same level of public scrutiny as initial appointments.  How did the State party ensure that the public interview process was respected in practice?  The Committee was also concerned by reports of intimidation of judges, including threats by a high-level Government official after the High Court decided that extending the Chief Justice’s term beyond retirement age was unconstitutional. Could the State Party comment on these reports?  How did the State party ensure that judges remained fully independent, including in high-profile cases involving the Government?

    The Committee was aware of reports indicating that the State party had applied privacy and data-protection laws to engage in intrusive surveillance, such as monitoring citizens’ financial transactions and social media usage and gathering precise geolocation data on opposition politicians and activists.  How did the State party prevent abuses of these broad surveillance powers, protect personal data, and avoid arbitrary interferences with privacy? The Committee had received credible reports of recent surveillance targeting journalists and political opponents. For example, in February 2024, the NewsHawks investigative outlet was forced to halt coverage of alleged military corruption after its journalists were surveilled and threatened.  How did these surveillance activities comply with the right to privacy?  The State party had acquired sophisticated Chinese surveillance technologies, including facial recognition systems from CloudWalk and communications interception technology from the surveillance company Circles.  Could information about the legal framework governing the deployment of Chinese surveillance technologies be provided?  Were there safeguards in place to protect citizens’ rights?

    How did the 2014 Trafficking in Persons Act effectively address the practical challenges of combating human trafficking?  Were there any plans to amend the definition of trafficking to align more closely with international standards and ensure comprehensive protection for victims?  Could the State party provide a comprehensive overview of the measures taken to provide protection, rehabilitation, reparation, and reintegration services to victims?  How many shelters were available in the country and what efforts were undertaken to address child labour, particularly in commercial sexual exploitation, mining, and tobacco production?  What policies were in place to address human trafficking from sources other than Kuwait?

    Could the State party elaborate on the legal and factual elements considered when assessing asylum claims?  What safeguards were in place to ensure that assessments were conducted in line with international human rights standards, particularly regarding the principle of non-refoulement?  How did the State party respond to allegations of the mistreatment of prisoners? What measures were in place to prevent such mistreatment and ensure the safety and dignity of detainees?  Could statistical data, including the number of individuals expelled from Zimbabwe and the number of applicants who had failed in their asylum appeals, be provided?  What was being done to address concerns around stateless children, including through birth registration?

    Was there any statistical data available on prosecutions or penalties related to child marriage?  There were reports indicating that certain religious groups specifically promoted early marriage.  What challenges did the State party face in enforcing its prohibition policy in light of such religious influences?

    Although it was widely recognised that military recruitment in Zimbabwe had been voluntary since independence, the Constitution did not explicitly guarantee the right to conscientious objection to military service.  Could the Committee confirm whether the National Service Act of 1976 remained in force, given that it allowed for exemptions for individuals whose “bona fide religious beliefs” prevented them from performing national service?

    Another Committee Expert said reports before the Committee said there were several gaps in the legal framework that remained unaddressed for conducting free, fair and transparent elections.  What steps would Zimbabwe take to align the electoral legal framework to guarantee and protect fundamental freedoms?  How would it ensure that human rights defenders and civil society actors could carry out their activities without fear of harassment or intimidation?  What measures would the State party take to fully align the Electoral Act with the Constitution, to ensure free, fair and transparent elections in the future?  The absence of campaign finance regulations in the State party undermined the transparency and accountability of the electoral process in terms of establishing limits to donations from individual donors and the lack of caps on electoral campaign expenditures.  What steps would Zimbabwe take to adopt a comprehensive legislation regulating campaign financing?

    Several reports before the Committee raised concerns that the 2023 harmonised elections took pace in a restricted political environment and that the administration of elections had serious gaps in terms of independence and transparency.  Could the State party respond to such reports, and state what specific measures would be taken to address these concerns?  In May 2020, three female leaders from the political opposition party “MDC Alliance” were allegedly tortured, sexual assaulted and dumped 48 hours later outside Harare.  Could the State party provide information on investigations carried out regarding the alleged acts, and whether those responsible had been held to account and victims compensated?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said overcrowding was a challenge in Zimbabwe, but several strategies had been put in place to address this issue, including the parole system.  The Zimbabwe prison correction service was also relying on Presidential amnesty.  The rehabilitation activities implemented ensured that inmates were equipped with skills to foster a smooth reintegration into society.  A new prison was also being built to tackle the issue of overcrowding.  Steps were being taken to ensure that all detainees had access to medical care, which was a challenge.  Programmes and measures had been developed to ensure detainees received nutritional meals, including investment in sustainable agricultural practices.  The prison administration did not discriminate against any inmate based on their political affiliation or opinion.  No convicted inmates were housed in a remand prison.  Some 22 visits had been made to places of detention.  Zimbabwe was still grappling with the effects of sanctions imposed by Western countries.

    Children in conflict with the law were housed in the State’s juvenile detention centre, which was separate from adult prisons.  Eighteen years was established as the minimum age of marriage within the Constitution. Every child under the age of 18 had the rights to be protected from economic and sexual exploitation, neglect and all other forms of abuse.  In 2022, Zimbabwe passed the Marriage Act, which set the minimum age of marriage as 18 years and repealed previous customary law.  The Children’s Act aimed to prevent neglect, ill-treatment and exploitation, including by parents and guardians.  The national action plan for orphans and vulnerable children established child protection committees at various levels, ensuring collaborative efforts between the Government and civil society to protect children’s rights.  It was a criminal offence for parents to prevent their children to work in brothels.  A law criminalised child pornography and imposed severe punishments to offenders.  The national case management system offered a multisectoral approach to responding to child protection concerns.

    Currently the minimum age of criminal responsibility was set at seven years.  However, Zimbabwe was working on a child justice law which would set the minimum age of criminal responsibility at 12 years.  It was currently amending its laws on trafficking to strengthen enforcement and enhance victim protection.  Police officers received specialised training on trafficking, with a focus on victim identification, regional cooperation and human rights, among other topics.

    The Constitution stated that courts needed to operate free from interference.  In Zimbabwe, Judges were not elected by the people, but rather were appointed by the President after consultation with the independent Judicial Service Commission, which had its own budget and was able to pay salaries for judicial officers, safeguarding them from outside influence. A digital case management system had also increased judicial independence, ensuring the judiciary had sole autonomy regarding the allocation of cases to judges, without influence from the Executive.

    Currently, 14 community radio stations and six free to air television channels had been licensed in Zimbabwe; there was no monopoly on media access.  There was a legal aid directorate which extended to civil cases. The legal aid directorate mandated the Government to provide legal aid services to indigenous persons.

    The Constitution provided that any person who was detained had the right to conditions of detention consistent with human dignity, including the right to physical exercise, adequate accommodation, and nutrition.

    The Government’s law enforcement agencies maintained a balance between the right to demonstration and the rights of other citizens.  During demonstrations, police were authorised to use minimum force to disperse crowds conducting gatherings outside the framework of the law.  All political parties were supposed to notify the police of demonstrations, for the protection of other citizens.

    Children born to immigrant parents in Zimbabwe were given birth certificates, but certain criteria needed to be met, including proof of the child’s birth.  Parents’ statelessness needed to be clearly established through documents.  There needed to be proof of residence in Zimbabwe.

    A data and cyber protection law was in place to safeguard citizens’ personal and institutional data from cyber threats and breaches.

    Legal aid was only available for accused persons facing murder charges.  Those being charged with murder could not appear in the High Court without a lawyer.

    If the Zimbabwean Election Commission could access foreign funding, it could be exposed to the influence of outside parties.  The State ensured the Commission was adequately funded so it could carry out its mandate.  A recent legal amendment stipulated that judges could be elected up to the age of 75 years; this represented an improvement in the State’s jurisprudence. The Government was not aware of the Chinese surveillance system mentioned by the Committee.  This would be investigated further.

    Follow-Up Questions by Committee Experts

    The Committee asked follow-up questions on topics including human rights defenders and civil society actors being able to carry out their activities without fear of harassment; judges who had failed the interview process still being appointed to the High Court; the expected timeline for the amendments to the trafficking in persons act; the resources allocated to the national plan on trafficking in persons; whether a comprehensive assessment of the human rights impacts of sectors such as mining and tobacco had been conducted; how documentation challenges for stateless persons would be addressed; how it was ensured that the births of all children could be registered; and conscientious objection to military service.  The State was urged to dig deeper into the issue of Chinese surveillance technologies.

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said Zimbabwe needed to protect its sovereignty.  The State was suffering from the impacts of unilateral coercive measures.  It wished to stop actions which would affect the country in the long run.  There were provisions for an affidavit to be provided for those who did not give birth in a hospital to facilitate birth registration.  Only judges who passed interviews could be appointed to the High Court.   Judges in Zimbabwe were entitled to own houses and agricultural land, just like any other citizens.

    There were laws prohibiting child labour in Zimbabwe that set the minimum working age to 15. The State had ratified key international conventions in this regard, but implementation remained weak due to a lack of awareness.  Organizations including the United Nations Children’s Fund worked to rescue children from forced labour situations and reintegrate them into society. 

    Closing Statements

    NOBERT T. MAZUNGUNYE, Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and head of delegation, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in dialogue with the Committee.  The discussions and recommendations demonstrated Zimbabwe’s collective commitment to protecting and advancing human rights in the country.  The State was dedicated to implementing the necessary steps to ensure the rights enshrined in the Covenant were fully realised by all Zimbabweans.

    CHANGROK SOH, Committee Chairperson, extended sincere appreciation to the high-level delegation of Zimbabwe for their willingness to engage in a constructive dialogue with the Committee.  Mr. Soh thanked all those who had contributed to the dialogue.  The discussion had explored Zimbabwe’s implementation of the Covenant, highlighting areas of progress and challenges that remained.

     

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

     

     

    CCPR25.004E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Invites Creators to Design Mascot for Artemis Moon Mission

    Source: NASA

    [embedded content]
    Credit: NASA

    NASA is seeking design ideas from global creators for a zero gravity indicator that will fly aboard the agency’s Artemis II test flight. Zero gravity indicators are small, plush items carried aboard spacecraft to provide a visual indication of when the spacecraft and its crew reach space.
    This opportunity, with a submission deadline of May 27, asks for original designs representing the significance of NASA’s Artemis campaign, the mission, or exploration and discovery, and meet specific requirements for materials and size.
    “What better way to fly a mission around the Moon than to invite the public inside NASA’s Orion spacecraft with us and ask for help in designing our zero gravity indicator?” asked Reid Wiseman, NASA astronaut and Artemis II commander, at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “The indicator will float alongside Victor, Christina, Jeremy, and me as we go around the far side of the Moon and remind us of all of you back on Earth.”
    Up to 25 finalists, including from a K-12 student division, will be selected. The Artemis II crew will choose one design that NASA’s Thermal Blanket Lab will fabricate to fly alongside them in Orion. Imagine seeing your creation floating weightlessly with astronauts on their way around the Moon.
    For complete contest details, visit:
    http://www.freelancer.com/moon-mascot
    Crowdsourcing company Freelancer is hosting the challenge, called Moon Mascot: NASA Artemis II ZGI Design Contest, on behalf of the agency through the NASA Tournament Lab, managed by the agency’s Space Technology Mission Directorate.
    NASA has a long history of flying zero gravity indicators for human spaceflight missions. Many missions to the International Space Station include a plush item. A plush Snoopy rode inside Orion during NASA’s uncrewed Artemis I mission.
    Artemis II will be the first test flight of the Space Launch System rocket, Orion spacecraft, and supporting ground system with crew aboard. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen will venture around the Moon and back. The mission is the first crewed flight under NASA’s Artemis campaign and is another step toward missions on the lunar surface and helping the agency prepare for future human missions to Mars.
    All major elements for Artemis II are readying for flight. Engineers recently completed stacking the twin solid rocket boosters for the SLS (Space Launch System) on their launch platform and are preparing for integration of the SLS core stage in the coming weeks. Teams also recently installed the solar array wings on the Orion spacecraft that will carry the four astronauts on their journey around the Moon and home.
    Through Artemis, NASA will send astronauts to explore the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and build the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars.
    Learn more about Artemis II at:

    Artemis II

    -end-
    Rachel KraftHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600rachel.h.kraft@nasa.gov
    Courtney BeasleyJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111courtney.m.beasley@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Encourages Survivors to Apply for Assistance; More Than $1 Million Has Been Approved to Date

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Encourages Survivors to Apply for Assistance; More Than $1 Million Has Been Approved to Date

    FEMA Encourages Survivors to Apply for Assistance; More Than $1 Million Has Been Approved to Date

    Charleston, W.Va.— More than $1 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for over 1,334 households in West Virginia following the impacts of the severe storm and flooding on February 15. This milestone, which was reached just one week after the event was declared, is accompanied by other important moments in disaster assistance and recovery.“Thanks to state efforts and the hard work of FEMA and the Trump administration, over $1 million in individual assistance has already been approved for West Virginians affected by the floods,” said Governor Patrick Morrisey. “I encourage those in the designated counties to continue to apply for assistance and connect with the Disaster Recovery Centers for any help needed through the process.”

    Crew members speak with a resident in Mingo County.

    “Reaching this milestone has been a team effort,” Federal Coordinating Officer Mark O’Hanlon said. “FEMA is here and working side-by-side with our West Virginia partners to ensure our mission is done quickly and efficiently. I want to thank our state and local partners, because FEMA could not have reached this milestone without them. We will continue to push forward and support the people of West Virginia who were impacted by the February 15 storm.” Residents can visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to apply for FEMA assistance, update their application, or learn more about other resources available. Staff from federal, state, and local agencies are at DRCs to help survivors answer questions about FEMA applications as well as access other resources and support. DRCs are open in Mercer and McDowell Counties and additional DRCs will be opening soon.Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are on the ground in impacted communities, walking door-to-door to share information and help residents apply for FEMA assistance. 

    A crew member speaks with a resident in McDowell County.

    Impacted individuals in McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, and Wyoming counties can apply today by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app, calling 1-800-621-3362. If you have already applied for FEMA assistance and have questions about the status of your application or about appealing a FEMA determination letter you have received, visit a DRC near you for one-on-one assistance or call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362. FEMA staff are ready to answer your questions.For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,  www.fema.gov/disaster/4861 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished impartially, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, ask for assistance on the FEMA Helpline 1-800-621-3362 (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). In addition, FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. 
    kelly.magarity
    Fri, 03/07/2025 – 13:18

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: How to Apply for FEMA Assistance Following the February Severe Storms and Floods

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: How to Apply for FEMA Assistance Following the February Severe Storms and Floods

    FRANKFORT, Ky — Kentucky homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Simpson counties who experienced damage or losses caused by the February severe storms and floods may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.How to Apply for FEMA AssistanceThere are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to midnight local time every day, use the FEMA mobile app or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.When you apply for assistance, please have the following information ready:  A current phone number where you can be contacted.Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.Your Social Security Number.A general list of damage and losses.Banking information if you choose direct deposit.If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.Residents should file insurance claims as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If the insurance policy does not cover all disaster expenses, policy holders may be eligible for federal assistance. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to any cleanup and repair. For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.
    sarah.cleary
    Fri, 03/07/2025 – 13:23

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Be Alert to Fraud After Kentucky Flooding

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Be Alert to Fraud After Kentucky Flooding

    FRANKFORT, Ky — Kentuckians should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after recent flooding. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from people affected by the disaster.If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If this happens, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application. If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline will submit a request to stop further processing of that application.If you do want to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the helpline will assist you in creating a new application.Scams FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by the flooding. FEMA officials will carry photo identification badges. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed or reproduced.FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free. Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information. If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department or report it to the Kentucky Attorney General: https://secure.kentucky.gov/formservices/AttorneyGeneral/ScamReport.If you have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, you can report these tips – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. You can also email StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov to report a tip.How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Kentucky FloodingWhat You’ll Need When You ApplyA current phone number where you can be contacted.Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.Your Social Security number.A general list of damage and losses.Banking information if you choose direct deposit.If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.The first step to receive FEMA assistance is to apply. There are four ways to apply: call the toll-free FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The phone line is open daily from 7 a.m. to midnight ET, and help is available in most languages. The deadline to apply for assistance for flooding is April 25, 2025. For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.
    sarah.cleary
    Fri, 03/07/2025 – 13:29

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California awards nearly $300 million to local communities to make roadways safer

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 7, 2025

    What you need to know: California is investing nearly $300 million of federal funding in traffic safety projects to protect public safety across the state.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced nearly $300 million in funding for 288 projects aimed at reducing traffic deaths and serious injuries on city and county roads across California.

    “We’re making roads safer up and down the state with significant investments. I’m proud of the lifesaving work Caltrans has done to protect drivers, pedestrians, and bikers as they go about their daily commutes.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The funding for these local projects is provided through the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), a critical federal-aid program with the goal of reducing fatal and serious injuries on public roads across the nation.

    The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is using the Safe System approach – which emphasizes multiple layers of protection, including safer road designs – to achieve its goal of reducing fatalities and serious injuries on state roadways to zero by 2050.

    Caltrans’ adoption of the Safe System approach builds on its ongoing work to embed safety in the state’s transportation system. When feasible, transportation projects Caltrans funds or oversees will include “complete street” features that provide safe and accessible options for people walking, biking, and taking transit.

    “Under Governor Newsom’s leadership, California remains committed to helping ensure that every Californian has access to safe and reliable transportation, no matter who they are or where they live,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “These investments highlight our people-first approach, because we know it will pay the most important dividend of all – their safety.”   

    Safety improvement efforts from projects receiving the funding announced today will be distributed throughout the state, making impactful enhancements from Del Norte County in the north to San Diego County in the south and communities everywhere in between.

    A sample of the safety projects include:  

    • In the Bay Area, a $5 million project will install Class IV bike lanes in Contra Costa County, a $4.4 million project will install new high-visibility signage in San Francisco, and a $1.75 million project will improve intersection lighting and pedestrian throughways.
    • Along the Central Coast, a $4 million project in Santa Barbara County will implement new pedestrian improvements and traffic signals, and a $2 million project in Santa Cruz County will improve daylight and pedestrian crossings.
    •  In the Central Valley, a $3.7 million investment will fund a new roundabout in Fresno County, a $4.5 million project in Tulare County will install rumble strips, left-turn lanes, and flashing beacons, and a $2.6 million project in San Joaquin County will improve 42 separate traffic signals.
    • In Northern California, nearly $6 million will go toward installing retro-reflectivity striping throughout Trinity County, and $1 million will be spent to improve guardrail throughout Humboldt County.
    •  In Southern California, a $3.6 million project in Fullerton will provide a protected left lane, a $1 million effort in Orange County will upgrade nearly 60 signalized interchanges, and a nearly $3 million investment in Riverside County will install protected bike lanes and ADA-accessible curb ramps.

    A list of projects receiving funding from today’s announcement can be found here.

    Since 2007, California has provided $1.5 billion to local safety projects, which included installing rumble strips, flashing beacons, warning signs, roadway lighting, delineators and new sidewalks to make roads safer.

    For more information about transportation projects and funding, visit: Build.ca.gov. 

    Recent news

    Mar 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today is issuing an executive order extending protections to help ensure that Los Angeles firestorm survivors can access rental housing. LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order to maintain…

    Mar 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Pacific Steel Group’s Mojave Micro Mill will be the first steel mill built in California in the last five decades, bringing economic growth to Kern County and revolutionizing the industry with first-of-its-kind zero carbon emissions steel —…

    Mar 6, 2025

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom extends protections for LA firestorm survivors

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 7, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom today is issuing an executive order extending protections to help ensure that Los Angeles firestorm survivors can access rental housing.

    LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order to maintain protections for renters and homeowners affected by Los Angeles area firestorms. The order extends state price gouging restrictions for rental housing, hotels, and short-term housing, extends support for survivors sheltering in hotels and short-term housing, and prioritizes fire-survivors experiencing homelessness for state-funded housing.

    “As the Los Angeles community continues to recover and rebuild, the state remains steadfast in its commitment to providing targeted relief and assistance. Today I am issuing an executive order to further ensure that survivors are protected from exploitation and can access housing they need.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Today’s executive order extends several of Governor Newsom’s executive orders that were set to expire, helping to encourage immediate access to housing and protect tenants from potential exploitation.

    Today’s executive order:

    • Extends price gouging protections on rental housing, hotels, and motel rates, including prohibitions on evictions of tenants to relist the rental at a higher rate to July 1, 2025, while retaining exemptions for large homes in zip codes with high fair market values which have not recently been on the rental market to help ensure they are available for rental during recovery efforts. The order also exempts newly constructed housing to increase housing supply by enabling pricing flexibility for these new buildings that face higher financing costs.

    • Extends the suspension of laws that would classify occupants of hotels, motels, and temporary housing as tenants after 30 days, giving people more time to find alternative housing. 

    • Prioritizes fire survivors experiencing homelessness by prioritizing them on waiting lists for state-funded housing for which they otherwise qualify so they can secure housing faster, consistent with the approach taken by the federal government in response to emergencies. 

    • Supports the rebuilding of two commercial corridors in Altadena to their pre-fire character to support small businesses and rebuild walkable, vibrant community spaces.

    Recent news

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    News What you need to know: Pacific Steel Group’s Mojave Micro Mill will be the first steel mill built in California in the last five decades, bringing economic growth to Kern County and revolutionizing the industry with first-of-its-kind zero carbon emissions steel —…

    Mar 6, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Foresters, firefighters, community leaders and wildfire experts are applauding Governor Gavin Newsom’s state of emergency proclamation to remove red tape and increase the pace and scale of forest management in California. Following the devastation of…

    Mar 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom has directed his Office of Emergency Services to coordinate with key partners during this next round of winter weather to strategically preposition critical resources to protect the public.  Los Angeles, California – As…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: How to Know You’re in Space: Zero Gravity Indicators

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Have you ever wanted to design something that could fly around the Moon? This is your opportunity. The Artemis II astronauts will use a zero gravity indicator during their mission to demonstrate when their Orion spacecraft has reached microgravity. This plushie needs to be soft, small, and importantly, remind us of home.

    The Moon Mascot contest challenges people of all ages from all over the world to submit a design to be made by NASA’s Thermal Blanket Lab and flown aboard Artemis II.

    To submit a design for the contest, visit: https://www.freelancer.com/moon-mascot

    To learn more about the Artemis II mission, visit: https://www.nasa.gov/mission/artemis-ii/

    Credit: NASA
    Writer: Erika Peters
    Editor: Phil Sexton
    Producers: Rad Sinyak, Erika Peters

    #MoonMascot #Artemis #ZeroG

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75P6zZmTyFQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $50 Million Effort to Fight Poverty in Upstate New York

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced new steps to fight poverty in Rochester, Buffalo and Syracuse, three communities chosen because they include some of the highest poverty rates out of anywhere in New York State. Governor Hochul’s FY 2025 Budget allocated $50 million for this antipoverty programming, which is now being utilized by community-based groups in these communities.

    “Every family should have the opportunity to grow and thrive in New York, and I’m committed to delivering the resources to make that a reality,” Governor Hochul said. “As the first Governor from Upstate New York in nearly a century, I know many of our neighbors struggle to make ends meet. Working together, we’re going to fight poverty and lift up the families who need it most.”

    The cities of Rochester, Buffalo and Syracuse are investing $50 million included in the FY 2025 Budget to bring much-needed resources to help families living in poverty increase earnings and improve family well-being. Each locality sought and received community input while working with their county Department of Social Services to develop and finalize their plans.

    The Monroe County Department of Human Services will use $25 million to implement three targeted strategies to strengthen low-income families’ financial footing and reduce poverty in the city of Rochester. The strategies include a monthly cash incentive program for pregnant women who agree to participate in activities that support maternal health, as well as rental subsidy and upward mobility mentoring programs.

    • Beginning within 180 days of their expected delivery date, up to 200 Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)-eligible pregnant women in certain ZIP codes in Rochester will be eligible to receive a cash incentive of $1000 per month for up to two years, as well as case management support, prenatal healthcare referrals, and services to reduce maternal morbidity and infant mortality. Participants will also be required to carry out other activities that support mental health and promote self-sufficiency and upward mobility.
    • The rental subsidy program will provide a monthly supplement to 100 families currently receiving Temporary Assistance that live in designated zip codes in Rochester over two years. Families receiving the subsidy will also receive case management, financial counseling and support necessary to increase their income so that their total monthly rent does not exceed 30 percent of their monthly income.
    • The Upward Mobility Mentoring program will provide up to 1,200 TANF-eligible families with direct support and cash assistance with the aim of having a meaningful and sustainable impact on families’ long term economic potential. This program will address five pillars of upward mobility: family stability, well-being, financial management, education/training, and employment/careers. Every enrolled family will create individualized life plans for upward mobility and participate in coaching and financial counseling to maximize the potential for their long term success.

    The Onondaga County Department of Social Services will use $12.5 million to focus on addressing generational poverty, promoting housing stability, improving school attendance rates and distributing free diapers to families that are eligible for Temporary Assistance.

    • The existing 2Gen Onondaga pilot project will be expanded, providing intensive case management and trauma-informed goal-setting for Syracuse families with children who receive Temporary Assistance to better promote family well-being. The program also encourages continued employment by providing payments to help ease the perceived effects of “benefits cliffs.” Participating households whose income exceeds eligibility for assistance will continue to receive their monthly benefit for 12 months, after which the benefit will be slowly reduced to zero. Additionally, the plan will support non-custodial parents by helping them reduce their child support orders to better reflect what they can afford and connecting them with employment and parenting programs.
    • The Central New York Centralized Housing Assistance and Network for Community Engagement (CNY CHANCE) program is designed to help alleviate an increasingly tight housing market. The program includes a range of efforts to promote housing stability, including the creation of a housing database, landlord engagement and incentives, and advocacy for affordable housing development, among others.
    • Full-time attendance liaisons will be embedded in the Syracuse City School District to support students from families who are receiving or eligible to receive Temporary Assistance that are struggling with attendance issues. The liaisons will provide continuous support to families and work to resolve issues that are contributing to chronic absenteeism.
    • Onondaga County will work with the CNY Diaper Bank to provide free diapers to any family with a child under age 4 who lives in the City of Syracuse and is eligible for Temporary Assistance.

    The Erie County Department of Social Services will use $12.5 million to support upward mobility for TANF-eligible families experiencing poverty who reside in the city of Buffalo. The goal of the incentive-based program is to improve employment outcomes for families and children and reduce child poverty. Program components include life coaches, career coaches, financial literacy services, linkage to support and resources, and direct cash incentives.

    • Direct cash payments would be provided as an incentive for up to 600 participating families. The families could receive up to 29 incentive payments totaling $16,000 per family if they meet certain benchmarks, including engagement with career and life coaches, making progress toward identified goals, enrollment in training and/or education/upskilling activities, and attainment and retention of employment.
    • Savings accounts will be opened for up to 300 participants and every dollar deposited by the participant will receive a $3 match up to $3,000.
    • Approximately 115 participants will receive assistance in obtaining a driver license, as a first step toward car ownership.
    • Participants will also have access to various workforce development programs, including subsidized job placement, on-the-job training, industry-specific career pathways programs, and pre-apprenticeships, among others.

    This initiative builds on Governor Hochul’s commitment to making New York the best, most affordable place to start and raise a family. The Governor’s historic investments in her 2025 State of the State and FY 2026 Executive Budget will advance innovative actions to best address the needs of every child and family in New York:

    • Governor Hochul’s expansion of the Child Tax credit to $1,000 or $500 per child will help address the economic challenges that families are facing and is projected to significantly reduce child poverty in New York State. When fully implemented, this historic investment could reduce child poverty statewide by up to 8.2 percent. This would build on the progress this Administration has already made reducing child poverty through actions in recent budgets. Combined with other measures like expanding subsidized childcare, this Administration’s actions to date are estimated to reduce child poverty by up to 17.7 percent.
    • The Governor also proposed New York’s first-ever inflation refund that will put $3 billion back in the pockets of 8.6 million taxpayers. By the end of 2025, New York State will send direct payments to everyday New Yorkers. Joint tax filers who make $300,000 or less will receive a $500 payment, while all single New York taxpayers who make $150,000 or less will receive a $300 payment. These one-time payments will provide New Yorkers with much-needed financial relief in 2025.
    • Governor Hochul will partner with Baby2Baby to provide maternal health and newborn supply boxes to Medicaid-enrolled expectant mothers and those reached through community organizations and hospitals in low-income areas. The boxes will include resources, educational materials, self-care products, and diapers, reaching approximately 100,000 families at full implementation.
    • Governor Hochul will also provide millions of diapers annually and expand maternal behavioral health services. Additionally, the Governor will co-locate mental health services into OBGYN practices in high-needs communities.
    • Building on the Governor’s support for pregnant women and infants, the New York State BABY (Birth Allowance for Beginning Year) Benefit will provide a $100 monthly benefit during pregnancy and a $1,200 benefit at birth to low-income public assistance recipients. This will increase household income for thousands of New York families.
    • Additionally, to take action against pervasive appraisal bias through the housing industry that has unjustly stripped families in communities of color out of the opportunity to purchase a home, Governor Hochul proposed a suite of actions to make discriminatory appraisal practices unlawful, enforce anti-discrimination principles in appraisals, and diversify the appraiser workforce.

    New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “Poverty is a reality that affects the lives of far too many children and their families, limiting their opportunities and potential. Research shows that the focused support and assistance contained in these locally-driven anti-poverty initiatives—from rental subsidies, maternal health support, financial coaching, school attendance incentives, to cash assistance—are effective at improving family well-being and the economic security of children and families. We look forward to the implementation of these programs in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse and are grateful to Governor Hochul for prioritizing an agenda that uplifts working families and makes our state more livable and affordable for all New Yorkers.”

    Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer said, “From boosting financial literacy to job-training to improving parenting skills and support for steady housing in Buffalo and Rochester and Syracuse, this is an investment in our children, in our future, and building a better life for families that need a helping hand. I will always fight to deliver resources to New York’s families to give all our children the best opportunities for a bright future and support Governor Hochul’s efforts to achieve these goals.”

    Representative Joe Morelle said, “Lifting children and families out of poverty has always been one of my top priorities. This marks a vital step forward in our efforts to lower costs by making high-quality healthcare and housing opportunities more affordable and putting money directly in the pockets of those who need it most. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership on this important issue, and I look forward to working with her and Monroe County Executive Adam Bello to implement Project Prosper throughout Rochester.”

    Representative Timothy Kennedy said, “This important anti-poverty initiative will uplift hardworking parents and help ensure their children thrive. This funding will connect families with resources that have the potential to change their lives. In Washington, I will continue fighting for working households to make New York more affordable and to provide those families with access to new opportunities.”

    Representative John W. Mannion said, “Every child deserves a chance to succeed, and I’m committed to lifting our communities out of poverty, especially in urban centers like Syracuse. It’s a generational challenge – but also an opportunity to make meaningful investments in our schools, create environments of hope, deliver stable housing, and bring successful programs to scale. I join Governor Hochul in this effort and commend her leadership for making these life changing investments in Onondaga County.”

    State Senator Christopher Ryan said, “I want to extend my gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for her commitment to addressing the needs of children and families in Syracuse and Central New York. The $50 million investment across Rochester, Buffalo and Syracuse will provide vital resources to help reduce poverty and improve the well-being of families who need it most. This initiative, built on strong collaboration between state, county and local leaders, ensures that our region’s efforts are guided by the real needs and input of the families we serve. I’m proud to support this transformative approach, and I look forward to working together to create lasting change for our children and families in Syracuse and throughout Central New York.”

    State Senator April N.M. Baskin said, “If the cycle of poverty is not broken early in a child’s life, the devastating effects are often felt for a lifetime. This investment in Buffalo and other upstate cities is critical because our communities are among the poorest, setting children back before they even have a chance to start. Resources from these vital funds can dramatically and positively help area kids thrive, enhancing their lives and their families as well.”

    State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Child poverty rates across Upstate New York are abhorrent, especially in the City of Rochester where nearly half of our children live below the poverty line. Thank you Governor Hochul for your partnership in bringing funding to local organizations in the communities who need it most, combatting our unacceptable child poverty rates, and paving the way towards a brighter future for the next generation of New Yorkers.”

    State Senator Sean Ryan said, “As the federal government works to slash programs that New Yorkers depend on and fails to deliver on the promise of lowering costs, we’re working hard in New York to uplift our most vulnerable communities. This State funding will protect families in need and add one more tool to help Buffalo address the unconscionably high rate of childhood poverty that has plagued our city for too long. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued efforts to address this critically important issue.”

    State Senator Rachel May said, “Many families in Central New York struggle to make ends meet. With rising rents and persistently high food prices, meeting the basic needs for meals, utilities, and other essentials has become increasingly difficult. Governor Hochul’s announcement of $50 million in funding for anti-poverty programs will significantly help address the fundamental causes of poverty in our region. Thank you to Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the Senate Majority who continue to lift more of our neighbors out of poverty.”

    Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “Reducing poverty is one of the most important measures the State can take to help struggling families maintain their health, home, and well-being. I welcome Governor Hochul’s commitment to reducing poverty in the cities of Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse and look forward to seeing the positive results in my community and beyond.”

    Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “Governor Hochul’s announcement today shows a true commitment to fighting one of the hardest battles our local communities continue to face. Syracuse has long had some of the highest rates of child poverty across the nation and it is paramount that we take responsibility to combat this longstanding and generational issue. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership which has made these resources possible for Onondaga County, helping lift our children and families most in need and demonstrating an enduring dedication to the welfare of our future generations.”

    Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi said, “I am grateful to Governor Hochul for targeting these anti-poverty funds precisely where we need them, in Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo which unfortunately retain some of the highest rates of child poverty in the country. Thank you to Speaker Heastie, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and all of my colleagues for working with the executive to provide this assistance to our upstate communities, families and children.”

    Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, “Syracuse has one of the highest rates of child poverty in the nation with about half of the children in the city falling below the poverty line. By investing in Syracuse and other Upstate cities, the Governor is committed to improving the well-being of our communities through increasing opportunities to access housing, childcare, jobs and transportation.”

    Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said,“As the prime Assembly sponsor of the Child Poverty Reduction Act, I applaud the Governor for this additional $50 million investment to address the needs of children and families living in poverty, which prioritizes uplifting families through opportunity and resources. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your continued and renewed support and partnership to make Rochester a city of prosperity, opportunity and equity, so we can finally end the epidemic of children and families living in poverty.”

    Assemblymember Sarah Clark said, “We know that systemic poverty is at the heart of many of our most pressing issues statewide. Serving in a region that has one of the highest child poverty rates in the state is a constant reminder of how much more we need to be investing in children and families, which is my top priority in the Assembly. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for announcing $50 million investments into our most marginalized communities here in Upstate New York. These funds will help lift families out of generational poverty and ensure the most pressing needs of our children are better met.”

    Assemblymember Pamela Hunter said, “Investing in our children and families is the foundation of a stronger, more prosperous New York. Throughout my time in office, childhood poverty in Syracuse has been one of the most pervasive and difficult issues to address. With this $50 million commitment, we are taking decisive action to break the cycle of poverty and provide real opportunities for families in Rochester, Buffalo, and here in Syracuse. By prioritizing locally driven solutions, we are ensuring that those closest to the challenges have the resources they need to create lasting change. I applaud Governor Hochul for her leadership and for recognizing that lifting up our most vulnerable communities is not just the right thing to do—it is essential for the future of our state.”

    Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said, “Project Prosper will create strategic initiatives to connect families to stable housing, employment support, childcare, assistance for pregnant women that will improve maternal and infant health outcomes, and targeted rental subsidies to help families secure stable housing. This funding will provide real, measurable pathways out of poverty in targeted zip codes throughout our community. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for this $25 million investment and for taking many of the recommendations of the community-driven Rochester-Monroe County Anti-Poverty Initiative and turning them into reality.”

    Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said, “Reducing poverty among families and children helps them on a path to a better, healthier and more productive life. This funding will help TANF-eligible families gain access to the support and services they need to gain new skills, improve their financial literacy and build towards a better future. I thank Governor Hochul for her continuing focus on reducing poverty rates and making Buffalo, and New York State, a great place to raise a family.”

    Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said, “My administration has worked tirelessly to reach and connect with the members of our community living in poverty to the resources they need in a comprehensive and holistic way. From our successful 2Gen Onondaga Pilot project that works to break the generation cycle of poverty to working with our schools to support our kids without adding additional challenges for parents looking to find or keep employment, Onondaga County is making real progress when it comes to finally addressing the root causes of poverty. There is still much more work to do and thanks to these state funds we will be able to build on and scale up our efforts in a truly substantive way. Thank you to New York State and all of the community partners who helped make today possible.”

    Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, “Project Prosper combines the resources of New York State, Monroe County and the City of Rochester to support our most vulnerable residents and address some of the debilitating consequences of poverty: infant mortality, rent burden, and economic stagnation. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for delivering this funding, along with the many community-based organizations whose insights helped us design these innovative strategies. Thanks to Governor Hochul and our partnership with Monroe County, we are giving the residents of Rochester’s poorest neighborhoods the investments they deserve.”

    Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon said, “As a father of three, I know firsthand the challenges that families face in ensuring their children have the opportunities and support they need to thrive. Governor Hochul’s investment in Buffalo will provide critical resources to lift families out of poverty, creating a pathway to economic stability and brighter futures for our children. This funding is not just about financial assistance—it’s about empowering families with the tools to succeed, from career coaching to financial literacy and workforce development. I want to thank the Governor for her investment in families in the City of Buffalo and I look forward to seeing its impact on families across our city.”

    Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “The programs receiving support in the City of Syracuse address the child’s home and education and the parent’s ability to meet current needs while expanding their capacity to escape poverty through employment. It is this type of holistic approach that creates both a pathway out of poverty and the support for the family to successfully navigate that path. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for committing these resources to fight childhood poverty in Syracuse and to our partners at Onondaga County for working with us on these programs.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Thirty-Seventh Feeding Our Future Defendant Pleads Guilty with Obstruction of Justice Enhancement for Witness Tampering Attempt

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – A Lakeville man has pleaded guilty to wire fraud for his role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents, from April 2020 through January 2022, Abdinasir Mahamed Abshir, 33, claimed to be operating a child nutrition site in Mankato, Minnesota, a mid-sized city in Southwestern Minnesota.  Abshir ran his food site, Stigma-Free Mankato, under the sponsorship of Feeding our Future.  Shortly after creating the Stigma-Free Mankato site, the defendant falsely claimed to be serving meals to 3,000 children a day, seven days a week, from J’s Sambusa, a small restaurant in North Mankato.  Abshir also created a shell company called Horseed Management, and claimed it was a meal vendor for the Stigma-Free Mankato food site. Between November 2020 and November 2021, Abshir and his co-conspirators falsely claimed to have served approximately 1.6 million meals to children through Stigma-Free Mankato.

    To accomplish their scheme, Abshirand his co-conspirators prepared and submitted fake meal counts, invoices, and attendance rosters. Rather than use fraudulently obtained money to serve meals or feed children, Abshir and his co-conspirators fraudulently misappropriated much of it.  Abshir transferred millions of dollars from Horseed Management to himself and other co-conspirators, which included transferring fraud proceeds to a shell company the defendant created called Calikamin Enterprise. Abshir used fraudulent proceeds to purchase a 2021 Range Rover, which has been seized and will be forfeited to the United States.

    According to court documents, Abshir paid more than $100,000 in bribes and kickbacks from Horseed Management to Abdikerm Eidleh, a Feeding Our Future employee, in exchange for sponsoring and facilitating Stigma-Free Mankato’s fraudulent participation in the Federal Child Nutrition Program. In exchange, Feeding Our Future received nearly $420,000 in administrative fees for sponsoring the Stigma-Free Mankato site’s participation in the program.  In December 2021, Abshir paid $5,750 to a GoFundMe account for Feeding Our Future created by Aimee Bock.

    In total, Stigma-Free Mankato received over $5.4 million in payments from Feeding Our Future based on fraudulent claims.

    In addition, on February 18, 2025, Abshir attempted to obstruct or impede the administration of justice when he communicated with a cooperating witness in the trial of his co-defendants in United States v. Aimee Bock and Salim Said.  Specifically, in the hallway outside Courtroom 13W in the U.S. Federal Courthouse in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Abshir approached a witness who was about to testify in the trial.  After learning that the witness was about to testify that day, Abshir requested that the witness come with him to the bathroom to have a conversation.  

    Abshir pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel. In his plea, he acknowledges that an enhancement will apply to his Sentencing Guidelines because he obstructed justice when he attempted to tamper with a witness.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

    The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson, Matthew S. Ebert, Harry M. Jacobs, and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: March Federal Grand Jury 2025-A Indictments Announced

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the March Federal Grand Jury 2025-A Indictments.

    The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

    Natividad Castillo Avena. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Avena, 38, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Dec. 2024. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy M. Mackenzie is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-064

    Adan Alberto Bazaldua-Pichardo. Fraud and Misuse of Visas and Permits. Bazaldua-Pichardo, 37, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully and knowingly possessing a fake social security card to gain entry or employment in the United States. The Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Greenough is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-061

    Jose Ricardo Borrayo-Gomez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Borrayo-Gomez, 36, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in July 2023. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-062

    Carlos Daniel Calderon-Ponce. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Calderon-Ponce, 49, a Honduran national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in July 2024. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn A. McCormick is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-063

    Aldrin Jhovani Solis Castellanos. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Castellanos, 37, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Aug. 2024. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-073

    Joseph John Ronald Chavoya. Unlawful Possession of a Machine Gun. Chavoya, 40, of Tulsa, is charged with knowingly and unlawfully possessing a machine gun. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyson McCoy is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-075

    Jose Darvin Chicas-Castro. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Chicas-Castro, 35, a Honduran national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Dec. 2011. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele Hulgaard is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-065

    Adrian Lasean Foster. First Degree Burglary in Indian Country. Foster, 24, of Muskogee and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with breaking into an occupied home with intent to commit a crime. The Tulsa Police Department is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-076

    Julio Gonzalez-Ramirez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Gonzalez-Ramirez, 42, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Sep. 2012. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney S. Augustus Forster is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-066

    Luis Enrique Guereca-Castrellon. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Guereca-Castrellon, 67, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Mar. 2020. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-067

    Jose Alberto Hernandez-Casimiro. Fraud and Misuse of Visas and Permits. Hernandez-Casimiro, 37, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully and knowingly possessing a fake legal permanent resident card to gain entry or employment in the United States. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-068

    Jose Abraham Joya. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Joya, 38, a Salvadoran national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Dec. 2019. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Harris is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-069

    Felipe Jesus Mendoza-Lopez. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Mendoza-Lopez, 41, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm, knowing he was an alien illegally in the United States. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office and the Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-070

    Alexander Enemias Ortiz-Gonzalez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Ortiz-Gonzalez, 22, a Guatemalan national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in June 2023. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney S. Augustus Forster is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-071

    Juan Reyes-Ochoa. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Reyes-Ochoa, 33, a Guatemala national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Oct. 2023. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-072

    Joshawa Wayne Wildcat. Assault of a Spouse by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country. Wildcat, 33, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with strangling his spouse. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Weems is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-077

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Tax Preparer Sentenced for Theft of Tax Refunds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A New Bedford woman was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for stealing federal funds by filing false tax returns to obtain fraudulent tax refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).

    Valentina Martinez, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Patti B. Saris to 12 months of supervised release under home confinement, with electronic monitoring for the first six months. Martinez was also ordered to pay $41,823 in restitution to the IRS. In December 2024, Martinez pleaded guilty to five counts of theft of government money.

    Martinez previously worked for a national tax return preparation service. After preparing returns for clients and providing them copies of their returns, Martinez added fraudulent claims for business deductions to the clients’ returns without their knowledge and electronically filed the false returns in order to obtain fraudulent refunds. Martinez caused the tax refunds to be deposited onto debit cards that she used to make ATM withdrawals, including paying for a Florida vacation and other personal purchases. Martinez’s scheme was discovered and her employment terminated when a taxpayer client complained to the return preparation service about a missing refund. By then, Martinez had already filed at least 12 false returns and caused more than $40,000 in losses to the IRS.    

    The prosecution of Martinez is part of a Stolen Identity Refund Project (“SIRF”) program operated by the IRS to identify tax preparers who use stolen identities to steal money from the United States Treasury by filing false tax returns that claim tax refunds without the named taxpayer’s knowledge.  

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant United States Attorney Victor A. Wild of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.  
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Bringing Them Home: Honoring U.S. Hostages and Wrongful Detainees

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    To Americans who remain unjustly held around the world: We are working day and night to bring you home.

    On this U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, we also celebrate those who have returned to their families. And we honor those who never made it back home. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

    More: https://www.state.gov/hostage-and-wrongful-detainee-flag/

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
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    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aMdA-BLMx4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch Introduces Resolution Honoring Women-Owned and Operated Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho)—the former Chairman and current member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship–introduced a resolution celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments and vital role of women business owners in the United States ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8th.

    “Idaho’s women-owned businesses play a key role in our state’s economic success. These business leaders embody the American entrepreneurial spirit, employ tens of thousands of Idahoans, and make the Gem State thrive,” said Risch. “I am proud to recognize the nearly 14.5 million women-owned businesses across the country and celebrate their continued success.”

    Risch is joined by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Kennedy (R-La.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) in introducing this resolution.

    “Approximately one third of Idaho’s small businesses are owned by women. That means thousands of our neighbors are employed by a woman-owned small business, and these businesses provide a lifeline to our local and state economy,” said Crapo. “Support for women entrepreneurs is important for the continued success of Idaho’s economy.”

    “Growing up, I saw firsthand the hard work and dedication my own mother put into her small business,” said Britt. “Women-owned small businesses are at the forefront of driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues as we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring all women-owned small businesses across Alabama and our nation have the opportunities and resources needed to succeed and thrive.”

    “Women entrepreneurs bring an innovative approach to their small businesses, helping to create much-needed job opportunities and strengthening local economies in Michigan and throughout the United States,” said Peters. “I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan resolution, which celebrates our women small business owners and recognizes their contributions to our country’s economic prosperity.” 

    “Small businesses are the backbone of Nevada’s economy, and our state is the proud home to thousands of women-owned businesses,” said Rosen. “I’m pleased to help introduce this bipartisan resolution to recognize the immense contributions of women entrepreneurs to our local communities.”

    “New Hampshire is home to more than 50,000 women-owned small businesses that help power our economy and create good-paying Granite State jobs,” said Shaheen. “As a former small business owner, I know firsthand the challenges too many women entrepreneurs face in growing and maintaining their businesses. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan resolution in celebration of the barrier-breaking New Hampshire women who have overcome obstacles to generate economic opportunity and provide vital services in their communities.”

    As a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Senator Risch works to provide resources, education, and services to entrepreneurs and female small business owners across the state of Idaho. Each month, Senator Risch highlights the Gem State’s favorite Main Street small businesses and has led the Support Local Gems initiative for the last five years to encourage Idahoans to shop at their local small businesses.?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GIFT City will give India’s aviation sector further confidence, commitment, collaboration to develop a competitive aircraft leasing hub: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 8:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Ministry of Civil Aviation jointly with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) with the support of the International Financial Services Centre Authority (IFSCA), organised the second “India Aircraft Leasing and Financing Summit” at Gandhinagar in Gujarat. The inaugural was graced by Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, said that today, the GIFT City is comparable with any global financial centers. He emphasised that we are not trying to compete with anyone only complement the global centre. The idea is that we should not miss out on the huge opportunity due to the large market which can accommodate more such players. “GIFT City will give India’s aviation sector the further required confidence, commitment and collaboration to develop a competitive aircraft leasing hub,” he added.

    The Minister further stated that aircraft leasing is a key financial innovation that India’s growing civil aviation sector needs. “Fueled by the UDAN scheme and doubling of India’s airports in 10 years, India has become the 3rd largest domestic aviation market in the world,” he emphasized.

    The Minister also stated that by 2047, the Government is planning to build 350 airports out of which 34 will function as mega airports handling two crore passengers annually. In the next five years, we are planning to build 50 more airports. “The UDAN scheme is also extended for another 10 years which will connect four crore passengers in the country along with creating 120 new destinations in India. He urged to create a strong ecosystem for aircraft financing and leasing in the country to become globally competitive. “GIFT City represents a transformative opportunity to bring home the values created by India’s civil aviation industry,” added Shri Ram Mohan Naidu.

    The Union Minister further chaired Insightful sessions, followed by a plenary discussion focusing on ‘Establishing an Aircraft Lessor Ecosystem in GIFT IFSCA’ and ‘Bridging Financial Gaps: Unlocking Growth in Aviation Financing through Policy & Investment’.

    In his concluding remarks, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu emphasized that the issues raised during the sessions remain a priority for the government, assuring full support for the implementation of the proposed initiatives. He further highlighted the importance of complementing the existing global leasing hubs rather than competing with them, reinforcing India’s commitment to fostering a robust and collaborative aircraft leasing ecosystem.

    Addressing the gathering, Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Rajnikant Patel, said that GIFT City has today established itself as the Fintech hub of India; at such a time, this Summit will prove to be important for the development of the aviation sector and Aircraft Leasing & Financing and towards India’s self-reliance in the aviation sector.

    The Chief Minister further added that due to the changes in the aviation sector in the last ten years under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a strong aviation ecosystem has been created in India today. “Our government is determined to make Gujarat the leader in the aviation sector. We are committed to providing the necessary production capacity, adequate infrastructure and encouragement to the industry for the development of the aviation sector,” he emphasized.

    Civil Aviation Secretary Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam said that the government is committed to provide a stable regulatory framework. “The Indian carriers are looking at doubling their aircrafts they will acquire in the next 5 years from 800 to around 1500 aircrafts,” he added.

    The sessions were extremely interactive with active interventions and suggestions from delegates. The delegates represented all stakeholders in the aircraft leasing including global lessors, Banks, Insurance companies, Legal experts and airlines.

    *****

    Pawan Singh Faujdar/Divyanshu Kumar

    (Release ID: 2109267) Visitor Counter : 59

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launches the Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign Programme

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launches the Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign Programme

    The Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign Programme is a remarkable step in India’s mission for food and nutrition security: PM

    The Food Security Saturation Campaign launched in Surat will be an inspiration for other districts of the country as well: PM

    Our government always stands with the poor as their partner: PM

    Nutritious food has a big role in the journey of Viksit Bharat: PM

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 8:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign Programme in Limbayat, Surat, today. The Prime Minister also distributed the benefits under the National Food Security Act to over 2.3 lakh beneficiaries. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister emphasized the unique spirit of the Surat city, highlighting its strong foundation of work and charity. He expressed how the city’s essence cannot be forgotten, as it is defined by collective support and celebrating the growth of all.

    Shri Modi stated that Surat is known for its culture of mutual support and progress, where people work together for the benefit of everyone. He emphasized that this spirit is visible in every corner of Surat. The Prime Minister pointed out that today’s program aims to further promote and strengthen this spirit, fostering unity and growth for all in the city. “Surat is a leading city in Gujarat and India, and now also taking the lead in ensuring food and nutrition security for the poor and marginalized. The city’s food security saturation campaign will serve as an inspiration for other districts across the country” Shri Modi added.

    Shri  Modi  emphasized that the campaign ensures no one is left out, no one is cheated, and there is no discrimination. It moves beyond appeasement and focuses on the noble spirit of satisfaction for all. “When the government reaches the beneficiary’s doorstep, no one will be excluded. With a commitment to benefit everyone, those attempting to exploit the system are kept away”, Shri Modi added.

    The Prime Minister highlighted that under the food security saturation approach, the Surat administration has identified over 2.5 lakh new beneficiaries. Among them are many elderly women, elderly men, widowed women, and differently-abled individuals. These new family members will now receive free rations and nutritious food. The Prime Minister congratulated all the new beneficiaries for being included in this important initiative.

    The Prime Minister emphasized that the pain of the poor worrying about food is not something he needs to learn from books, but something he can experience. “And this is why over the past years, the government has focused on addressing this very concern by ensuring food security for those in need. The government has stood with the poor as a true partner and servant”, Shri Modi stated. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the country needed support the most, the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana was launched to ensure that the poor’s kitchens continued to function. This scheme, one of the largest and most unique in the world, is still ongoing. He also expressed happiness that the Gujarat government extended the scheme by increasing the income limit to allow more beneficiaries to benefit. The government is spending nearly ₹2.25 lakh crore annually to ensure that the poor’s kitchens stay lit.

    Highlighting the crucial role of nutritious food in India’s journey towards development, Shri Narendra Modi stated that the government’s goal is to provide adequate nutrition to every family in the country to eliminate issues like malnutrition and anemia. “Under the PM Poshan Scheme, approximately 12 crore school children are being provided with nutritious food. The Saksham Anganwadi Program focuses on the nutrition of young children, mothers, and pregnant women. Additionally, under the PM Matru Vandana Yojana, pregnant women are provided with financial support for nutritious food” Shri Modi highlighted.

    The Prime Minister  emphasized that nutrition goes beyond just food, with cleanliness being an essential aspect. He praised Surat for its efforts in maintaining cleanliness. “The government’s continuous effort is to ensure that every city and village in the country works towards eliminating filth. The global organizations have acknowledged that the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has helped reduce diseases in rural areas” Shri Modi added. He also highlighted the importance of the “Har Ghar Jal” campaign, led by Shri C.R. Patil, which aims to deliver clean water to every household, contributing to a decrease in various diseases.

    Shri Narendra Modi acknowledged the significant impact of the government’s free ration scheme, which has made life easier for millions. He noted that today, the rightful beneficiaries are receiving their full share of ration, a possibility that wasn’t available 10 years ago. He pointed out that the government has removed over 5 crore fake ration cardholders and linked the entire ration distribution system to Aadhaar cards. The Prime Minister addressed the issue faced by migrant workers in Surat, who previously couldn’t use their ration cards in other states. “The “One Nation, One Ration Card” scheme was introduced to ensure that no matter where a person’s ration card is from, they can avail benefits in any city across the country. Many workers in Surat are now benefiting from this scheme, which demonstrates that when policies are made with true intentions, they benefit the poor” Shri Modi added.

    The Prime Minister outlined the government’s efforts over the past decade to empower the poor through a mission-mode approach. He emphasized the creation of a safety net around the poor, ensuring they never have to beg for help. Providing concrete homes, toilets, gas connections, and tap water connections has instilled new confidence in the poor.The government also introduced insurance schemes for poor families, ensuring that nearly 60 crore Indians have access to free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh. “Life and accident insurance, which were previously out of reach for poor families, are now a reality. Today, more than 36 crore people are enrolled in government insurance schemes. Over ₹16,000 crore in claims have been paid to poor families, helping them during difficult times” Shri Modi highlighted.

    Shri Narendra Modi recalled how, in the past, the poor faced immense challenges in starting their own businesses, with banks refusing to offer loans without guarantees. Shri Modi highlighted how he personally took  the responsibility to guarantee loans for the poor, launching the Mudra Yojana. “Under the Mudra Yojana, nearly ₹32 lakh crore has been provided as loans without any guarantee, directly benefiting the poor. This initiative has helped millions of people, despite the opposition’s lack of understanding of the magnitude of such an amount”, the Prime Minister emphasized.

    Addressing the struggles of street vendors and workers who previously had no financial support,  Shri Narendra Modi mentioned that these individuals often had to borrow money from moneylenders, only to pay back more than they borrowed. The government’s PM SVANidhi Yojana has helped these vendors by providing them access to bank loans. The Prime Minister further announced in this year’s budget the introduction of a special credit card for such workers. “The introduction of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, which supports traditional craftsmen by providing them with training, modern tools, and financial assistance to improve and expand their skills. These efforts contribute to the country’s development through inclusive growth, with over 25 crore people moving out of poverty in the past decade” Shri Modi stated.

    The Prime Minister  acknowledged the significant contribution of the middle class to the country’s development, especially in Surat, where a large number of middle-class families reside. He outlined the government’s efforts in the past decade to empower the middle class, including the relief provided in this year’s budget.  “The tax relief given, particularly the zero tax on income up to ₹12 lakh, is a step many never expected. Additionally, employees will now be exempt from taxes on income up to ₹12.87 lakh. New tax slabs have also been introduced to benefit all taxpayers. This will allow middle-class families in Surat, Gujarat, and across the country to retain more of their earnings, which they can invest in their needs and their children’s future”, the Prime Minister highlighted.

    The Prime Minister recognized Surat as a hub for entrepreneurship with a significant number of small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which provide employment to millions. He highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen the local supply chain by offering substantial support to MSMEs. “The budget announced loans up to ₹2 crore for SC/ST, Dalit, tribal, and women entrepreneurs, helping them thrive in the MSME sector. The youth of Surat and Gujarat should take advantage of these opportunities, and the government stands ready to support them” Shri Modi stated.

    Shri Modi acknowledged Surat’s significant role in India’s development, particularly in the textiles, chemicals, and engineering sectors. He highlighted the government’s efforts to expand these industries in the city. “The new integrated terminal building at Surat Airport, the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor, the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, and the upcoming Bullet Train, the Surat Metro project, will further enhance the city’s connectivity, making it one of the most well-connected cities in the country. These initiatives are improving the quality of life for Surat’s residents and making their lives easier”, Shri Modi emphasised.

    Shri Narendra Modi urged women across the country to share their inspiring stories on the NaMo app. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Prime Minister announced that he will be handing over his social media accounts to some of these inspirational women who have contributed significantly to the country’s and society’s development. He highlighted the role of women in various sectors, especially in Gujarat, and emphasized that this day is an opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements. He also shared that he will be attending a major event in Navsari dedicated to women’s empowerment. The Prime Minister acknowledged the large number of women attending the event in Surat, noting that they would benefit greatly from the ongoing program.

    The Prime Minister expressed his commitment to the continued development of Surat as a mini India and a remarkable city on the global stage. “For vibrant and dynamic people like those in Surat, everything must be exceptional. I congratulate all beneficiaries of the ongoing initiatives, wishing them continued success and progress” Shri Modi concluded.

    Background

    The Prime Minister launched the Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign Programme in Limbayat, Surat and distributed the benefits under National Food Security Act to over 2.3 lakh beneficiaries.

    Women empowerment has been a cornerstone of the work done by the government. Guided by the vision of the Prime Minister, the government has been committed to taking steps towards their all round development.

     

     

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    MJPS/VJ

    (Release ID: 2109256) Visitor Counter : 74

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Aadhaar Drives Digital Transformation: 225 crore Aadhaar authentication transactions and 43 crore e-KYC transactions carried out in February, marking 14% yearly Growth

    Source: Government of India

    Aadhaar Drives Digital Transformation: 225 crore Aadhaar authentication transactions and 43 crore e-KYC transactions carried out in February, marking 14% yearly Growth

    Aadhaar face authentication sees record growth: 12.54 crore transactions in February, 115 crore Cumulatively

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Aadhaar continues to drive India’s digital transformation, with nearly 225 crore authentication transactions and 43 crore e-KYC transactions carried out in February 2025 alone. The increasing adoption of Aadhaar-based verification highlights its growing role in banking, finance, and other sectors, making processes more seamless, secure, and efficient.

    The total number of eKYC transactions (42.89 cr) carried out during February 2025 is almost 14% more than the numbers during the same period last year.

    Aadhaar e-KYC service continues to play an important role for banking and non-banking financial services by providing transparent and improved customer experience, and helping in ease of doing business.

     

    By the end of February 2025

    • The total number of Aadhaar authentication transactions has crossed 14,555 crore.
    • The total e-KYC transactions have gone beyond 2,311 crore.

     

    Face authentication using Aadhaar gaining popularity

    Aadhaar face authentication transactions continue to get good traction. In February 12.54 crore Aadhaar face authentication transactions were carried out. This is a monthly all time high, since this authentication modality was first introduced in October 2021.

    At least 97 entities have so far on-boarded to use face authentication. Kotak Mahindra Prime Ltd, PhonePe, Karur Vysya Bank and J&K Bank were the new entrants who have on-boarded to use face authentication.  

    Cumulatively, Face Authentication transaction numbers have crossed 115 crore, since it was first rolled out. Of the total numbers, nearly 87 crore such transactions were carried out this financial year, alone.

    The AI/ML based face authentication solution, developed in house by the UIDAI, is being used across sectors including finance, insurance, fintech, health and telecommunications. Several Government departments both at the centre and states are using it for smooth delivery of benefits to targeted beneficiaries.

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    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith /Shatrunjay Kumar

     

    (Release ID: 2109194) Visitor Counter : 26

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects illicit cigarette smuggling cases involving air passengers and raids illicit cigarette storage centre (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs detects illicit cigarette smuggling cases involving air passengers and raids illicit cigarette storage centre (with photos)
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    ​Hong Kong Customs over the past two weeks enhanced enforcement actions at Hong Kong International Airport and detected illicit cigarette smuggling cases involving air passengers. Also, Customs raided a suspected illicit cigarette storage centre in Yuen Long yesterday (March 6), seizing a total of about 6.7 million suspected illicit cigarettes and about 570 000 suspected alternative smoking products, with a total estimated total market value of about $33 million. The duty potential of the illicit cigarettes was about $22 million.           In the small hours today (March 7), Customs officers intercepted a male outside a hotel in Tin Shui Wai and seized a total of about 90 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes and about 110 000 suspected alternative smoking products in his nylon bag and the hotel room he was staying in. The man was subsequently arrested. After investigations, Customs believes that illicit cigarette syndicate made use of air passengers to smuggle illicit cigarettes and alternative smoking products, which were then stored in hotel rooms for further distribution.            The arrested man, aged 36 and claiming to be unemployed, was charged. He will appear at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (March 8). The suspected alternative smoking products seized will be handed over to the Department of Health for follow-up action.           At the same time, Customs detected 20 illicit cigarette smuggling cases with 13 men and eight women arrested at the airport over the past two weeks. A total of about 600 000 suspected illicit cigarettes and about 460 000 suspected alternative smoking products, with an estimated total market value of about $4 million and a duty potential of about $2 million, were seized.           It is believed that the syndicate that smuggle illicit cigarettes and alternative smoking products through passengers was smashed.           Moreover, after an in-depth investigation, Customs carried out a strike-and-search operation at a logistics warehouse in Yuen Long yesterday. Customs officers intercepted a man who was moving goods to a vehicle and seized about 6 million suspected illicit cigarettes in the vehicle and the warehouse. The 44-year-old man, who claimed to be a driver, was arrested. He has been released on bail pending further investigation.           Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis for interception at source as well as through its multipronged enforcement strategy targeting storage, distribution and peddling to spare no effort in combating illicit cigarette activities.           Customs stresses that it is an offence to buy or sell illicit cigarettes. Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.           Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 22:53

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: London ETO showcases Hong Kong’s thriving innovation and technology ecosystem (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    London ETO showcases Hong Kong’s thriving innovation and technology ecosystem (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

    The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO), in collaboration with Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) hosted a seminar in London, the United Kingdom, on March 6 (London time) showcasing Hong Kong’s dynamic innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem.     The seminar featured distinguished speakers who provided insights into Hong Kong’s future in I&T. In his opening remarks, the Director-General of the London ETO, Mr Gilford Law, emphasised Hong Kong’s role as a global I&T hub and gateway to the Greater Bay Area (GBA). “Hong Kong offers a dynamic business environment with world-class infrastructure, strong government support, and access to a wide network of investors and researchers. Our strategic location provides businesses with unique opportunities to tap into the growing GBA, particularly in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, fintech, and biotechnology.”     The Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTP, Mr Albert Wong, presented HKSTP’s thriving I&T ecosystem. He said, “As a growing engine situated at an international I&T hub in Asia, the HKSTP understands that nurturing next-generation I&T talent is as important as any R&D project, if not more. We’re currently an ecosystem that over 2 200 tech companies from 26 countries and regions call home, offering comprehensive support to more than 15 000 research and development professionals – a network we’re looking overseas to extend, and a number we’re eager to invest in for a sustainable future.”     Following this, the Deputy Director-General of the OASES, Dr Jimmy Chiang, provided an overview of I&T developments in Hong Kong. “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been committed to advancing the I&T ecosystem through substantial efforts, which include significant financial investments in the past few years to establish new I&T infrastructures, foster international research collaborations, and offer a diverse range of funding schemes for I&T projects and companies. The development of new I&T zones within the territory provides tremendous opportunities for I&T enterprises, specifically in expanding their research and development functions,” he said.     The Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion of the InvestHK London Office, Ms Daisy Ip, concluded the seminar by highlighting Hong Kong’s strategic advantages for businesses and talent. “From Hong Kong’s world-class infrastructure and strategic location to our vibrant talent pool and government-backed initiatives, Hong Kong serves as a launchpad for those looking to scale, collaborate, and push boundaries both regionally and globally,” she said.     A networking reception was held immediately after the seminar. Around 80 participants joined the entire event, including representatives from local government and professionals from the I&T, business and academic sectors, providing an opportunity for further collaboration and discussions.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 22:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Post event press release of Kolkata roadshow held on 7th March, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 6:29PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) hosted the North East Trade and Investment Roadshow in Kolkata today. The roadshow evoked strong interest from potential investors who are eager to explore opportunities in the North Eastern States. The event was attended by the Hon’ble Minister of State for MDoNER & Ministry of Education, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, along with senior officials from MDoNER, North Eastern Council and North Eastern States. The event marked another milestone in a series of successful roadshows across India and showcased the untapped potential of the North East India.

    Hon’ble Minister of State, MDoNER while addressing the Kolkata Roadshow highlighted the immense potential of North Eastern region. Sharing the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister, he explained how North Eastern States offers great aspects for investment opportunities and building a “Viksit Bharat” together.

     He highlighted the major development initiatives in the infrastructure sector that have taken place in the North Eastern Region under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister during the last 10 years, inter-alia, including expanding air, road and rail connectivity, waterways etc.  He also underlined that each of the eight states of the North East embodies unique strengths, resources and opportunities, making the region an invaluable asset in India’s growth story. From its rich cultural diversity to its natural beauty and strategic location, the North Eastern Region holds immense potential to emerge as one of the country’s leading economic powerhouses. Its proximity to Southeast Asia also positions the North Eastern Region as a gateway to South East Asian countries, aligning perfectly with India’s Act East Policy.

    He further stated that this roadshow serves as a vital platform for fostering policies that empower industries, attract investments and create an ecosystem conducive to sustainable growth, with key focus on areas like like IT & ITES, Healthcare, Agri and allied, Education & Skill Development, Sports & Entertainment, Tourism & Hospitality, Infrastructure and logistics; Textiles, Handlooms and Handicrafts and Energy. By forging stronger ties between Kolkata and the North East, it is aimed to create a synergy that leverages the strengths of both regions, fostering mutual growth and prosperity. He invited the dynamic business community of Kolkata to explore the potential of North Eastern Region and consider the North East not only as an investment destination but also as a region with a unique story and limitless potential. In his concluding remarks he invited investors to the North Eastern Region and play a key role in shaping the future of the region.

    Shri Dharmvir Jha, Statistical Adviser, MDoNER in his address on advantage North East and Opportunities for Investment and Trade emphasized that North Eastern Region has rich untapped potential. He informed that during the last 10 years there is a remarkable improvement in connectivity to the North Eastern Region whether it’s air, rail, road or waterways. Over the past decade, the government has successfully completed numerous pending projects, benefiting local communities and millions of people through various schemes/initiatives. He also highlighted the opportunities in the region in various sectors like IT & ITES, Healthcare, Agri and allied, Education & Skill Development, Sports & Entertainment, Tourism & Hospitality, Infrastructure and logistics; Textiles, Handlooms and Handicrafts and Energy. He stated that with ample opportunities across multiple sectors, North East India welcomes investors to explore its vast potential and be part of its growth journey.

    The representative of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, gave a detailed presentation on the UNNATI Scheme, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of its benefits and associated incentives. He underlined that the UNNATI Scheme offers incentives to attract investors and manufacturing companies, supports the ‘Act East Policy,’ and promotes domestic manufacturing and services to reduce import dependence and enhance exports.

    Senior officials representing the North Eastern States shared actionable insights into emerging opportunities across various sectors. The Kolkata roadshow drew strong participation from industry leaders, further reinforcing the investment appeal of North East India. The event also featured several B2G meetings, providing investors with a platform to discuss their investment plans in the North Eastern Region. During the roadshow, investment interests of worth INR 12,516 cr were received in the form of intents/ MoUs.

    The Kolkata roadshow concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing keen interest in exploring collaborative ventures in the North Eastern Region. The event not only fostered meaningful dialogue but also laid the groundwork for future partnerships, driving economic growth and sustainable development in the region.

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    Samrat/Dheeraj/Allein

    (Release ID: 2109184) Visitor Counter : 52

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Equity Now Lecture Series Asks: ‘Is Sustainability Dead?’

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Professor John Mandyck, the CEO of the Urban Green Council and the former Chief Sustainability Officer at United Technologies, will speak on the topic, “Is Sustainability Dead?’’ next month.

    The presentation is part of the Equity Now speaker series and it will be livestreamed at 6 p.m. March 27. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the university are welcome to participate. Pre-registration is required.

    With the United States again out of the Paris Climate Treaty and the Trump administration favoring fossil fuels, it’s easy to wonder if the sustainability movement is over. It’s definitely not, according to Mandyck.

    “Climate disruption now impacts everyone, everywhere,’’ Mandyck said. “There’s no escaping it and the trillions of dollars of damage from fires, floods, and extreme weather. Climate denialism and political short-termism cannot wish away these impacts that are shifting markets and investments as they scramble to manage growing risk.’’

    Mandyck Highlights Three Reasons for Optimism

    John Mandyck (contributed photo)

    Mandyck will discuss his recent article, published in The Harvard Business Review, that predicts that despite strong headwinds, sustainability efforts will grow, for three key reasons.

    States and cities will lead the way. Mandyck argues that history has shown that U.S. cities and states step up to fill sustainability voids. In 2019, for example, New Yor City passed a law that places carbon caps on large buildings, as a counter-response to Trump’s first-term environmental policies. More recently, 350 U.S. mayors recommitted to climate action in anticipation of changing national policy.

    China will drive sustainability demand. Although it is the world’s largest carbon polluter, China’s growth in the sustainability arena continues to lead the world, Mandyck said. Almost half of the world’s solar and wind capacity already resides in China, with more renewable energy technology under development. China’s leadership will yield more affordable clean-energy technology for the world and China may possibly emerge as a stronger diplomatic force for climate negotiations as the U.S. turns its attention elsewhere.

    Climate risk, extreme weather, will move markets. Climate denialism will not slow the growing disruption of extreme weather, Mandyck said. The news has been filled with articles about floods, fires, and other weather-created disasters, which are causing economic hardship and human disruption at a rapid pace. In Florida alone, the average homeowner’s insurance costs rose close to 60 percent from 2019 to 2023. This has further focused the business community in favor of addressing climate change, and lenders are looking closely at the sustainability risks associated with each big investment.

    Students Still Face A Bright Future in Sustainability Careers

    Mandyck’s advice to students interested in pursuing careers in sustainability is to stay-the-course.

    “The global need for sustainability grows every day, and so will careers,’’ he said. “Terminology and semantics may change in the short-term, but the long-term direction is clear. Even the federal government cannot pull the full nation in retreat, with the state and local governments pressing forward and filling voids.’’

    Mandyck leads the Urban Green Council, a nonprofit organization based in New York City, dedicated to decarbonizing buildings for healthy and resilient communities. Since 2018, he has helped triple the organization’s reach with research, public policy development and education, shaping some of the world’s foremost climate laws for real estate and buildings.

    He retired as the global Chief Sustainability Officer for United Technologies after a 25-year career there. He’s an adjunct professor for sustainability at the School of Business and served as a visiting scientist at Harvard University. He’s the co-author of the book Food Foolish, which explores the hidden connection between food waste, hunger, and climate change.

    The Equity Now speaker series is produced by the UConn School of Business in coordination with the Academy of Legal Studies in Business, Virginia Tech, Indiana and Temple universities. This is the fourth of five programs offered during the 2024-25 academic year. To register for the program, please visit: the registration page

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Accessibility of household appliances for visually impaired people – E-000884/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000884/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE)

    The latest Eurostat figures reveal that 20.3 % of the EU population aged 16 or over report having some degree of visual impairment, including over 2.5 % with severe difficulties. The EU and all Member States have ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which requires them to promote accessibility in all aspects of life.

    Blind and partially sighted people aspire to independent living, and accessible household appliances play a crucial role in their autonomy. However, many appliances – such as stovetops, washing machines, and vacuum cleaners – are becoming less accessible with the growing reliance on touchscreen-operated systems with purely visual controls, lacking tactile or audio feedback, or voice-enabled features.

    Household appliances are not covered by the European Accessibility Act[1]. The operating systems of general-purpose computers and similar digital devices are covered by the act, but not embedded systems with limited user interfaces and functional scope, such as those found in household appliances. The relevant standards of the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) are only recommendations, which manufacturers neglect because there is no legal requirement to make household appliances accessible.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of this gap in legislation?
    • 2.What does the Commission intend to do to ensure that household appliances are accessible for visually impaired users?

    Submitted: 28.2.2025

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2019/882 of 17 April 2019 on the accessibility requirements for products and services, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/882/oj.
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Security in every sector

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Teresa Ribera, European Commissioner for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, insisted that Europe should stick to its core values, even at a time when the world seems to be in turmoil. “Our values should guide our external and internal policies,” she said.

    “Translating our values means people have sustainable and inclusive growth, which is essential for maintaining a healthy environment, job security, social peace and preserving the resilience of our society.”

    The social peace and resilience of which Ribera spoke were at the heart of a series of panels on housing, in which all participants acknowledged a crisis in Europe now. EIB President Calviño announced a new action plan that includes €10 billion in investment in the sector over the next two years.

    EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen described the challenges facing Europe as interrelated, with high energy prices, climate change, and the threat posed by Russia. “Competitiveness, decarbonization, fighting climate change and becoming independent of Russian fossil fuels is at the core of everything we do right now,” he said.

    Jørgensen said that rents in Europe had risen by as much as a quarter over the last 15 years and house prices by a half. One in ten Europeans are spending 40% or more of their disposable income on housing. “But behind these numbers are people, young people forced to put off starting a family, vulnerable people threatened with homelessness, students who cannot take up university places, workers who cannot accept job offers, rural communities facing depopulation, cities unable to retain teachers, nurses or police officers, because they cannot afford to live where they work,” he said. “These people and their stories provide living proof of the housing crisis and the impact it has on Europe.”

    The European Commission has established a housing task force to deliver an affordable housing plan early next year. The European Investment Bank’s launch of a pan-European investment platform for housing was central to the Commission’s plans, he said.

    Others are already moving against the housing crisis.

    Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni described new regulations to cap rents and, by 2028, to eliminate licences to rent apartments to tourists.

    Croatia’s state secretary at the Ministry for Regional Development and EU Funds, Zrinka Raguž, laid out the country’s action plan for affordable housing, which includes an end to real estate tax for those aged less than 45, who also pay only 50% of the value-added tax on the property. Other measures include “activating” vacant properties, more affordable housing, easier planning rules, and more student dorms. Croatia’s plan will cost €2 billion before 2030 and will be funded from the national budget, EU loans, and the rent to be paid on the affordable housing.

    MIL OSI Europe News –