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Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Redefining Women’s Empowerment in India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 2:58PM by PIB Delhi

    A Comprehensive Framework for Progress

     

    Synopsis

    The Ministry of Women and Child Development has spearheaded major initiatives to enhance women’s safety, security, and overall well-being. Key programs like Mission Shakti have supported 10.61 lakh women through One Stop Centres (OSCs), while the Women Helpline (181-WHL) has assisted lakhs of women in distress. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) has contributed to an improved Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) from 918 (2014-15) to 930 (2023-24), and Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of girls in secondary schools has risen from 75.51% to 78% in the same period. For economic empowerment, Sakhi Niwas provides secure accommodation for working women, and Palna ensures daycare support. Nari Adalat offers grievance redressal at the Gram Panchayat level, while SANKALP serves as a resource hub for women’s welfare schemes. The total expenditure incurred under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) has consistently increased over the years, rising from ₹1,478.73 crore in 2021-22 to ₹1,814.86 crore in 2023-24, reflecting the government’s continued support for micro and small enterprises. Health interventions have also yielded positive results. Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) has dropped from 130 per lakh live births (2014-16) to 97 (2018-20). Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 supports 9.88 crore beneficiaries, with 6.77 lakh AWCs having their own buildings, 9.93 lakh AWCs with functional toilets, and 12.31 lakh AWCs with drinking water access.

     

    The empowerment of women is a transformative process that ensures women have equal access to opportunities in all areas of life: economic, cultural, social, and political. This not only enhances their individual potential but also contributes to societal progress. India has made remarkable strides in empowering women, focusing on their safety, security, economic independence, and social inclusion. This document outlines some of the key programs driving India’s progress in women’s empowerment, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

     

    Mission Shakti

     

     

    The Ministry has formulated ‘Mission Shakti’, an Integrated Women Empowerment Programme, as Umbrella Scheme for the Safety, Security and Empowerment of Women for implementation during the 15th Finance Commission period from 2021-22 to 2025-26. This initiative has been instrumental in improving the lives of women across the country through its two main verticals: Sambal (for safety and security) and Samarthya (for empowerment).

     

    One Stop Centres (OSCs)

     

    One Stop Centres provides integrated support and assistance under one roof to women affected by violence and those in distress, both in private and public spaces. It provides services like medical aid, legal aid and advice, temporary shelter, police assistance and psycho-social counselling to needy women. Since inception until 31 2024, 10,61,337 women have received assistance through OSCs, demonstrating a significant impact in providing protection and rehabilitation.

     

    Women Helpline (181-WHL)

    WHL is a component of Sambal vertical under Mission Shakti, aims to provide 24x7x365 emergency and non-emergency response through telephonic short-code 181 to women, both in public and private spaces by linking them with appropriate authorities such as Police, One Stop Centres, Hospitals, Legal Services Authorities etc. Additionally, it provides information about women welfare schemes and programs.

    Data till 31 December 2024

     

    Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)

    BBBP scheme was launched on 22nd January 2015. The scheme aims to prevent gender biased sex selective elimination, ensure survival and protection of girl child and also to ensure education of the girl child.

    As per the latest reports of Health Management Information System (HMIS) of Ministry of Health &Family welfare (MoHFW) reveal that SRB is showing improving trends and has increased from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 (Provisional) in 2023-24 at national level. Gross enrollment ratio of girls in the schools at secondary level has increased from 75.51 percent in (2014-15) to 78 percent in (2023-24) [as per UDISE-data, MoE].

    Nari Adalat

    Nari Adalat aims for providing women with an alternate Grievance Redressal Mechanism for resolving cases of petty nature (harassment, subversion, curtailment of rights or entitlements) faced by them at Gram panchayat level by negotiation, mediation, and reconciliation with mutual consent for speedy, accessible, and affordable justice. It is also used as a platform for awareness of right, entitlements, social facilitation and hand holding of women centric organizations.

    Data till 31 December 2024

     

    Shakti Sadans

     

    Shakti Sadan Scheme is an Integrated Relief and Rehabilitation Home for women in distressful situations including trafficked women. It aims at creating a safe and enabling environment for the women in such difficult situations, to enable them to overcome the adverse circumstances.

     

    Palna

     

    The Government of India has decided to provide the day-care creche facilities through the component of Palna. Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile. This will ensure whole day childcare support ensuring their well-being in a safe and secure environment. The objective of Palna component is to provide quality creche facility in safe and secure environment for children.

    Data till 31 December 2024

     

    Sakhi Niwas

     

    The objective of the Scheme is to provide safe, secure, conveniently located, and affordable accommodation for women who are in the workforce and/or aspire to join the workforce. The scheme also makes a provision of Day Care Centre for children of the residents of the Sakhi Niwas.

    Data till 31 December 2024

     

    Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

     

    The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) provides financial compensation for loss of wages due to pregnancy and childbirth. The scheme, previously limited to the first child, has now been extended to cover the second child if the child is a girl—a progressive step towards promoting gender equality.

    SANKALP

     

    The SANKALP: HEW (Hub for Empowerment of Women) will serve as a vehicle to bridge the information and knowledge gap regarding schemes and facilities available for women as well as guide them to avail the benefits and entitlements. It will also serve as a Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) for all components under Mission Shakti and will work in convergence with the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme.

    Data till 31 December 2024

     

    Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0

     

    The Government of India approved “Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0” (also referred to as Mission Poshan 2.0) which is a strategic shift in mission mode to develop practices that nurture health, wellness, and immunity from malnutrition. With 13,99,890 Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) operating across 36 States/UTs and 781 districts, the mission aims to enhance the health, wellness, and immunity of children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Supported by 13,31,622 Anganwadi Workers, it ensures nutritional benefits reach 9,88,74,477 eligible beneficiaries. Infrastructure improvements include 6,77,349 AWCs with their own buildings, 9,93,863 with functional toilets, and 12,31,201 with access to drinking water. Additionally, in December 2024, 12,93,863 AWCs operated for at least 15 days, 11,86,509 for at least 21 days, and 8,54,395 for at least 25 days.

    Beneficiaries under Poshan Abhiyaan

    Data as on 31 December 2024

     

    Decreased Maternal Mortality Ratio

     

    India’s Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) has significantly declined from 130 per lakh live births (2014-16) to 97 per lakh live births (2018-20), reflecting improved maternal healthcare services, institutional deliveries, and strengthened healthcare interventions.

    Conclusion

     

    The ongoing efforts to promote women’s empowerment have led to tangible improvements in multiple areas, from social and economic participation to access to essential services. By addressing key challenges and ensuring a supportive ecosystem, these measures have played a crucial role in enhancing women’s autonomy and decision-making power. Continued focus on inclusive policies, awareness, and institutional strengthening will be essential in building a more equitable society where every woman can thrive and contribute to the nation’s development.

     

    References

    RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2720 Session 266

    RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2717 Session 266

    Annual Report 2023-24: https://wcd.gov.in/documents/uploaded/1732020683.pdf

    https://missionshakti.wcd.gov.in/

    LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1931 session III

    Click here to download PDF

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena / Madiha Iqbal

    (Release ID: 2098463) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Security Bureau responds to enquiries on rescue of Hong Kong resident detained in Southeast Asian country

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹In response to media enquiries about the progress of cases of Hong Kong residents being detained for illegal work in Southeast Asian countries, the Security Bureau (SB) today (February 2) confirmed that one more Hong Kong resident who had been detained for illegal work in Myanmar has been rescued and smoothly arrived in Thailand. The SB’s dedicated task force has been maintaining communication with the Thai authorities and the rescued Hong Kong resident, and will arrange for the individual’s return to Hong Kong as soon as possible.

         The SB attaches great importance on cases where Hong Kong residents are suspected of being lured to Southeast Asian countries and detained for illegal work. The Under Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk, led the dedicated task force comprising members from the SB, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Immigration Department to Bangkok, Thailand last month. They met with senior officials including the Minister of Justice (MoJ) of Thailand, Mr Tawee Sodsong, who is a member of the Anti Trafficking-in-Persons Committee chaired by the Prime Minister of Thailand, and the heads of the enforcement departments under the MoJ, to follow up on related cases. Meanwhile, the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, also met and maintained communication with the Consuls-General of Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia in Hong Kong.

         In addition, members of the dedicated task force were sent again to Thailand in late January to co-ordinate with various units, and held meetings with the Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau of the Royal Thai Police, Mr Phanthana Nutchanart, and the Director of Special Investigation and the Director of Human Trafficking under the MoJ of Thailand, with a view to arranging the return of the rescued Hong Kong resident as soon as possible. They will continue to actively assist and follow up on all relevant request-for-assistance cases of Hong Kong residents who have yet to return, striving for their return to Hong Kong as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Gender Budget Allocations in Union Budget of 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

    KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Gender Budget Allocations in Union Budget of 2025-26

    Gender Budget allocation in the total Union Budget increases to 8.86% in FY 2025-26 from 6.8% in 2024-25

    Rs. 4.49 lakh crore allocated for welfare of women and girls in the gender budget statement of FY 2025-26, an increase of Rs. 37.25% over the Gender budget allocation of Rs. 3.27 lakh crore in FY 2024-25

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in Parliament on 1st February,2025. The share of Gender Budget allocation in the total Union Budget has increased to 8.86% in FY 2025-26 from 6.8% in FY 2024-25. 

    An allocation of Rs. 4.49 lakh crore has been reported for welfare of women and girls in the gender budget statement of FY 2025-26. This is an increase of Rs. 37.25% over the GBS allocation of Rs. 3.27 lakh crore in FY 2024-25.

    This year a total of 49 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs have reported allocations as against 38 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs in FY 2024-25. This is the highest number of reporting by the Ministries/Departments in the GBS since its inception. Twelve new Ministries/Departments have reported allocations in the GBS 2025-26 are Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Department of Biotechnology, Department of Food & Public Distribution, Department of Financial Services, Department of Fisheries, Department of Land Resources, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Water Resources, RD & GR, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and Ministry of Railways.

    These 49 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs have reported allocations in Part A, Part B and Part C of the Gender Budget Statement. Rs. 1,05,535.40 crore (23.50% of total GBS allocation) have been reported by 17 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs in Part A (100% women specific schemes); Rs. 3,26,672.00 crore (72.75%) have been reported by 37 Ministries/Departments and 4 UTs in Part B (30-99% allocation for women) and  Rs. 16,821.28 crore (3.75%) have been reported by 22 Ministries/Departments in Part C (below 30% allocation for women).

    Top 10 Ministries/Departments that have reported more than 30% of their allocations in the Gender Budget for FY 2025-26 are Ministry of Women & Child Development (81.79%), Department of Rural Development (65.76%), Department of Food & Public Distribution (50.92%), Department of Health & Family Welfare (41.10%), Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (40.89%), Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (39.01%), Department of Higher Education (33.94%), Department of School Education & Literacy (33.67%), Ministry of Home Affairs (33.47%) and  Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (31.50%).

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     SS/MS

    (Release ID: 2098912) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ANE: Media arrangements for Kai Tak Sports Park stress test

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         A stress test will be held at the Main Stadium of Kai Tak Sports Park on February 4. Police will arrange a media guided tour to introduce the stress test arrangements and crowd management measures.
               
         Representatives of the Government and relevant organisation will meet the media after the stress test.
               
         Media representatives who are interested in joining the media guided tour (three per TV station and two per other mass news media organisation) should pre-register by completing the attached return slip and email it to io-newsroom-pr@police.gov.hk by 6pm tomorrow (February 3). Confirmation will be made by phone.
               
         Media representatives registered for the guided tour are requested to assemble at the media registration counter (i.e designated press area at the Central Square of the Kai Tak Stadium) by 7pm on February 4.
               
         Other media representatives who are interested in covering the outer area of the Main Stadium should get a media badge at the media registration counter.
               
         For enquiries, please call Newsroom of Police Public Relations Wing at 2860 6100.
         
    —————————————————–
    Return slip: Media guided tour of Kai Tak Sports Park stress test
    Name of organisation: ______________________
    Name of contact person: ______________________
    Telephone no.: ______________________
    Email: ______________________

    Please fill in the details of the attendees:

     
    Name
    Telephone no.
     

    1.
     
     
    *Reporter/Photographer/
    Cameraman/Engineer

    2.
     
     
    *Reporter/Photographer/
    Cameraman/Engineer

    3.
     
     
    *Reporter/Photographer/
    Cameraman/Engineer

    * Delete as appropriate

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ISLRTC announces the integration of Video Relay Service (VRS) into the National Helpline Number (14456)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 9:44PM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, today announced the integration of Video Relay Service (VRS) into the National Helpline Number (14456). The launch event was held virtually by ISLRTC, New Delhi along with staff and students of ISLRTC. A total around 100 participants attended the ceremony.

     

     

    This initiative is a huge step forward in ensuring accessible communication for persons with hearing impairments across India. With VRS, deaf individuals can now connect seamlessly with hearing persons, including government offices, emergency services, and service providers, through real-time interpretation in Indian Sign Language (ISL). This service strengthens accessibility, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for the deaf community across the nation. The VRS can be accessed easily by scanning the QR Code below for quick connectivity.

     

     

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    VM

    (Release ID: 2098822) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: State continues to protect LA firestorm survivors from price gouging

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 1, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom’s executive orders to extend price gouging prohibitions protect Los Angeles firestorm survivors.

    Los Angeles, California – Protecting Los Angeles firestorm survivors from nefarious actors, Governor Gavin Newsom’s executive orders in January strengthen protections against exploitation.

    Using the price-gouging protections triggered by the state of emergency and extended by  executive orders, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) has already filed two charges against real estate agents attempting to price gouge families that evacuated due to the Eaton Fire. The DOJ has sent more than 650 price gouging warning letters to hotels and landlords.

    In the days following the Los Angeles firestorms, we worked quickly to protect Los Angeles survivors from any form of exploitation. The state has the tools in place to not only block price gouging during this emergency, but also to prosecute bad actors.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Protecting survivors

    One executive order extends provisions of California law that prohibit price gouging in Los Angeles County in building materials, storage services, construction, and other essential goods and services, to January 7, 2026. The other executive order extends protections against price gouging in hotels, motels, and rental housing to March 8, 2025. These laws generally prohibit charging a price that is more than a 10 percent increase in the price charged before the emergency.

    “In the face of natural disaster, we should be coming together to help our neighbors, not attempting to profit off of their pain,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “I urge the public to report any such incidents to local authorities, or to my office at oag.ca.gov/report or by reaching out to our hotline at (800) 952-5225. May this announcement serve as a stern warning to those who would seek to further victimize people who have lost everything in the face of Southern California’s wildfires: We won’t stop until the price gouging does.”

    Violators of the price gouging statute are subject to criminal prosecution that can result in a maximum penalty of one-year imprisonment in county jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Violators are also subject to civil enforcement actions including civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation, injunctive relief, and mandatory restitution. The Attorney General and local prosecutors can enforce the statute.

    Report violations to the Office of the Attorney General here.

    Speeding recovery 

    This update adds to the Governor’s work to cut red tape, remove onerous permitting requirements, and help speed rebuilding and recovery from the Los Angeles firestorms. On January 12, Governor Newsom issued an executive order to streamline the rebuilding of homes and businesses destroyed — suspending the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act permitting requirements and review. 

    Additional actions to aid in the rebuilding and recovery efforts include:

    • Providing tax relief to those impacted by the fires. California postponed the individual tax filing deadline to October 15 for Los Angeles County taxpayers. Additionally, the state extended the January 31, 2025, sales and use tax filing deadline for Los Angeles County taxpayers until April 30 — providing critical tax relief for businesses. Governor Newsom suspended penalties and interest on late property tax payments for a year, effectively extending the state property tax deadline.
    • Fast-tracking temporary housing and protecting tenants and homeowners. To help provide necessary shelter for those immediately impacted by the firestorms, the Governor issued an executive order to make it easier to streamline the construction of accessory dwelling units, allow for more temporary trailers and other housing, and suspend fees for mobile home parks. Governor Newsom also issued an executive order that prohibits landlords in Los Angeles County from evicting tenants for sharing their rental with survivors displaced by the Los Angeles-area firestorms. For homeowners, California has worked with five major lenders, as well as 270 financial institutions, to provide mortgage relief to their customers.
    • Mobilizing debris removal and cleanup. With an eye toward recovery, the Governor directed fast action on debris removal work and mitigating the potential for mudslides and flooding in areas burned. He also signed an executive order to allow expert federal hazmat crews to start cleaning up properties as a key step in getting people back to their properties safely. The Governor also issued an executive order to help mitigate the risk of mudslides and flooding and protect communities by hastening efforts to remove debris, bolster flood defenses, and stabilize hillsides in affected areas. 
    • Safeguarding survivors from price gouging. Governor Newsom expanded restrictions to protect survivors from illegal price hikes on rent, hotel and motel costs, and building materials or construction. Report violations to the Office of the Attorney General here.
    • Directing immediate state relief. The Governor signed legislation providing over $2.5 billion to immediately support ongoing emergency response efforts and to jumpstart recovery efforts for Los Angeles. California quickly launched CA.gov/LAfires as a single hub of information and resources to support those impacted and bolsters in-person Disaster Recovery Centers.  
    • Getting kids back in the classroom. Governor Newsom signed an executive order to quickly assist displaced students in the Los Angeles area and bolster schools affected by the firestorms.
    • Protecting victims from real estate speculators. The Governor issued an executive order to protect firestorm victims from predatory land speculators making aggressive and unsolicited cash offers to purchase their property.

    Get help today

    For those Californians impacted by the firestorms in Los Angeles, there are resources available. Californians can go to CA.gov/LAfires – a hub for information and resources from state, local and federal government.  

    Individuals and business owners who sustained losses from wildfires in Los Angeles County can apply for disaster assistance:

    If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

    Recent news

    Jan 31, 2025

    News California extends law enforcement resources, financial support, and mutual aid coordination to support local agencies in fire-impacted area What you need to know: The Governor is significantly increasing the California Highway Patrol’s presence along the Pacific…

    Jan 31, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Kimberly Rutledge, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director of the Department of Rehabilitation, where she has been Deputy Director of Legislation and Communications since 2022. She…

    Jan 31, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom issued an executive order to maximize the capture and storage of additional water from upcoming storms in Northern California. SACRAMENTO — In anticipation of a multi-day, significant atmospheric river in Northern…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom surges CHP patrols for Pacific Coast Highway reopening, places California National Guard on ready status

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jan 31, 2025

    California extends law enforcement resources, financial support, and mutual aid coordination to support local agencies in fire-impacted area

    What you need to know: The Governor is significantly increasing the California Highway Patrol’s presence along the Pacific Coast Highway, as it reopens to the public on Sunday morning. The CHP’s heavy presence is part of the state’s commitment to support local law enforcement, which includes financial support, mutual aid coordination, additional CHP support, and keeping the California National Guard in ready status for immediate redeployment.

    LOS ANGELES — To support local law enforcement in the re-opening of the Pacific Coast Highway in Los Angeles, Governor Gavin Newsom has directed a heavy public safety presence on the Pacific Coast Highway to ensure the safe passage of drivers as they re-enter the community. The reopening is set for Sunday morning.

    The Governor has deployed additional California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers along the Pacific Coast Highway, with a marked patrol vehicle stationed every half-mile along the state-owned Right-of-Way to protect motorists, traffic flow, and public safety between Santa Monica and Malibu.

    As the Pacific Coast Highway reopens, our top priority is ensuring the safety of everyone returning to this community. That’s why we’re surging CHP patrols and keeping the California National Guard on standby, reinforcing our commitment to protecting residents, motorists, and first responders in the days and weeks ahead.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Earlier today the City of Los Angeles and local public safety officials announced their request for the California National Guard to gradually withdraw operations. With local officials gradually removing road closures and traffic control checkpoints, the Governor has directed the California National Guard to maintain a highly capable force readied for rapid deployment should conditions require it. 

    Additionally, the CHP and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) have offered resources, mutual aid coordination and financial support to Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department to ensure public safety in local government jurisdictions in Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and other wildfire impacted communities. 

    “The safety of our community, first responders, and road crews remains our top priority as we reopen this vital stretch of highway,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “We urge all drivers to stay alert, follow posted signs, and respect the presence of personnel still working in the area. The CHP remains committed to supporting these communities through this entire process.”  

    While the highway will again be open to the public on Sunday, drivers are urged to remain cautious. Heavy-duty vehicles and road crews will continue working in the area to clear remaining debris and assist with the rebuilding and recovery efforts of the affected communities. 

    This effort is on top of the already robust resources the state has coordinated with local and federal partners to protect public safety and help survivors recover from the recent Los Angeles firestorms. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Jan 31, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Kimberly Rutledge, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director of the Department of Rehabilitation, where she has been Deputy Director of Legislation and Communications since 2022. She…

    Jan 31, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom issued an executive order to maximize the capture and storage of additional water from upcoming storms in Northern California. SACRAMENTO — In anticipation of a multi-day, significant atmospheric river in Northern…

    Jan 30, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Jacqueline Yannacci, of Folsom, has been appointed Executive Director of California Volunteers in the Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement, where she has been Chief…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025-12 ATTORNEY GENERAL LOPEZ ANNOUNCES INITIAL VICTORY IN LAWSUIT CHALLENGING PRESIDENT TRUMP’S ILLEGAL FEDERAL FUNDING FREEZE

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2025-12 ATTORNEY GENERAL LOPEZ ANNOUNCES INITIAL VICTORY IN LAWSUIT CHALLENGING PRESIDENT TRUMP’S ILLEGAL FEDERAL FUNDING FREEZE

    Posted on Jan 31, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
     GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

    ATTORNEY GENERAL LOPEZ ANNOUNCES INITIAL VICTORY IN LAWSUIT CHALLENGING PRESIDENT TRUMP’S ILLEGAL FEDERAL FUNDING FREEZE

     

    News Release 2025-12

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                       

    January 31, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – Attorney General Anne Lopez announced an initial victory in her lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s Office of Management & Budget’s (OMB) memo freezing federal grants and loans. Today, a federal judge in Rhode Island issued a temporary restraining order in the lawsuit filed by Hawaiʻi and a coalition of 22 other states. The temporary restraining order prohibits the Trump administration from pausing, freezing, impeding, blocking, canceling, or terminating access to federal funding. This temporary restraining order is valid until the Court rules on a motion for preliminary injunction.

     

    “Since the founding of our nation, the constitutional system of government has been based upon mutual cooperation and respect between states and the federal government,” said Attorney General Lopez. “The citizens of Hawaiʻi pay taxes to the federal government, and the federal government, in return, provides federal funds to Hawaiʻi for programs that pay for crucial services such as law enforcement and healthcare. Hawaiʻi will stand up for its right to receive federal funds to which it is legally entitled.”

     

    The State of Hawaiʻi is being represented in this lawsuit by Solicitor General Kalikoʻonālani Fernandes and Special Assistant to the Attorney General Dave Day who stated: “We are pleased with the court’s decision in issuing a temporary restraining order, which prohibits the Trump administration from impeding access to federal funding that has been lawfully granted to Hawaiʻi. The Department of the Attorney General is committed to fight for the rights of Hawaiʻi and its people.”

     

    The lawsuit, filed by the coalition Tuesday, argued that the Trump administration’s memo violates the U.S. Constitution and federal law by creating new conditions on funding that has already been awarded. On Wednesday, only hours before an initial hearing in this case, the President hastily rescinded the memo, but public messaging both by the White House Press Secretary and on the White House’s official X account indicated that the funding freeze was still in effect. The states argued that rescinding the memo without unfreezing funding was an attempt by the administration to evade the lawsuit. Indeed, a lawyer for the Department of Justice argued during the hearing that since the memo had been rescinded, the states no longer had standing to sue. The Court, Judge John J. McConnell presiding, called this a “distinction without a difference,” and asked the parties to submit a proposed order for his review.

     

    Today, Judge McConnell announced the temporary restraining order, agreeing with the states that the President overstepped his authority by overriding policy choices made by Congress and has violated his obligation to execute the laws passed by Congress by refusing to spend the money Congress has appropriated. Judge McConnell, in his order, stated, “Congress has not given the Executive limitless power to broadly and indefinitely pause all funds that it has expressly directed to specific recipients and purposes and therefore the Executive’s actions violate the separation of powers.”

     

    Since the order has taken effect, communities and families across Hawaiʻi and the country have been harmed. The federal funding that has been frozen supports programs such as: WIC, a nutrition program for pregnant parents and infants; Head Start, providing preschool and support services for low-income children and their families; LIHEAP, providing home energy assistance for households that struggle to stay warm through the winters; the Medicare enrollment assistance program; school meals for low-income students; programs supporting homeless veterans reintegrating into our communities; programs that help victims of domestic violence seeking support to make safety plans and exit unsafe situations; and programs supporting refugees that have already arrived in our communities, by providing clothing, household goods, and rent assistance, as well as English classes and job placement. These programs also support critical public safety programs including those housed within the Department of the Attorney General, supporting the investigation and prosecution of Medicaid fraud and child sexual abuse cases.

     

    Joining Hawaiʻi as plaintiffs in this suit are Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

     

    A copy of the decision can be found here.

     

    # # #

     

    Media contacts:

    Dave Day

    Special Assistant to the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1284                                                  

    Email: [email protected]        

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

     

    Toni Schwartz
    Public Information Officer
    Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
    Office: 808-586-1252
    Cell: 808-379-9249
    Email:     [email protected] 

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigating Tea Tree burglary

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Police investigating Tea Tree burglary

    Monday, 3 February 2025 – 11:47 am.

    Police are calling for information in relation to a house burglary on Middle Tea Tree Road at Tea Tree about 4pm Saturday 1 February.
    A white Toyota Hilux utility vehicle with NSW registration plates was recovered by police on Grices Road shortly after the incident.
    Police are interested in any dash cam footage of the vehicle in the Tea Tree area between 3.50pm and 4.50pm Saturday.
    Anyone with information is asked to contact Bridgewater CIB on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government encourages victims of sexual violence to seek support

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Victims of rape and sexual abuse are being encouraged to seek vital support through a new Government campaign. 

    Image credit: Ministry of Justice

    • New campaign to raise awareness of 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line
    • Service provides free support to all victims and their families
    • Campaign key to delivery of Government’s Plan for Change to create safer streets

    Over one million adults a year experience sexual violence, yet many are not aware of the free help available through the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support line.  

    A dedicated awareness campaign, launching today, is designed to reach the survivors still suffering in silence. This contributes to the Government’s Safer Streets Mission to halve violence against women and girls over the next 10 years. The campaign launch coincides with Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.

    Funded by the Ministry of Justice and delivered by Rape Crisis England & Wales, the line handled over 100,000 calls and webchats in its second year, providing victims aged 16 and over with a free, confidential, emotional support and listening service.  

    Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman, said: 

    Talking about sexual assault isn’t easy, but no one should suffer in silence. 

    Sexual violence – in all forms – is a traumatic crime. It takes courage to seek help, and the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line is there to support people with that essential first step. 

    If you’re in need of help today, please get in touch to get the support you deserve.

    The Support Line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to all survivors. It is accessible through phone and webchat, with additional online resources to help friends and family who are supporting survivors to rebuild their lives. 

    The Government is determined to reach more victims of sexual violence and encourage them to reach out for support, regardless of gender or background.  

    Ciara Bergman, CEO, Rape Crisis England & Wales, said: 

    The 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line provides free and specialist support to anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales who has experienced something sexual that they didn’t want, didn’t consent to or are feeling confused about – no matter when or where it happened.  

    We’re delighted to support the Ministry of Justice’s campaign to raise awareness of the Support Line, ensuring more survivors have access to this vital service.

    Further Information 

    • The 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line campaign looks to raise awareness of the support available to victims of sexual violence and encourage them to reach out for support. The campaign wants victims to understand that, no matter what happened: you deserve support, it wasn’t your fault, we’ll listen to you, and we’ll believe you. The campaign directs victims to call 0808 500 2222 or visit 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk to chat online or find out more. If you want to support the campaign, or gain access to campaign materials, please email 247Campaign@justice.gov.uk.
    • This builds on the work of the Government to tackle perpetrators and address the root causes of abuse and violence. Ministers have already announced the launch of the Domestic Abuse Protection Orders pilot, outlined plans to introduce independent legal advisers for adult rape victims, and set out a new drive to inform all victims of crime of their rights via the Victims’ Code. 
    • The Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) provides the best measure of victimisation and estimated that 2.3% of adults (3.3% women and 1.2% men) aged 16 years and over were victims of sexual assault (including attempts) in the year ending March 2022 survey; this equates to an estimated 1.1 million adults (798,000 women and 275,000 men). 
    • Data provided by Rape Crisis England and Wales covers calls and webchats in the year December 2023 – December 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash blocks Wainuiomata Hill heading towards Lower Hutt

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    The Wainuiomata Hill is currently closed heading towards Lower Hutt following a crash.

    The two-vehicle crash involving a car and a motorcycle was reported on the Wainuiomata side of the hill just after 11:30am.

    One person has been seriously injured.

    Motorists are advised to expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Vehicle clamped after hooning incident

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Vehicle clamped after hooning incident

    Monday, 3 February 2025 – 9:09 am.

    A 17 year old boy has had his vehicle clamped for 28 days after having his licence for only four days.
    A vehicle owned by the teen driver was detected doing a burnout on Richmond Road at Cambridge on Saturday 1 February.
    The vehicle was subsequently clamped, and investigations are ongoing in relation to the identity of the person driving the vehicle at the time of the incident.
    Police will continue to detect and deter hooning and anti-social behaviour on Tasmanian roads and urge anyone who witnesses such behaviour to report it by contacting police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
    If you can’t report it at the time but you have footage, you can upload it to police.tas.gov.au/report/

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1/Bridge Street blocked following crash, Rakaia

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 1/Bridge Street, Rakaia is blocked at the intersection with Elizabeth Ave following a crash.

    The two-vehicle crash was reported just before 10:30am.

    Three people have been moderately injured.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

    Diversions are in place.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Palestine Forum of New Zealand Urges Government to Join the Hague Group in Support of Palestine

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the New Zealand government to join the newly formed Hague Group, a coalition of nine nations committed to defending Palestinian rights and holding Israel accountable for its violations of international law.

    The Hague Group—comprising South Africa, Malaysia, Namibia, Colombia, Bolivia, Chile, Senegal, Honduras, and Belize—has pledged to support the International Criminal Court (ICC) and International Court of Justice (ICJ) in prosecuting Israeli officials and enforcing legal measures against ongoing crimes in Palestine.

    “New Zealand must take a stand for justice and align with nations committed to real action against Israeli war crimes,” said [Spokesperson’s Name]. The Forum urges Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters to demonstrate New Zealand’s commitment to human rights by joining this initiative.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1 blocked near Topuni

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are advising motorists that State Highway 1 is currently blocked near Topuni.

    At around 10.15am a truck rolled, blocking lanes in both directions near the intersections with Schiska and Otioro roads.

    There are currently no reports of any injuries from the scene.

    Motorists are advised that diversions will be put in place for both northbound and southbound traffic.

    Expect delays on your travels while the scene is cleared.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tirau Road/SH1 blocked

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Tirau Road/State Highway 1 is currently blocked near Fergusson Gully Road due to a truck breakdown.

    The northbound lanes will be blocked for some time.

    No injuries have been reported.

    Diversions are in place and motorists are advised to expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pedestrian injured on Abbotsfield Road, Claremont

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Pedestrian injured on Abbotsfield Road, Claremont

    Saturday, 1 February 2025 – 7:36 am.

    At 9.30pm on Friday 31 January 2025, emergency services were called to a report of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle on Abbotsfield Road, Claremont.A 40 year old male was transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital with minor injuries. He is expected to make a full recovery.Investigations are continuing into circumstances around the incident. Police would like to speak to anyone who may have seen a silver 1996 Toyota Camry in the area of Abbotsfield Road at the time.Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppers.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious three vehicle crash near Franklin

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Serious three vehicle crash near Franklin

    Saturday, 1 February 2025 – 5:36 pm.

    Police and emergency services responded to a serious three-vehicle crash at the northern end of Franklin earlier today.
    The crash involved a white Suzuki, a white Ford utility towing a car on a car trailer, and a silver Suzuki.
    Initial investigations indicate that the white Suzuki had slowed to a stop to give way to oncoming traffic before preparing to turn into a driveway. The ute towing the trailer was following the white Suzuki, and as it came around a corner, the driver braked heavily, losing control of the trailer and its load. The ute collided with the white Suzuki, forcing it into oncoming traffic, where it then collided with the silver Suzuki.
    The occupants of the silver Suzuki, who are elderly, are in a serious condition. The driver of the white Ford utility was taken to hospital in a stable condition, while the driver of the white Suzuki was uninjured.
    Patients were evacuated from the scene by two helicopters and road ambulance.
    This incident serves as a timely reminder for all drivers to ensure any load being towed is within the specified limits of the trailer and tow vehicle and that all loads are properly secured.
    Alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be factors in the crash, but all drivers have undergone mandatory blood testing.
    Tasmania Police thanks the community for their patience while officers conducted a thorough investigation at the scene.
    Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant dashcam footage is urged to contact police on 131 444.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Podcasts have helped sway many young American men to the right. The same may well happen in Australia

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Raffaele F Ciriello, Senior Lecturer in Business Information Systems, University of Sydney

    Shutterstock

    The 2024 US presidential election saw a historic shift to the right, driven by the largest swing of young male voters in two decades. Analysts attribute this partly to podcasters like Joe Rogan, whose unfiltered, conversational content bypassed traditional media to mobilise this demographic.

    Our own research shows that Donald Trump’s podcast strategy during the election campaign boosted his support by 1% to 2.6%, with more than half of this linked to Rogan’s platform. In contrast, Kamala Harris’s reliance on traditional, curated media lacked the authenticity that resonated with Trump’s base.

    This trend has clear parallels in Australia, where media strategy has long mirrored the US. In 1949, Robert Menzies used radio to reassure the public, much like Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “fireside chats”. In the 1980s, television brought Bob Hawke into voters’ homes, showcasing charisma akin that of John F. Kennedy in his earlier televised debates. Kevin Rudd’s 2007 “Kevin 07” campaign effectively mirrored Barack Obama’s use of social media to engage younger voters. Similarly, Scott Morrison’s 2019 campaign emulated Trump-style microtargeting on Facebook to connect with specific demographics.

    Today, podcasts have become the latest battleground for political influence. Their conversational, long-form format enables politicians to address complex issues in a direct, personal manner. This medium resonates particularly with younger voters, who are increasingly turning away from traditional media.

    The 2025 federal election will likely see a turning point in the influence of podcasts on election campaigns, and even the outcome.

    The Australian podcasting landscape

    Podcast consumption in Australia continues to rise, with listenership increasing by 8.7% in early 2024. This comes after reaching a record 43% in 2023, up from 17% in 2017.

    Dubbed “the world’s most avid podcast listeners”, Australian men aged 18–34 dominate the audience, drawn to popular news and politics podcasts such as ABC News Top Stories and The Party Room, as well as global hits like The Joe Rogan Experience.

    Podcasts appeal through their intimacy and authenticity, fostering a “close-knit friend group” atmosphere. Younger voters increasingly use podcasts to explore issues such as housing affordability and climate change.

    Rogan’s podcast exemplifies this appeal, particularly among young Australian men. With 80% of his audience male, and half aged 18–34, Rogan’s unapologetic masculinity and focus on topics such as combat sports, hunting and societal controversies position him as a counterbalance to identity politics. His “living room” style, seen during Trump’s three-hour appearance, makes polarising or extremist ideas more palatable. This reflects a broader cultural shift among young men toward what they see as “traditional values”.

    While podcasts often feature diverse viewpoints, their unregulated nature can expose listeners to harmful ideologies, fostering echo chambers or radicalisation. Misinformation spreads more easily in these spaces, as evidenced by the US, where fragmented media contributed to the rise of Trumpism. Although Australia’s stricter campaign finance laws and media regulations reduce such risks, they cannot eliminate them entirely.

    As the 2025 election nears, understanding how podcasts shape voter behaviour is critical for balanced political discourse and social cohesion.

    Australia’s political landscape

    Recent polls show the Liberal-National Coalition leading Labor 53.1% to 46.9% in two-party preferred voting, with 39% of voters preferring Peter Dutton as prime minister compared with Anthony Albanese’s 34%. While the Coalition uses Trump-style strategies, Albanese appears to have a problem with male voters.

    Dutton emulates Trump in using podcasts to connect directly with young male voters and amplify culture war themes, anti-woke sentiment, and populist rhetoric.

    His Elon Musk-inspired push for a “government efficiency” department mirrors Trump’s populist promises of cutting “wasteful spending”.

    The Coalition has tapped into a broader cultural shift among young men. Many of these men have gravitated toward influencers like Andrew Tate – alleged rapist and human trafficker with ambitions to become UK prime minister – whose divisive rhetoric reinforces regressive ideals.

    Surveys reveal 28% of Australian teenage boys admire Tate, while 36% find him relatable. Moreover, half of surveyed schools link his influence to negative behavioural changes.

    These strategies seem to work, with polls showing increased male voter support for the Coalition (52.7% to Labor’s 47.3%).

    Australia’s compulsory voting and multi-party preferential system encourage broad-based appeals. But they also risk amplifying polarisation.

    Australia’s concentrated media ownership, dominated by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp, further shapes public discourse by amplifying conservative perspectives.

    Although younger Australians – especially women – remain a strong progressive base for Labor, the rise of right-wing podcasts and their impact on young male voters poses a significant challenge. The Coalition’s ability to connect with this demographic via podcasts, leveraging dissatisfaction and cultural shifts, could shape the election’s outcome.

    Opportunity and risk

    Podcasts present both opportunities and risks for Australian politics. They offer a powerful platform for politicians to engage younger voters on crucial issues, fostering deeper connections. However, their unregulated nature enables the spread of misinformation and the normalisation of polarising ideas.

    To address this, voters should critically evaluate podcast content, fact-check claims using resources such as RMIT ABC Fact Check and AAP FactCheck, and seek diverse perspectives. Politicians, meanwhile, must use podcasts strategically, balancing authenticity with accountability.

    Progressive ideas could better resonate with young male audiences by reframing topics such as climate action, housing affordability and workplace equity as opportunities for leadership, empowerment and responsibility. Partnering with relatable influencers and using accessible, conversational podcast formats can help progressives connect with this demographic.

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

    – ref. Podcasts have helped sway many young American men to the right. The same may well happen in Australia – https://theconversation.com/podcasts-have-helped-sway-many-young-american-men-to-the-right-the-same-may-well-happen-in-australia-248135

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Traffic impacted by crash, Waterloo Quay, Wellington

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists heading into the Wellington CBD are asked to avoid Waterloo Quay following a crash.

    The crash was reported to Police at 8.45am and appears to involve several vehicles.

    There are currently no reports of injuries however traffic is being significantly impacted.

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Southland Police gearing up for Invercargill events

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    To be attributed to Senior Sergeant Scott McKenzie, Southland Area Road Policing Manager:
     
    Southland Police are gearing up for a big start to February 2025, with a number of large events scheduled in the Invercargill area.

    First off the blocks is the Burt Munro Challenge, running between 5 – 9 February, in and around the Invercargill area.

    During this time, we also have Waitangi Day celebrations, a pre-season Highlanders game on 6 February, and the Invercargill Rodeo on 8 February.

    There will be a real buzz in and around Invercargill with all of these events occurring across just a few days, and we want to ensure that everyone is able to enjoy these events safely.

    We are expecting an influx of visitors to the region, with many more people on the roads, and out and about in the city.

    And Police will also be on the roads and out and about, highly visible and working to help keep everyone safe. But we can’t do it alone – we all have a part to play in keeping our community safe, particularly on the roads.

    The Burt Munro Challenge attracts thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts each year – both riders and spectators. 

    We know that motorcyclists are vulnerable road users, given the much lower levels of protection they have in the event of a crash compared with the occupant of a car.

    We urge all motorcyclists to ensure your bike is up-to-scratch mechanically before you set off, and wear appropriate safety gear – including high-vis to improve your visibility to other road users.

    And all road users should ensure they are focused on the basics: Drive within the speed limit and in accordance with the conditions; don’t drive if impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue; put the phone away; and ensure everyone in your vehicle is properly restrained.

    Finally, with the increased traffic on the city’s roads and in surrounding areas, it’s more important than ever that motorists exercise patience and consideration for other road users.  We also advise planning ahead and leaving a bit of extra time to get where you need to go, just in case there are delays.

    If we all play our part, we can help ensure everyone is able to enjoy our beautiful region safely, and make it home in one piece.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Incident at Queensgate Shopping Centre – Lower Hutt

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are asking people to avoid Queens Drive in Lower Hutt which is currently closed due to an incident early this morning.

    A person has suffered critical injuries and police cordons have been put in place.

    Police are not looking for anyone else in relation to this matter.

    The road is expected to be closed for approximately one hour.

    Diversions are in place. Motorists and other commuters are asked to avoid the area.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash – Bay of Plenty

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    At around 3:14am this morning emergency services were called after a single vehicle crash on Pukehina Parade, Pukehina.

    A vehicle has left the road and rolled into a creek. Sadly, the driver has died at the scene.

    There were no passengers.

    Police are now investigating the cause of the crash.

    Our thoughts and sympathies are with the family of the deceased.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Urgent appeal for missing vulnerable autistic woman

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are urgently appealing for help to find a vulnerable woman who went missing following a trip to the theatre in central London.

    Aziza Daley, who is 37 today, was last seen leaving the Cambridge Theatre in Seven Dials, Covent Garden at about 15:20hrs on Saturday, 1 February.

    Aziza, who is from Croydon, has autism and is non-verbal. She is known to enjoy open spaces.

    When last seen, she was wearing a green top with open shoulders, black trousers and black boots.

    Officers are concerned for her welfare. It is possible she has now been out all night, in very cold temperatures, without a coat or other warm clothing.

    Urgent enquiries are ongoing to try to find Aziza. Officers have released an image and a short clip taken not far from where she was last seen. It shows what she was wearing at the time.

    Anyone who sees Aziza is urged to call 999.

    Anyone with other information about her whereabouts is asked to call 101, giving the reference 4363/01FEB.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Afterschool Programs in the Lehigh Valley Get a

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    January 29, 2025 – Allentown, PA

    Afterschool Programs in the Lehigh Valley Get a “BOOST” from the Shapiro-Davis Administration

    Three afterschool and summer camp programs in the Lehigh Valley will be able to expand, helping to keep kids safe and providing them with enrichment opportunities, thanks to new state funding from the Shapiro-Davis Administration.

    State and local officials visited the Casa Guadalupe Center in Allentown today to celebrate the new “Building Opportunity through Out-of-School Time” (BOOST) initiative, which is providing $11.6 million in grants to 46 programs (44 local and two statewide) across the Commonwealth.

    “Investing in afterschool programs isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s the smart thing to do,” said Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, who leads the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). “The return on investment for these types of programs is somewhere in the neighborhood of $7 for every dollar invested. In addition, there’s huge demand – for every kid who is enrolled in an afterschool program, there are four more waiting to get into one.”

    Speakers Include:
    Casa Guadalupe Executive Director Lucy Delabar
    Casa Guadalupe Education Director Andrea Wilson
    Rep. Mike Schlossberg
    Sen. Nick Miller
    Rep. Josh Siegel
    Mayor Tuerk
    Casa Guadalupe student Amir Abril
    Casa Guadalup Board President Julio Guridy

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Funding confirmed for national violence and public protection centre

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    Government funding to establish a dedicated national hub that will centralise policing’s response to violence against women and girls and wider crimes associated with vulnerability has been confirmed today (Sunday, 2 February).

    The creation of a dedicated policing hub will support forces with specialist knowledge and training for investigators and officers, and lead on a national approach to preventing these crimes from happening, with other agencies.

    Police chiefs declared violence against women and girls a national emergency last year, and called for a whole-system approach that brings together criminal justice partners, government bodies and industry, to tackle the threat through prevention.

    Policing mobilised its response to tackle violence against women and girls at a national level by establishing a dedicated taskforce sat within the National Police Chiefs’ Council in 2021. Since then, the taskforce has worked with the College of Policing, the Vulnerability Knowledge and Practice Programme, the Child Sexual Exploitation taskforce, government and support organisations to drive consistency and best practice across all forces in England and Wales.

    Building on the successes of programs like Operation Soteria, the new centre will work with academics to ensure an evidence-based approach, transforming the way policing looks at and responds to these crimes.

    T/CC Maggie Blyth, National Police Chief’s Council lead for Violence Against Women and Girls said: “We welcome the official announcement and the financial support of government to implement a national policing centre to further protect victims and enhance our specialist capability to target perpetrators.

    “We already have the foundations in place, we have a strong partnership across the College of Policing (CoP), National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and specialised programmes to drive better consistency in policing’s response to violence against women and girls.

    “Our officers work tirelessly every day to bring offenders to justice and keep people safe, but we need to do more and that starts with equipping our officers with the right training and support to be able to investigate effectively, in the same way as we would provide specialist training to firearms or public order officers.

    “We also need to listen and support victims through the criminal justice process and alongside partners, we will drive improvements for swifter justice and a quicker more robust response when people seek our help.

    “As we set out last year, the threat and scale of violence against women and girls (VAWG), has reached epidemic levels and it is estimated that at least 1 in every 12 women will be a victim of VAWG every year (2 million victims) and 1 in 20 adults in England and Wales will be a perpetrator of VAWG every year (2.3 million perpetrators). The figures are probably even higher, so we must act now to stop male-perpetrated violence, and we are committed to transforming the policing of public protection, so we have a national standard to decrease harm and cost to society.

    “The national centre forms part of our wider work with government on our shared commitment to reform policing and ensure forces have the people and resources they need to keep the public safe.”

    Assistant Chief Constable Tom Harding, the College of Policing’s Director of Operational Standards, said:

    “Every year, at least one in 12 women will be the victim of violence. This is a startling and unacceptable statistic and one which we, collectively, must commit ourselves to changing.

    “Policing is dedicated to protecting women and girls by targeting those who seek to harm them; and ensuring victims have the confidence to come forward, that they are listened to, treated compassionately and receive the best possible service.

    “That’s why we’ll place victims at the heart of the new centre and work across law enforcement, government and key stakeholders in both the public and voluntary sectors to boost the training we give to officers working in this area.

    “The College of Policing will support forces to achieve the highest possible standards and, building on the success of the existing programmes, we will provide policing with the data, research and insight to improve the response to violence against women and girls.

    “I’m grateful to the government for the support and funding provided.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Palestine prisoners’ release ‘symbolic win’ showing unity in face of occupation, says academic

    Asia Pacific Report

    Sultan Barakat, a professor at Qatar’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University, says the release of Palestinian prisoners is a “symbolic win” rather than a victory for the Palestinians, primarily showing the inhumane conditions they live under.

    “Israel can capture people in the West Bank and Gaza because they all live in a confinement area under the control of Israel,” he told Al Jazeera.

    Dr Barakat discussed the way Palestinians were “arbitrarily rounded up, taken to prison and treated badly” by Israel.

    A total of 183 Palestinian prisoners were released today from Israeli jails as part of the exchange for three Israeli hostages under the ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel.

    They included 18 serving life sentences and 54 serving lengthy sentences, as well as 111 detained in Gaza since 7 October 2023.

    Dozens of Palestinians released from Israeli jails showed signs of torture and starvation, said the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society.

    Barakat stressed that the release of prisoners also “shows the unity of the Palestinians in the face of occupation”.

    “The prisoners are not all necessarily Hamas sympathisers — some were at odds with Hamas for a long time,” the academic said.

    “But they are united in their refusal of occupation and standing up to Israel,” he added.

    Hamas ‘needs to stay in power’
    Another academic, Dr Luciano Zaccara, an associate professor at Qatar University’s Gulf Studies Center, told Al Jazeera that Hamas needed to stay in power for the ceasefire agreement to be implemented in full.

    “How are you going to reconstruct Gaza without Hamas? How are you going to make this deal complied [with] if Hamas is not there?” he questioned.

    Dr Zaccara also said Israel seemed to have no plan on what to do in Gaza after the war.

    “There was never a plan,” he said, adding that Israel did not want Hamas or the Palestinian Authority in the enclave running the administration.

    The Israeli newspaper Ha’aretz, quoting a security source, reported that the Red Cross had expressed “outrage” at how the Israel Prison Service handled the Palestinian prisoners being released from Ketziot Prison.

    Ha’aretz said the Red Cross alleged that the prisoners were led handcuffed with their hands above their heads and bracelets with the inscription “Eternity does not forget”.

    The newspaper quoted the Israel Prison Service spokesman as saying that “the prison warders are dealing with the worst of Israel’s enemies, and until the last moment on Israeli soil, they will be treated under prison-like rule.

    “We will not compromise on the security of our people.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Update – Body of man recovered in waters at Inneston National Park

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are preparing a report for the coroner after the body of a man missing from Browns Beach was located this afternoon.

    The alarm was raised about 8pm on Saturday 1 February after the man who was fishing with friends was seen to fall into the water.

    Police coordinated a search and rescue effort which included PolAir, Water Operations Unit and national park rangers

    At 1.40pm Sunday 2 February police recovered the body of the 41-year-old man from Salisbury after information from a fishing vessel they had located the man near to Pondalowie Bay.

    There are no suspicious circumstances and police will be preparing a report for the coroner.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management for Georgia

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Rationale

    The objectives of the coaching workshop on “Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management for Georgia” were:

    • to identify the status of national and international forest reporting in Georgia;
    • to analyse the needs, benefits and potential of criteria and indicators (C&I) development for Georgia;
    • to discuss and select national C&I for a preliminary set;
    • to assess the process plan and the best approach for implementation.

    This was achieved through

    • A. REVIEW. To review progress, challenges and lessons with regards to national and international forest reporting in Georgia with a specific focus on lessons from previous C&I related processes and outcomes.
    • B. WHY and WHAT. To ensure clarity on what the principles purpose, processes and definitions, related to C&I for SFM are.
    • C. HOW. Drawing upon international and national best practice to strengthen skills on how to practically develop C&I.
    • D. DRAFT and PLAN. To draft an initial set of C&I for SFM and develop a process plan of how to test and select them.

    Meeting hours

    29 November 2017, Wednesday: 8.30 – 17.30

    30 November 2017, Thursday: 9.00 – 17.30

    01 December 2017, Friday: 9.00 – 17.30

    Meeting venue

    Justice House  Training  Centre, A.Politkovskaya  Str.  3, Tbilisi, Georgia

    Contact

    Should you have any questions, please contact Secretariat.

    More information

    Visit the project’s website.

    Topic Language Document
    Programme ENG-GEO PDF
    ECE/FAO Guidelines for the Development of a Criteria and Indicator Set for Sustainable Forest Management 
    Методические Рекомендации по Разработке критериев и показателей ведения лесного хозяйства    		 ENG-RUS ENG
    RUS
    Workshop Report ENG-GEO ENG
    GEO
    Pictures   flickr
    Press Release ENG UNECE press release
    Needs Assessment ENG Word

    Information on Georgia

    		    
    FRA Country report ENG PDF
    Forestland Governance in Georgia Assessment of legislation and practice ENG PDF
    Georgia Country Environmental Analysis ENG PDF
    National Forest Concept for Georgia ENG PDF
    Presentations Speaker PDF
    Facilitator Presentation Day 1 V. Melikyan ENG-GEO
    Facilitator Presentation Day 2 Morning V. Melikyan ENG-GEO
    Facilitator Presentation Day 2 Afternoon V. Melikyan ENG-GEO
    Facilitator Presentation Day 3 V. Melikyan ENG-GEO
    Project overview T. Loeffler ENG-GEO
    Introduction to Criteria and Indicators E. Yazici ENG-RUS
    Overview of Forests and Forest Sector of Georgia K. Chiburdanidze ENG 

    GEO 
    National Principles, Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management L. Giorgadye

    ENG

    GEO
    IBiS First National Forest Inventory of Georgia L. Dzadzamia ENG

    GEO
    National examples of SFM C&I processes and outcomes, lessons and recommendations Turkey T. Otrakcier ENG
    National examples of SFM C&I processes and outcomes, lessons and recommendations Austria S. Linser ENG
    National examples of SFM C&I processes and outcomes, lessons and recommendations Estonia M. Valgepea ENG 

    RUS 

    The table below provides an overview of useful material and information about Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in English and Russian. This material can be used as a source of information and inspiration to develop national Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management. The table is not exhaustive. If you are aware of relevant material that is not yet listed kindly inform the project manager.

    В таблице ниже представлены полезные материалы и информация о критериях и индикторах для устойчивого леспользования на английском и русском языках. Эти материалы могут быть использованы в качестве информации и вдохновения при разработке национальных критериев и индикаторов для устойчивого лесопользования. Таблица не является полной. Если Вы знаете какие-либо подходящие материалы, которые не представлены в данной таблице, пожалуйста, проинформируйте координатора проекта.

                                                                                          Topic/
    Тема    		 Language/
    Язык    		 Document/
    Документ
    General information
    Общая информация    		 ECE/FAO Guidelines for the Development of a Criteria and Indicator Set for Sustainable Forest Management 
    Методические Рекомендации по Разработке критериев и показателей ведения лесного хозяйства    		 ENG- RUS ENG pdf
    RUS pdf
      The System for the Evaluation of the Management
    of Forests (SEMAFOR) Система оценки управления лесами (СЕМАФОР)    		 ENG- RUS ENG pdf
    RUS pdf
      Sustainable Forest Management definition
    Определение устойчивого лесопользования    		 ENG-RUS pdf
      Criteria and Indicator definitions
    Определение критериев и показателей    		 ENG-RUS pdf
      Useful links
    Полезные ссылки    		 ENG-RUS pdf
      FAO Voluntary Guidelines on National Forest Monitoring ENG pdf
      CIFOR Guidelines for Developing, Testing and Selecting Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management
    Руководство по разработке, тестированию и выбору критериев и индикаторов для устойчивого лесопользования    		 ENG pdf
    Examples for C&I
    Примеры КиИ    		 Criteria and Indicators for SFM in Austria
    Критерии и индикаторы для УЛП в Австрии    		 ENG pdf
      Criteria and Indicators for Low Forest Cover Countries
    Критерии и индикаторы для слаболесистых стран    		 ENG pdf
    Forest Europe Process
    Процесс Леса Европы    		 Pan-European Indicators for SFM
    Общеевропейские индикаторы для УЛП    		 ENG pdf
      State of Europe’s Forests report
    Отчет о состоянии лесов Европы    		 ENG pdf
      Pan-European Questionnaire
    Общеевропейский вопросник
    More information here
    Дополнительная информация здесь    		 ENG-RUS ENG Excel

    RUS Excel
      Relevant Terms and Definitions for Pan-European Indicators
    Соответствующие термины и определения для Общеевропейских индикаторов     		 ENG pdf
    pdf
    Montreal Process
    Монреальский процесс    		 Montreal Process Criteria and Indicators
    Критерии и индикаторы для Монреальского процесса    		 RUS pdf
      Booklet
    Брошюра    		 RUS pdf
      Factsheet
    Фактологический бюллетень    		 ENG pdf
      Montreal process: criteria and indicators for conservation and SFM of the temperate and boreal zones 2008
    Монреальский процесс: критерии и индикаторы сохранения и УЛП умеренной и бореальной зон 2008    		 RUS pdf
    Other publications
    Прочие публикации     		 Forests in the ECE region 2015
    Леса региона ЕЭК 2015    		 ENG-RUS ENG pdf
    RUS pdf
      Global Forest Resource Assessment, Synthesis Document
    Глобальная оценка лесных ресурсов, обобщающий документ
    More information here
    Дополнительная информация здесь    		 ENG-RUS ENG pdf

    RUS pdf
      Global Forest Resource Assessment, Summary tables for quantitative variables
    Глобальная оценка лесных ресурсов, Сводные таблицы для количественных переменных    		 ENG-RUS ENG pdf

    RUS pdf
      Global Forest Resource Assessment, Terms and Definitions
    Глобальная оценка лесных ресурсов, Термины и определения    		 ENG ENG pdf
      Global Forest Resource Assessment, Questionnaire
    Глобальная оценка лесных ресурсов, Вопросник    		 ENG ENG pdf

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Mile Plains — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Makayla Lynn Oickle

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    West Hants District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 22-year-old Makayla Lynn Oickle who was last seen in Three Mile Plains.

    Oickle is described as 5-foot-4 and 110 pounds. She has long blonde hair with black roots, green eyes and a tattoo of butterflies on her right hand. She was last seen wearing black sweatpants and a black cropped hoodie.

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Makayla Lynn Oickle is asked to contact the West Hants District RCMP at 902-798-2207. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File #: 2025-135395

    MIL Security OSI –