NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guangdong and Hong Kong jointly promote Modular Integrated Construction development (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Guangdong and Hong Kong jointly promote Modular Integrated Construction development  
         The Building Technology Research Institute (BTRi), the Construction Industry Council (CIC), the MiC Laboratory of The University of Hong Kong, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Modular Integrated Construction Industry Alliance (Alliance) are co-organisers of the MiC Week.
     
         Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been actively promoting the adoption of MiC to enhance the productivity and cost-effectiveness of the construction industry. As of now, over 100 government and private projects have adopted this advanced construction method. She said that the HKSAR Government is implementing a series of measures to strengthen the supply chain of MiC, including the release of the Guangdong-Hong Kong Modular Integrated Construction Cross-boundary Trading Guidebook, the accreditation of MiC manufacturers, the announcement of the MiC Annual Demand Forecast and the enhancement of relevant training on MiC, as well as the research and development of new technologies. Among which, the DEVB plans to announce a new requirement for public works projects later this year to require MiC manufacturers to be accredited before bidding for tenders of relevant projects, with a view to streamlining the vetting and approval process and ensuring quality. She said that the Guangdong Province is the main manufacturing base for MiC modules in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), while Hong Kong possesses advantages in research and development as well as overseas promotion. The DEVB will continue to work closely with the Guangdong Provincial Government to build the GBA into a MiC technology and construction hub, and promote MiC to become a new quality productive force and a strategic industry that expands to the international arena.
     
         The Director-General of the DHURDGP, Mr Zhang Yong, said in his speech that high-quality and reliable MiC products from Guangdong have been gradually applied in various projects in Hong Kong including office buildings, school dormitories, public housing and private buildings, making positive contributions to the urban development and the security of people’s livelihoods in Hong Kong. From January to May this year, Guangdong exported MiC modules with a total value of about $1.39 billion to Hong Kong, a year-on-year increase of 2.3 times, demonstrating strong technical and supply capabilities. Building on the development of a supply chain that fully supports Hong Kong, Guangdong has also progressively developed application scenarios such as schools, hospitals and talent accommodation, and explored MiC technology innovations for projects including super-high-rise buildings and in-situ redevelopment, advancing pilot modular projects for urban development.
     
         The unveiling ceremony of the Alliance was also held during the launching ceremony. With membership comprising industry associations, higher education institutions, research institutes, enterprises, experts and scholars from Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, the Alliance aims to promote the development of MiC in the GBA, aligning with the national strategies of high-quality development and green building.
     
         In addition, the Guangdong-Hong Kong Modular Integrated Construction Cross-boundary Trading Guidebook compiled by the DEVB was also released at the launching ceremony. The guidebook provides manufacturers with guidelines on application for bonded processing trade arrangements for MiC materials and cross-boundary tax declarations for exporting MiC modules to Hong Kong, enabling all parties in the MiC supply chain in the GBA to conduct MiC cross-boundary trade more conveniently and efficiently.
     
         The Chairperson of the BTRi, Mr Hon Chi-keung, also presented accreditation certificates to the first batch of eight manufacturers accredited under the MiC Manufacturer Accreditation Scheme 
         The Chairman of the CIC, Professor Thomas Ho, also announced the first     MiC Annual Demand Forecast 
         The launching ceremony attracted over 1 000 participants who took part both online and offline. Other activities of the MiC Week include International Conference on Modular Integrated Construction, an enterprise forum, a design workshop, a site visit to a MiC project, a guided tour for public and more. Details are available on its     websiteIssued at HKT 22:48

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Home Affairs Department Issues Statement on Impersonation Incident

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Home Affairs Department Issues Statement on Impersonation Incident

    The Home Affairs Department (HAD) today (June 23) noted an unidentified individual impersonating “Tai Po District Officer” posting a statement under the name of the “Tai Po District Care Teams Alliance” in a Facebook group named “Tai Po”. The HAD would like to point out clearly that the content of the aforementioned post and the so-called statement were false, and were not issued by Tai Po District Officer or District Services and Community Care Teams (Care Teams). In response to the post, the HAD has taken immediate action to report the case to the Police for investigation, and contact the relevant social media platform to request prompt removal of the false content.

    The Government will take serious action in accordance with the law against impersonation of public officers or posting of any false information in the name of Care Teams. The HAD calls on members of the public to remain vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to the HAD’s hotline at 2835 2500 or to the Police. The public is also reminded to obtain accurate information through official Government channels and to refrain from trusting or forwarding unverified online messages.

    The formation of Care Teams aims to consolidate community resources to care for the community and strengthen district networks in support of district-based initiatives. Care Teams carry out caring activities, such as visiting those in need, and assist in handling incidents and emergencies. Care Teams also help the Government disseminate information and relay feedback of the community. For further details about the Care Teams, please visit the HAD website: www.had.gov.hk/en/public_services/district_services_community_care_teams.

    Ends/Monday, June 23, 2025
    Issued at HKT 22:51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taxi fleet thematic job fair to offer one-stop platform to recruit fleet drivers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Taxi fleet thematic job fair to offer one-stop platform to recruit fleet drivers

    The Transport Department (TD) said today (June 23) that a taxi fleet thematic job fair will be held on June 25 (Wednesday) at the Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices to enable taxi fleet operators to recruit fleet drivers.

    The job fair is jointly organised by the Labour Department (LD) and three of the taxi fleet operators, namely Big Boss Taxi Company Limited (Big Boss Taxi fleet), CMG Fleet Management Limited (Amigo fleet) and Tai Wo Management Limited (Joie fleet). Job seekers can learn more about the details of job vacancies for fleet drivers, submit job applications on-site, and may also have the opportunity to attend on-the-spot interviews.

    According to the operators, taxi fleets will offer various incentives to fleet drivers, such as a referral bonus for new drivers and safe driving bonuses. They will also provide flexible working hour arrangements. In addition, the operators will offer pre-service training to enhance drivers’ customer service skills. Online hailing platforms, including mobile applications and websites, will be available for passengers to schedule their trips, thereby increasing drivers’ income. Moreover, operators will implement systematic management to support drivers in handling customer enquiries and feedback, creating a better working environment for fleet drivers.

    The TD will continue to introduce different measures to facilitate taxi fleet operations. These include setting up a few dozen designated fleet taxi stopping places at the airport, certain boundary control points such as Heung Yuen Wai Control Point, Shenzhen Bay Port, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port, West Kowloon High Speed Rail Station, certain Airport Express stations, Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Hong Kong Disneyland, etc, to provide convenience for fleet drivers in picking up passengers with pre-booked trips.

    Different taxi fleet operators participated in the LD’s district job fairs earlier this month and received enthusiastic responses from job seekers. This thematic job fair aims to further enhance job seekers’ understanding of the advantages of taxi fleets and their employment modes, providing a one-stop platform for fleet operators to recruit fleet drivers in parallel.

    The job fair will be held from 2.30pm to 5pm at the Kowloon West Job Centre, 9/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Sham Shui Po. Admission is free.

    Ends/Monday, June 23, 2025
    Issued at HKT 18:35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Anesthesia Delivery Systems Recall: GE HealthCare Issues Correction for Certain Carestations due to Risk of Ineffective Ventilation When Used in Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) Mode 

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This recall involves correcting certain devices and does not involve removing them from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it without correction.  
    Affected Product
    •    Product Names: Carestation 620/650/650c and 750/750c Anesthesia Systems

    Full List of Affected Devices

    Product

    Ref Number

    UDI Number

    Carestation 620 A1  

    1012-9620-200  

    00195278439536  

    Carestation 650C A1  

    1012-9655-200  

    00195278439543  

    Carestation 650 A1  

    1012-9650-200  

    00195278439529  

    Carestation 620 A1  

    1012-9620-000  

    00840682103985  

    Carestation 650 A1  

    1012-9650-000  

    00840682103947  

    Carestation 650c A1  

    1012-9655-000  

    00840682103954  

    Carestation 620 A2  

    1012-9620-002  

    00840682124546  

    Carestation 650 A2  

    1012-9650-002  

    00840682124560  

    Carestation 650c A2  

    1012-9655-002  

    00840682124539  

    Carestation 650 SE A2  

    1012-9650-012  

    00195278569684  

    Carestation 620 SE A2  

    1012-9620-012  

    00195278569677  

    Carestation 750 A1  

    1012-9750-000  

    00840682145596  

    Carestation 750c A1  

    1012-9755-000  

    00840682146425  

    Carestation 750 A2  

    1012-9750-002  

    00840682146470  

    Carestation 750c A2  

    1012-9755-002  

    00840682146463  

    What to Do
    On March 21, 2025, GE HealthCare sent all affected customers an urgent medical device correction notice recommending the following actions:  

    Ensure users are made aware not to use Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) mode on the device until the device has been corrected by GE HealthCare. 
    Ensure all potential staff in your facility are made aware of this safety notification and the recommended actions.
    Complete and return the Medical Device Notification Acknowledgement Response Form.  
    Perform the Ventilation Screening Test for each affected Carestation system. 

    If the Carestation system passes the Ventilation Screening Test, you can continue to use the device in accordance with the instructions in the User Reference Manual (URM). 

    If the Carestation system fails the Ventilation Screening Test and must be used prior to the system being corrected by GE HealthCare, follow these instructions:

    Use the device in accordance with the instructions in the URM with these changes: 

    Use only Pressure Control Ventilation (PCV) or Pressure Control Ventilation Volume Guarantee (PCV-VG) mode to mechanically ventilate a patient.  
    Do not use Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) mode to mechanically ventilate a patient. 

    NOTE: Manual mode of the anesthesia system can be used to provide manual ventilation or allow spontaneous ventilation of the patient.  
    Reason for Correction
    GE HealthCare is correcting certain Carestation devices due to the risk that they may not provide effective ventilation when used in Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) mode. In these systems, effective ventilation can be achieved in Pressure Control Ventilation (PCV) or Pressure Control Ventilation Volume Guarantee (PCV-VG) modes or with manual ventilation. If this issue occurs, it will be apparent to the user through observation and multiple alarms. The inflated bellows, visible through transparent glass, will stop moving and an audible alarm and visual Unable to Drive Bellows message will alert the user. Additional alarms including Apnea, EtCO2 low, MVexp low, RR low, and TVexp low will also alert the user to inadequate ventilation.
    The use of affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including failure of ventilation resulting in hypoxia (inadequate oxygen levels) and death.  
     At this time, GE HealthCare has reported no serious injuries or deaths related to this issue.
    Device Use
    Intended use of the Carestation is to provide monitored anesthesia care, general inhalation anesthesia and/or ventilatory support to a wide range of patients (neonatal, pediatric, and adult). The anesthesia systems are suitable for use in a patient environment, such as hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics by a clinician qualified in the administration of general anesthesia.
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact GE HealthCare Service at 1-800-437-1171.  
    Additional FDA Resources (listed in order of most to least recent):

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

    How do I report a problem?
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. 

    Content current as of:
    06/23/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU–Canada summit 2025: outcome documents

    Source: Council of the European Union

    At the 20th EU–Canada Summit held in Brussels on 23 June 2025, leaders of the EU and Canada reaffirmed their strong political, economic and strategic partnership through the adoption of a joint statement and the signature of a Security and Defence Partnership.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU–Canada summit 2025: outcome documents

    Source: Council of the European Union

    At the 20th EU–Canada Summit held in Brussels on 23 June 2025, leaders of the EU and Canada reaffirmed their strong political, economic and strategic partnership through the adoption of a joint statement and the signature of a Security and Defence Partnership.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Trump Attacks on TPS, Rosen Helps Introduce Bill to Protect TPS Recipients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce legislation to provide qualified Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients a path to permanent legal residency. The introduction of the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and Emergency (SECURE) Act comes as the Trump Administration undermines TPS. The Trump Administration has revoked TPS for an estimated 563,000 recipients from five countries. Although legal challenges have been filed against this action, the Supreme Court has temporarily allowed the revocation to stand, putting hundreds of thousands at risk of deportation to their home countries, where they would face serious danger.
    “The Temporary Protected Status program has been a lifeline that has allowed people and families facing unimaginable circumstances to find a safe refuge here in the United States,” said Senator Rosen. “TPS recipients contribute to our communities and our economy, and they deserve a pathway to permanent residency, which is why I’m proud to help introduce this bill. I’ll keep standing up to protect Nevada’s immigrant families.”
    Nevada is home to thousands of TPS recipients. Senator Rosen has been outspoken in her strong support for TPS recipients, DACA recipients, and their families. Last week, she urged the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to resume processing applications for the DACA program, following a Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that limited a nationwide injunction to only Texas. Earlier this month, Senator Rosen took to the Senate floor to mark the thirteenth anniversary of the DACA program and deliver a forceful defense of Nevada’s Dreamers in light of the Trump Administration’s attacks on immigrant communities across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Trump Attacks on TPS, Rosen Helps Introduce Bill to Protect TPS Recipients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce legislation to provide qualified Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients a path to permanent legal residency. The introduction of the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and Emergency (SECURE) Act comes as the Trump Administration undermines TPS. The Trump Administration has revoked TPS for an estimated 563,000 recipients from five countries. Although legal challenges have been filed against this action, the Supreme Court has temporarily allowed the revocation to stand, putting hundreds of thousands at risk of deportation to their home countries, where they would face serious danger.
    “The Temporary Protected Status program has been a lifeline that has allowed people and families facing unimaginable circumstances to find a safe refuge here in the United States,” said Senator Rosen. “TPS recipients contribute to our communities and our economy, and they deserve a pathway to permanent residency, which is why I’m proud to help introduce this bill. I’ll keep standing up to protect Nevada’s immigrant families.”
    Nevada is home to thousands of TPS recipients. Senator Rosen has been outspoken in her strong support for TPS recipients, DACA recipients, and their families. Last week, she urged the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to resume processing applications for the DACA program, following a Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that limited a nationwide injunction to only Texas. Earlier this month, Senator Rosen took to the Senate floor to mark the thirteenth anniversary of the DACA program and deliver a forceful defense of Nevada’s Dreamers in light of the Trump Administration’s attacks on immigrant communities across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabo Verde: Unlocking Inclusive Growth Through Increased Resilience and Equal Opportunities


    Download logo

    Cabo Verde’s economy continues on a strong recovery path, according to the latest Cabo Verde Economic Update 2025, released today by the World Bank. Real GDP in Cabo Verde grew by 7.3% in 2024, supported by robust tourism activity and a modest recovery in agriculture. However, while the country has made notable strides – particularly in macroeconomic management, debt reduction, and poverty alleviation – key vulnerabilities remain. These include reliance on tourism, exposure to external shocks, and fiscal pressures from state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

    The report, titled Unlocking Women’s Economic Potential, analyses the country’s economic growth projections, highlights progress on poverty alleviation, and outlines the structural reforms needed to ensure sustained and inclusive growth. The report also includes a special topic, focused on leveraging women’s economic potential.

    “Cabo Verde’s recovery is a testament to the resilience of its people and institutions. But to transform this rebound into lasting and inclusive prosperity, bold reforms are needed – particularly to improve SOE governance, support women’s economic participation, and diversify the economy,” said Indira Campos, World Bank Resident Representative for Cabo Verde.

    The report notes that inflation dropped to 1% in 2024 – its lowest level in recent years – helping to bring poverty down to 14.4% ($3.65 a day 2017PPP line). Public investment execution increased, debt levels continued to decline, and the current account posted a surplus for the first time in four years.

    Looking ahead, GDP growth is projected at 5.9% in 2025, with poverty expected to fall further. However, the report warns that global uncertainties, commodity price shocks, and climate risks could affect the pace of growth and reform. Among the recommendations, the report calls for accelerated efforts to improve SOE performance, prudence in creating new ventures, and for maintaining fiscal discipline while investing in high-impact projects.

    The report highlights the critical need for policies to ensure growth is inclusive. Despite progress in education and health, Cabo Verdean women continue to face labor market barriers. The report finds that closing gender gaps in employment and earnings could boost GDP by up to 12.2% in the long-term.

    To achieve this, the report recommends:

    • Expanding access to childcare and flexible work arrangements.
    • Promoting women’s skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as in technical and vocational education and training.
    • Tackling employer discrimination and transforming social norms.

    “By aligning reform efforts with inclusive policies, Cabo Verde has a unique opportunity to strengthen resilience, empower more citizens – especially women – and build a more sustainable and equitable future,” said Anna Carlotta Massingue, Senior Country Economist.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Demand SDNY Misconduct Records Ahead of Emil Bove’s Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Alex Padilla (D-CA), all members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to Interim U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) Jay Clayton requesting personnel records relevant to Emil Bove III, President Trump’s nominee to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

    From 2012 to 2021, Mr. Bove served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY). During his tenure at SDNY, Mr. Bove was promoted to Acting Deputy Chief for the Narcotics Unit in 2019 and, later, Co-Chief of the Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit from 2019 to 2021.

    “According to public reporting, Mr. Bove’s unprofessional and unethical conduct and his vindictive and angry temperament with opposing counsel and his own colleagues led to multiple complaints, professional interventions, and the threat of demotion throughout his career at SDNY. In 2018, a group of federal criminal defense attorneys in Manhattan were so alarmed by Mr. Bove’s pattern of unethical conduct that they wrote his supervisors at SDNY to warn them that he was a liability for the office,” the Senators wrote. The Senators’ letter includes the text of that complaint, which described Mr. Bove as the “prosecutor version of a drunk driver — completely reckless and out of control.”

    “Mr. Bove’s record of alleged abuse of power, ethical lapses, dishonesty, and unstable, abusive behavior during his tenure as a federal prosecutor warrants a thorough review of his employment

    history at SDNY by members of the Judiciary Committee. Mr. Bove now seeks a lifetime appointment to a federal appeals court, an office that carries immense power and limited accountability. It is also a role that requires constant collaboration with and deep trust amongst all of the judges on the appeals court. Bove’s documented conduct raises serious concerns about his fitness for such a role,” the Senators continued. 

    The Senators requested the following records by no later than June 23, 2025:

    1. All internal complaints, formal and informal, against Mr. Bove during his tenure at the SDNY.
    2. All external complaints submitted to SDNY, including from opposing counsel, during his tenure at the SDNY.
    3. All records regarding Mr. Bove’s management style and alleged abusive behavior.

    To read the full text of the letter, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Demand SDNY Misconduct Records Ahead of Emil Bove’s Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Alex Padilla (D-CA), all members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to Interim U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) Jay Clayton requesting personnel records relevant to Emil Bove III, President Trump’s nominee to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

    From 2012 to 2021, Mr. Bove served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY). During his tenure at SDNY, Mr. Bove was promoted to Acting Deputy Chief for the Narcotics Unit in 2019 and, later, Co-Chief of the Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit from 2019 to 2021.

    “According to public reporting, Mr. Bove’s unprofessional and unethical conduct and his vindictive and angry temperament with opposing counsel and his own colleagues led to multiple complaints, professional interventions, and the threat of demotion throughout his career at SDNY. In 2018, a group of federal criminal defense attorneys in Manhattan were so alarmed by Mr. Bove’s pattern of unethical conduct that they wrote his supervisors at SDNY to warn them that he was a liability for the office,” the Senators wrote. The Senators’ letter includes the text of that complaint, which described Mr. Bove as the “prosecutor version of a drunk driver — completely reckless and out of control.”

    “Mr. Bove’s record of alleged abuse of power, ethical lapses, dishonesty, and unstable, abusive behavior during his tenure as a federal prosecutor warrants a thorough review of his employment

    history at SDNY by members of the Judiciary Committee. Mr. Bove now seeks a lifetime appointment to a federal appeals court, an office that carries immense power and limited accountability. It is also a role that requires constant collaboration with and deep trust amongst all of the judges on the appeals court. Bove’s documented conduct raises serious concerns about his fitness for such a role,” the Senators continued. 

    The Senators requested the following records by no later than June 23, 2025:

    1. All internal complaints, formal and informal, against Mr. Bove during his tenure at the SDNY.
    2. All external complaints submitted to SDNY, including from opposing counsel, during his tenure at the SDNY.
    3. All records regarding Mr. Bove’s management style and alleged abusive behavior.

    To read the full text of the letter, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) launch second phase of the Africa Phytosanitary Programme

    The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), in collaboration with the Government of South Africa, represented by the Department of Agriculture, launched the second phase of the Africa Phytosanitary Programme (APP) today – representing a major effort to stop the spread of plant pests and diseases in Africa using cutting-edge digital tools.

    The launch event was hosted by the Government of South Africa and brought together over 50 phytosanitary specialists from nine countries: Algeria, Cape Verde, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Liberia, Malawi, Senegal, South Africa and Tunisia. They will participate in a weeklong Train-the-Trainer (ToT) workshop in advanced pest surveillance techniques, including the use of customised digital tools and applications for monitoring, detecting and reporting major pests of economic, regulatory and environmental importance in Africa. Participants will receive state-of-the-art tablets for geospatial pest surveillance, use field survey protocols developed by technical experts, and undertake practical sessions using the pest survey tools.

    “Africa stands at a turning point. With immense biodiversity, rising agricultural productivity, and growing opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), we are well-positioned to become a global leader in the trade of high-quality plant products. But this vision can only be achieved if we ensure that the movement of plants and plant products is safe, traceable, and fully compliant with international phytosanitary standards” said John Henry Steenhuisen, Honourable Minister of Agriculture, in South Africa, in remarks read on his behalf by Jan Hendrik Venter, South Africa’s Director of Plant Health.

    “Well-trained, well-equipped plant health officials across the continent are our best line of defence in maintaining pest-free or low-prevalence status, an essential condition for accessing these lucrative markets”, he added.

    The first and pilot phase of APP started in 2023, engaging phytosanitary specialists from Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Mali, Morocco, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Phase 2 builds on achievements made in the pilot phase and aims to train plant health officers, who upon their return to their countries will teach their peers in the national plant protection organisations (NPPOs) and other government stakeholders on the use of the APP suite of digital tools.

    “We are building a critical mass of phytosanitary inspectors, technicians and officers across Africa by equipping plant health officers with the tools and skills to prevent and address major plant pest threats, that ultimately jeopardize food security, agricultural trade, economic growth and the environment”, said Beth Bechdol, FAO Deputy Director-General and Officer-in-Charge of the IPPC, in her video message.

    Funded through generous contributions from the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, APP phase two builds on support from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) which funded phase one in 2023. FAO and the IPPC are working to replicate and scale up the benefits from APP to more African countries and other regions. 

    Mitigating the pest problem in Africa

    Worldwide, plant pests destroy about 40 percent of crop yields, resulting in approximately USD 220 billion in economic losses[1]. In Africa, the impacts of climate change are worsening  the problem, with invasive pests – such as, fruit flies, false codling moth, maize lethal necrosis disease, citrus greening and fall armyworm – causing major damages. Fall armyworm alone is estimated to cause the highest yield loss in Africa – USD 9.4 billion annually –, based on data from the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI). 

    The African Union’s Plant Health Strategy for Africa highlights that limited technical capability remains a key barrier to achieving sustainable agriculture on the continent. Through APP, FAO, the IPPC and partners aim to strengthen plant health systems and build national phytosanitary capacity across Africa.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: 67th Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Summit: H.E. Julius Maada bio, President of Sierra Leone, is the new chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government for a one-year term


    Download logo

    The Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held its Sixty-Seventh Ordinary Session, today, 22 June 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria.

    During the Session, the Heads of State considered the report of the 94th Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers, and reports on the State of the Community, the Security and Political Situations in the Region, among others.

    H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, warmly welcomed ECOWAS leaders while paying tribute to Nigeria’s leadership and hospitality under H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Chairmanship of the Authority.

    Dr. Touray highlighted ECOWAS’s achievements over the past 50 years, reaffirming its standing as Africa’s most advanced Regional Economic Community despite ongoing challenges. He stressed that dialogue with the three member states that have withdrawn is progressing positively, and he called for stronger support for the region’s private sector to drive sustainable growth, job creation, and deeper integration. He paid tribute to ECOWAS’s Founding Fathers for laying the foundation for unity and regional cooperation.

    In his opening statement, H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Chair of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, reflected on ECOWAS’s remarkable achievements for the past 50 years while urging leaders to confront persistent security threats. He emphasized that no single country could tackle terrorism, violent extremism, and cross-border crimes alone, and called for stronger coordination, political will, and decisive collective action to safeguard peace and stability across West Africa.

    “While celebrating our achievements over the past 50 years, we must also confront the challenges that continue to impede our aspirations; like the security threats, violent extremism and other cross-border crimes that continue to widen and deepen in their intensity. No single Nation 

    can address these challenges alone. We must rethink coordination, amplify political will, and prioritise a collective approach to security. We must act decisively on the fight against terrorism to serve as instrument for peace and stability for our region”, he stressed.

    H.E. Leonardo Santos Simão, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), in his statement, conveyed the UN Secretary-General’s warm greetings and reiterated the United Nations’ commitment to supporting peace, security, and regional integration in West Africa. He highlighted the UN’s active diplomatic engagement across the region and underscored the urgent need for collective action against terrorism, which remains the most significant threat to stability.

    In his message, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, delivered by H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the African Union Commission, conveyed heartfelt congratulations to ECOWAS leaders and citizens on the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS. He celebrated ECOWAS’s legacy as a symbol of unity, resilience, and regional integration since its founding in 1975.

    Looking ahead, the AU Chairperson urged a united and coordinated response to pressing challenges, including terrorism, violent extremism, and unconstitutional changes of government, while deepening efforts to tackle poverty and inequality. He reaffirmed the AU’s unwavering support for ECOWAS and called for a people-centred Community where youth and women lead regional transformation through innovation, technology, and quality education.

    The Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government at the end of the Summit elected H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone as the Chairman of the Authority to replace H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, whose tenure came to an end. A communique will be issued at the end of the Summit.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Current Membership of the European Council June 2025 – 23-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Council consists of the 27 Heads of State or Government of the EU Member States, who are voting members, together with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission, who have no vote (Article 15(2) Treaty on European Union). The chart shows the current members, the national office they hold, their most recent European political affiliation, and the year their membership began.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Understanding and Raising Awareness on Sexual Consent – 23-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This briefing has been prepared by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Citizens, Equality and Culture at the request of the FEMM Committee, in the framework of the workshop ‘Consent-based rape legislation in the EU’ (organised on 19 May 2025). It provides a brief overview of literature and guidance as regards understanding consent, and highlights examples of evidence-based consent education and awareness raising initiatives.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Targeted scrutiny of the EU chemicals strategy for sustainability – 23-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU chemicals strategy for sustainability (CSS), introduced in 2020 as part of the European Green Deal, sets out 85 actions to curb chemical pollution, safeguard human and environmental health, and boost innovation and competitiveness in the chemicals sector. While notable progress has been made – such as the revision of the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation and the Industrial Emissions Directive – several key actions remain unfulfilled. Foremost among them are the delayed revision of the REACH Regulation and the failure to ban exports of hazardous chemicals prohibited within the EU. Scientific research continues to reveal the health risks posed by man-made chemicals, particularly chemical mixtures and persistent substances such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are widely present in human populations and the environment. These substances are linked to chronic illnesses, ecosystem degradation, and significant economic losses, with pollution-related health impacts costing an estimated 5 % of global gross domestic product. Efforts to manage these risks are undermined by regulatory delays and fragmented implementation, challenging the EU’s ambition for a toxic-free environment and its credibility as a global leader in chemical safety. Newly launched or forthcoming initiatives such as the Clean Industrial Deal, the competitiveness compass and the chemicals industry package reflect the EU’s continued commitment to sustainable chemicals policy. However, without clear alignment with the long-term strategies for a competitive and sustainable chemicals industry that were developed by the European Commission during its previous mandate (the CSS and the transition pathway for the chemicals industry), and without proper coordination, these overlapping strategies risk duplicating efforts and creating confusion. Key elements to ensure consistent and effective delivery include putting renewed focus on completing outstanding commitments, assessing existing strategies, integrating scientific insights, and streamlining governance to build a coherent and resilient regulatory framework.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Green claims: Committee Chairs react to cancellation of negotiations

    Source: European Parliament

    Following the Commission’s announcement it intends to withdraw the legislative proposal on green claims, the Council decided to cancel talks with Parliament scheduled for today.

    Anna Cavazzini (Greens/EFA, DE), Chair of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection, and Antonio Decaro (S&D, IT), Chair of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety, commented on this last-minute cancellation:

    “Less than three hours before the start of the final trilogue, we learned of the Presidency’s unwillingness to engage in negotiations with the Parliament and the Commission, because of the Commission’s recent announcements and the change of positions within the Council itself.

    “This modus operandi could set a dangerous precedent for the legislative process and institutional procedures, leading to unnecessary and avoidable confrontation among co-legislators. We do not believe it is fair to deprive Parliament of the opportunity to finalise the negotiations on a directive after two years of legislative process and countless hours of work.

    “We are thus being prevented from discussing and hopefully agreeing on an important directive that serves to build environmental awareness and consumer trust by making environmental marketing claims more reliable and verifiable. What’s more, fighting greenwashing would create a more level playing field for businesses that already work sustainably.

    As Chairs of the responsible committees at the European Parliament, we are ready to continue negotiations as soon as possible by resuming the institutional dialogue.”

    Parliament’s co-rapporteurs Sandro Gozi (Renew, FR) from the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection and Tiemo Wölken (S&D, DE) from the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety also responded to the decision during a press conference today where they explained their position and answered media questions. See the recording here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Humanitarian aid in a time of polycrisis – draft opinion – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    Source: European Parliament

    On Wednesday, 25 June 2025, the FEMM Committee will consider a draft opinion on “Humanitarian aid in a time of polycrisis – reaffirming our principles for a more effective and ambitious response to humanitarian crises”.

    Women and girls face exacerbated risks in the face of overlapping crises–such as armed conflict, climate change, and the breakdown of essential public services. These simultaneous emergencies deepen existing gender inequalities and disproportionately affect their safety and access to basic needs. The Rapporteur urgently calls for the integration of gender equality into all aspects of the humanitarian-development-peace nexus. Immediate action is needed to ensure women and girls have equitable access to food, education, employment, and healthcare, as the compounded impact of these polycrises on their lives is severe and far-reaching

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Image based sexual violence in the context of AI and social media – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    Source: European Parliament

    Image based sexual violence, AI and social media © Image used under the licence of Adobe Stock

    On Thursday, 26 June 2025, the FEMM Committee will hold a public hearing on “Image based sexual violence in the context of AI and social media, specifically exploring the role of undressing apps and the responsibilities of platforms”.

    The Violence against Women Directive criminalizes non-consensual sharing of intimate or manipulated material. The hearing will explore how AI is used to create such material, thus contributing to sexual violence and violation of other rights of women and girls, especially the right to privacy. It will also look into the protocols of the platforms to deal with sharing of such material.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strategies to attract US researchers to the EU – E-001337/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission aims to make the EU the most attractive and secure place for both EU and non-EU scientific talent, especially amid today’s uncertainties. Europe is already a safe haven for scientists, and this role must be protected by enshrining the freedom of scientific research in EU law.

    The Commission will put forward a new EUR 500 million package for 2025 -2027 to make Europe a magnet for researchers. This includes the Marie Skłodowska-Curie ‘Choose Europe’ pilot,[1] which will support early-career researchers with attractive allowances and longer contracts, and a seven-year ‘super grant’ under the European Research Council.

    The EU is also making it easier for researchers to relocate and integrate. The ‘Students and Researchers’ Directive[2] provides a framework[3] for researchers to enter and reside in the EU, and the upcoming visa strategy aims to build on this by further easing migration procedures.

    EURAXESS[4] offers information and personalised assistance, helping researchers connect with institutions and regional innovation ecosystems.

    The European Research Area Act, expected in 2026, will aim to introduce measures strengthening the freedom of scientific research, research careers, mobility and coordination across Member States.

    The Commission supports European regions through initiatives like Regional Innovation Valleys to boost local innovation, particularly in digital and healthcare sectors.

    This is complemented by tools such as the Artificial Intelligence factories[5], the European Institute of Innovation and Technology[6], Digital Innovation Hubs[7] and Startup Europe[8].

    These efforts are further supported by EU Cohesion Policy, which helps regions leverage funding to support innovation and digitalisation.

    • [1] In addition to the ‘Choose Europe’ pilot, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA) provide a wide range of training, mobility and career development opportunities that are open to researchers of all nationalities, including United States researchers, for them to successfully relocate to Europe.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third-country nationals for the purposes of research, studies, training, voluntary service, pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au pairing (recast).
    • [3] This framework includes, amongst others, equal treatment rights with EU citizens in many areas, possibility to bring their families to the EU, intra-EU mobility rights, right to stay for up to nine months after the end of the research to look for a job, possibility to teach while conducting research, etc.
    • [4] https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/.
    • [5] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/ai-factories.
    • [6] https://www.eit.europa.eu/.
    • [7] https://european-digital-innovation-hubs.ec.europa.eu/home.
    • [8] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/startup-europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EMA’s role in COVID-19 vaccine approval procedures, inspections and good clinical practice checks – P-001695/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The highest standards in the evaluation of COVID-19 vaccines were applied by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). As for every other product it evaluates, EMA’s human medicines committee[1] (CHMP) considered the need for good clinical practice (GCP) inspections.

    Studies supporting the authorisation of a medicine must comply with GCP. Regulators can request and conduct inspections to verify compliance with the standards.

    Criteria used to select a GCP inspection is published[2]. When a GCP inspection is requested by the CHMP, EMA makes a call for available EU national GCP inspection resources.

    The Member States have the final say on whether to send inspectors for an EMA-coordinated inspection. During the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the restrictions to travel with a view to protect public health, regulators assessed the need for inspections and decided on a case-by-case basis the most appropriate and viable approach to take.

    The European Public Assessment Reports for Vaxzevria[3] and Comirnaty[4] are publicly available.

    The first cases of myocarditis that occurred in Israel in 2021 following vaccination with Comirnaty triggered a formal review by EMA[5].

    The outcome was that the risk for myocarditis and pericarditis was overall ‘very rare’ (up to one in 10 000 vaccinated people may be affected) with the highest risk in younger males[6].

    The product information of Comirnaty and Spikevax was revised adding myocarditis and pericarditis as new side effects with a warning to raise awareness.

    • [1] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/committees/committee-medicinal-products-human-use-chmp.
    • [2] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/other/points-consider-assessors-inspectors-european-medicines-agency-inspection-coordinators-identification-triggers-selection-applications-routine-cause-inspections-their-investigation-scope-such_en.pdf.
    • [3] Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca), INN-COVID-19-Vaccine-(ChAdOx1-S-[recombinant]) https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/assessment-report/vaxzevria-previously-covid-19-vaccine-astrazeneca-epar-public-assessment-report_en.pdf.
    • [4] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/assessment-report/comirnaty-epar-public-assessment-report_en.pdf.
    • [5] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/report/report-pharmacovigilance-tasks-eu-member-states-and-european-medicines-agency-ema-2019-2022_en.pdf.
    • [6] Meeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 29 November — 2 December 2021 https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/meeting-highlights-pharmacovigilance-risk-assessment-committee-prac-29-november-2-december-2021.
    Last updated: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – 2025 report on gender equality in the EU – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    Source: European Parliament

    On Wednesday, 25 June 2025, FEMM Members will debate the 2025 gender equality report following a presentation by Katja Lenzing, Deputy Head of Unit for Gender Equality, DG JUST.

    The report covers the main initiatives from March 2024 until February 2025 to advance gender equality in the Gender Equality Strategy’s key areas, focussing on the key actions and achievements of EU institutions and Member States in this area over the past year. It also provides examples of national initiatives on gender equality and of EU-funded projects aimed at gender equality.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Women’s entrepreneurship in rural and island areas – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    Source: European Parliament

    On Wednesday, 25 June 2025, the FEMM Committee with the participation of the Committee on Agriculture will hold a public hearing on “Women’s entrepreneurship in rural and island areas and outermost regions”.

    Boosting female entrepreneurship is an effective way to develop rural, island and outermost areas: these EU regions face unique gender equality challenges due to their geographic and economic characteristics. Encouraging women and supporting them to start their own businesses can help to create opportunities and increase their participation in economy.

    The hearing aims to explore effective ways to support women in fostering resilient local economies, accessing finance, digital tools, and markets, encouraging innovation and sustainability, and advancing both policy solutions and grassroots initiatives.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ability to enter the USA as a transgender, intersex or non-binary person from the EU – E-000910/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Passports issued by EU Member States adhere to globally interoperable standards adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation[1], including rules on specifying the sex of the holder. Nevertheless, States remain free to impose rules on entry, immigration and documents that are accepted for those purposes.

    The Commission remains committed to achieving a Union of Equality, promoting equality, diversity and inclusion for all, notably through the LGBTIQ[2] Equality Strategy 2020-2025[3], which pays particular attention to trans, non-binary and intersex persons.

    As announced in the Commission President’s Political Guidelines[4] and in the 2025 Commission Work Programme[5], the LGBTIQ Equality Strategy will be renewed beyond 2025 .

    • [1]  International Civil Aviation Organisation, Doc 9303, Machine Readable Travel Documents.
    • [2] Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, non-binary, intersex and queer.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52020DC0698
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/7617998c-86e6-4a74-b33c-249e8a7938cd_en?filename=COM_2025_45_1_annexes_EN.pdf.
    Last updated: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Liability exemptions in EU vaccine contracts – E-001495/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The (Advanced) Purchase Agreements for the supply of COVID-19 vaccines to the Member States were concluded in full transparency with the Member States. Negotiations were carried out by a Joint Negotiation Team that consisted of representatives of the Commission and of several Member States.

    This team reported regularly to a Vaccines Steering Board co-chaired by the Commission and a Participating Member State, which provided guidance throughout the process.

    The Commission has provided information to the Parliament on a continuous basis, in line with its Treaty obligations and the framework Agreement on relations between the two institutions[1].

    All mRNA vaccines that receive a marketing authorisation are based on a thorough review by the European Medicine Agency (EMA), of clinical evidence confirming a favourable benefit-risk profile.

    Adapted versions are also approved based on data showing their ability to induce an immune response that can predict clinical efficacy and safety.

    T he safety profile of all medicinal products authorised in the EU, including mRNA vaccines, is subject to continuous monitoring. There is a robust pharmacovigilance system established in the EU to detect, assess, and address potential side effects[2].

    The Commission and Member States considered early introduction of the vaccine to be in the interest of public health. Member States were therefore willing to reduce manufacturers’ risks linked to liability for adverse effects[3].

    A citizen who has suffered adverse effects from one of the COVID-19 vaccines purchased under the contracts can claim damages against the manufacturer of the vaccine[4].

    • [1] The Commission has pro-actively published redacted versions of the contracts concluded with the vaccine producers on its website.
    • [2] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/pharmacovigilance-overview.
    • [3] This was intended as a risk sharing principle in the vaccine strategy.
    • [4] If the claim is successful, the Member State that administered the vaccine can, under certain conditions, be responsible for compensating the injured party and paying the vaccine manufacturer’s legal costs (indemnification).
    Last updated: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Hungary’s ban on Pride – E-001277/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Equality and the respect for human dignity and human rights are core values of the EU, enshrined in the Treaty of the European Union and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights[1].

    These also include the right to freedom of expression and to peaceful assembly and association. The Commission is committed to promoting and safeguarding these rights.

    In December 2022, the Commission referred Hungary to the Court of Justice of the EU over national rules that discriminate against people based on their sexual orientation and gender identity[2].

    The Commission considered that they violate several EU laws, both single market rules and the fundamental rights of individuals, in particular of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) people, as well as the common values at the core of the EU.

    The case is pending before the Court of Justice. A hearing on this case took place on 19 November 2024 and the Advocate General issued her Opinion on 5 June 2025.

    The Commission is assessing the recent legislative amendments and closely monitoring the situation in Hungary. The Commission remains fully committed to addressing inequality and discrimination affecting LGBTIQ persons as outlined in the LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025[3].

    • [1] 2012/C 326/02, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:C2012/326/02.
    • [2] C-769/22 Commission v Hungary (Valeurs de l’Union).
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52020DC0698.
    Last updated: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ongoing delays to the introduction of the entry/exit system (EES) – E-001070/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The start date for the Entry/Exit System (EES ) operations has been revised due to several reasons, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, technical complexities of the EES design and specific implementation difficulties at central and national levels . In October 2024, the Justice and Home Affairs Council agreed that a progressive launch of the EES would be the best way forward. Subsequently, the Commission adopted on 4 December 2024 a proposal for a regulation on a temporary derogation from certain provisions of Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 and Regulation (EU) 2016/399 as regards a progressive start of operations of the EES[1]. Co-legislators reached a provisional agreement on the proposal on 19 May 2025. According to the revised interoperability roadmap, endorsed by the Justice and Home Affairs Council on 5 March 2025, the EES entry into operation is foreseen in October 2025.

    2. The EES procurement was carried out by the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice ( eu-LISA). The Commission has asked the Agency to provide the information requested by the Honourable Member.

    3. As regards the costs for the development of the EES, the Commission has asked the eu-LISA to provide the information requested by the Honourable Member.

    The Commission will send the Agency’s reply to the Honourable Member as soon as possible .

    • [1] COM(2024) 567 final.
    Last updated: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU action to accelerate biotech solutions for autoimmune disease patients – E-001203/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission is in the preparatory phase of the Biotech Act[1]. The Commission will conduct extensive consultations with stakeholders to determine the most appropriate measures to translate innovation in the field of biotechnology into products which can be brought to the market and benefit citizens. The Act will cover different sectors of biotechnology, in particular health. Its actions on the health sector will indirectly also benefit patients suffering from autoimmune diseases.

    2. The reform of the EU’s general pharmaceutical legislation[2], currently being discussed by the co-legislators, includes many measures to streamline and modernise the regulatory framework to foster and facilitate innovation especially for breakthrough therapies. The Biotech Act could complement the pharmaceutical reform for example in facilitating the authorisation of clinical trials in the EU.

    3. The pharmaceutical reform proposes incentives for research in areas of unmet medical needs through additional regulatory protection and pre-authorisation regulatory support. In particular, early advice in the framework of PRIME programme will facilitate timely access to medicines that bring significant innovation. It also introduces incentives in the field of repurposing existing medicines to new indications especially in case of unmet medical needs.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14627-Biotech-Act_en.
    • [2] COM/2023/193 final and COM/2023/192 final.
    Last updated: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Shortages of health workers in France and the EU – E-001540/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is currently implementing an Action Plan on labour and skills shortages of 20 March 2024[1]. The action plan sets out 87 actions or commitments that the EU, Member States and social partners will or should take to tackle these shortages.

    It contains a call to Member States to develop policies to attract and retain nurses through improving working conditions and mentoring young professionals, with the support of the EU4Health Programme .

    The collection of data for a survey on the health professionals’ mental health was carried out by the World Health Organisation (WHO) with EU4Health funding, and its results are planned to be published in October 2025. The WHO will then develop a set of proposed policy actions to protect the mental health of the health workforce, planned for publication before the end of 2025[2].

    The Commission’s Expert Group on Health Systems Performance Assessment[3] is mapping various approaches to ensuring safe staffing levels in healthcare.

    The Commission also helps Member States, including France, in seizing opportunities from the digitalisation of health systems. Among others, the European Health Data Space initiative[4] aims to establish a common framework for the use and exchange of electronic health data.

    T hrough the European Semester, t he Commission provides country-specific policy advice to support health system reforms , including those related to the health workforce. Substantial EU funding[5] is available to support skills development programmes[6] and planning and forecasting tools[7].

    I n the context of the Union of Skills[8] and its Skills Portability Initiative, the Commission will explore common rules for recognising the qualifications of third-country nationals, and thus facilitate the integration of non-EU workers into the EU labour markets, including in the healthcare sector.

    The forthcoming Quality Jobs Roadmap will support progress on the various dimensions of job quality in the evolving world of work.

    • [1]  Commission Communication on Labour and skills shortages in the EU: an action plan, COM(2024) 131 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52024DC0131).
    • [2]  https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/promoting-our-european-way-life/european-health-union/comprehensive-approach-mental-health_en.
    • [3]  https://health.ec.europa.eu/health-systems-performance-assessment_en.
    • [4]  https://health.ec.europa.eu/ehealth-digital-health-and-care/european-health-data-space-regulation-ehds_en.
    • [5]  https://health.ec.europa.eu/publications/2024-eu4health-work-programme_en.
    • [6]  Erasmus+ programme funded actions: AMR EDUCare https://www.amreducare.eu/, ‘BeWell’ https://bewell-project.eu/, DDS-MAP https://ddsmap.easpd.eu/, DigiCanTrain https://digicantrain.turkuamk.fi/contact-us/, e-Hospital4Future https://eh4future.eu/, EHMA https://hpass.healthworkforce.eu/EU4Health training https://health.ec.europa.eu/publications/2022-eu4health-work-programme_en; GESEA Educational Programme https://gesea.eu/ and TRANSiTION https://ehma.org/projects/transition/.
    • [7]  EU4Health Programme funded Joint Action Heroes: https://www.agenas.gov.it/ricerca-e-sviluppo/ricerca-internazionale/personale-sanitario-ri/heroes-health-workforce-to-meet-health-challenges.
    • [8]  https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/5c5c5399-fa8a-11ef-b7db-01aa75ed71a1.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Employment of people on the autism spectrum in the EU – E-000626/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Staff Regulations[1] prohibit discrimination based on any ground and promote equal opportunities. In the new mandate, the Commission will continue to improve recruitment and talent management to attract and retain a skilled, diverse, versatile, and motivated workforce[2].

    As part of its Human Resources Strategy[3], the Commission is working on attracting and catering for the needs of diverse staff, including people with disabilities, and aims for a discrimination free and accessible workplace. The Diversity and inclusion in the workplace action plan 2023-2024[4] includes more targeted actions in this area.

    The European Personnel Selection Office and the Commission provide support to candidates with medical conditions and offer reasonable accommodation[5].

    Fostering access to quality and sustainable jobs is one of the priorities of the strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities[6]. The Commission cooperates with stakeholders focusing on specific disabilities, and financially supports organisations such as Autism Europe.

    The Commission also takes into account the European Parliament Resolution of 4 October 2023 on harmonising the rights of autistic persons[7] in its action.

    • [1]  OJ L 56, 4.3.1968, p. 1.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/58e66b7e-850f-439f-b448-652cc4f6743e_en?filename=mission-letter-serafin.pdf.
    • [3]  C(2022) 2229 final, 5.4.2022.
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/196676b9-9b29-4034-84ca-d75d3cd5912c_en?filename=fact-sheet-diversity-inclusion-in-workplace-action-plan-2023-2024_en_0.pdf.
    • [5]  C(2004)1318, 07.04.2004; https://eu-careers.europa.eu/en/selection-procedure/equal-opportunities-diversity-inclusion.
    • [6] COM/2021/101 final, 3.3.2021.
    • [7] P9_TA(2023)0343.
    Last updated: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –