NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • How India is quietly powering Maldives’ growth through infra and human capital

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s continued development partnership with the Maldives stands as a testament to the enduring ties between the two nations, with several landmark projects reflecting New Delhi’s commitment to supporting the island nation’s growth across sectors ranging from healthcare and education to infrastructure and fisheries.

    Healthcare cooperation

    The Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male remains a key symbol of India’s assistance to the Maldives. Conceived during the visit of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in February 1986, the 200-bed facility was inaugurated in April 1995 by then Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. Named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, IGMH is the largest public healthcare institution in the country.

    India had initially deployed 72 medical professionals to help operationalise the hospital. A major renovation, supported by India at a cost of ₹52 crore, was inaugurated in March 2019 by then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

    Strengthening technical education

    India has also contributed to capacity-building in technical education through the establishment of the Maldives Institute of Technical Education (MITE), now known as the Faculty of Engineering Technology (FET). The foundation stone was laid in 1993 following an agreement during Prime Minister V.P. Singh’s visit in 1990. The completed institute was handed over in 1996 and has since been pivotal in training Maldivian youth in vocational and technical disciplines.

    Tourism education

    In a bid to bolster the Maldives’ hospitality sector, India supported the construction of the India-Maldives Friendship Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies. The foundation stone was jointly laid by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in 2002. The eight-storey modern facility was officially handed over in February 2014 by then External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid. With a capacity for over 200 full-time students, the institute serves as a centre of excellence for tourism and hospitality studies.

    Largest Indian grant project supports law enforcement training

    The National College for Police and Law Enforcement (NCPLE), located in Addu City, is India’s largest grant-funded project in the Maldives. Built with ₹222.98 crore in grant assistance, the college was inaugurated in March 2022 during the visit of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The institution is designed to enhance the training capabilities of Maldives’ police and law enforcement agencies.

    Land reclamation in Addu to spur urban growth

    India has also supported the Addu Reclamation Project under an $80 million Line of Credit. A total of 184 hectares of land has been reclaimed to facilitate urban and economic development in Addu City. The project was inaugurated on August 11, 2024, during EAM Dr. Jaishankar’s visit to the country.

    Water and sanitation

    Improving basic infrastructure has also remained a focus area. Under a Line of Credit worth $107.31 million, water and sanitation projects have been completed across 34 islands. Of these, 28 projects have already been handed over to the Maldivian government. The initiative is aimed at enhancing public health and environmental sustainability.

    Fisheries infra

    In support of the Maldives’ crucial fisheries sector, a new ice plant with a daily production capacity of 50 tons has been established in Gemanafushi. The facility, developed under the Indian Line of Credit, was inaugurated on February 27, 2025. It is expected to bolster fish preservation, improve export capacity, and strengthen the livelihoods of fishing communities.

    India’s development footprint in the Maldives reflects a broader strategy of regional cooperation grounded in mutual respect and people-first initiatives. As both nations navigate the next phase of bilateral engagement, these enduring projects lay a strong foundation for deeper collaboration rooted in shared prosperity.

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaked document reveals proposed law revisions in NZ, as Western defence of Zionist genocide threatens Pacific

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Mick Hall

    A leaked document has revealed secretive plans to revise terror laws in New Zealand so that people can be charged over statements deemed to constitute material support for a proscribed organisation.

    It shows the government also wants to widen the criteria for proscribing organisations to include groups that are judged to “facilitate” or “promote and encourage” terrorist acts.

    The changes would see the South Pacific nation falling in line with increasingly repressive Western countries like the UK, where scores of independent journalists and anti-genocide protesters have been arrested and charged under terrorism laws in recent months.

    The consultation document, handed over to the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties (NZCCL), reveals the government has been in contact with a small number of unnamed groups this year over plans to legally redefine what material support involves, so that public statements or gestures involving insignia like flags can lead to charges if construed as support for proscribed groups.

    As part of a proposal to revise the Terrorism Suppression Act, the document suggests the process for designating organisations as terror groups should be changed by “expanding the threshold to enable more modern types of entities to be designated, such as those that ‘facilitate’ or ‘promote and encourage’ terrorist acts”.

    The Ministry of Justice has been contacted in an attempt to ascertain which groups it has been consulting with and why it believed the changes were necessary.

    NZCCL chairman Thomas Beagle told Mick Hall In Context his group was concerned the proposed changes were a further attempt to limit the rights of New Zealanders to engage in political protest.

    ‘What’s going on?’
    “When you look at the proposal to expand the Terrorism Suppression Act, alongside the Police and IPCA conspiring to propose a law change to ban political protest without government permission, you really have to wonder what’s going on,” he said.

    A report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) in February proposed to give police the right to ban protests if they believed there was a high chance of public disorder and threats to public safety.

    That would potentially mean bans on Palestinian solidarity protests if far right counter protestErs posed a threat of violent confrontation.

    The stand-alone legislation would put New Zealand in line with other Five Eyes and NATO-aligned security jurisdictions such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

    Beagle points out proposed changes to terror laws would suppress freedom of speech and further undermine freedom of assembly and the right to protest.

    “We’ve seen what’s happening with the state’s abuse of terrorism suppression laws in the UK and are horrified that they have sunk so far and so quickly,” he said.

    More than 100 people were arrested across the UK on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action, a non-violent protest group proscribed as a terrorist organisation by the British government earlier this month.

    Arrests in social media clips
    Social media clips showed pensioners aggressively arrested while attending rallies in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Truro over the weekend.

    Independent journalists and academics have also faced state repression under the UK’s Terrorism Act.

    Among those targeted was Electronic Intifada journalist Asa Winstanley, who had his home raided and devices seized in October last year as part of the opaque counter-terror drive “Operation Incessantness”.

    Independent journalist Asa Winstanley . . . his home was raided and devices seized in October last year as part of “Operation Incessantness”. Image: R Witts Photography/mickhall.substack.com

    In May, the country’s Central Criminal Court ruled the raid was unlawful.

    Journalist Richard Medhurst has had a terror investigation hanging over his head since being detained at Heathrow Airport in August last year and charged under section 8 of the Terrorism Act. Activist and independent journalist Sarah Wilkinson had her house raided in the same month.

    Others have faced similar intimidation and threats of jail. In November 2024, Jewish academic Haim Bresheeth was charged after police alleged he had expressed support for a “proscribed organisation” during a speech outside the London residence of the Israeli ambassador to the UK.

    Meanwhile, dozens of members of Palestine Action are in jail facing terror charges. The vast majority are being held on remand where they may wait two years before going to trial — a common state tactic to take activists off the street and incarcerate them, knowing the chances of conviction are slim when they eventually go to court.

    ‘Targeted amendments’
    The document says the New Zealand government wants to progress “targeted amendments” to the Act, creating or amending offences “to capture contemporary behaviours and activities of concern” like “public expressions of support for a terrorist act or designated entities, for example by showing insignia or distributing propaganda or instructional material.”

    Protesters highlight the proscription of Palestine Action outside the British Embassy at The Hague on July 20. No arrests were made following 80 arrests by Dutch police the week before. Image: Defend Our Juries/mickhall.substack.com

    It suggests that the existing process for proscribing an organisation is slow and cumbersome, noting that: “Specific provisions need to be followed to designate entities not on a UN list, but the decision-making process is lengthy and the designation period is short. This impacts timely decision-making and the usefulness of designation as a tool to prevent terrorism.”

    It proposes to improve “the timeliness of the process, by considering changes to who the decision-maker is” and extending the renewal period from three to five years.

    The document suggests consulting the Attorney-General over designation-related decisions to ensure legal requirements are met may not be required and questions whether the designation process requiring the Prime Minister to review decisions twice is necessary. It asks whether others, like the Foreign Minister, should be involved in the decision-making process.

    Beagle believes the secretive proposals pose a threat to New Zealand’s liberal democracy.

    “Political protest is an important part of New Zealand’s history,” he said.

    “Whether it’s the environment, worker’s rights, feminism, Māori issues, homosexual law reform or any number of other issues, political protest has had a big part in forming what Aotearoa New Zealand is today.

    Protected under Bill of Rights
    “It’s a right protected by New Zealand’s Bill of Rights and is a critical part of being a functioning democracy.”

    The terror laws revision forms part of a wider trend of legislating to close down dissent over New Zealand’s foreign policy, now closely aligned with NATO and US interests.

    The government is also widening the definition of foreign interference in a way that could see people who “should have known” that they were being used by a foreign state to undermine New Zealand’s interests prosecuted.

    The Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill, which passed its first reading in Parliament on November 19, would criminalise the act of foreign interference, while also increasing powers of unwarranted searches by authorities.

    The Bill is effectively a reintroduction of the country’s old colonial sedition laws inherited from Britain, the broadness of the law having allowed it to be used against communists, trade unionists and indigenous rights activists.

    Republished from Mick Hall in Context on Substack with permisson.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaked document reveals proposed law revisions in NZ, as Western defence of Zionist genocide threatens Pacific

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Mick Hall

    A leaked document has revealed secretive plans to revise terror laws in New Zealand so that people can be charged over statements deemed to constitute material support for a proscribed organisation.

    It shows the government also wants to widen the criteria for proscribing organisations to include groups that are judged to “facilitate” or “promote and encourage” terrorist acts.

    The changes would see the South Pacific nation falling in line with increasingly repressive Western countries like the UK, where scores of independent journalists and anti-genocide protesters have been arrested and charged under terrorism laws in recent months.

    The consultation document, handed over to the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties (NZCCL), reveals the government has been in contact with a small number of unnamed groups this year over plans to legally redefine what material support involves, so that public statements or gestures involving insignia like flags can lead to charges if construed as support for proscribed groups.

    As part of a proposal to revise the Terrorism Suppression Act, the document suggests the process for designating organisations as terror groups should be changed by “expanding the threshold to enable more modern types of entities to be designated, such as those that ‘facilitate’ or ‘promote and encourage’ terrorist acts”.

    The Ministry of Justice has been contacted in an attempt to ascertain which groups it has been consulting with and why it believed the changes were necessary.

    NZCCL chairman Thomas Beagle told Mick Hall In Context his group was concerned the proposed changes were a further attempt to limit the rights of New Zealanders to engage in political protest.

    ‘What’s going on?’
    “When you look at the proposal to expand the Terrorism Suppression Act, alongside the Police and IPCA conspiring to propose a law change to ban political protest without government permission, you really have to wonder what’s going on,” he said.

    A report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) in February proposed to give police the right to ban protests if they believed there was a high chance of public disorder and threats to public safety.

    That would potentially mean bans on Palestinian solidarity protests if far right counter protestErs posed a threat of violent confrontation.

    The stand-alone legislation would put New Zealand in line with other Five Eyes and NATO-aligned security jurisdictions such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

    Beagle points out proposed changes to terror laws would suppress freedom of speech and further undermine freedom of assembly and the right to protest.

    “We’ve seen what’s happening with the state’s abuse of terrorism suppression laws in the UK and are horrified that they have sunk so far and so quickly,” he said.

    More than 100 people were arrested across the UK on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action, a non-violent protest group proscribed as a terrorist organisation by the British government earlier this month.

    Arrests in social media clips
    Social media clips showed pensioners aggressively arrested while attending rallies in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Truro over the weekend.

    Independent journalists and academics have also faced state repression under the UK’s Terrorism Act.

    Among those targeted was Electronic Intifada journalist Asa Winstanley, who had his home raided and devices seized in October last year as part of the opaque counter-terror drive “Operation Incessantness”.

    Independent journalist Asa Winstanley . . . his home was raided and devices seized in October last year as part of “Operation Incessantness”. Image: R Witts Photography/mickhall.substack.com

    In May, the country’s Central Criminal Court ruled the raid was unlawful.

    Journalist Richard Medhurst has had a terror investigation hanging over his head since being detained at Heathrow Airport in August last year and charged under section 8 of the Terrorism Act. Activist and independent journalist Sarah Wilkinson had her house raided in the same month.

    Others have faced similar intimidation and threats of jail. In November 2024, Jewish academic Haim Bresheeth was charged after police alleged he had expressed support for a “proscribed organisation” during a speech outside the London residence of the Israeli ambassador to the UK.

    Meanwhile, dozens of members of Palestine Action are in jail facing terror charges. The vast majority are being held on remand where they may wait two years before going to trial — a common state tactic to take activists off the street and incarcerate them, knowing the chances of conviction are slim when they eventually go to court.

    ‘Targeted amendments’
    The document says the New Zealand government wants to progress “targeted amendments” to the Act, creating or amending offences “to capture contemporary behaviours and activities of concern” like “public expressions of support for a terrorist act or designated entities, for example by showing insignia or distributing propaganda or instructional material.”

    Protesters highlight the proscription of Palestine Action outside the British Embassy at The Hague on July 20. No arrests were made following 80 arrests by Dutch police the week before. Image: Defend Our Juries/mickhall.substack.com

    It suggests that the existing process for proscribing an organisation is slow and cumbersome, noting that: “Specific provisions need to be followed to designate entities not on a UN list, but the decision-making process is lengthy and the designation period is short. This impacts timely decision-making and the usefulness of designation as a tool to prevent terrorism.”

    It proposes to improve “the timeliness of the process, by considering changes to who the decision-maker is” and extending the renewal period from three to five years.

    The document suggests consulting the Attorney-General over designation-related decisions to ensure legal requirements are met may not be required and questions whether the designation process requiring the Prime Minister to review decisions twice is necessary. It asks whether others, like the Foreign Minister, should be involved in the decision-making process.

    Beagle believes the secretive proposals pose a threat to New Zealand’s liberal democracy.

    “Political protest is an important part of New Zealand’s history,” he said.

    “Whether it’s the environment, worker’s rights, feminism, Māori issues, homosexual law reform or any number of other issues, political protest has had a big part in forming what Aotearoa New Zealand is today.

    Protected under Bill of Rights
    “It’s a right protected by New Zealand’s Bill of Rights and is a critical part of being a functioning democracy.”

    The terror laws revision forms part of a wider trend of legislating to close down dissent over New Zealand’s foreign policy, now closely aligned with NATO and US interests.

    The government is also widening the definition of foreign interference in a way that could see people who “should have known” that they were being used by a foreign state to undermine New Zealand’s interests prosecuted.

    The Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill, which passed its first reading in Parliament on November 19, would criminalise the act of foreign interference, while also increasing powers of unwarranted searches by authorities.

    The Bill is effectively a reintroduction of the country’s old colonial sedition laws inherited from Britain, the broadness of the law having allowed it to be used against communists, trade unionists and indigenous rights activists.

    Republished from Mick Hall in Context on Substack with permisson.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaked document reveals proposed law revisions in NZ, as Western defence of Zionist genocide threatens Pacific

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Mick Hall

    A leaked document has revealed secretive plans to revise terror laws in New Zealand so that people can be charged over statements deemed to constitute material support for a proscribed organisation.

    It shows the government also wants to widen the criteria for proscribing organisations to include groups that are judged to “facilitate” or “promote and encourage” terrorist acts.

    The changes would see the South Pacific nation falling in line with increasingly repressive Western countries like the UK, where scores of independent journalists and anti-genocide protesters have been arrested and charged under terrorism laws in recent months.

    The consultation document, handed over to the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties (NZCCL), reveals the government has been in contact with a small number of unnamed groups this year over plans to legally redefine what material support involves, so that public statements or gestures involving insignia like flags can lead to charges if construed as support for proscribed groups.

    As part of a proposal to revise the Terrorism Suppression Act, the document suggests the process for designating organisations as terror groups should be changed by “expanding the threshold to enable more modern types of entities to be designated, such as those that ‘facilitate’ or ‘promote and encourage’ terrorist acts”.

    The Ministry of Justice has been contacted in an attempt to ascertain which groups it has been consulting with and why it believed the changes were necessary.

    NZCCL chairman Thomas Beagle told Mick Hall In Context his group was concerned the proposed changes were a further attempt to limit the rights of New Zealanders to engage in political protest.

    ‘What’s going on?’
    “When you look at the proposal to expand the Terrorism Suppression Act, alongside the Police and IPCA conspiring to propose a law change to ban political protest without government permission, you really have to wonder what’s going on,” he said.

    A report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) in February proposed to give police the right to ban protests if they believed there was a high chance of public disorder and threats to public safety.

    That would potentially mean bans on Palestinian solidarity protests if far right counter protestErs posed a threat of violent confrontation.

    The stand-alone legislation would put New Zealand in line with other Five Eyes and NATO-aligned security jurisdictions such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

    Beagle points out proposed changes to terror laws would suppress freedom of speech and further undermine freedom of assembly and the right to protest.

    “We’ve seen what’s happening with the state’s abuse of terrorism suppression laws in the UK and are horrified that they have sunk so far and so quickly,” he said.

    More than 100 people were arrested across the UK on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action, a non-violent protest group proscribed as a terrorist organisation by the British government earlier this month.

    Arrests in social media clips
    Social media clips showed pensioners aggressively arrested while attending rallies in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Truro over the weekend.

    Independent journalists and academics have also faced state repression under the UK’s Terrorism Act.

    Among those targeted was Electronic Intifada journalist Asa Winstanley, who had his home raided and devices seized in October last year as part of the opaque counter-terror drive “Operation Incessantness”.

    Independent journalist Asa Winstanley . . . his home was raided and devices seized in October last year as part of “Operation Incessantness”. Image: R Witts Photography/mickhall.substack.com

    In May, the country’s Central Criminal Court ruled the raid was unlawful.

    Journalist Richard Medhurst has had a terror investigation hanging over his head since being detained at Heathrow Airport in August last year and charged under section 8 of the Terrorism Act. Activist and independent journalist Sarah Wilkinson had her house raided in the same month.

    Others have faced similar intimidation and threats of jail. In November 2024, Jewish academic Haim Bresheeth was charged after police alleged he had expressed support for a “proscribed organisation” during a speech outside the London residence of the Israeli ambassador to the UK.

    Meanwhile, dozens of members of Palestine Action are in jail facing terror charges. The vast majority are being held on remand where they may wait two years before going to trial — a common state tactic to take activists off the street and incarcerate them, knowing the chances of conviction are slim when they eventually go to court.

    ‘Targeted amendments’
    The document says the New Zealand government wants to progress “targeted amendments” to the Act, creating or amending offences “to capture contemporary behaviours and activities of concern” like “public expressions of support for a terrorist act or designated entities, for example by showing insignia or distributing propaganda or instructional material.”

    Protesters highlight the proscription of Palestine Action outside the British Embassy at The Hague on July 20. No arrests were made following 80 arrests by Dutch police the week before. Image: Defend Our Juries/mickhall.substack.com

    It suggests that the existing process for proscribing an organisation is slow and cumbersome, noting that: “Specific provisions need to be followed to designate entities not on a UN list, but the decision-making process is lengthy and the designation period is short. This impacts timely decision-making and the usefulness of designation as a tool to prevent terrorism.”

    It proposes to improve “the timeliness of the process, by considering changes to who the decision-maker is” and extending the renewal period from three to five years.

    The document suggests consulting the Attorney-General over designation-related decisions to ensure legal requirements are met may not be required and questions whether the designation process requiring the Prime Minister to review decisions twice is necessary. It asks whether others, like the Foreign Minister, should be involved in the decision-making process.

    Beagle believes the secretive proposals pose a threat to New Zealand’s liberal democracy.

    “Political protest is an important part of New Zealand’s history,” he said.

    “Whether it’s the environment, worker’s rights, feminism, Māori issues, homosexual law reform or any number of other issues, political protest has had a big part in forming what Aotearoa New Zealand is today.

    Protected under Bill of Rights
    “It’s a right protected by New Zealand’s Bill of Rights and is a critical part of being a functioning democracy.”

    The terror laws revision forms part of a wider trend of legislating to close down dissent over New Zealand’s foreign policy, now closely aligned with NATO and US interests.

    The government is also widening the definition of foreign interference in a way that could see people who “should have known” that they were being used by a foreign state to undermine New Zealand’s interests prosecuted.

    The Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill, which passed its first reading in Parliament on November 19, would criminalise the act of foreign interference, while also increasing powers of unwarranted searches by authorities.

    The Bill is effectively a reintroduction of the country’s old colonial sedition laws inherited from Britain, the broadness of the law having allowed it to be used against communists, trade unionists and indigenous rights activists.

    Republished from Mick Hall in Context on Substack with permisson.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man sentenced for the manslaughter of Marc Allen

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been jailed for 13 years at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 24 July after robbing and running over a man, leaving him to die in the street in Erith in 2019. He will serve a further 5 years on license.

    Errol Woodger, 38 (18.12.1986) of Mottisfont Road, Abbey Wood, was found guilty at the same court of robbery and manslaughter of 51-year-old Marc Allen following a three-week trial that concluded on Tuesday, 15 April 2025.

    On Sunday, 29 December 2019, Marc Allen interrupted Errol Woodger robbing items from his flat on Peareswood Road, Erith, including his car keys.

    Mr Allen attempted to stop Woodger driving off in his car, but Woodger deliberately drove the car at him, running him over and causing him fatal injuries. Mr Allen was taken to hospital but never regained consciousness and died on Wednesday, 29 January 2020.

    Woodger was charged with robbery and murder on Wednesday, 19 June 2024 and was remanded into custody.

    At trial, Woodger was found guilty of one count of manslaughter and one count of robbery.

    Detective Sergeant Nick Bale, of the Met’s Homicide Command, said:

    “Our thoughts remain with Marc’s family and loved ones.

    “I’d like to thank the Homicide team who led on this investigation and the members of the public who were able to help us. The response we received to our appeal for information and witnesses following Marc’s senseless death directly led to Mr Woodger’s arrest and charges nearly five years after this tragic incident.

    “A man was fatally injured in a brutal way and died as a result – outside his home where he should have felt safe. I can only hope that this sentence goes some way in providing a sense of justice to Marc’s family.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia Judiciary – Threats to judges a threat to justice

    Source: Australian Judicial Officers Association

    From Justice Steven Moore, President of the Australian Judicial Officers Association – 25 July 2025

    Threats against judicial officers are increasing, new data revealed on the inaugural United Nations International Day for Judicial Wellbeing show.

    Between 2023 and 2024, the number of Victorian judicial officers who sought support to manage a threat more than doubled, with the largest number coming from Magistrates.

    Based on 2025 reports to date, the overall number of reported threats is expected to increase a further 70 per cent.

    The figures reflect New South Wales research from July 2022 which found 61 per cent of surveyed judges had experienced some form of threat, with 41 per cent threats of harm. The sitting and retired judges surveyed reported threats were most commonly experienced in person in the courtroom or court precinct followed by on social media.

    The Australian Judicial Officers Association (AJOA) called on the Attorneys-General of the Commonwealth, the States and the Territories to formulate and implement consistent policies and measures to address the increasing threats.

    “The increasing prevalence of threats to the safety and security of Australian judicial officers is alarming and unacceptable,” AJOA President Justice Steven Moore said.

    “It demands urgent action to ensure judicial officers and court staff may go about their work without unnecessary risks to their psychological and physical health and safety, and to ensure that they may properly discharge their oaths of office.”

    Justice Moore said while judicial decisions were often significant for those involved or widely discussed in the community, personal threats should never be tolerated as ‘part of the job’.

    “Legitimate scrutiny of decision making is a cornerstone of the law. If someone disagrees with the basis for a decision or believes a legal error has occurred there are avenues of appeal for that to be properly considered,” he said.

    “Judicial officers perform an essential social role. It means putting personal opinion aside and applying laws enacted by parliament and legal precedents. Threats of personal harm for performing this role are unwarranted and should alarm the community.”

    “It is particularly sobering to consider the deteriorating situation in relation to safety and security of judges in the United States, where judges have been murdered as recently as 2023,” he said.

    “Although the experience in the US shouldn’t be assumed to automatically flow to Australia, there is clearly an erosion of respect for, and understanding of, the role of judicial officers, that left unabated has the potential to undermine our system of justice.”

    The United Nations chose July 25 for the International Day for Judicial Wellbeing to coincide with the anniversary of the Nauru Declaration of Judicial Wellbeing.

    The 2024 declaration, which was endorsed by the Chief Justices and senior judicial figures of countries including Australia, Canada, England, Jamaica and numerous Pacific Island Nations, states that the court environment and culture must demonstrate zero tolerance for corruption, discrimination, harassment, bullying and other negative behaviours.

    Read the full paper on Judicial Safety and Security: https://www.ajoa.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/P105_02-250723-Judicial-safety-and-security-paper-25-July-2025.pdf

    The Australian Judicial Officers Association is the professional association of judges and magistrates in Australia.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 30 new police constables on the beat

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    30 new police constables on the beat

    Friday, 25 July 2025 – 3:05 pm.

    Tasmania Police has today welcomed 30 new constables into its ranks, with recruit course 1/2025 officially graduating from the police academy.
    Commissioner Donna Adams and Education and Training Commander Damien George were among those in attendance at the police academy at Rokeby to congratulate the new constables – 18 men and 12 women – on their achievements.
    Recruits will be assigned to Bellerive, Bridgewater, Burnie, Devonport, Glenorchy, Hobart and Launceston stations.
    Constable Kyan Clay, of Hobart and Constable Bailey Jupp, of Penguin, have been awarded the dux of course and runner-up dux of course, respectively.
    Commander George said the 30 new officers had worked hard over a 28-week training course and were ready to begin serving the community.
    “Each one of these recruits should be extremely proud of what they have already achieved, and I look forward to seeing where their new career takes them,” he said.
    “They’re stepping into roles which are anything but ordinary, with each shift offering a new opportunity to serve and engage with our communities.”
    With ages spanning 18 to 51, the new police constables bring a range of past career and life experiences to their new roles.
    Dux of the course Constable Kyan Clay, 27, is starting his policing career after previously working as an electrical engineer with Powerlink in Queensland.
    Constable Clay said he was excited by the challenges and opportunities ahead.
    “Becoming a constable, that process has given me a lot of confidence. To me that role means being someone who is approachable, who can make people feel safe and can bring justice to the community.
    “I am really looking forward to being in the community and helping people.”
    Also graduating on Friday was former Launceston real estate agent Jayne Bayles who, at 51, is one of the more mature-aged recruits to pass the course.
    Friday’s ceremony marked the third graduating class of new constables in 2025, with 22 constables graduating in January and 15 constables in April.
    The next graduating class is in late September.
    Commander George said policing was a dynamic and rewarding career and encouraged people interested in being a Tasmania Police officer to take the next step.
    For more information about Tasmania Police recruitment, visit https://recruitment.police.tas.gov.au/

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Sexual assault – Nightcliff

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an alleged sexual assault that occurred this morning in Nightcliff.

    Around 5:45am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received a report that a woman had been sexually assaulted by a male who was unknown to her on Boetdoemba Street, near the intersection with Progress Drive.

    The male fled the scene prior to police arrival and investigations are ongoing to identify and locate him. He is described as being of Aboriginal appearance, wearing a black long-sleeved shirt, green camouflage print shorts and high-cut white socks.

    Police are calling for any witnesses who may have information that can assist police in their enquiries to make contact on 131 444 and quote reference NTP2500074948. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pacific scholars applaud international ruling on climate change

    Source: Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Pacific and Global Health

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling welcomed by Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Pacific and Global Health.

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling that countries can be held legally accountable for greenhouse gas emissions has been welcomed by Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Pacific and Global Health.

    Co-Director Li’amanaia Dr Roannie Ng Shiu commended Pacific youth and Pacific communities for their leadership and perseverance over six years of advocacy. She says their leadership demonstrated the power of young Pacific voices to shape international systems and call the world to account.

    “We extend our congratulations to the Pacific youth, student leaders and our Pacific communities in the region whose courageous advocacy and strategic vision led to this moment.”
    “Their tireless efforts – supported by a coalition of Pacific governments, civil society, and legal experts – have resulted in a global legal affirmation that states have clear obligations to act on climate change.”

    The legal campaign, led by Vanuatu, was initiated by the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC). Its president, Cynthia Houniuhi, visited the University of Auckland’s Fale Pasifika two years ago as a guest panelist for Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa’s Pacific Transnational Leadership Panel, where she joined regional leaders in discussing the future of Pacific cooperation.

    Dr Ng Shiu praised the leadership of Houniuhi and the cultural integrity of the campaign.

    “This opinion stems from a journey led by Pacific students and communities, speaking from lived experience – rising sea levels, disrupted ecosystems, and the health and social impacts already affecting their families.”

    That journey has now yielded a decision that will influence global climate action for years to come, says Ng Shiu.

    “As a young Pacific female and student, she epitomizes what it means to make the impossible possible and to redefine leadership. She’s quiet and humble, but when she speaks, it’s deeply impactful. In a world that often celebrates loud and assertive voices, Cynthia’s thoughtful approach stands out.

    “Her leadership, and the way the ICJ campaign was conducted, reflects not just climate justice but also cultural ethics. The integration of storytelling and community engagement ensures that people hear, understand, and embrace the message. This is promising for Indigenous and Pacific peoples – our ways of knowing and being are being valued by institutions like the ICJ.

    “This ruling is not just about empowerment, but also accountability. It s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey and Rep. Simon Announce Legislation to Prohibit Discrimination in Jury Service Based on Disability and Age

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Bill Text (PDF) | One Pager (PDF)

    Washington (July 24, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Representative Lateefah Simon (CA-12) today announced the reintroduction of the Disability and Age in Jury Service Nondiscrimination Act, legislation that would prohibit discrimination in federal jury service based on disability or age. Federal law currently prohibits excluding a person from federal jury service on account of “race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or economic status,” but not on account of disability or age.

    The Disability and Age in Jury Service Nondiscrimination Act would add protections to federal law for age and disability to prevent the discriminatory exclusion of capable jurors. This legislation would ensure that disabled jurors who are at least 18 years of age and are able to perform their duties with reasonable accommodations—including deaf and blind individuals who may use sign language or braille—would not be disqualified on the basis of disability. Twenty-eight states, including Massachusetts and California, have enacted laws that prohibit the exclusion or disqualification of people with a disability from state jury service. Meanwhile, eleven states have laws that prohibit age-based discrimination for state jury service.

    “Every American adult deserves the chance to fulfill their sacred civic duty and serve on a jury, no matter their age or disability,” said Senator Markey. “Our legislation creates equal opportunity for jury service and ensures that federal juries across the nation fully represent the diversity of our communities. Discrimination in jury selection stands in the way of achieving justice and fairness in our legal system. I am proud to lead this bill with Representatives Simon and continue to protect the rights of seniors and Americans with disabilities.”

    “The discrimination, exclusion, and disqualification of disabled and elderly jurors from our federal courts based on outdated stereotypes and assumptions prevents our judicial system from embodying the ideals of justice and equality for all.” said Representative Simon. “As the first congenitally blind Member of Congress, I believe we must bring the voices of the disability community to the policy-making table and that our stories must be reflected in our policies. I thank Senator Markey for his partnership on our legislation that would ensure equal access and opportunity to participate our judicial system for all members of our community regardless of their ability or age.”

    The bill is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and in the House of Representatives by Nikema Williams (GA-05), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05), Dave Min (CA-47), Jared Huffman (CA-02), and Summer Lee (PA-12).

    The Disability and Age in Jury Service Nondiscrimination Act is endorsed by American Association for Justice, American Association of People with Disabilities, American Bar Association, American Council of the Blind, American Foundation for the Blind, American Geriatrics Society, Bay State Council of the Blind, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Disability Rights California, Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF), Epilepsy Foundation, Gerontological Society of America, Hearing Loss Association of America, Justice in Aging, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, National Association of the Deaf, National Council on Independent Living, National Disabilities Rights Network, National Federation of the Blind, National Organization on Disability, Paralyzed Veterans of America, SOLVE ME/CFS, the Arc of the United States, United Spinal Association, and VisionServe Alliance.

    “No American should be denied the right to serve on a federal jury because of their age or physical disability, and it’s a cornerstone of democracy that juries be reflective of the communities in which they serve,” said Linda Lipsen, CEO of the American Association for Justice. “AAJ strongly supports the Disability and Age in Jury Service Nondiscrimination Act, and we thank Senator Markey and Congresswoman Simon for their leadership on this important issue.”

    “Trial by jury is a cornerstone of our legal system, and diverse and representative juries are essential to fair deliberations and just outcomes. Diverse juries, with representation from all groups, not only promote community confidence in verdicts, but actually lead to better decision making. Jury service should be accessible to all members of our communities. NACDL is proud to support legislation that helps move us closer to that goal,” said Andrew S. Birrell, President of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

    “A true jury of one’s peers must reflect the full diversity of our communities,” said Claire Stanley, Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs for the American Council of the Blind. “People who are blind or have low vision cannot be left out of the judicial process. They deserve the same opportunity and share the same responsibility to serve on a jury of their peers.”

    “AFB applauds the reintroduction of this important bill that ensures that people who are blind or have low vision are allowed to carry out their civic duty to serve on juries alongside their peers. Recognizing that most people become blind later in life, we appreciate that this bill prohibits age-related discrimination as well as disability discrimination, and we look forward to a time when all people are able to participate fully in the judicial system without prejudice,” said Stephanie Enyart, Chief Public Policy and Research Officer at American Foundation for the Blind.

    “Many Deaf and hard of hearing people have participated in jury duty. This bill will ensure consistency across the nation, ensuring that those individuals are not excluded from performing their civil obligations,” said Interim CEO Dr. Bobbie Beth Scoggins of the National Association of the Deaf.

    “People with disabilities have served successfully as jurors in state courts for many years, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws. It is long past time for our federal jury system to catch up and end discrimination that prevents people with disabilities from serving as federal jurors,” said Jennifer Mathis, deputy director of the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law.

    “The right to serve on a jury is a fundamental component of civic engagement and equal justice under law. Yet far too often, people with disabilities are excluded from jury service based on outdated assumptions and discriminatory practices. We commend Senator Markey and Representative Simon for introducing this critical legislation, which affirms that disability and age should never be barriers to full participation in our democracy,” said Eric Buehlmann, Deputy Executive Director for Public Policy, National Disability Rights Network (NDRN).

    “Jury service is a fundamental part of free and equal citizenship. This bill ensures that people with disabilities are not denied the right to serve on a jury because of outdated assumptions about what we can or cannot do. The disability community looks forward to bringing its wealth of experiences and perspectives to federal juries across the country,” said Eric Harris, Associate Executive Director of External Affairs at Disability Rights California.

    In July 2023, Senator Markey and then-Representative Anna Eshoo (CA-16) reintroduced the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act (CVTA) to amend the CVAA due to the proliferation of emerging technologies since 2010. The CVTA would strengthen standards for television programming and emergency communication; expand accessibility requirements, including closed captions and audio descriptions, to online platforms and video conferencing services; and equip the federal government with the ability to improve the accessibility of emerging technologies. In 2022, Senator Markey and then-Representative Katie Porter (CA-45) introduced the Disabled Jurors Nondiscrimination Act, legislation that prohibits excluding a person from federal jury service on account of disability.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey and Rep. Kamlager-Dove Announce Legislation to End Solitary Confinement in Federal Detention Facilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Over 120,000 people are held in solitary confinement in the United States

    Bill Text (PDF)

    Washington (July 24, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) today announced the reintroduction of the End Solitary Confinement Act, legislation that would end solitary confinement in federal prisons, jails, and detention centers, with limited exceptions. This bill would create minimum standards for incarceration, including by requiring that facilities give detainees access to out-of-cell interaction and recreation and by capping the length of solitary confinement at four hours.

    Solitary confinement has many different names, including “restrictive housing” in Massachusetts. Individuals held in solitary confinement can be isolated in a small, concrete, windowless cell for 22 hours or longer. Placement in solitary for any length of time, whether days or even hours, can cause severe, long-term harm. Individuals held in solitary confinement may suffer serious adverse effects on their mental and physical health, including an increased risk of suicide, heart disease, anxiety, and depression. Solitary confinement is also disproportionately inflicted on Black, Brown, and LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as on vulnerable populations, including persons with preexisting mental health illnesses.

    “Solitary confinement is a cruel and unnecessary practice that has no place in our country. This practice isn’t rehabilitation, it’s torture,” said Senator Markey. “Forcing people, including those from vulnerable groups, into small, cramped, concrete prison cells without human interaction for hours, days, weeks, and even months on end is inhumane. I am proud to introduce this legislation, alongside Representative Kamlager-Dove, to move us closer to ending solitary confinement, once and for all.”

    “Solitary confinement is torture, period,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “This outdated practice, dating back to the 1800s, does nothing to promote rehabilitation. Research consistently shows it causes severe mental health issues, intensifies existing barriers to recovery, and disproportionately harms incarcerated Black, Brown, and LGBTQ+ individuals. We must abolish solitary confinement entirely—and I’m proud to lead the charge with this bill that will finally end its use in the United States.”

    Cosponsors in the Senate include Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore).

    This legislation is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union, Center for Constitutional Rights, Vera Institute of Justice, National Religious Campaign Against Torture, Unlock the Box Campaign, the #HALTsolitary Campaign, and Zealous.

    Specifically, the End Solitary Confinement Act would:

    • End solitary confinement in federal prisons, jails and other detention settings with limited exceptions, including a 4-hour maximum for emergency de-escalation;
    • Protect vulnerable populations, including elderly individuals and pregnant persons, from placement in solitary confinement;
    • Ensure detainees have meaningful access to out-of-cell time, group programming, and basic needs and services;
    • Impose strict due process protections, including access to representation and neutral decision-makers;
    • Create oversight and enforcement mechanisms, including mandatory reporting, a private cause of action, oversight by a community monitoring body, and enhanced media access; and
    • Incentivize states and municipalities to adopt similar bans on solitary confinement.

    Senator Markey has worked consistently to reform prison practices and provide resources to formerly and currently incarcerated people. Senator Markey and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) introduced the Fair Chance Jobs Month Resolution in May 2025, to ensure that formerly incarcerated individuals have a fair chance at securing good-paying, stable employment. In February 2024, Senator Markey sent a letter to then-Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm urging the Department of Energy (DOE) to make good-paying clean energy jobs accessible to currently and formerly incarcerated people.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Draft to amend price law unveiled

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

    China unveiled the draft of an amendment to its price law on Thursday for seeking public opinions, marking a significant step in strengthening market supervision, deterring unfair pricing practices, and reinforcing the country’s push toward a more efficient and high-quality economic structure.

    Experts said the move sends a clear signal that China is committed to fostering a market environment that encourages fair competition, as the country adapts to evolving market dynamics and increasing international uncertainty.

    The document, jointly drafted by the National Development and Reform Commission and the State Administration for Market Regulation on Thursday, consists of 10 articles with a key focus on improving regulations related to government pricing, further clarifying the criteria for identifying unfair pricing behavior, and strengthening legal accountability for price-related violations.

    Guo Liyan, deputy director of the Chinese Academy of Macroeconomic Research’s Economic Research Institute, said that in a socialist market economy, the price mechanism plays an important role in optimizing resource allocation and balancing supply and demand.

    “The draft amendment, particularly the improvement of criteria for identifying unfair pricing behaviors such as low-price dumping, will help better protect the legitimate rights of consumers and businesses, and promote healthy economic development,” she said.

    According to Guo, amid rising international uncertainties, reinforcing fair, just and lawful price competition through legislation “will enhance the appeal and influence of China’s unified national market, thereby providing a sound pricing environment to strengthen domestic economic circulation”.

    The draft clarifies that low-price dumping not only applies to goods but also to services, and the responsible parties have been expanded from sellers in transactions to third parties that set pricing rules, thereby providing a legal basis for stronger enforcement against low-price dumping and efforts to curb involution-style competition.

    Guo said: “If operators engage in unfair pricing, causing prices to deviate from supply-demand fundamentals and cost structures, this could undermine the entire pricing mechanism and trigger negative chain reactions.”

    Meng Yanbei, a professor at Renmin University of China’s Law School, highlighted a major breakthrough in the draft — the transformation of government pricing to more adaptive rule-based mechanisms.

    “One highlight of the amendment is the recognition that government pricing can shift from setting price levels to formulating pricing mechanisms,” Meng said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Estate agencies guilty of breaking renting laws

    Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

    Four real estate agencies have pleaded guilty to breaking Victoria’s rental laws, following an investigation by Consumer Affairs Victoria’s renting taskforce.  

    The agencies admitted they failed to advertise a fixed rental price for properties listed on realestate.com.au and domain.com.au. The businesses are: 

    • Wyndham Realty Pty Ltd, trading as Barry Plant, Werribee 
    • AAM Realtor Pty Ltd, trading as Ray White, Point Cook 
    • White Lotus Property Group, Truganina 
    • YouSales Pty Ltd, Docklands.  

    Consumer Affairs Victoria initially issued infringements to the agencies, but all chose to contest the penalties. They were taken to court as a result.  

    Director Nicole Rich described the breaches as serious, warning that not using a fixed price can promote illegal rental bidding.  

    “Our renting taskforce is committed to holding agents accountable if they break Victoria’s rental laws. We’ll continue to pursue those who fail to meet those standards, including taking them to court where necessary. 

    “Real estate agents are part of a licensed profession with clear legal obligations to understand and follow property sales and renting laws. This includes using their management systems correctly and ensuring staff are properly trained.  

    “Price transparency is vital. Renters have the right to know how much they can expect to pay for a rental property.” 

    Rental bidding, where renters compete to offer higher amounts to secure a property, has been banned in Victoria since 2021. It was outlawed as part of the introduction of 130 new rental law reforms.  

    Since the taskforce was established, more than 50 agencies have been fined for failing to advertise fixed rental prices. 

    As well as ensuring agents comply with renting laws, Consumer Affairs Victoria is also working with property listing websites to change their pricing parameters, to ensure properties can only be advertised with a fixed price.  

    Barry Plant Werribee, Ray White Point Cook and YouSales were fined. White Lotus Property Group received a 12-month court order prohibiting further offending. 
     
    A fifth case, involving Smart Six Corporation Pty Ltd (trading as PRD, Mildura) will be heard at the Mildura Magistrates’ Court on 19 August. 

    If you think a rental property hasn’t been advertised properly, report it to Consumer Affairs Victoria.  

    Consumer Affairs Victoria is a part of the Department of Government Services. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato

    According to the Global Organised Crime Index, international criminal activity has increased over the past two years. And the politically fractured post-pandemic world has made this even harder for nations to combat.

    New Zealand is far from immune. According to official advice in late March to Minister of Customs and Associate Minister of Police Casey Costello:

    The threat posed by organised crime in New Zealand has increased substantially in the last five years. Even with the best of will, New Zealand is losing the fight.

    New criminal groups are becoming active here – from Burma via Malaysia, to the Comancheros and Mongols gangs. Each brings new networks, violent tactics and the potential to corrupt institutions in New Zealand and throughout the Pacific.

    As of October 2024, the national gang list contained 9,460 names. While there is debate about the accuracy of the figures, gang membership has grown considerably. This is fuelled by the global trade in illegal drugs, with local criminal profits conservatively estimated at NZ$500–600 million annually.

    The one relative bright spot is that New Zealand hasn’t yet seen the levels of firearms-related violence driven by organised crime overseas. For example, European research shows the illegal trade in guns and drugs becoming increasingly intertwined.

    But waiting to catch up with those trends should not be an option. New Zealand already has a lot firearms. In the past six years, police conducting routine patrols have reportedly encountered 17,000 guns, or nearly ten every day, nationwide.

    In 2022, official figures showed, on average, approximately one firearms offence had been committed daily by gang members since 2019.

    The risk had become apparent much earlier, in 2016, with the discovery of fourteen military assault-grade AK47s and M16s in an Auckland house being used to manufacture methamphetamine. This year, another firearms cache, including assault rifles and semiautomatics, was found in Auckland.

    Progress and problems

    On the legal front, the main avenues New Zealand gangs use to obtain illegal firearms are being closed off. Under the Arms Act, members or close affiliates of a gang or an organised criminal group cannot be considered “fit and proper” to lawfully possess a firearm.

    These people may have specific firearms prohibition orders added against them, which allow the police additional powers to ensure firearms don’t fall into the wrong hands.

    The firearms registry is key to this. There are now more than 400,000 firearms fully accounted for, making it harder for so-called “straw buyers” to onsell them to gangs.

    Despite the progress, several challenges remain. In particular, the nature of the gun registry has been politicised, with the ACT and National parties disagreeing over a review of the system’s scope.

    Arguments over the types of firearms covered and which agency looks after the registry risk undermining its central purpose of preventing criminals getting guns.

    Theft of firearms from lawful owners needs more attention, too. Making it a specific offence – not just illegal possession – would be an added deterrent.

    Tighter and targeted policy

    Accounting for all the estimated 1.5 million firearms in New Zealand will be very difficult – especially with the buy-back and amnesty for prohibited firearms after the Christchurch terror attack likely being far from complete.

    There are also tens of thousands of non-prohibited firearms in the hands of unlicensed but not necessarily criminal owners.

    Given all firearms must be registered by the end of August 2028, there should be another buy-back (at market rates) of all guns that should be on the register. This might be expensive, but the cost of opening a large pipeline to criminals would be worse.

    There needs to be greater investment in staff, education and technology within intelligence services and customs. This will help inform evidence-based policy, and support targeted law enforcement. A recent European Union initiative to track gun violence in real time is an example of how data can help in this way.

    New Zealand is a party to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (and its two protocols on people trafficking and migrant smuggling). But it is not a party to a supplementary protocol covering the illicit manufacturing and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.

    That should change. Amendments to the Arms Act since 2019 mean New Zealand law and policy fit the protocol perfectly. By joining, New Zealand could strengthen regional cooperation and increase public safety, given the scale of the problem and its potential to get worse.

    Alexander Gillespie is a member of the Ministerial Arms Advisory Group (MAAG). He is also the 2024 recipient of the Borrin Justice Fellowship, and is researching revision of the NZ Arms Act. His views and opinions here are independent of both the MAAG and the Borrin Foundation.

    – ref. Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it – https://theconversation.com/gangs-are-going-global-and-so-is-the-illegal-gun-trade-nz-can-do-more-to-fight-it-261827

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 25, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 25, 2025.

    Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato According to the Global Organised Crime Index, international criminal activity has increased over the past two years. And the politically fractured post-pandemic world has made this even harder for nations to combat. New Zealand is far from immune. According

    Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu
    By Ezra Toara in Port Vila Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”. The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change. The

    3 reasons young people are more likely to believe conspiracy theories – and how we can help them discover the truth
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jean-Nicolas Bordeleau, Research Fellow, Jeff Bleich Centre for Democracy and Disruptive Technologies, Flinders University Conspiracy theories are a widespread occurrence in today’s hyper connected and polarised world. Events such as Brexit, the 2016 and 2020 United States presidential elections, and the COVID pandemic serve as potent reminders

    Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Santosh Tadakamadla, Professor and Head of Dentistry and Oral Health, La Trobe University Just over one-third of Australians are eligible for public dental services, which provide free or low cost dental treatment. Yet demand for these services continues to exceed supply. As a result, many Australian adults

    Butter wars: ‘nothing cures high prices like high prices’ – but will market forces be enough?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Renwick, Professor of Agricultural Economics, Lincoln University, New Zealand RobynRoper/Getty Images The alarming rise of butter prices has become a real source of frustration for New Zealand consumers, as well as a topic of political recrimination. The issue has become so serious that Miles Hurrell, chief

    Ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly has been certified as ‘sustainable’. Is that an oxymoron?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Harriette Richards, Senior Lecturer, School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University Carol Yepes/Getty Images Last week, the ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly received B Corp certification. This certification is designed to accredit for-profit businesses that provide social impact and environmental benefit. Established on the Gold Coast in

    AI will soon be able to audit all published research – what will that mean for public trust in science?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Kaurov, PhD Candidate in Science and Society, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Jamillah Knowles & Digit/Better Images of AI, CC BY-SA Self-correction is fundamental to science. One of its most important forms is peer review, when anonymous experts scrutinise research before it is

    Columbia’s $200M deal with Trump administration sets a precedent for other universities to bend to the government’s will
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Cantwell, Associate Professor of Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, Michigan State University Students at Columbia University in New York City on April 14, 2025. Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images Columbia University agreed on July 23, 2025, to pay a US$200 million fine to the federal government

    Miles Franklin 2025: Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities is a haunting comedy about tyranny. Is it the funniest winner ever?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joseph Steinberg, Forrest Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, English & Literary Studies, The University of Western Australia Siang Lu David Kelly/UQP The Miles Franklin judges described Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities, winner of the 2025 award, as “a grand farce and a haunting meditation on diaspora”. To my mind, it

    Keep fighting for a nuclear-free Pacific, Helen Clark warns Greenpeace over global storm clouds
    Asia Pacific Report Former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark warned activists and campaigners in a speech on the deck of the Greenpeace environmental flagship Rainbow Warrior III last night to be wary of global “storm clouds” and the renewed existential threat of nuclear weapons. Speaking on her reflections on four decades after the bombing

    Business coalition calls for 25% cut in the cost of red tape by 2030
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Business, universities, and investors have jointly urged the federal government to commit to cutting the cost of red tape by 25% by 2030, in a submission for next month’s Economic Reform Roundtable. The push to reduce regulation is in line

    Grattan on Friday: net zero battle has net zero positives for Sussan Ley
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra There’s no other way of looking at it: Sussan Ley faces a diabolical situation with the debate over whether the Coalition should abandon the 2050 net zero emissions target. The issue is a microcosm of her wider problems. The Nationals,

    The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed

    The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed

    Reserve Bank says unemployment rise was not a shock, inflation on track
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock has fleshed out the central bank’s thinking behind its surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold this month. In a speech today to the Anika Foundation, Bullock said there has been:

    Reserve Bank says unemployment rise was not a shock, inflation on track
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock has fleshed out the central bank’s thinking behind its surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold this month. In a speech today to the Anika Foundation, Bullock said there has been:

    Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief
    This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman. More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory. The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and

    Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief
    This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman. More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory. The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and

    Historic ruling finds climate change ‘imperils all forms of life’ and puts laggard nations on notice
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacqueline Peel, Professor of Law and Director, Melbourne Climate Futures, The University of Melbourne Hilaire Bule/Getty Climate change “imperils all forms of life” and countries must tackle the problem or face consequences under international law, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has found. The court delivered its

    Jet ski accidents are tragic but preventable. Here’s how to reduce the risk
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne Richard Hamilton Smith/Getty Two teenage boys were thrown from a jet ski during a ride on the Georges River in Sydney’s south this week. One died at the scene. The other

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 07/24/2025 Blackburn, Warner, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect American Taxpayers from Stolen Tax Refund Checks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) introduced the bipartisan Recovery of Stolen Checks Act, which would allow American taxpayers who have their paper checks from the U.S. Department of Treasury lost or stolen in the mail to receive their payment by electronic deposit:

    “An outdated IRS policy is leaving Tennesseans vulnerable to having their tax refund checks repeatedly lost or stolen in the mail,” said Senator Blackburn. “When those refunds don’t arrive on time, it puts real strain on hardworking families. The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act would allow taxpayers to receive a direct deposit from the Treasury Department rather than another check a criminal could intercept.” 

    “With check fraud costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, it makes no sense for the federal government to keep reissuing vulnerable paper checks after they have already been stolen or gone missing,” said Senator Warner. “This bipartisan bill offers a smart, secure fix by letting taxpayers opt for direct deposit so they can get their money faster and more safely.”

    The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.). 

    This legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives and is sponsored by Representatives David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), and Terri Sewell (D-Ala.).

    BACKGROUND

    • Tax refund theft is on the rise, with two postal workers charged in May in connection to a $63 million scheme to steal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) refund checks. 
    • Criminals take stolen IRS refund checks and sell them on the dark web. One investigation found 4,000 to 5,000 stolen checks for sale every month.
    • The total loss for American taxpayers for stolen mail is hundreds of millions of dollars.
    • Currently, if an IRS refund check is stolen, a taxpayer can only be issued a replacement paper check. This leaves the taxpayer vulnerable to having their refund check stolen again.

    THE RECOVERY OF STOLEN CHECKS ACT

    The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act would require Department of the Treasury to establish a secure, streamlined process that allows eligible taxpayers to receive their replacement refunds electronically via direct deposit, helping reduce the risk of theft, delays, and fraud.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Makes Important Contribution to Green Development – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 24 (Xinhua) — China is willing to work with all parties to comprehensively implement the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and promote the building of a fair and reasonable global climate governance system for win-win cooperation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Thursday.

    Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a regular briefing, commenting on the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the obligations of states with respect to climate change. On July 23, the International Court affirmed that the UNFCCC system is the primary legal instrument guiding international efforts to address the global problem of climate change, and clearly outlined the rights and obligations of countries under international environmental law. Several states said this marked a critical moment in advancing global climate justice.

    “The Chinese side noted that the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice stated that the UNFCCC system is the main legal instrument regulating international efforts to address the global problem of climate change, and also confirmed that the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, the principle of sustainable development and the principle of equity serve as guiding principles for the interpretation and application of relevant international law,” the official representative said.

    Guo Jiakun noted that the conclusion emphasizes the leading role of developed countries in combating climate change and the commitment of states to strengthen international cooperation. According to the Chinese diplomat, the conclusion reflects the long-standing position and approach of developing countries, including China, which has positive implications for maintaining and promoting international climate cooperation.

    China actively participated in the preparation of this advisory opinion, Guo Jiakun emphasized. The diplomat pointed out that, as the largest developing country, China is a staunch supporter and important participant in green development, and is actively and confidently working to realize its goals of achieving peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality.

    “We will achieve the world’s largest reduction in carbon intensity and move from peak emissions to carbon neutrality in the shortest time in world history,” Guo Jiakun said.

    At the same time, China’s high-quality and low-cost clean energy technologies and products greatly reduce the costs of the global green and low-carbon transition, the official noted, adding that China also provides maximum assistance to other developing countries through South-South cooperation channels.

    No matter how the world changes, China will not slow down its actions to combat climate change, will not reduce its support for international cooperation, and will not stop its efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind, Guo Jiakun said. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two arrested over Craigmore robbery

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Two men were arrested last night and weapons seized following investigations into a robbery at Craigmore.

    About 5am on Tuesday 22 July, two men threatened the occupant of a house in Craigmore with a sawn-off firearm and machete.  The victim was assaulted and had money and cigarettes stolen.

    The victim, a 49-year-old man, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene by paramedics.

    Patrols spotted one of the suspects at an Elizabeth Downs service station about 9.20pm on Thursday 24 July and arrested the 31-year-old Craigmore man without incident.

    A second suspect was pulled over while driving disqualified in Elizabeth Downs.  A search of the 28-year-old’s Elizabeth Downs address allegedly revealed a sawn-off firearm and a machete, believed to have been used in the Craigmore robbery.

    The arrested men have both been charged with aggravated robbery, aggravated unlawful threats and firearms offences.  They were refused police bail and will appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court later today.

    Police wish to reassure the community that this was not a random incident, and the people involved are known to each other.

    Anyone with information about illegal weapons in the community is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    CO2500030418

    188274

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Ossoff Urge DOJ to Investigate Conditions at Bibb County Jail

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) urged the Department of Justice to open a federal investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia.

    Senator Reverend Warnock and Senator Jon Ossoff: “given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation into conditions at this jail and whether the rights of any individuals who work at or are incarcerated at these facilities may have been violated.”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) urged the Department of Justice to open an investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia. The Senators are demanding action following recent reports of health, safety, and civil rights concerns at the facility. In recent years, multiple inmates have been killed or injured in outbreaks of violence at the jail, including a 22-year-old inmate who was stabbed to death at the facility in June.

    “The reports emerging from Bibb County Jail are disturbing. On June 4, 2025, Breele Jahiem Johnson, 22, was stabbed to death. Multiple other inmates were injured in the same incident. Unfortunately, violence at this facility is not rare. In April, an inmate had boiling water thrown on his face, causing severe burns. In May 2024, an inmate died after being tasered by officers. Just last week, another inmate was stabbed and had to be taken to a local hospital. Since 2020, four individuals have died by suicide. The pattern of violence at this facility is troubling.” the Senators wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi. “We have been encouraged by local officials’ recent efforts to address Bibb County Jail conditions. However, given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation,” the Senators added. 

    The effort builds on Senator Warnock’s previous work to ensure humane conditions in prisons in Georgia and across the nation. In February of 2024, Senator Warnock led his colleagues in successfully urging the Justice Department prioritize the investigation into Fulton County Jail following multiple deaths at the facility in recent years. In 2025, the Justice Department entered a consent decree over the conditions at Fulton County Jail.

    Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    We are writing you today to request that the Department of Justice (DOJ) open an investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia.

    Throughout our time in office, we have conducted oversight and taken action to expose and address civil and human rights abuses in prisons and jails, including in federal, state, and local institutions across Georgia. The reports emerging from Bibb County Jail are disturbing. On June 4, 2025, Breele Jahiem Johnson, 22, was stabbed to death.1 Multiple other inmates were injured in the same incident. Unfortunately, violence at this facility is not rare. In April, an inmate had boiling water thrown on his face, causing severe burns. In May 2024, an inmate died after being tasered by officers. Just last week, another inmate was stabbed and had to be taken to a local hospital. Since 2020, four individuals have died by suicide.6 The pattern of violence at this facility is troubling.

    Living conditions at the Bibb County jail are also unacceptable. After touring the jail, the president of the Georgia NAACP stated that the “cracked walls, broken plumbing, poor lighting and unsanitary conditions create an environment no human should be subjected to.” According to others, rodents and waste are regularly seen in the hallways.

    We have been encouraged by local officials’ recent efforts to address Bibb County Jail conditions. However, given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation into conditions at this jail and whether the rights of any individuals who work at or are incarcerated at these facilities may have been violated. Our offices are ready to assist your work in any capacity.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: CHINADA issues guidelines to protect rights of underage athletes

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

    The Chinese Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) has released its first comprehensive guidelines aimed at safeguarding the rights of underage athletes throughout the anti-doping process, marking a significant step toward a more athlete-centered approach.

    The “Guidelines on Protecting the Rights of Underage Athletes in Anti-Doping Work (Trial),” issued on Thursday, outline a full-chain protection framework covering testing, result management, and privacy protection.

    “This is not just a rule adjustment but a conceptual shift,” said Jiang Tao, associate professor at the China University of Political Science and Law. “The principle of prioritizing athletes’ best interests has now been implemented in detail.”

    A Chinese athlete competes during the women’s 4x100m medley relay final of swimming at the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, July 30, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

    The guidelines are based on the World Anti-Doping Code and Chinese regulations, focusing on creating a supportive environment for young athletes during investigations and testing. Measures include “customized conversations” tailored to the athlete’s personality, psychological state, and background, as well as careful attention to the testing environment to prevent psychological stress.

    In line with the International Standard for Education, the guidelines emphasize that a young athlete’s first anti-doping experience should start with education. Testing officers are required to explain rights, obligations, and procedures if the athlete has not received prior anti-doping education, allowing for a “buffer period” during testing.

    To address the heightened stress faced by minors during doping violation cases, the guidelines introduce a “triple protection” system: easing evidentiary requirements, waiving financial penalties for athletes without income, and providing legal aid for hearings. Privacy protection measures also limit mandatory disclosure of personal information in violation cases.

    CHINADA has established a coordinated mechanism involving national and provincial anti-doping bodies as well as frontline personnel. Specialized educators and a team of legal and psychological experts will provide professional support to both athletes and guardians, raising awareness of rights protection.

    “These measures aim to ensure that young athletes can train and compete in a fair, safe, and clean environment,” CHINADA stated, adding that the initiative reflects China’s determination to contribute to the global fight against doping.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu

    By Ezra Toara in Port Vila

    Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”.

    The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change.

    The ruling marks a major shift in the global push for climate justice.

    Vanuatu — one of the nations behind the campaign — has pledged to take the decision back to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to seek a resolution supporting its full implementation.

    Climate Change Minister Regenvanu said in a statement: “We now have a common foundation based on the rule of law, releasing us from the limitations of individual nations’ political interests that have dominated climate action.

    “This moment will drive stronger action and accountability to protect our planet and peoples.”

    The ICJ confirmed that state responsibilities extend beyond voluntary commitments under the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.

    It ruled that customary international law also requires states to prevent environmental and transboundary harm, protect human rights, and cooperate to address climate change impacts.

    Duties apply to all states
    These duties apply to all states, whether or not they have ratified specific climate treaties.

    Violations of these obligations carry legal consequences. The ICJ clarified that climate damage can be scientifically traced to specific polluter states whose actions or inaction cause harm.

    As a result, those states could be required to stop harmful activities, regulate private sector emissions, end fossil fuel subsidies, and provide reparations to affected states and individuals.

    “The implementation of this decision will set a new status quo and the structural change required to give our current and future generations hope for a healthy planet and sustainable future,” Minister Regenvanu added.

    He said high-emitting nations, especially those with a history of emissions, must be held accountable.

    Despite continued fossil fuel expansion and weakening global ambition — compounded by the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement — Regenvanu said the ICJ ruling was a powerful tool for campaigners, lawyers, and governments.

    “Vanuatu is proud and honoured to have spearheaded this initiative,” he said.

    ‘Powerful testament’
    “The number of states and civil society actors that have joined this cause is a powerful testament to the leadership of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and youth activists.”

    The court’s decision follows a resolution adopted by consensus at the UNGA on 29 March 2023. That campaign was initiated by the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change and backed by the Vanuatu government, calling for greater accountability from high-emitting countries.

    The ruling will now be taken to the UNGA in September and is expected to be a central topic at COP30 in Brazil this November.

    Vanuatu has committed to working with other nations to turn this legal outcome into coordinated action through diplomacy, policy, litigation, and international cooperation.

    “This is just the beginning,” Regenvanu said. “Success will depend on what happens next. We look forward to working with global partners to ensure this becomes a true turning point for climate justice.”

    Republished from the Vanuatu Daily Post with permission.

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivers its historic climate ruling in The Hague on Tuesday. Image: VDP

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Touts Big Wins For New York State In Senate Appropriations Transportation, Housing, And Urban Development Subcommittee’s Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    The Bill Bolsters Funding for New York State Projects, Including Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway, Tenant Protection Vouchers, and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor

    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Transportation and Housing subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, touted big wins she worked to include for New York State and that were passed out of committee in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

    “New Yorkers from Brooklyn to Hamilton County know firsthand that our state needs critical infrastructure, transportation, and affordable housing investment,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am proud that our committee worked together on a bipartisan basis and passed a bill that addresses these critical needs. The funding will help New Yorkers travel around our state more easily, make homes more affordable, and improve air traffic congestion at local airports. I’m proud of the work this subcommittee has done to produce a strong bill and urge my colleagues to pass it through the full Senate as soon as possible.”

    The bill includes funding for important priorities in New York State:

    1. $700 million to fund the Hudson River Tunnel;
    2. $307.3 million to fund Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway;
    3. $850 million to fully fund Amtrak’s budget request for the Northeast Corridor;
    4. $22 billion to fully fund the Federal Aviation Administration, which will help address congestion issues at John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia, and Newark Airports;
    5. $514 million for the Essential Air Service program to continue to support the Massena, Ogdensburg, Plattsburgh, Saranac Lake/Lake Placid, and Watertown airports;
    6. $62 million for the Reconnecting Communities program Senator Gillibrand created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund projects to remove and mitigate infrastructure that divides communities;
    7. $20 million in new funding to support transit safety and security initiatives, including for the MTA;
    8. $161.5 million infunding for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, including for campus and building renovations;
    9. Full funding to maintain rental assistance, including $430 million for tenant protection vouchers to assist the most at-risk residents in NYCHA;
    10. Invests in expanding and improving the homeless response system to help senior citizens, veterans, youth, and others facing homelessness;
    11. $1.25 billion to sustain the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the primary federal program builds more affordable housing;
    12. And $73 million in congressionally directed spending for affordable housing, community development, and transportation projects across New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI New York Statement on the Sentencing of Disheem Laquan Riley

    Source: US FBI

    Earlier today in federal court in the Eastern District of New York, Disheem Laquan Riley was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release for making threats and conveying false information about explosives. On January 30 and 31, 2024, Riley made hoax bomb threat phone calls to 17 FBI offices across the country, alleging a bomb had been placed outside each respective FBI office.

    Special agents and task force officers from the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force located and arrested Riley on January 31, 2024. Riley ultimately pled guilty to the indictment filed against him.

    “Critical federal law enforcement resources were diverted to mitigate Riley’s hoax threats, and he has been justly sentenced for his targeting of FBI field offices across the country. The FBI takes all bomb threats made against our facilities seriously. Anyone found responsible for making these types of threats will face real punishment in the criminal justice system,” said Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia from the FBI’s field office in New York.

    FBI New York thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, the New York City Police Department, and the FBI offices across the country for their assistance on the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz, Murphy Introduce New Legislation To Improve Wages, Operations Transparency For Rideshare Drivers, Delivery App Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) today introduced the Empowering App-Based Workers Act, new legislation to improve transparency on how app companies operate and help boost wages for rideshare drivers and delivery app workers.

    “Every day rideshare drivers and delivery app workers work long hours and travel many miles to make a living, often without knowing how much money they’ll make. Our bill would shed some light on how apps determine work assignments and pay, ensuring workers are treated and paid fairly,” said Senator Schatz.

    Millions of workers across multiple industries, report to work by turning on an app. These platforms collect data from both workers and consumers to shape working conditions, evaluate workers, and make work-related decisions, including decisions on how much to pay a worker, which workers get which assignments, and whether, when, or for how long a worker will be suspended or ‘deactivated.’ All this is done with systems that are not transparent to workers, consumers, or regulators, creating information imbalances that mask wage theft, discrimination, and price-gouging.

    The Empowering App-Based Workers Act would create a level playing field for workers managed by digital labor platforms by:

    • Requiring disclosure of electronic monitoring and automated decision systems uses, including how they are used to determine pay and other work decisions;
    • Providing itemized receipts to workers and consumers after every work assignment;
    • Providing workers receive weekly pay statements with relevant information on their compensation;
    • Ensuring rideshare workers receive at least 75 percent of the amount paid by consumers; and
    • Stopping platforms from using interfaces that contain unfair or deceptive information on compensation.

    “We applaud Senators Schatz and Murphy for listening to workers’ demands and introducing the Empowering App-Based Workers Act,” said Rebecca Dixon, President and CEO of NELP. “App-based workers have long sought better pay and greater accountability from corporations that use hidden algorithms to determine pay, work assignments, and discipline. This legislation is an important step forward in building a good-jobs economy where all workers have expansive rights and thrive in good jobs.”

    “Senator Schatz’s bill is a great first step toward protecting app-based workers from hidden fees, undue surveillance, and algorithms that violate their civil rights. It also creates mechanisms to hold Big Tech accountable when their greed harms workers,” said Jody Calemine, AFL-CIO Director of Advocacy.

    The bill is supported by the ACE Collaborative of New Virginia Majority, Action Center on Race and Economy, AFL-CIO, Athena, Center for Law and Social Policy, Color Of Change, Colorado Independent Drivers United, Connecticut Drivers United, Coworker, Data & Society, Drivers Union Washington/Teamsters Local 117, Economic Policy Institute, Fair Work Center, Groundwork Collaborative, Hawai‘i Workers Center, Los Deliveristas Unidos, Minnesota Uber/Lyft Drivers Association, Make the Road New Jersey, National Women’s Law Center, National Employment Law Project (NELP), New York Taxi Workers Alliance, New School Center for NYC Public Affairs, NLAN/GLOW, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Open Markets Institute, Portland Drivers United, Rideshare Drivers United, PowerSwith Action, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Tech Equity Collaborative, Tennessee Drivers Union, The People’s Lobby, Towards Justice, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, and Working Washington.

    The text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Pressley Also Condemns GOP Inhumane Treatment of Immigrant Children

    “This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record. Republicans on this committee claim to be focused on protecting children, yet ignore actual threats to their safety.”

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – In a House Oversight Federal Law Enforcement Subcommittee hearing, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) condemned Trump’s DHS policy to steal the DNA of immigrants – including children as young as four years old – and handing it over to an FBI criminal database to surveil them like suspects in waiting.

    In her remarks, Rep. Pressley made clear that the stealing of children’s genetic information is a direct violation of their civil rights and civil liberties and slammed Trump and Republicans for traumatizing children while claiming to protect them.

    A full transcript of her remarks as delivered is available below, and the full video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

    House of Representatives

    July 23, 2025

    REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you. First, let me begin by saying this: Republicans, you sound absolutely absurd. Stop calling children “aliens.” This intentional – I mean, the cruelty is the point – this intentional, dehumanizing, and persistent persecution through your rhetoric is shameful. 

    You are literally attacking children. I cannot take seriously anyone who’s using othering language to bully babies and toddlers. 

    Republicans don’t want us to see the humanity of immigrants. That’s why they like saying “aliens” and even put it in the title of the hearing. And that inhumane approach is consistent with the actions of the Department of Homeland Security. 

    Dr. Cuffari, have you heard about the DHS policy of collecting the DNA of children and storing it into the FBI criminal database? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: I believe there is not a policy to do children.

    REP. PRESSLEY: There absolutely is. Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this report from July 2025, titled ‘Rating the Genome: How the United States Government is Abusing its Immigration Powers to Amass DNA for Future Policing.’

    CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection.

    REP. PRESSLEY: This policy began under Donald Trump. In his first term, he authorized DHS to begin mass DNA data collection from immigrants – including children – and hand that data over to an FBI database designed to track violent offenders. 

    Now that he’s back, Trump is taking this policy to new extremes, adding more than a quarter million people to the database in just four months. A quarter million people, okay, in four months. 

    This committee recently held a hearing on genetic data, and there was bipartisan agreement that DNA is highly sensitive and its misuse is a violation of people’s rights, because children as young as four years old could not possibly consent to DNA collection.

    So I want to know what your office is doing about it, Dr. Cuffari- 

    DR. CUFFARI: We actually wrote a report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: One moment, let me ask the question.

    DR. CUFFARI: Certainly.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Is it the responsibility of your office to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: Yes.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Has your office ever investigated concerns about DHS agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database?

    DR. CUFFARI: Not to my knowledge, during my tenure.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Well, for an Inspector General worthy of the title, it should be a priority investigation. Do you agree?

    DR. CUFFARI: I agree that we did a report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you.

    DR. CUFFARI: Thank you.

    REP. PRESSLEY: You agree? 

    DR. CUFFARI: I agree –

    REP. PRESSLEY: There should be a priority investigation?

    DR. CUFFARI: – On the matter you’re discussing.

    REP. PRESSLEY: For the record, I want to be clear. Do you agree this should be a priority investigation by your office to look into agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database – yes or no? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just this –

    DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report you’re mentioning –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just say this – your office, according to Title Five of the US Code, Chapter Four, Section 417 – this is the responsibility you are charged with, to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties. 

    Children as young as four years old have not consented to the collection of their DNA. That is a violation of their civil rights and civil liberties. 

    So this is not a trick question. Do you believe, given the charge and jurisdiction of your office, that this should be a priority investigation, as their rights have been violated?

    DR. CUFFARI: Unless the adult consented on the child –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Yes or no? Yes or no, Dr. Cuffari?

    DR. CUFFARI: We just got done writing a report.

    REP. PRESSLEY: On what?

    DR. CUFFARI: On the DNA collection within the Department of Homeland Security.

    REP. PRESSLEY: I thought you said you weren’t even aware that it was a policy. I’m very confused.

    DR. CUFFARI: There’s not a policy.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Dr. Cuffari, I’m not going to, you know, play these games here – because we’re talking about children, so I don’t want to circle the drain. 

    But this should be a priority investigation, because we have children whose civil rights have been violated with the collection of their DNA. 

    This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record. 

    Republicans on this committee, you claim to be focused on protecting children, yet you’re ignoring actual threats to their safety. 

    You traumatize children with the threat of disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by conducting their DNA without their consent and criminalizing them. You traumatize children by denying them food when they’re hungry. You traumatize children by denying them essential health care, which is their human right. 

    You traumatize them so much that they’re afraid to show up to school, afraid to show up to church, afraid to go to doctor’s appointments. 

    Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this July 2025 article from the Boston Globe, titled, ‘I Want Daddy: As ICE Detains Parents and Children –

    CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection and the gentlelady’s time has expired. 

    REP. PRESSLEY: Stop using children as pawns. This is the real child abuse.

    Thank you, I yield.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Clamping down on overdue court fines

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is trialling new technology which will help clamp and seize cars of people evading paying court fines, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

    “If you haven’t paid your court fines, you may soon find yourself walking home or needing a lift.

    “Bailiffs are now trialling handheld devices which scan the number plates of parked cars, and determine whether the owners have overdue court fines or reparations. 

    “If they do, the car may be clamped or towed away. It’s that simple. 

    “This is first being trialled throughout streets nationwide, and will be present at some breath testing stations this weekend alongside police.  

    “We promised to find new effective ways to force people to pay their court fines. That’s exactly what we’re delivering. We know wheel clamping is already a successful enforcement tool and we want to build on that.

    “Those who have suffered emotional harm or have had their property lost or damaged by an offender’s actions should not be left out of pocket.  

    “Victims are our priority, and their needs underpin all our work to restore law and order, which we know is working.   

    “There’s been a long-standing slackness when it comes to bringing in fines and I’ve given very strong instructions to the Ministry of Justice to find ways to collect them.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash at Merseylea

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Fatal crash at Merseylea

    Friday, 25 July 2025 – 8:25 am.

    Sadly, a man has died following a crash at Merseylea overnight.
    Police and emergency services were called to the scene about 3am, after a cement truck crashed while travelling along Railton Road.
    Initial inquiries indicate the prime mover was travelling in a north westerly direction, approaching a slight bend, when it has veered off the road and crashed into a bank.
    Members of the public stopped and contacted emergency services.
    Medical attention was provided to the truck driver and his passenger, but sadly the passenger died at the scene.
    The driver was taken to the Launceston General Hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening.
    The crash is under investigation and anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage, is asked to contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 21-25072025.
    Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of both men. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Reintroduced Bill To Combat Alarming Rise In Domestic Terrorism Threats

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    July 24, 2025
    As the Trump Administration reallocates resources away from domestic terrorism prevention efforts to fund an illegal mass deportation campaign, the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act would codify and bolster key tools and resources to combat domestic terrorist threats
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, reintroduced legislation to address the growing domestic terrorism threat. The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2025 would enhance the federal government’s efforts to prevent domestic terrorism by establishing offices dedicated to combating this threat; requiring federal law enforcement agencies to regularly assess this threat; and providing training and resources to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement in addressing it, among other things.
    “There is zero justification for discrimination and hate in our country—regardless of ideology. Tragically, we’re witnessing the Trump Administration reallocate resources away from domestic terrorism and hate crimes prevention efforts across the government, which are meant to protect Americans of all backgrounds against discrimination.
    “With the alarming rise in domestic terrorism threats in America, we need to bolster our government’s capabilities to detect, curb, and prevent potential attacks. I believe—and the American people believe—that’s a central responsibility of our government: to keep us safe, secure, and free. This should be a bipartisan solution, and I will again push for it to become law,” said Durbin.
    The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2025 authorizes the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) offices that are responsible for monitoring, analyzing, investigating, and prosecuting domestic terrorism. The bill also requires these offices to issue joint biannual reports to the House and Senate Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Intelligence Committees that assess the domestic terrorism threat posed by white supremacists; analyze domestic terrorism incidents that occurred in the previous six months; and provide transparency through a public quantitative analysis of domestic terrorism-related assessments, investigations, incidents, arrests, indictments, prosecutions, convictions, and weapons recoveries. DHS, DOJ, and FBI offices would be required to focus their limited resources on the most significant domestic terrorism threats, as determined by the number of domestic terrorism-related incidents outlined in the joint report.
    The legislation also:
    Codifies the Domestic Terrorism Executive Committee (DTEC), an interagency task force, which was originally created by the Department of Justice in the wake of the Oklahoma City bombing;
    Provides additional clarity regarding which federal law enforcement officials shall serve on the DTEC authorized by the bill; and
    Requires that the Executive Committee meet with local community groups to foster greater collaboration and dialogue to help combat domestic terrorism.
    Additionally, the bill requires DOJ, DHS, and the FBI to provide training and resources to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement in understanding, detecting, deterring, and investigating acts of domestic terrorism. Finally, the legislation would establish an interagency task force to combat white supremacist and neo-Nazi infiltration of the uniformed services.
    In May 2022, Senate Republicans filibustered the House-passed Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act.
    Bill text is available here.
    During his tenure as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Durbin held a hearing entitled “A Threat to Justice Everywhere: Stemming the Tide of Hate Crimes in America.” The hearing examined the threats facing marginalized communities and how the federal government can better protect the civil rights and safety of all Americans, including Jewish, Arab, and Muslim Americans. Durbin also raised the issue in a March 2025 hearing on combatting antisemitism.
    Additionally, under Durbin’s leadership as Chair, the Committee held several other hearings to examine the issue of hate crimes and domestic terrorism, including a hearing on “Combating the Rise in Hate Crimes” shortly after the January 15, 2022, synagogue attack in Colleyville, Texas, and a hearing examining the “Metastasizing’ Domestic Terrorism Threat After the Buffalo Attack,” which explored the continued threat posed by violent white supremacists and other extremists, including those who have embraced the so-called “Great Replacement” conspiracy theory, after a mass shooting by a white supremacist in Buffalo on May 14, 2022. The white supremacist who murdered 11 people at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018 also embraced this conspiracy theory.
    Durbin first held a hearing on domestic terrorism threats in 2012, after a white supremacist murdered seven Sikh worshipers in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
     
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin On Trump’s Extreme Judicial Nominees: The Only Qualification That President Trump Looks For In His Nominees Is Loyalty To Him And His MAGA Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    July 24, 2025
    Durbin took to the Senate floor to denounce President Trump’s extreme and unqualified judicial nominees
    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, criticized the Trump Administration’s unqualified and extreme judicial nominees. In his remarks, Durbin spoke out against the nomination of Emil Bove to be a U.S. Circuit Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, pointing toward Bove’s unwavering loyalty to President Trump. During his remarks, Durbin also denounced the confirmation of Joshua Divine to serve as a judge on the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri.
    “The first Trump Administration put forward some of the most extreme and unqualified judicial nominees ever considered by the Senate. Several Trump nominees had little or no experience in a courtroom, no litigation experience,” Durbin said. “Three district court nominees—Kathryn Mizelle, Justin Walker, and Sarah Pitlik—won unanimous support from Committee Republicans, despite having never tried a case.”
    “Many Trump nominees took some unusual, if not controversial, if not just plain wrong [positions]. [Take] Lawrence Van Dyke, [a] Ninth Circuit nominee. We asked him to affirm that he would be fair to LGBTQ individuals. He wouldn’t say it, just couldn’t get the words [out] of his mouth,” Durbin continued. “Michael Truncale, an Eastern District of Texas nominee, said of President Obama, he was ‘an un-American imposter.’ Those are the words of this man seeking the federal bench, about the former president. He said he [Obama] would ‘bow to Arab sheikhs and other world leaders.’ Where did you find that nominee?”
    During his first term, President Trump put forward ten judicial nominees who were found to be “Not Qualified” by the American Bar Association. Despite strong objections from Senate Democrats, eight of the ten unqualified nominees were confirmed by Senate Republicans.
    “Historically, the American Bar Association did its own background check on nominees for the federal bench. Where would they go? Well, they would go into the community. They would go to the judges that this person has appeared before. They would go to the fellow attorneys. They would try to find character references. And they would dig deep. They had some basic rules. You had to have [12] years of experience as an attorney to even be considered for the federal bench. Then they rated people ‘Qualified,’ ‘Not Qualified,’ ‘Well Qualified,’ and such… Even when the American Bar Association says you’re unqualified to serve on the bench, it didn’t discourage the [Trump Administration],” Durbin said.
    “President Trump seems intent on outdoing himself by putting forth nominees who are even more extreme, partisan, and fundamentally unqualified [than his first Administration]. Instead of finding more qualified judicial nominees, Attorney General Bondi ordered the Justice Department to stop cooperating with the American Bar Association in rating nominees,” Durbin continued.
    “She didn’t want to run into the embarrassment that they did in the first Trump term, with ten of them being found unqualified. She said the way to solve that is to not find a better nominee, but to get rid of the American Bar Association. If they’re not going to give a grade to these nominees, we don’t have to worry about their being unqualified. She overturned a practice in place nearly 70 years, going back to Dwight Eisenhower. Both Republican and Democratic presidents had followed the rule. Now the only qualification that President Trump looks for in his judicial nominees, he says as much, is loyalty,” Durbin said.
    Durbin then spoke out against Emil Bove’s nomination, laying out his troubling record as an insurrection apologist and his belief that he does not need to abide by federal court rulings, both of which disqualify him from serving on the federal bench.
    “As a senior official in the Justice Department, Mr. Bove has done nothing but cater to President Trump’s every whim… Mr. Bove personally ordered the termination of federal prosecutors who put violent January 6 rioters in prison… When asked to justify his actions in firing the attorneys who prosecuted these insurrectionists, Mr. Bove claimed ‘heavy-handed tactics’ by prosecutors were ‘equally unacceptable’ as physical violence against law enforcement. That is an outrageous and offensive statement by a man who wants to be a federal judge for life,” Durbin said.
    “Mr. Bove also led the Justice Department’s efforts to strike a corrupt bargain with New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This is an outrage, what he did. Mr. Bove stated that charges would be dropped without prejudice so that Adams could ‘devote full attention and resources to…illegal immigration and violent crime.’ In other words, President Trump needed Mayor Adams to do his bidding on his deportation policy,” Durbin continued. 
    “If that was not enough, Mr. Bove has shown utter disdain for our courts. A whistleblower stepped forward, gave his name, risked his future to tell us what Mr. Bove had told to the attorneys working on cases [at the Justice Department]… According to this credible whistleblower who provided ample documentation to back up his claims, Mr. Bove told Department of Justice attorneys that they might need to say, ‘f— you’ to federal courts that issue orders this Administration doesn’t agree with,” Durbin said. “That is the most dangerous comment that a person in the position of authority can make in the executive branch, that they will ignore the court orders that are issued against them.”
    Durbin also decried Joshua Divine’s confirmation to serve as a judge on the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri. Divine, who has litigated for only five years, has repeatedly peddled extreme positions on women’s right to health care and voting rights, hearkening back to deeply racist Jim Crow laws.
    “Yesterday, the Senate confirmed Joshua Divine to the federal bench. [He’s] 34 years old, received his law degree nine years ago, litigated for five years. Beyond his troubling lack of experience, Mr. Divine has taken extreme positions,” Durbin said. “He calls himself a ‘zealot’ when it comes to [being] anti-choice.”
    “He has challenged women’s ability, in his state, to access the abortion drug mifepristone and has undermined the decision of Missouri voters to codify abortion access in their state constitution,” Durbin said.
    “Also deeply troubling, Mr. Divine argued in favor of literacy tests at the ballot box, stating that people who ‘aren’t informed about issues or platforms…have no business voting.’ Now where does that come from in America? Literacy tests, where does that come from? It comes from the era of Jim Crow,” Durbin continued. “It turns out, Mr. Divine believes that literacy tests should be restored. It shouldn’t be controversial for anyone to say that the nominee has disqualified himself. The fact that the Senate confirmed Mr. Divine is outrageous.”
    Durbin concluded his floor speech by calling on his Republican colleagues to put aside their unbridled loyalty to President Trump and prevent extreme, unqualified nominees from sitting on the federal bench.
    “These nominees are just the tip of the iceberg. President Trump will continue to nominate extreme and unqualified individuals unless the Senate takes a stand,” Durbin said.
    “I urge my colleagues to vote against Mr. Bove and all future nominees whose only loyalty is to the President, and not to the Constitution,” Durbin concluded.
    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.
     
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 24th, 2025 N.M. Delegation Demands Trump Release Illegally Withheld Funds for New Mexico Students and Teachers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Lawmakers cite direct consequences to New Mexico as a result of Trump illegally withholding education funding

    Delegation to Trump: “New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children is unconscionable and schools deserve better”

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) sent a letter to President Donald Trump demanding the immediate release of nearly $5.6 billion in federal education funding withheld from New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools.

    After the N.M. Delegation sent the letter last Thursday, the Administration announced it would release $1.3 billion in funding for the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program. This key investment supports afterschool programs that strengthen literacy, STEM skills, mental health, and violence prevention. In 2021, almost 90 percent of students who participated in a 21st Century Community Learning program saw better homework completion rates, increased classroom participation, and improved in-class behavior. While releasing this funding is critical to ensuring parents and students have access to after school and summer learning programs, the Administration must follow suit with the rest of the funding.

    “We write to demand the immediate release of the nearly $7 billion in federal education funding your Administration is unlawfully withholding. Your actions jeopardize New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools, and directly violate the U.S. Constitution’s Appropriations Clause, which grants Congress the power to control public funds,” the lawmakers begin.

    “You personally signed these funds into law as part of the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act on March 15, 2025. Then, on June 30th, you informed state and local education agencies that you are withholding these critical funds indefinitely. Withholding these funds beyond the end of the fiscal year would violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Further, the law mandates that the president submit a formal message to Congress justifying any deferral of funds,” the lawmakers continue.

    For New Mexico, the funding freeze is devastating. It impacts programs that provide after-school care, English language instruction, and adult literacy classes, to name a few. Without these funds, schools cannot pay for teacher training, afterschool programs, adult literacy classes, or support multilingual learners. These dollars are not luxuries; they are essential investments in our children’s futures.

    New Mexico will lose $5.8 million in funding for English Language Acquisition programs that support multilingual learners. These programs help English learners attain English proficiency, achieve high levels of academic success, and strengthen family engagement. The funding also improves educator training and provides essential resources to support students both inside and outside the classroom. In a state where so many students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, this funding is vital to helping students thrive and supporting their families.

    Additionally, the funding freeze jeopardizes critical adult education programs in New Mexico, which stand to lose more than $4.7 million in support. These funds are essential for GED programs, English language proficiency classes, literacy and math instruction, and workplace readiness training. By providing adults with opportunities to join the workforce, continue their education, and improve their quality of life, these programs strengthen entire communities. Just last year, Doña Ana Community College enrolled 1,431 students in its adult education program, and last month alone, nearly 100 students graduated with their GED. Cutting these investments threatens to set back thousands of New Mexicans who are working to build a better future for themselves and their families.

    Citing these devastating consequences to the education and well-being of New Mexico students, the lawmakers conclude, “Your illegal freeze threatens to force staff layoffs, increase class sizes, and cut student services at schools across New Mexico. Every teacher let go, every tutor lost, and every child left behind is a direct consequence of this reckless decision. New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children in unconscionable and schools deserve better. We call on you to do your constitutional duty and release these funds without delay.”

    Public officials across the country have raised strong concerns about the freeze in funding. Earlier this month, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez joined 21 states across the country to sue the Trump Administration for withholding the education funds.

    Read the full text of the letter here and below:

    President Trump:

    We write to demand the immediate release of the nearly $7 billion in federal education funding your administration is unlawfully withholding. Your actions jeopardize New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools, and directly violate the U.S. Constitution’s Appropriations Clause, which grants Congress the power to control public funds.

    You personally signed these funds into law as part of the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act on March 15, 2025. Then, on June 30th, you informed state and local education agencies that you are withholding these critical funds indefinitely. Withholding these funds beyond the end of the fiscal year would violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Further, the law mandates that the president submit a formal message to Congress justifying any deferral of funds.

    For New Mexico, the funding freeze is devastating. It impacts programs that provide after-school care, English language instruction, and adult literacy classes, to name a few. Without these funds, schools cannot pay for teacher training, afterschool programs, adult literacy classes, or support multilingual learners. These dollars are not luxuries; they are essential investments in our children’s futures.

    The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program supports afterschool programs that strengthen literacy, STEM skills, mental health, and violence prevention. New Mexico was set to receive more than $9 million this year and now more than 10,000 children in New Mexico risk losing access entirely. In 2021, almost 90 percent of students who participated in a 21st Century Community Learning program saw better homework completion rates, increased classroom participation, and improved in-class behavior.

    New Mexico will also lose $5.8 million in funding for English Language Acquisition programs that support multilingual learners. These programs help English learners attain English proficiency, achieve high levels of academic success, and strengthen family engagement. The funding also improves educator training and provides essential resources to support students both inside and outside the classroom. In a state where so many students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, this funding is vital to helping students thrive and supporting their families.

    Additionally, the funding freeze jeopardizes critical adult education programs in New Mexico, which stand to lose more than $4.7 million in support. These funds are essential for GED programs, English language proficiency classes, literacy and math instruction, and workplace readiness training. By providing adults with opportunities to join the workforce, continue their education, and improve their quality of life, these programs strengthen entire communities. Just last year, Doña Ana Community College enrolled 1,431 students in its adult education program, and last month alone, nearly 100 students graduated with their GED. Cutting these investments threatens to set back thousands of New Mexicans who are working to build a better future for themselves and their families.

    Your illegal freeze threatens to force staff layoffs, increase class sizes, and cut student services at schools across New Mexico. Every teacher let go, every tutor lost, and every child left behind is a direct consequence of this reckless decision. New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children in unconscionable and schools deserve better.

    We call on you to do your constitutional duty and release these funds without delay.

    MIL OSI USA News –