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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI: Is polite driving in the rearview? PNW drivers say rudeness is on the rise

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — If you’ve felt a shift in driver behavior on Pacific Northwest roads, you’re not alone. PEMCO’s poll of Washington and Oregon residents found that rudeness on the road may be more than a feeling; it’s a reality. Nearly three in four drivers (73%) say they have at least occasionally seen increases in traffic violations in the last five years, and of those, nearly half (47%) say they’ve often seen more drivers breaking the rules.

    Drivers admitted to a range of behaviors behind the wheel, such as driving slower to “teach someone a lesson” after they’ve tailgated you – 36% of drivers said they do it at least occasionally. Likewise, 35% of drivers admit to speeding up to block another vehicle from passing.

    Interestingly, some groups were significantly more likely to fess up to the unfriendly driving behaviors than others. Parents, in particular, were more than twice as likely as drivers without children to say they’ve acted out behind the wheel. For example, 29% of parents say they’ve often driven slower on purpose to teach someone a lesson after being tailgated, compared to just 9% of drivers without kids. Similarly, 24% of parents admit to often speeding up to block someone from passing, while only 8% of non-parents say the same.

    Younger drivers also stand out. Those under 35 were the age group most likely to admit to these kinds of aggressive behaviors, with 31% saying they’ve often driven slower to teach a lesson, and 23% admitting they’ve often sped up to block a pass – far higher than the rates reported among drivers 55 and older (4% and 7%, respectively).

    Despite the rise in rudeness, most drivers still say they witness polite gestures, like waving someone through or allowing others to merge. But the contrast is significant: more than half (56%) also say they often see rude or aggressive behavior from other drivers, while only 37% say they’ve witnessed other drivers being extra polite.

    “Aggressive driving may be becoming more common, but it doesn’t have to be the norm,” said Jennifer Hawton, spokesperson for PEMCO Insurance. “Safe, defensive driving helps protect everyone, and often, a small act of kindness behind the wheel can prevent a much bigger problem. It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and help keep each other safe when driving.”

    About the PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll

    PEMCO Mutual Insurance commissioned this independent survey, conducted by Qualtrics, to explore Washington and Oregon residents’ attitudes toward current Northwest issues. The study included 436 respondents from the Seattle metro area (King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties) and 398 respondents from the Portland metro area (Multnomah, Marion, Clackamas, and Washington counties). The results have a margin of error of ±5% at a 95% confidence level. In other words, if the survey we conducted 100 times, the findings would fall within that margin of error in 95 of those instances.

    About PEMCO Mutual Insurance

    PEMCO Mutual Insurance has been serving the Pacific Northwest for 75 years. PEMCO provides auto, home, renters, and boat coverage. We are honored to have been recognized as a Best American Insurance Company by Forbes Magazine based on customer feedback and as one of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces 2025 by Newsweek. We distinguish ourselves through award-winning customer service, industry expertise, and social impact programs focused on supporting youth and education; community impact programs that build a safer, stronger Pacific Northwest. To learn more, visit www.pemco.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Livestock and lions make uneasy neighbours: how a fence upgrade helped protect domestic and wild animals in Tanzania

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Jonathan Salerno, Associate Professor, Colorado State University, Colorado State University

    Protecting livestock in areas where large carnivores (like lions) live is increasingly important as human land use expands, wildlife habitat shrinks, and climatic changes reshape the ways in which humans and wildlife interact. Protecting the carnivores from livestock owners is important too. Intact carnivore populations support more resilient food webs and the ecosystem services they provide.

    It’s not easy for people, livestock, and carnivores to live together without conflict, though. One of the best ways to reduce conflict is to protect livestock like cattle and sheep from being attacked by predators.

    There are various methods to do this, like guarding livestock or erecting fences. That’s all very well for the livestock inside the fences, but do predators simply turn to the nearest unprotected livestock for their meal instead? Are the neighbours’ cattle, sheep, and goats at greater risk? This question hasn’t been explored much by researchers.

    We’re a group of conservation practitioners and scientists who have studied the interactions of carnivores, livestock, and people in Tanzania and elsewhere for decades to try and find solutions to conflict problems.

    Our study area is next to a national park which protects important populations of lion, leopard, hyena, African wild dog, and cheetah. The people who live here have traditionally kept their livestock overnight in enclosures made of acacia-thorn branches. More recently, some of them have built pens, or corrals, from tall chain link fencing. We knew from years working with communities and from previous research that these fortified corrals were effective at keeping livestock safe from predators.

    Our next step was to find out whether this made other nearby livestock less safe.

    Read more: What’s behind the conflict between people and animals in Tanzania

    The results were intriguing. We found that the new enclosures made predation less likely in the nearby traditional enclosures too.

    This type of beneficial spillover effect had yet to be documented in other systems where interventions aim to protect livestock from large carnivores.

    Our results show that in conservation, it’s important to look closely at complex local dynamics. The findings may help explain why there’s so much uncertainty about the effectiveness of various human–wildlife conflict mitigation strategies.

    Beneficial spillover effects

    People who keep livestock in east Africa have long had strategies to keep their animals safe from large carnivores. Sometimes acacia-thorn night enclosures (known locally as bomas), intensive herding practices, and guarding dogs work well.

    Other times, and especially in communities within and adjacent to large, protected carnivore populations, traditional strategies fall short.

    This is the case in Tanzania’s Ruaha-Rungwa Landscape. In our study area adjacent to Ruaha National Park, any pastoralist or agropastoralist (herding and crop farming) household has about a 30% chance of losing one or more animals to predation each year. This is a serious economic loss on top of important cultural and emotional costs.

    Read more: Losing a calf to wolves in Sweden hurts. But if lions take one in Uganda, a farming family’s income is gone

    Lion Landscapes, an organisation that some of us have been running for over a decade, works to support human-carnivore coexistence. Adjacent to Ruaha, we have been partnering with households to build 1.8-metre chain-link corrals. We subsidise them. Households contribute 25% of the cost and some of the labour for construction.

    We analysed about 25,000 monthly reports of livestock predation in fenced and traditional enclosures, using statistical models. There were 846 predation events over nearly four years. Unexpectedly, while we did detect spillover effects, these appeared to be beneficial. Rather than displacing conflicts, fortified enclosures actually conferred protective effects on their traditional-enclosure neighbours.

    For example, households within 50 metres (the minimum observed distance) of a fortified enclosure were half as likely to experience predation compared with distant households 2 kilometres away. And these beneficial effects increased with the number of fortified enclosures in a neighbourhood. Finally, the effects appeared to be durable over time.

    The fortified enclosures were extremely effective. We showed that households could break even after paying for the fence in just a few years through avoided livestock losses. And we know that when domestic animals aren’t being killed, their owners are more tolerant of predators. We didn’t record carnivore killings in this study but it has happened fairly frequently in the area in the past.

    In a few of the world’s human-wildlife conflict systems, where data exist to assess spillover effects, there is evidence that detrimental spillovers do occur. For instance, beehive deterrents may redirect elephants to nearby crop fields, or lethal removal of individual wolves may redirect the surviving pack to prey on adjacent ranches. Nevertheless, these are very under-studied interactions.

    Livestock management and carnivore coexistence

    In systems where humans, livestock, and wildlife overlap and sometimes come into conflict, management strategies too often focus on wildlife. Another option is to reduce whatever attracts wildlife. In the case of large carnivores, this means managing livestock.

    Read more: Livestock are threatened by predators – but old-fashioned shepherding may be an effective solution

    Our results support this approach by demonstrating that management and protection of livestock is fundamental for reducing conflict, and can benefit not only livestock owners but landscape-level coexistence.

    Conservationists and policy-makers need to encourage these practices that benefit people, carnivores, and livestock in shared landscapes.

    – Livestock and lions make uneasy neighbours: how a fence upgrade helped protect domestic and wild animals in Tanzania
    – https://theconversation.com/livestock-and-lions-make-uneasy-neighbours-how-a-fence-upgrade-helped-protect-domestic-and-wild-animals-in-tanzania-258113

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Paa Kwesi Wolseley Prah, Postdoctoral Fellow, Dublin City University

    Ghana stands out in west Africa as a nation that has not experienced terrorist attacks, even though it’s geographically close to countries that have. In Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria, extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have wreaked havoc.

    This resilience is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate counter-terrorism strategies employed by Ghana’s security institutions.

    Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework was set out in 2020. It has four pillars: prevent, pre-empt, protect, and respond. The idea is to coordinate multiple agencies, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Armed Forces and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    These pillars guide strategies to address both immediate threats and underlying vulnerabilities. Poverty, religious radicalism and porous borders are common drivers of terrorism in west Africa.

    I am an international security and global governance researcher. My co-author is a government and international studies scholar.

    Four years ago we wrote a paper examining Ghana’s resilience against terrorist attacks. Our findings are still relevant given the increasing activities of terror groups in the west African region.

    Read more: West Africa terror: why attacks on military bases are rising – and four ways to respond

    We wanted to identify what works as a potential model for other countries.

    Using a qualitative methodology, we interviewed stakeholders — including police officers, members of the armed forces, Muslim community leaders, and immigration officials. We also analysed the national framework for preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism.

    Our findings showed that Ghana’s success is traceable to an approach that integrates community engagement with advanced border technology, inter-agency training, media collaboration and intelligence operations. And it addresses both immediate and underlying threats.

    We argue that Ghana’s ability to balance prevention with security offers solutions for stability in a geopolitically volatile region.

    Read more: Ghana’s new president faces tough regional security problems: why he’s well-placed to tackle them

    Community engagement

    One of the standout strategies is community engagement. This serves multiple purposes, from guiding people away from extremism to gathering intelligence.

    The Ghana Police Service, for instance, engages Muslim-dominated communities, known as “Zongos”, to counter radical Islamic ideologies that could be exploited by terrorist groups.

    By collaborating with local religious leaders, police make communities aware of the dangers of radicalisation. They foster trust and encourage residents to report suspicious activities. This approach also works in tackling illegal arms circulation.

    Ghana has an estimated 2.3 million small arms in circulation – 1.1 million of them illegally possessed. The availability of so many weapons fuels terrorist activities across west Africa.

    Community based de-radicalisation aligns with global best practices. In Norway, for instance, it was used to disengage youth from extremist groups.

    Technology at borders

    Ghana’s border control management is another part of its counter-terrorism strategy. Ghana Immigration Service uses advanced security software and integrated systems like the “Immigration 360” system, designed to fully automate passenger processing and data management.

    The system manages records of fingerprints and other data to improve reporting and intelligence sharing between Ghana Immigration and other security agencies.

    The technology makes it possible to quickly identity individuals on terrorist watchlists and detects concealed goods. This helps prevent illegal cross-border movements.

    There are gaps in Ghana’s defences, however. The influx of migrants fleeing extremist violence in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in 2024 highlights the urgency of scaling up investments in the technology.

    Read more: West Africa could soon have a jihadist state – here’s why

    Training for preparedness

    Ghana combats new and varying forms of terrorism by uncovering trends and training personnel to deal with them.

    A notable example was the six-day joint training in 2022 involving the Ghana Immigration Service, Police Service, Customs, Economic and Organised Crime Office, and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    The country also works with regional neighbours like Burkina Faso, Togo and Benin, and partners such as the United States, through initiatives like “Operation Epic Guardian”.

    Media as a strategic partner

    Terrorists rely on media to amplify fear and publicise their causes. Ghana’s security agencies counter this tactic by actively engaging media houses to report accurately.

    The Ghana Armed Forces, for instance, works with media to debunk false reports, which can cause public panic and inadvertently aid terrorists.

    The Ghana Police Service emphasises regular dialogue with media to ensure sensitive information is verified before publication, reducing the risk of tipping off suspects. However, media competition for viewers poses a challenge.

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering is critical. Plainclothes armed forces and immigration personnel blend into communities to monitor potential threats. The approach has worked but is constrained by resources.

    It can also risk human rights violations, such as wrongful profiling, and is less effective against multiple targets compared to technological solutions like facial recognition or CCTV.

    Read more: Funding terror: how west Africa’s deadly jihadists get the money they need to survive

    Challenges and regional implications

    Despite its successes, Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework faces challenges that could undermine its long-term efficacy:

    • logistical and financial constraints

    • the influx of migrants fleeing regional violence

    • a lack of harmonised security cultures within the regional body, Ecowas.

    In all, Ghana’s strategies offer lessons for west Africa, where terrorism is a growing threat.

    Its community engagement model could be followed in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to counter radicalisation and arms proliferation, provided it avoids religious stereotyping.

    – Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach
    – https://theconversation.com/ghanas-security-strategy-has-kept-terror-attacks-at-bay-what-other-countries-can-learn-from-its-approach-260333

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Learning statistics through story: students get creative with numbers

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Johan Ferreira, Professor, University of the Witwatersrand

    Statistics professor Johan Ferreira was feeling overwhelmed by the amount of “screen time” involved in online learning in 2021. He imagined students must be feeling the same way, and wondered what he could do to inspire them and make his subject matter more appealing.

    One of the topics in statistics is time series analysis: statistical methods to understand trend behaviour in data which is measured over time. There are lots of examples in daily life, from rainfall records to changes in commodity prices, import or exports, or temperature.

    Ferreira asked his students to write a short, fictional “bedtime” story using “characters” from time series analysis. The results were collected into a book that is freely available. He tells us more about it.

    Why use storytelling to learn about statistics?

    I’m fortunate to be something of a creative myself, being a professional oboe player with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. It’s a valuable outlet for self-expression. I reflected on what other activity could inspire creativity without compromising the essence of statistical thinking that was required in this particular course I was teaching.

    Example of a time series, the kind of data analysed using statistical methods. Author provided (no reuse)

    I invited my third-year science and commerce students at the University of Pretoria to take part in a voluntary storytelling exercise, using key concepts in time series analysis as characters. Students got some guidelines but were free to be creative. My colleague and co-editor, Dr Seite Makgai, and I then read, commented on and edited the stories and put them together into an anthology.

    Students gave their consent that their stories could be used for research purposes and might be published. Out of a class of over 200 students, over 30 contributions were received; 23 students permitted their work to be included in this volume.

    We curated submissions into two sections (Part I: Fables and Fairy Tales and Part II: Fantasy and Sci-Fi) based on the general style and gist of the work.

    The project aimed to develop a new teaching resource, inspire students to take ownership of their learning in a creative way, and support them through informal, project-based peer learning.

    This collection is written by students, for students. They used personal and cultural contexts relevant to their background and environment to create content that has a solid background in their direct academic interests. And the stories are available without a paywall!

    What are some of the characters and stories?

    Student Lebogang Malebati wrote Stationaryville and the Two Brothers, a tale about AR(1) and AR(2). In statistics, AR refers to processes in which numerical values are based on past values. The brothers “were both born with special powers, powers that could make them stationary…” and could trick an evil wizard.

    David Dodkins wrote Zt and the Shadow-spawn. In this story, Zt (common notation in time series analysis) has a magic amulet that reveals his character growth through a sequence of models and shows the hero’s victory in the face of adversity. He is a function of those that came before him (through an AR process).

    Then there’s Nelis Daniels’ story about a shepherd plagued by a wolf called Arma (autoregressive moving average) which kept making sheep disappear.

    And Dikelede Rose Motseleng’s modern fable about the love-hate relationship between AR(1) (“more of a linear guy” with a bad habit of predicting the future based on the past) and MA(1), “the type of girl who would always provide you with stationarity (stability).”

    What was the impact of the project?

    It was a deeply enriching experience for us to see how students see statistics in a context beyond that of the classroom, especially in cases where students reformulated their stories within their own cultural identities or niche interests.

    Three particular main impacts stand out for us:

    • students have a new additional reference and learning resource for the course content

    • new students can refer to the experiences and contextualisation of this content of former students, leading to informal peer learning

    • students engage in a cognitive skill (higher-order and creative thinking) that is not frequently considered and included in this field and at this level.

    In 2024, shortly after the book was published, we asked students in the time series analysis course of that year to read any one of four stories (related to concepts that were already covered in the course material at that point in time). We asked them to complete a short and informal survey to gauge their experience and insights regarding the potential of this book as a learning resource for them.

    The 53 responses we got indicated that most students saw the book as a useful contribution to their learning experience in time series analysis.

    Student perceptions of value of stories. Author supplied, Author provided (no reuse)

    One positive comment from a student was:

    I will always remember that the Random Walk is indeed not stationary but White Noise is. I already knew it, but now I won’t forget it.

    Will you build on this in future?

    It is definitely valuable to consider similar projects in other branches of statistics, but also, in other disciplines entirely, to develop content by students, for students.

    At this stage, we’re having the stories and book translated into languages beyond English. In large classes that are essential to data science (such as statistics and mathematics), many different home languages may be spoken. Students often have to learn in their second, third, or even fourth language. So, this project is proving valuable in making advanced statistical concepts tactile and “at home” via translations.

    Our publisher recently let us know that the Setswana translation is complete, with the Sepedi and Afrikaans translations following soon. To our knowledge, it’ll be the first such project not only in the discipline of statistics, but in four of the official languages in South Africa.

    – Learning statistics through story: students get creative with numbers
    – https://theconversation.com/learning-statistics-through-story-students-get-creative-with-numbers-261198

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Launches Galaxy F36 5G with Premium Leather Finish, Segment-Leading Camera and AI Innovations in India

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the launch of Galaxy F36 5G to deliver a superior smartphone experience to users. Galaxy F36 5G comes with several segment-leading features that sets it apart from its predecessors. Galaxy F36 5G stands out with a premium leather finish, 50MP OIS triple camera with Nightography, Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ protection and advanced AI innovations.
     
    “With Galaxy F36 5G, we are reiterating our commitment to empower our consumers’ lives with powerful, future-ready devices. Galaxy F36 5G further accelerates the democratization of mobile AI, bringing cutting-edge AI features and capabilities within everyone’s reach, enabling users to unlock their full potential,” said Akshay S Rao, Director, MX Business, Samsung India.
     
    AI Camera
    Galaxy F36 5G comes with an advanced 50MP OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) triple camera setup, enabling you to shoot high-resolution, shake free photos and blur free videos. Galaxy F36 5G features Auto Night Mode, taking the Nightography experience to a whole new level by allowing you to capture crystal-clear low-light shots and videos. You can capture sharper and clearer night portraits thanks to AI stereo depth map technology.
     
    Users can record 4K videos with both the front and rear cameras. Galaxy F36 5G comes with fantastic mobile AI features such as Object Eraser, which instantly removes unwanted objects or people from photos; Image Clipper, which helps users extract a subject from an image and separate it from the background; and Edit Suggestions, which provides AI-powered recommendations for photo and video editing, taking the user experience to a whole new level.
     
    AI-Led Convenience
    Furthering the democratization of mobile AI to even more devices in the Galaxy ecosystem, Galaxy F36 5G comes with Circle to Search with Google. Additionally, it introduces new AI experience with Gemini Live, bringing real-time visual conversations with AI to Galaxy users. It allows for natural, conversational interactions with the Gemini AI assistant through voice, camera, and screen sharing. You can talk to Gemini, ask it to brainstorm ideas, explore topics, or even practice for important moments.
     
    Design and Display
    Designed for young consumers and built to impress, Galaxy F36 5G features a premium leather finish which is crafted to perfection and will come in three refreshing colours – Luxe Violet, Coral Red and Onyx Black. Galaxy F36 5G is only 7.7mm slim and features segment-leading Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ protection – making it extremely tough as well as ergonomic.
     
    Galaxy F36 5G features a 6.7-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and Vision Booster technology making it the perfect device for an unparalleled viewing experience even in the harsh outdoor lighting conditions.
     
    Powerful Processor
    Galaxy F36 5G is powered by the fast and power-efficient Exynos 1380 processor. Along with the 5nm based processor, Galaxy F36 5G also comes with a large vapor cooling chamber, which ensures efficient heat dissipation, providing users with a lag-free gaming experience and super smooth processing. For long sessions of browsing, binge watching and gaming, Galaxy F36 5G packs in 5000mAh battery. The device supports 25W fast charging, giving more power in less time.
     
    Galaxy Experiences
    Galaxy F36 5G offers segment-best 6 generations of Android upgrades and 6 years of security updates, ensuring a future-ready experience. Galaxy F36 5G comes with One UI 7 out of the box, bringing simple, impactful and emotive design as well as streamlined and cohesive experience to Galaxy users.
     
    Galaxy F36 5G aims to revolutionize consumer experience with ‘made in India’ innovations such as Voice Focus that cuts the ambient noise for an amazing calling experience. Galaxy F36 5G also features Quick Share which enables users to instantly share files, photos and documents with other devices, even if they are faraway, including your laptop and tab, privately.
     
    Galaxy F36 5G also features one of Samsung’s most innovative security features: Samsung Knox Vault. The hardware-based security system offers comprehensive protection against both hardware and software attacks. It includes Samsung’s innovative Tap & Pay feature with Samsung Wallet allowing consumers to make secure payments effortlessly.
     

    Product
    Variant
    Introductory Price
    Offers

    Galaxy F36 5G
    6GB+128GB
    INR 16499
     
     
    Including INR 1000 Introductory Offer

    8GB+128GB
    INR 17999

    8GB+256GB
    INR 20999

     
     
     
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sentence tripled for former police officer

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Sentence tripled for former police officer

    A police officer who continued an inappropriate relationship with a vulnerable girl he met on duty over several years has had his sentence increased.

    Che Homersham (37), from Southgate in North London, had his sentence increased by 12 months after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP referred it under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.  

    The court heard that Homersham met the 16-year-old girl while on duty. He contacted the girl from his personal number under the pretext of taking a personal statement before picking her up and driving her to a remote location. Homersham then asked if he could kiss her but, the victim refused his advances.  

    This was the start of Homersham’s inappropriate relationship with the teenager over several years, which included describing sexual fantasies and making sexual advances.

    Homersham was arrested for a separate matter in August 2023, when his texts to the victim were uncovered.  

    In a victim personal statement, the girl said that Homersham’s actions has meant she doesn’t trust many people anymore and impacts how she perceives the police.  

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said: 

    Homersham abused his position as a police officer – a role that rightly commands public trust – and I welcome the Court’s decision to increase his sentence.

    On 13 May 2025, Che Homersham was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for misconduct in public office.

    On 22 July 2025, his sentence was quashed and tripled to 18 months after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First report on babies born following pioneering licensed IVF technique to reduce the risk of mitochondrial diseases

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The first published research findings from the Newcastle team on the children born following pioneering licensed IVF technique to reduce the risk of mitochondrial diseases.

    The research papers, published in New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) by the team based at Newcastle University and the Newcastle Fertility Centre at Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust describe the reproductive and clinical outcomes of pronuclear transfer treatments performed to date.

    In the absence of a cure for mitochondrial DNA diseases, attention has focussed on IVF-based technologies to reduce the risk of disease by limiting transmission of disease-causing mitochondrial DNA mutations from mother to child.

    The UK was the first country to approve laws to allow the use of the ground-breaking IVF-based mitochondrial donation technology, pronuclear transfer, in 2015. The technique is designed to reduce the risk of mitochondrial DNA disease in children born to women who carry high levels of disease-causing mitochondrial DNA mutations.

    Journalists came to this press briefing to hear from clinicians, scientists and embryologists caring for the mothers affected by mitochondrial disease about the first babies, the science, the methods and the data, and to ask their questions. 

    Speakers included:

    Professor Sir Doug Turnbull, Emeritus Professor of Neurology, Newcastle University

    Professor Mary Herbert, Professor of Reproductive Biology, Newcastle University and Monash University

    Professor Bobby McFarland, Director of the NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders (Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust) and Professor of Paediatric Mitochondrial Medicine at Newcastle University

    Dr Louise Hyslop, Consultant Embryologist, Newcastle Fertility Centre, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

    This Briefing was accompanied by an SMC Roundup of comments. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Genome engineering for species conservation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Much has been made of the potential of genome engineering to bring back extinct species.  But what about its potential for biodiversity and conservation of existing threatened species?

    Traditional conservation techniques such as captive breeding and habitat protection can be successful in boosting population numbers but this can leave species populations with low genetic diversity, leaving them more vulnerable to future threats like new diseases or climate change.

    In a new Perspectives article in Nature Reviews Biodiversity, a team of scientists examines the potential for CRISPR-based editing to complement existing conservation in the following ways:

    1. Restoring lost variation – bringing back genetic diversity that has been lost from the gene pool of the modern populations of threatened species, using DNA from samples of the species collected decades or even centuries ago, which are stored in natural history museums all over the world
    2. Facilitated adaptation – introducing genes from related, better-adapted species to confer traits like heat tolerance or pathogen resistance, equipping threatened species to adapt to rapid environmental change
    3. Reducing genetic load – populations that have previously crashed in numbers often carry harmful mutations that have become fixed by chance, so targeted gene edits could replace these mutations with the healthy variant from before the population crash – with the potential to improve fertility, survival rates, and overall health.

    Is this what the future of conservation looks like?  What potential does it have and what are the risks scientists need to avoid?

    Journalists came to this briefing to hear from three of the authors and put their questions to them.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Cock van Oosterhout, Professor of Evolutionary Genetics at the University of East Anglia 

    Dr Anna Keyte, Species Director at Colossal Biosciences

    Prof Jim Groombridge, Professor of Biodiversity Conservation, Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent

    This Briefing was accompanied by an SMC Roundup of comments. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at estimates of brain ageing and the Covid pandemic

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Nature Communications looks at brain ageing during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

    Dr Eugene Duff, Advanced Research Fellow in Informatics, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, said:

    “Mohammadi-Nejad and colleagues present a unique analysis of MRI data from the UK Biobank study to identify evidence for the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic period – independent of the infection itself – on brain health and aging.  They were able to show that, even in the absence of COVID-19 infection, living through the pandemic was associated with accelerated aging of the brain, and could point to a variety of factors potentially contributing to this acceleration, such as sex and socio-demographic background.  With this approach, the authors were able to quantify more extensive brain health associations of the pandemic period than studies focusing purely on effects of the virus itself.  However, as an observational study it is not possible to fully exclude that factors unrelated to the pandemic could contribute to the observed acceleration. While the events of the pandemic were exceptional, this work demonstrates the stark effects that the conditions of an individual’s life may have on brain and cognitive health, and the value of careful dissection of the myriad of local and global factors contributing to these conditions.”

    Prof Masud Husain, Professor of Neurology & Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Oxford, said:

    “While this is a very carefully conducted analysis, we have to be cautious with interpretation.

    “The brain age difference between the two groups (as indexed by brain scanning) was on average only 5 months, and difference in cognitive performance between groups was only on the total time taken to complete one of the tests.  Is this really going to make a significant difference in everyday life?

    “Furthermore, the time between scans was much shorter in the people scanned before and after the pandemic, compared to those who had both scans before the pandemic. We therefore don’t know if brain aging would have recovered if more time elapsed.”

    Dr Maxime Taquet, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, said:

    “This landmark brain imaging study suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic may have accelerated brain ageing in some people.  By comparing scans taken more than two years apart, researchers found that the average person’s brain appeared to age an extra 5.5 months for every year lived during the pandemic.  It is important to note that the majority of people showed brain ageing at the expected rate.  However, a higher-than-usual proportion showed striking increases in brain age of an extra 15 to 20 months per year.

    “Among those infected with COVID-19, the increased brain age correlated with lower scores in a test of thinking skills like attention and problem-solving.  This might help explain why some people who had COVID-19 have impaired cognition.

    “The findings raise important questions about the long-term neurological impact of the pandemic, whether due to infection itself or the broader psychological and social stress it caused.  The authors suggest that the observed brain ageing may reflect a biopsychosocial effect combining the impact of COVID-19 infection with the psychological and social stresses of the pandemic.  However, it is also possible that the observed association is primarily biological, driven largely by undetected infections.  An analysis by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation estimated that over 90% of the UK population may have been infected by the end of 2022, meaning that many participants classified as ‘uninfected’ might have had asymptomatic or undocumented cases.  This raises the possibility that viral exposure played a more central role in the study findings than assumed.

    “Another possibility is that the findings do not reflect a causal relationship and are due to a form of selection bias.  For instance, if individuals whose brains were ageing more slowly happened to be scanned sooner, and therefore before the pandemic, this could have contributed to the observed association despite the study’s efforts to rule out such confounding.

    “The study was well-designed and based on unique UK Biobank data with repeated brain scans.  The researchers also acknowledge limitations.  The sample excludes people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and depression and the UK Biobank underrepresents the most socioeconomically deprived groups, the very populations in which the association between the pandemic and brain ageing was largest. This means the association in the general population could be even more pronounced.”

    ‘Accelerated brain ageing during the COVID19 pandemic’ by Ali-Reza Mohammadi-Nejad et al. was published in Nature Communications at 16:00 UK time on Tuesday 22 July 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-61033-4

    Declared interests

    Dr Eugene Duff: “I have no conflicts of interest.”

    Prof Masud Husain: “I don’t have any conflict of interest.”

    Dr Maxime Taquet: “I do not have a conflict of interest.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major funding agreed for Smithfield Birmingham

    Source: City of Birmingham

    An agreement has been made which brings the delivery of one of the largest and most exciting urban regeneration schemes in Europe a step closer.

    • Birmingham Smithfield will create a new city centre destination, providing a new home for the iconic Bull Ring Markets, along with spaces for start-ups, small business, and entrepreneurs.
    • The scheme will deliver a new residential neighbourhood with more than 3,000 new homes and a park, plus culture and leisure attractions.
    • The development is projected to create over 9,000 jobs during the construction phase and more than 10,000 additional roles post-construction.

    The Enterprise Zone Partnership Board and Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet have agreed the Outline Business Case and Enterprise Zone Funding for Smithfield Birmingham, which brings the delivery of one of the largest and most exciting urban regeneration schemes in Europe a step closer.

    A total of £172.8 million in grant funding has been allocated to the scheme, making the development financially viable, subject to the approval of full business cases for the different phases of the project, which will be submitted as the scheme progresses.

    The Birmingham Enterprise Zone, established in 2011, covers 39 sites with 113 hectares of new and existing development space. The zone operates by using the business rates income growth from the 39 sites to invest and drive economic growth and improve the quality of live for Birmingham residents. The total cost of the grant will be met from the business rates income the development is expected to generate over the life of the Enterprise Zone programme to 2045/46.

    The first Full Business Case that will release part of the allocated funding is expected to be submitted for approval early in 2026. In the meantime, Lendlease will continue the detailed design of the first phase including the new markets, first residential and workplace buildings and the new areas of public realm Manor Square and Market Square. Lendlease will also discharge planning pre-commencement conditions, undertake site surveys and finalise the site set up plans. The council will ensure that its Joint Venture Agreement with Lendlease for Smithfield Birmingham enables Lendlease’s new Joint Venture Partner, The Crown Estate, to formally participate in the scheme.

    Last year the council’s Planning Committee approved revised plans for the 17-hectare development site that will create a new city centre destination, providing a new home for the iconic Bull Ring Markets, spaces for start-ups, small business, and entrepreneurs, a new residential neighbourhood with more than 3,000 new homes and a park, new culture and leisure attractions.

    The development is projected to create over 9,000 jobs during the construction phase and more than 10,000 additional roles post-construction. Comprehensive training and support initiatives will be implemented to ensure that residents are equipped to access these employment opportunities.

    Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, Cllr Sharon Thompson, said:

    “This £1.9 billion development will transform the area, creating a vibrant landmark in the heart of Birmingham—that will elevate the city’s economic growth and enhance its international reputation.

    “Smithfield is the largest single city centre development site in the UK, and is a key strand of our plans to transform the city centre.

    “Approval of this grant funding is a significant milestone that will kick start the delivery of 3,000 homes for Birmingham, create 9,000 jobs, and will make Birmingham’s city centre an even more exciting and lively place for people to live and work.”

    Colin Murphy, Portfolio Development Director & Project Lead Smithfield (Birmingham) at Lendlease, said:

    “This funding brings added momentum for the next phase of Smithfield and the long-term regeneration of Birmingham city centre.

    “It’s a vote of confidence in the city’s future and a clear signal that delivery of this once in a generation scheme is on its way.”

    Construction is expected to commence on site in early 2026 and the delivery will be completed in four phases over 10 years.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment: 22 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appointment: 22 July 2025

    The King has been pleased to approve the following appointment.

    The King has been pleased to approve the following appointment:

    • Lord Lemos CMG CBE as Lord in Waiting (Government Whip).

    Lord Moraes OBE has left the Government.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia expands grain export geography — Russian Minister of Agriculture

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 22 (Xinhua) — In 2024, Russia for the first time supplied grain crops to 11 countries, and also resumed exports to seven countries, Russian Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut said on Tuesday, as cited by the Russian government’s press service.

    Currently, Russia exports grain crops to 108 countries, and 70 countries purchase wheat from Russia. Russia has been the leader in wheat supplies to the world market since 2016 and intends to maintain this status in the current agricultural season. By the end of 2024, the country became the world leader in barley exports for the first time.

    Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said that Russia plans to increase agricultural exports by 1.5 times by 2030 compared to 2021 figures. Various government support measures are provided for the development of the grain industry, including subsidies, preferential lending, and reduced tariffs for rail transportation. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Kremlin does not expect “miraculous breakthroughs” in the talks with Ukraine in Istanbul – D. Peskov

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 22 /Xinhua/ — The draft memorandums on peace settlement handed over to each other by Russia and Ukraine should become the main topic of the third round of direct Russian-Ukrainian talks. Moscow does not expect any “miraculous” breakthroughs, any forecasts for achieving peace in Ukraine are currently impossible. This was stated at a briefing on Tuesday by the press secretary of the Russian president Dmitry Peskov.

    “The topic of the negotiations is quite complex: in addition to other issues, of course, it will be necessary to discuss those very draft memoranda that were exchanged during the second round,” D. Peskov pointed out.

    According to him, “of course, there is no reason to count on any breakthroughs from the category of miracles. It is unlikely that this is possible in the current situation.” The Kremlin representative emphasized that the Russian side intends to defend its interests and ensure their achievement.

    D. Peskov did not estimate the time frame for a possible agreement on a Ukrainian settlement, emphasizing that this depends on many factors.

    “I would not estimate potential timeframes at all. It depends on many factors, and now any forecasts will be wrong,” the press secretary of the Russian president said.

    Moscow proceeds from the fact that Kyiv has still not lifted the ban on negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. “To be fair /it should be noted that/ this ban is still in effect. This is an obvious fact,” added D. Peskov.

    According to him, Moscow and Kyiv need to work a lot before discussing the prospects of a summit meeting. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Ukrainian delegation at the talks with the Russian Federation will be headed by the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    KYIV, July 22 (Xinhua) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Tuesday on the X social network that the Ukrainian delegation at the new round of peace talks with Russia will be headed by newly appointed Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov.

    V. Zelensky added that, in addition to R. Umerov, the delegation will include representatives of Ukrainian intelligence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the President of Ukraine.

    V. Zelensky especially emphasized that official Kyiv is ready to work as productively as possible to achieve the release of Ukrainians from Russian captivity, the return of Ukrainian children taken to the Russian Federation, an end to the loss of life, and the preparation of a meeting of the leaders of Ukraine and Russia to truly establish peace between the two countries.

    According to media reports, a new round of negotiations between delegations from Ukraine and Russia will take place in the coming days in Turkey.

    The previous meeting of representatives of the two states took place on June 2 in Istanbul. At the meeting, Kyiv and Moscow agreed to conduct a prisoner exchange according to the formula “all for all” for two categories of servicemen – seriously ill and those aged 18 to 25. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In the Vyshka tent at VK Fest, they sent messages into space and immersed themselves in the virtual world

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University “Higher School of Economics” –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The site may not display correctly in older browser versions. For optimal site experience, we recommend using a modern browser.

    We use cookies to improve the HSE website and make it more convenient to use. More detailed information about the use of cookies can be foundHere, our rules for processing personal data are –Here. By continuing to use the site, you confirm that you have been informed of the use of cookies by the HSE website and agree with our rules for processing personal data. You can disable cookies in your browser settings.

    ABC ABC ABC A A A A A

    Regular version of the site

    Date

    July 22

    Headings

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New IAM Union Merch Now Available on Updated IAM Online Store!

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM Union’s refreshed branding has been a hit with our membership and beyond!

    Now, we have a way for every IAM Union member and supporter to get our brand new merch shipped directly to them.

    Visit our revamped iamuniongear.org online store to order today!

    We have the following IAM Union swag ready for purchase, with more on the way:

    • T-Shirts
    • Polos
    • Hats
    • Magnets
    • Lapel pins
    • Pencils
    • Lanyards
    • Ties and pocket squares/scarves

    In addition, our heritage IAM gear is available at bargain prices, so visit iamuniongear.org today!

    As always, IAM Union merch also remains available for purchase at IAM Headquarters and the Winpisinger Center.

    The post New IAM Union Merch Now Available on Updated IAM Online Store! appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: United Nations – United States’ withdrawal from UNESCO (22.07.25)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    France regrets the United States’ decision to leave UNESCO, of which it is a founder member and a host country for its headquarters.

    Founded in 1946 to prevent conflicts through education, culture and tolerance, UNESCO helps maintain international peace and security. It embodies an effective multilateralism of action, focused on its missions to benefit populations, operating rehabilitation programmes in conflict zones, from Mosul in Iraq to Odessa in Ukraine.

    In this respect, France welcomes the reforms begun in 2018 by Director-General Audrey Azoulay, which have led to a stronger consensus within the organization.

    France supports UNESCO, which backs several of its priorities at international level, particularly access to education for all, the protection of endangered heritage, the protection of our oceans, the responsible development of artificial intelligence and the fight against anti-Semitism and hate speech.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force Commemorates 20 Years Investigating, Apprehending West Texas Fugitives

    Source: US Marshals Service

    San Antonio, TX – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) is commemorating the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force’s 20 years of service as part of the Western District of Texas.

    The Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (LSFTF) is a multi-agency task force focused on the reduction of violence within the Western District of Texas through the identification, investigation, and apprehension of fugitives wanted for egregious crimes against the community. Since its inception in March 2005, the task force has investigated and apprehended over 58,991 fugitives, including 1,795 wanted for murder.  

    The Western District of Texas consists of 93,000 square miles, 68 counties, 809 miles of border with Mexico, with eight divisions located in Austin, Alpine, Del Rio, El Paso, Midland, Pecos, San Antonio and Waco.

    Notable historical cases, arrests, and awards in the Western District of Texas include: 

    In April 2017, the Austin division was presented the Outstanding Team Award at the 34th Annual 100 Club of Central Texas Awards Banquet. 

    June 2022, the Austin division conducted a fugitive investigation that led to the arrest of Kaitlin Armstrong, sought for the May 2022 murder of professional cyclist Moriah “Mo” Wilson. Armstrong was apprehended at a hostel in Costa Rica following a 43-day fugitive investigation with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Office of International Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Department of State Diplomatic Security Service.

    February 2024, the Alpine division investigated the whereabouts of Ivan Ramos-Hernandez, who fled from Presidio Police, engaging them in a high-speed pursuit and firing gunshots. Ramos-Hernandez fled to Ojinaga, Mexico, where he was apprehended by Mexican authorities following a multi-agency collaboration with assistance provided from Homeland Security Investigations, Custom Border Protection, U.S. Probation, Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, Presidio Police and Mexican officials. Ramos-Hernandez attempted a violent escape one last time during transport that was halted by authorities. 

    January 2022, the Del Rio division was contacted by the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Fugitive Task Force to locate and apprehend Oscar Rosales, who was wanted for capital murder, when he shot and killed Corporal Charles Galloway with the Harris County Constables Office during a traffic stop. Rosales fired multiple rounds from an assault rifle and fled from the scene. Rosales was added to the Texas10 Most Wanted Fugitive list and was believed to have fled to Mexico. Investigators in the Del Rio division worked directly with Mexican authorities and coordinated his apprehension in Acuna, Mexico. 

    August 2017, the El Paso division initiated a fugitive investigation to apprehend Javier Gonzalez and Manual Gallegos, members of the Kinfolk Outlaw Motorcycle Gang sought for multiple counts of engaging in organized criminal activity and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Gonzales and Gallegos were arrested in two separate incidents within a 10-day span with additional assistance from El Paso Police Department’s SWAT team.

    April 2025, the Midland division adopted the apprehension of Noah Gilbert Olgin, who was wanted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, injury to a child, deadly conduct and a federal supervised release violation for possession of a firearm, following an incident where he was involved in a drive-by-shooting in Odessa, that resulted in a serious injury to a child.  Olgin was arrested in Midland with assistance from the Midland SWAT team. 

    November 2022, the Pecos division arrested Jose Hernandez, a Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive apprehended in Monterey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, through a coordinated effort with the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Fugitive Task Force and Mexican authorities. Hernandez was sought on a bond violation for two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child. 

    January 2024, the San Antonio division joined efforts to apprehend Romeo Nance, who was wanted in connection with a mass shooting in Joliet, Illinois, that killed eight people and wounded one other person. The Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force, Joliet Police Department, and the Will County Sheriff’s Department requested immediate assistance from the LSFTF who located and observed Nance at a gas station in Natalia, Texas. As members of the LSFTF attempted to contain Nance in his vehicle, he fled on foot, taking his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

    June 2020, the Waco division was contacted by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division to locate 20-year-old Pfc. Class Vanessa Guillen, a Fort Hood soldier who had been reported missing under unusual circumstances in April 2020. Joining CID’s investigation, task force members determined Guillen had been murdered by another soldier. Less than 24 hours after Guillen’s remains were located in a shallow grave near a river, the LSFTF identified Spc. Aaron David Robinson and his girlfriend Cecily Aguilar as primary suspects in her murder. As task force members attempted to take Robinson into custody, he fatally shot himself. Aguilar pleaded guilty in federal court and was sentenced to 30 years of incarceration. In 2021, the Waco Division received the Distinguished Group Award for District Task Forces at the 40th United States Marshals Service Director’s Honorary Awards in recognition of locating Guillen’s remains and identifying those responsible for her death. In July of 2022, personnel in the Waco Division were recognized for their outstanding service, selfless pursuit of justice, and assisting in bringing closure for Guillen’s family and friends by being granted the 69th Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service.   

    On June 2, the Waco Division received the Distinguished Group Award for the District Task Forces at the 43rd United States Marshals Service Director’s Honorary Awards for a two-year-old cold case from Leon County, involving a missing child, and possible homicide of the child’s mother. The division conducted an intensive investigation that resulted in the recovery of the mother’s decomposed remains found buried in a field and completed a multifaceted arrest operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspect and safe recovery of the missing child. During the conclusion of the arrest, multiple firearms, ammunition, body armor, and narcotics were seized, and the suspect was indicted on capital murder.

    “I am immensely proud of the Deputy U.S. Marshals and the numerous task force officers of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, men and women who are fully devoted to making their communities safer for their fellow citizens by apprehending offenders wanted for the most serious crimes such as murder and child abuse, while ensuring the equal application of justice for all,” said Marshal Susan Pamerleau, U.S. Marshal of the Western District of Texas.  

    U.S. Marshals task forces combine the efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate and arrest the most dangerous fugitives. Fifty-eight local task forces are dedicated to reducing violent crime by locating and apprehending wanted criminals. They also serve as the central point for agencies to share information on fugitive matters.  Task force officers are state and local police officers who receive special deputations with the U.S. Marshals. While on a task force, these officers can exercise U.S. Marshals authorities, such as crossing jurisdictional lines.

    Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force across the Western District of TexasSAN ANTONIO – The U.S. Marshals Service is commemorating the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force’s 20 years of service as part of the Western District of Texas.

    The Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (LSFTF) is a multi-agency task force focused on the reduction of violence within the Western District of Texas through the identification, investigation, and apprehension of fugitives wanted for egregious crimes against the community. Since its inception in March 2005, the task force has investigated and apprehended over 58,991 fugitives, including 1,795 wanted for murder.  

    The Western District of Texas consists of 93,000 square miles, 68 counties, 809 miles of border with Mexico, with eight divisions located in Austin, Alpine, Del Rio, El Paso, Midland, Pecos, San Antonio and Waco.

    Notable historical cases, arrests, and awards in the Western District of Texas include: 
    In April 2017, the Austin division was presented the Outstanding Team Award at the 34th Annual 100 Club of Central Texas Awards Banquet. 
    June 2022, the Austin division conducted a fugitive investigation that led to the arrest of Kaitlin Armstrong, sought for the May 2022 murder of professional cyclist Moriah “Mo” Wilson. Armstrong was apprehended at a hostel in Costa Rica following a 43-day fugitive investigation with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Office of International Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Department of State Diplomatic Security Service.
    February 2024, the Alpine division investigated the whereabouts of Ivan Ramos-Hernandez, who fled from Presidio Police, engaging them in a high-speed pursuit and firing gunshots. Ramos-Hernandez fled to Ojinaga, Mexico, where he was apprehended by Mexican authorities following a multi-agency collaboration with assistance provided from Homeland Security Investigations, Custom Border Protection, U.S. Probation, Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, Presidio Police and Mexican officials. Ramos-Hernandez attempted a violent escape one last time during transport that was halted by authorities. 
    January 2022, the Del Rio division was contacted by the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Fugitive Task Force to locate and apprehend Oscar Rosales, who was wanted for capital murder, when he shot and killed Corporal Charles Galloway with the Harris County Constables Office during a traffic stop. Rosales fired multiple rounds from an assault rifle and fled from the scene. Rosales was added to the Texas10 Most Wanted Fugitive list and was believed to have fled to Mexico. Investigators in the Del Rio division worked directly with Mexican authorities and coordinated his apprehension in Acuna, Mexico. 
    August 2017, the El Paso division initiated a fugitive investigation to apprehend Javier Gonzalez and Manual Gallegos, members of the Kinfolk Outlaw Motorcycle Gang sought for multiple counts of engaging in organized criminal activity and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Gonzales and Gallegos were arrested in two separate incidents within a 10-day span with additional assistance from El Paso Police Department’s SWAT team.
    April 2025, the Midland division adopted the apprehension of Noah Gilbert Olgin, who was wanted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, injury to a child, deadly conduct and a federal supervised release violation for possession of a firearm, following an incident where he was involved in a drive-by-shooting in Odessa, that resulted in a serious injury to a child.  Olgin was arrested in Midland with assistance from the Midland SWAT team. 
    November 2022, the Pecos division arrested Jose Hernandez, a Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive apprehended in Monterey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, through a coordinated effort with the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Fugitive Task Force and Mexican authorities. Hernandez was sought on a bond violation for two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child. 
    January 2024, the San Antonio division joined efforts to apprehend Romeo Nance, who was wanted in connection with a mass shooting in Joliet, Illinois, that killed eight people and wounded one other person. The Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force, Joliet Police Department, and the Will County Sheriff’s Department requested immediate assistance from the LSFTF who located and observed Nance at a gas station in Natalia, Texas. As members of the LSFTF attempted to contain Nance in his vehicle, he fled on foot, taking his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 
    June 2020, the Waco division was contacted by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division to locate 20-year-old Pfc. Class Vanessa Guillen, a Fort Hood soldier who had been reported missing under unusual circumstances in April 2020. Joining CID’s investigation, task force members determined Guillen had been murdered by another soldier. Less than 24 hours after Guillen’s remains were located in a shallow grave near a river, the LSFTF identified Spc. Aaron David Robinson and his girlfriend Cecily Aguilar as primary suspects in her murder. As task force members attempted to take Robinson into custody, he fatally shot himself. Aguilar pleaded guilty in federal court and was sentenced to 30 years of incarceration. In 2021, the Waco Division received the Distinguished Group Award for District Task Forces at the 40th United States Marshals Service Director’s Honorary Awards in recognition of locating Guillen’s remains and identifying those responsible for her death. In July of 2022, personnel in the Waco Division were recognized for their outstanding service, selfless pursuit of justice, and assisting in bringing closure for Guillen’s family and friends by being granted the 69th Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service.   
    On June 2, the Waco Division received the Distinguished Group Award for the District Task Forces at the 43rd United States Marshals Service Director’s Honorary Awards for a two-year-old cold case from Leon County, involving a missing child, and possible homicide of the child’s mother. The division conducted an intensive investigation that resulted in the recovery of the mother’s decomposed remains found buried in a field and completed a multifaceted arrest operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspect and safe recovery of the missing child. During the conclusion of the arrest, multiple firearms, ammunition, body armor, and narcotics were seized, and the suspect was indicted on capital murder.

    “I am immensely proud of the Deputy U.S. Marshals and the numerous task force officers of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, men and women who are fully devoted to making their communities safer for their fellow citizens by apprehending offenders wanted for the most serious crimes such as murder and child abuse, while ensuring the equal application of justice for all,” said Marshal Susan Pamerleau, U.S. Marshal of the Western District of Texas.  

    U.S. Marshals task forces combine the efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate and arrest the most dangerous fugitives. Fifty-eight local task forces are dedicated to reducing violent crime by locating and apprehending wanted criminals. They also serve as the central point for agencies to share information on fugitive matters.  Task force officers are state and local police officers who receive special deputations with the U.S. Marshals. While on a task force, these officers can exercise U.S. Marshals authorities, such as crossing jurisdictional lines.

    Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force across the Western District of Texas:

    • Austin Police Department-Tactical Intelligence Unit
    • Police Departments:  Anthony, Buffalo, Crystal City, Del Rio, Eagle Pass, El Paso, Georgetown, Killeen, New Braunfels, Nolanville, Round Rock, San Marcos, Uvalde, and Waco, Texas.
    • Sheriff’s Offices:  Bexar County, Coryell County, Dimmett County, Ector County, Hays County, McLennan County, Maverick County, Midland County, New Braunfels, Real County, Travis County, Val Verde County, Williamson County, and Zavala County.
    • District Attorney’s Offices: Bexar County, and Val Verde County.
    • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
    • Midland Fire Marshals Office
    • Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS)
    • Texas Attorney General’s Office
    • Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ) – Office of the Inspector General (OIG)
    • Texas Department of Public Safety
    • Texas Parks and Wildlife Division
    • Texas National Guard Joint Counterdrug Task Force
    • U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement
    • U.S. DHS/Homeland Security Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: How falling vaccination rates are fuelling the antibiotic resistance crisis

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ruchika Gupta, Assistant Professor and Medical Microbiologist, Department of Pathobiology and Lab Medicine, London Health Sciences Centre and Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University

    Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest health threats we face today. It’s often blamed on the overuse of antibiotics, and for a good reason. But there’s another major factor quietly driving this crisis that doesn’t get as much attention: low vaccination rates.

    In early 2025, Ontario had a measles outbreak with 2,200 cases as of mid-July, mostly in people who hadn’t been fully vaccinated. An outbreak in Alberta that began in March has expanded to more than 1,300 cases as of mid-July.

    Measles had been eliminated in Canada since 1998, but it’s now reappearing, largely due to missed or delayed vaccinations. On the surface, these might seem like a limited viral outbreak. But the ripple effects go much further, causing more illness, more complications and, ultimately, more antibiotic use.

    Why measles can lead to antibiotic use

    Measles itself is a viral infection, so antibiotics don’t treat it directly. But the virus weakens the immune system, leaving people vulnerable to bacterial infections like pneumonia or ear infections, conditions that do require antibiotics.

    Unsurprisingly, this pattern isn’t new. A 2019 study published in Pediatrics showed that many children hospitalized with measles in the United States developed secondary infections that required antibiotic treatment, especially pneumonia and ear infections.

    While data from the Ontario outbreak is still being analyzed, experts expect a similar surge in antibiotic prescriptions to treat these preventable complications.

    The antibiotic resistance chain reaction

    Every time we use antibiotics, we give bacteria a chance to adapt.
    (NIAID), CC BY

    Here’s where it gets dangerous. Every time we use antibiotics, we give bacteria a chance to adapt. The most vulnerable bacteria die, but tougher ones survive and spread. This leads to antibiotic resistance where treatments that used to work no longer do.

    Even appropriate use of antibiotics, like treating a bacterial infection after measles, adds to the problem. And the more often we need to prescribe antibiotics, the faster this resistance builds.

    A 2022 global study published in The Lancet estimated that antimicrobial resistance directly caused 1.27 million deaths in 2019 and contributed to many millions more. As resistance spreads, doctors are forced to use more toxic, expensive or last-resort drugs, and sometimes, no effective treatment exists at all.

    Antibiotic resistance means that treatments that used to work no longer do.
    (NIAID), CC BY

    How vaccines help fight resistance

    Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools we have not just to prevent disease, but to reduce antibiotic use and slow resistance. By stopping infections before they happen, vaccines reduce the need for antibiotics in the first place.

    Some vaccines protect directly against bacteria. Pneumococcal vaccines (PCV13, PCV15, PCV20) guard against a major cause of pneumonia, brain infections and ear infections. Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and diphtheria vaccines prevent other respiratory bacterial diseases.

    Other vaccines protect against viruses, which can weaken the body and open the door to bacterial infections called as secondary bacterial infections.

    The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine not only prevents measles but also reduces the chance of bacterial pneumonias that often occur after measles due to immunosuppression.

    The seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines help prevent viral infections that can trigger secondary bacterial complications.

    The rotavirus vaccine that protects against diarrheal disease in children has also been shown to reduce antibiotic use by more than 20 per cent, according to a 2024 study in Vaccine.

    In fact, a 2020 study in Nature found that improving childhood vaccination coverage in low- and middle-income countries could reduce antibiotic-treated illnesses in kids under five by more than 20 per cent. That’s a massive step forward in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

    A wake-up call

    The measles outbreaks in Ontario and Alberta aren’t just local issues; they are a global warning. Each missed vaccine doesn’t just put one person at risk; it potentially means more infections, more complications and more antibiotics. That, in turn, means more antibiotic resistance for everyone.

    Vaccines are not just about individual protection. They are a public health strategy that keeps antibiotics effective for when we really need them, especially for vulnerable people like cancer patients, transplant recipients and the elderly, who rely on antibiotics to survive routine infections.

    Vaccines, in fact, do more than prevent disease. They protect our ability to treat infections by reducing the need for antibiotics and slowing the rise of resistant bacteria. With preventable diseases like measles making a comeback, now is the time to recognize the broader impact of vaccine hesitancy.

    Choosing to vaccinate is more than a personal decision. It’s a way to protect our communities and preserve the life-saving power of antibiotics for generations to come.

    Ruchika Gupta does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How falling vaccination rates are fuelling the antibiotic resistance crisis – https://theconversation.com/how-falling-vaccination-rates-are-fuelling-the-antibiotic-resistance-crisis-259682

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: I research rip currents where ‘Cosby Show’ star Malcolm-Jamal Warner drowned. Here’s why they’re so deadly

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Chris Houser, Professor in Department of Earth and Environmental Science, and Dean of Science, University of Waterloo

    Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the actor who played Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has drowned on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.

    It is reported that he was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limon province when a current pulled him offshore. This is a beach popular among surfers and one that’s known to have large waves and strong currents.

    It’s also a beach that I have taken students to in order to study the formation of rip currents and to better understand what beach users know about the hazard.

    What exactly are rip currents?

    Rip currents — commonly referred to as rips or colloquially as rip tides — are found on ocean beaches and some large lakes around the world.



    Read more:
    The Great Lakes are powerful. Learning about ‘rip currents’ can help prevent drowning

    The rips at Playa Cocles and along a large part of the Costa Rican Caribbean coast are known as channel or bathymetric rips that form as the nearshore sand bar moves toward the land through the summer. The water thrown towards the land by the breaking waves returns offshore as a concentrated and fast flowing current at gaps in the nearshore sand bar.

    During storm conditions, we have measured the rip currents at Playa Cocles at over two metres per second. These rips are known to increase rapidly (or pulse) in strength due to changes in wave breaking, leading to unsuspecting swimmers being taken far offshore and exiting beyond the zone of breaking waves.

    Rip current at Playa Cocles showing change in size and strength with surfers for scale. (Chris Houser)

    While it can be difficult to spot a rip from shore, they can be identified by an area of relatively calm water between breaking waves, a patch of darker water or the offshore flow of water, sediment and debris.

    Caught in a rip current

    A person caught in a rip is transported away from shore into deeper waters, but they aren’t pulled under the water. If they are a weak swimmer or try to fight the current, they may panic and fail to find a way out of the rip and back to shore. Survivor stories highlight panic, anxiety, distress and fear, a tendency to fight the current and an inability to make a decision on how to escape the rip.

    While it is possible to “break the grip of the rip” by swimming parallel to the beach or toward breaking waves at an angle to the beach, there is no single escape strategy due to the unique rip circulation pattern.

    It’s possible to escape a rip by flipping onto your back, floating to keep your head above the water and following the current until you’re returned to the shore by the current or able to swim safely toward the shore. If you are taken beyond where the waves break, or you’re unable to swim back to shore, continue to float and signal for help.

    Rip currents account for more than 50 deaths a year in Costa Rica; approximately 19 drownings a year involve foreign tourists from the United States, Nicaragua, Canada and Germany. While most drownings in the country occur on Pacific coast beaches that are a short distance to the city of San José, more than five drownings occur each year along the Caribbean coast.

    Playa Cocles was the site of five drownings that occurred over eight days in 2004, an event that prompted tourism-dependent business owners to establish a lifeguard station on the beach.

    Costa Rican drownings

    On average, each drowning in Costa Rica costs more than US$2 million (USD). This includes the direct costs of search and rescue, the costs of repatriation and the long-term economic burden of a lost life. This is in addition to the great personal loss experienced by family and friends.

    A survey at Playa Cocles and other beaches in Costa Rica revealed that a majority of beach users did not observe warning signs and that many were unable to interpret the warning and did not change their behaviour.

    The majority of foreign drowning victims in Costa Rica had limited knowledge of rips and were unable to avoid the times and locations that were most hazardous.

    In general, visitors to a beach often use simple visual cues when deciding to take risks. Recent studies suggest that tourists think beach access points and resorts are located adjacent to safe swimming areas, particularly when visual cues such as manicured paths and promotional posters that promote swimming at those locations.

    Visitors are a high-risk group for drownings. They’re generally unfamiliar with the beach and its safety measures and often have poor knowledge of beach hazards, such as rip currents and breaking waves. This lack of knowledge can be exacerbated by language barriers, an overconfidence in swimming ability and peer pressure.

    Rip current and beach users at Playa Cocles. The red flag was placed by lifeguards to mark the location of the rip for beach users. (Chris Houser)

    Playa Cocles is a beautiful beach, but it’s known to have dangerous rips depending on the size of the breaking waves and the position of the sand bar.

    When visiting any beach — from the Caribbean to the Great Lakes — it’s important to remember that there may be rip currents and to take serious precautions.

    Chris Houser receives funding from NSERC.

    – ref. I research rip currents where ‘Cosby Show’ star Malcolm-Jamal Warner drowned. Here’s why they’re so deadly – https://theconversation.com/i-research-rip-currents-where-cosby-show-star-malcolm-jamal-warner-drowned-heres-why-theyre-so-deadly-261653

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach

    Source: The Conversation – Africa (2) – By Paa Kwesi Wolseley Prah, Postdoctoral Fellow, Dublin City University

    Ghana stands out in west Africa as a nation that has not experienced terrorist attacks, even though it’s geographically close to countries that have. In Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria, extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have wreaked havoc.

    This resilience is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate counter-terrorism strategies employed by Ghana’s security institutions.

    Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework was set out in 2020. It has four pillars: prevent, pre-empt, protect, and respond. The idea is to coordinate multiple agencies, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Armed Forces and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    These pillars guide strategies to address both immediate threats and underlying vulnerabilities. Poverty, religious radicalism and porous borders are common drivers of terrorism in west Africa.

    I am an international security and global governance researcher. My co-author is a government and international studies scholar.

    Four years ago we wrote a paper examining Ghana’s resilience against terrorist attacks. Our findings are still relevant given the increasing activities of terror groups in the west African region.



    Read more:
    West Africa terror: why attacks on military bases are rising – and four ways to respond

    We wanted to identify what works as a potential model for other countries.

    Using a qualitative methodology, we interviewed stakeholders — including police officers, members of the armed forces, Muslim community leaders, and immigration officials. We also analysed the national framework for preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism.

    Our findings showed that Ghana’s success is traceable to an approach that integrates community engagement with advanced border technology, inter-agency training, media collaboration and intelligence operations. And it addresses both immediate and underlying threats.

    We argue that Ghana’s ability to balance prevention with security offers solutions for stability in a geopolitically volatile region.



    Read more:
    Ghana’s new president faces tough regional security problems: why he’s well-placed to tackle them

    Community engagement

    One of the standout strategies is community engagement. This serves multiple purposes, from guiding people away from extremism to gathering intelligence.

    The Ghana Police Service, for instance, engages Muslim-dominated communities, known as “Zongos”, to counter radical Islamic ideologies that could be exploited by terrorist groups.

    By collaborating with local religious leaders, police make communities aware of the dangers of radicalisation. They foster trust and encourage residents to report suspicious activities. This approach also works in tackling illegal arms circulation.

    Ghana has an estimated 2.3 million small arms in circulation – 1.1 million of them illegally possessed. The availability of so many weapons fuels terrorist activities across west Africa.

    Community based de-radicalisation aligns with global best practices. In Norway, for instance, it was used to disengage youth from extremist groups.

    Technology at borders

    Ghana’s border control management is another part of its counter-terrorism strategy. Ghana Immigration Service uses advanced security software and integrated systems like the “Immigration 360” system, designed to fully automate passenger processing and data management.

    The system manages records of fingerprints and other data to improve reporting and intelligence sharing between Ghana Immigration and other security agencies.

    The technology makes it possible to quickly identity individuals on terrorist watchlists and detects concealed goods. This helps prevent illegal cross-border movements.

    There are gaps in Ghana’s defences, however. The influx of migrants fleeing extremist violence in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in 2024 highlights the urgency of scaling up investments in the technology.



    Read more:
    West Africa could soon have a jihadist state – here’s why

    Training for preparedness

    Ghana combats new and varying forms of terrorism by uncovering trends and training personnel to deal with them.

    A notable example was the six-day joint training in 2022 involving the Ghana Immigration Service, Police Service, Customs, Economic and Organised Crime Office, and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    The country also works with regional neighbours like Burkina Faso, Togo and Benin, and partners such as the United States, through initiatives like “Operation Epic Guardian”.

    Media as a strategic partner

    Terrorists rely on media to amplify fear and publicise their causes. Ghana’s security agencies counter this tactic by actively engaging media houses to report accurately.

    The Ghana Armed Forces, for instance, works with media to debunk false reports, which can cause public panic and inadvertently aid terrorists.

    The Ghana Police Service emphasises regular dialogue with media to ensure sensitive information is verified before publication, reducing the risk of tipping off suspects. However, media competition for viewers poses a challenge.

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering is critical. Plainclothes armed forces and immigration personnel blend into communities to monitor potential threats. The approach has worked but is constrained by resources.

    It can also risk human rights violations, such as wrongful profiling, and is less effective against multiple targets compared to technological solutions like facial recognition or CCTV.



    Read more:
    Funding terror: how west Africa’s deadly jihadists get the money they need to survive

    Challenges and regional implications

    Despite its successes, Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework faces challenges that could undermine its long-term efficacy:

    • logistical and financial constraints

    • the influx of migrants fleeing regional violence

    • a lack of harmonised security cultures within the regional body, Ecowas.

    In all, Ghana’s strategies offer lessons for west Africa, where terrorism is a growing threat.

    Its community engagement model could be followed in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to counter radicalisation and arms proliferation, provided it avoids religious stereotyping.

    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. Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach – https://theconversation.com/ghanas-security-strategy-has-kept-terror-attacks-at-bay-what-other-countries-can-learn-from-its-approach-260333

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Livestock and lions make uneasy neighbours: how a fence upgrade helped protect domestic and wild animals in Tanzania

    Source: The Conversation – Africa (2) – By Jonathan Salerno, Associate Professor, Colorado State University, Colorado State University

    Protecting livestock in areas where large carnivores (like lions) live is increasingly important as human land use expands, wildlife habitat shrinks, and climatic changes reshape the ways in which humans and wildlife interact. Protecting the carnivores from livestock owners is important too. Intact carnivore populations support more resilient food webs and the ecosystem services they provide.

    It’s not easy for people, livestock, and carnivores to live together without conflict, though. One of the best ways to reduce conflict is to protect livestock like cattle and sheep from being attacked by predators.

    There are various methods to do this, like guarding livestock or erecting fences. That’s all very well for the livestock inside the fences, but do predators simply turn to the nearest unprotected livestock for their meal instead? Are the neighbours’ cattle, sheep, and goats at greater risk? This question hasn’t been explored much by researchers.

    We’re a group of conservation practitioners and scientists who have studied the interactions of carnivores, livestock, and people in Tanzania and elsewhere for decades to try and find solutions to conflict problems.

    Our study area is next to a national park which protects important populations of lion, leopard, hyena, African wild dog, and cheetah. The people who live here have traditionally kept their livestock overnight in enclosures made of acacia-thorn branches. More recently, some of them have built pens, or corrals, from tall chain link fencing. We knew from years working with communities and from previous research that these fortified corrals were effective at keeping livestock safe from predators.

    Our next step was to find out whether this made other nearby livestock less safe.



    Read more:
    What’s behind the conflict between people and animals in Tanzania

    The results were intriguing. We found that the new enclosures made predation less likely in the nearby traditional enclosures too.

    This type of beneficial spillover effect had yet to be documented in other systems where interventions aim to protect livestock from large carnivores.

    Our results show that in conservation, it’s important to look closely at complex local dynamics. The findings may help explain why there’s so much uncertainty about the effectiveness of various human–wildlife conflict mitigation strategies.

    Beneficial spillover effects

    People who keep livestock in east Africa have long had strategies to keep their animals safe from large carnivores. Sometimes acacia-thorn night enclosures (known locally as bomas), intensive herding practices, and guarding dogs work well.

    Other times, and especially in communities within and adjacent to large, protected carnivore populations, traditional strategies fall short.

    This is the case in Tanzania’s Ruaha-Rungwa Landscape. In our study area adjacent to Ruaha National Park, any pastoralist or agropastoralist (herding and crop farming) household has about a 30% chance of losing one or more animals to predation each year. This is a serious economic loss on top of important cultural and emotional costs.



    Read more:
    Losing a calf to wolves in Sweden hurts. But if lions take one in Uganda, a farming family’s income is gone

    Lion Landscapes, an organisation that some of us have been running for over a decade, works to support human-carnivore coexistence. Adjacent to Ruaha, we have been partnering with households to build 1.8-metre chain-link corrals. We subsidise them. Households contribute 25% of the cost and some of the labour for construction.

    We analysed about 25,000 monthly reports of livestock predation in fenced and traditional enclosures, using statistical models. There were 846 predation events over nearly four years. Unexpectedly, while we did detect spillover effects, these appeared to be beneficial. Rather than displacing conflicts, fortified enclosures actually conferred protective effects on their traditional-enclosure neighbours.

    For example, households within 50 metres (the minimum observed distance) of a fortified enclosure were half as likely to experience predation compared with distant households 2 kilometres away. And these beneficial effects increased with the number of fortified enclosures in a neighbourhood. Finally, the effects appeared to be durable over time.

    The fortified enclosures were extremely effective. We showed that households could break even after paying for the fence in just a few years through avoided livestock losses. And we know that when domestic animals aren’t being killed, their owners are more tolerant of predators. We didn’t record carnivore killings in this study but it has happened fairly frequently in the area in the past.

    In a few of the world’s human-wildlife conflict systems, where data exist to assess spillover effects, there is evidence that detrimental spillovers do occur. For instance, beehive deterrents may redirect elephants to nearby crop fields, or lethal removal of individual wolves may redirect the surviving pack to prey on adjacent ranches. Nevertheless, these are very under-studied interactions.

    Livestock management and carnivore coexistence

    In systems where humans, livestock, and wildlife overlap and sometimes come into conflict, management strategies too often focus on wildlife. Another option is to reduce whatever attracts wildlife. In the case of large carnivores, this means managing livestock.



    Read more:
    Livestock are threatened by predators – but old-fashioned shepherding may be an effective solution

    Our results support this approach by demonstrating that management and protection of livestock is fundamental for reducing conflict, and can benefit not only livestock owners but landscape-level coexistence.

    Conservationists and policy-makers need to encourage these practices that benefit people, carnivores, and livestock in shared landscapes.

    Amy Dickman works for Lion Landscapes as the Joint CEO

    Jonathan Salerno, Kevin Crooks, Rekha Warrier, and Stewart Breck 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. Livestock and lions make uneasy neighbours: how a fence upgrade helped protect domestic and wild animals in Tanzania – https://theconversation.com/livestock-and-lions-make-uneasy-neighbours-how-a-fence-upgrade-helped-protect-domestic-and-wild-animals-in-tanzania-258113

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Learning statistics through story: students get creative with numbers

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Johan Ferreira, Professor, University of the Witwatersrand

    Photo by Markus Krisetya via Unsplash

    Statistics professor Johan Ferreira was feeling overwhelmed by the amount of “screen time” involved in online learning in 2021. He imagined students must be feeling the same way, and wondered what he could do to inspire them and make his subject matter more appealing.

    One of the topics in statistics is time series analysis: statistical methods to understand trend behaviour in data which is measured over time. There are lots of examples in daily life, from rainfall records to changes in commodity prices, import or exports, or temperature.

    Ferreira asked his students to write a short, fictional “bedtime” story using “characters” from time series analysis. The results were collected into a book that is freely available. He tells us more about it.

    Why use storytelling to learn about statistics?

    I’m fortunate to be something of a creative myself, being a professional oboe player with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. It’s a valuable outlet for self-expression. I reflected on what other activity could inspire creativity without compromising the essence of statistical thinking that was required in this particular course I was teaching.

    I invited my third-year science and commerce students at the University of Pretoria to take part in a voluntary storytelling exercise, using key concepts in time series analysis as characters. Students got some guidelines but were free to be creative. My colleague and co-editor, Dr Seite Makgai, and I then read, commented on and edited the stories and put them together into an anthology.

    Students gave their consent that their stories could be used for research purposes and might be published. Out of a class of over 200 students, over 30 contributions were received; 23 students permitted their work to be included in this volume.

    We curated submissions into two sections (Part I: Fables and Fairy Tales and Part II: Fantasy and Sci-Fi) based on the general style and gist of the work.

    The project aimed to develop a new teaching resource, inspire students to take ownership of their learning in a creative way, and support them through informal, project-based peer learning.

    This collection is written by students, for students. They used personal and cultural contexts relevant to their background and environment to create content that has a solid background in their direct academic interests. And the stories are available without a paywall!

    What are some of the characters and stories?

    Student Lebogang Malebati wrote Stationaryville and the Two Brothers, a tale about AR(1) and AR(2). In statistics, AR refers to processes in which numerical values are based on past values. The brothers “were both born with special powers, powers that could make them stationary…” and could trick an evil wizard.

    David Dodkins wrote Zt and the Shadow-spawn. In this story, Zt (common notation in time series analysis) has a magic amulet that reveals his character growth through a sequence of models and shows the hero’s victory in the face of adversity. He is a function of those that came before him (through an AR process).

    Then there’s Nelis Daniels’ story about a shepherd plagued by a wolf called Arma (autoregressive moving average) which kept making sheep disappear.

    And Dikelede Rose Motseleng’s modern fable about the love-hate relationship between AR(1) (“more of a linear guy” with a bad habit of predicting the future based on the past) and MA(1), “the type of girl who would always provide you with stationarity (stability).”

    What was the impact of the project?

    It was a deeply enriching experience for us to see how students see statistics in a context beyond that of the classroom, especially in cases where students reformulated their stories within their own cultural identities or niche interests.

    Three particular main impacts stand out for us:

    • students have a new additional reference and learning resource for the course content

    • new students can refer to the experiences and contextualisation of this content of former students, leading to informal peer learning

    • students engage in a cognitive skill (higher-order and creative thinking) that is not frequently considered and included in this field and at this level.

    In 2024, shortly after the book was published, we asked students in the time series analysis course of that year to read any one of four stories (related to concepts that were already covered in the course material at that point in time). We asked them to complete a short and informal survey to gauge their experience and insights regarding the potential of this book as a learning resource for them.

    The 53 responses we got indicated that most students saw the book as a useful contribution to their learning experience in time series analysis.

    One positive comment from a student was:

    I will always remember that the Random Walk is indeed not stationary but White Noise is. I already knew it, but now I won’t forget it.

    Will you build on this in future?

    It is definitely valuable to consider similar projects in other branches of statistics, but also, in other disciplines entirely, to develop content by students, for students.

    At this stage, we’re having the stories and book translated into languages beyond English. In large classes that are essential to data science (such as statistics and mathematics), many different home languages may be spoken. Students often have to learn in their second, third, or even fourth language. So, this project is proving valuable in making advanced statistical concepts tactile and “at home” via translations.

    Our publisher recently let us know that the Setswana translation is complete, with the Sepedi and Afrikaans translations following soon. To our knowledge, it’ll be the first such project not only in the discipline of statistics, but in four of the official languages in South Africa.

    Johan Ferreira receives funding from the Centre of Excellence in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, based at the University of the Witwatersrand, towards this Scholarship of Learning and Teaching project.

    – ref. Learning statistics through story: students get creative with numbers – https://theconversation.com/learning-statistics-through-story-students-get-creative-with-numbers-261198

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding food labelling policy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding food labelling policy

    Letter from the Animal Sentience Committee to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee regarding a food labelling policy.

    Documents

    Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding food labelling policy

    HTML

    Details

    The Animal Sentience Committee sent this letter to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA) committee on 21 July 2025. It outlines the committee’s view on the consideration of impacts on animal welfare in food labelling policy.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Biobank’s whole body imaging project scans 100,000 volunteers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Biobank has reached its target of scanning 100,000 volunteers as part of a landmark project to provide for scientific research the most detailed look inside the human body. This is now the world’s largest whole-body imaging project – scanning the brains, hearts, abdomens, blood vessels, bones and joints of volunteers to give researchers a new layer of detail to explore what happens in people’s bodies as they age and how and why we become ill as we age.

    One billion images have now been generated from these scans, and tens of thousands of researchers around the world have been using these (as it has been released in batches since the project began) along with UK Biobank’s information on lifestyle, medical history, genetics and blood proteins from the same volunteers, to do research into ill health.

    Findings from the 1,300 peer-reviewed papers using this data so far include better brain scanning for patients with dementia symptoms in NHS memory clinics, faster analysis of heart scans in over 90 countries, and developments in understanding biological age of organs versus chronological age.

    Soon, approved researchers will have access to the full set of imaging data from all 100,000 volunteers to help develop new diagnostics, preventative medicines and treatments.

    Journalists came to this press briefing to ask your questions and to hear from those running the project discuss:

    – What’s so special about this data and why are researchers so excited by it?

    – How is this project helping the UK and the NHS right now?

    – What scientific findings have the imaging data already led to?

    – Why is the focus now switching to repeating scans of people, rather than scanning more people?

    – Who can use this data and what can they use it for?

    Speakers included:

    Prof Sir Rory Collins, Principal Investigator and Chief Executive, UK Biobank

    Prof Naomi Allen, Chief Scientist, UK Biobank

    Prof Paul Matthews, Chair of the UK Biobank Imaging Working Group; and Edmond and Lily Safra Professor of Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Imperial College London; and Director, The Rosalind Franklin Institute

    Prof Louise Thomas, Professor of Metabolic Imaging, University of Westminster

    Prof Rachel McKendry, Executive Director, Discovery, Wellcome

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community efforts lead to Green Flags for Perth park’s gardens

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    In the run up to the national Love Parks Week (26 July to 3 August 2025) which highlights the vital role green spaces play in boosting the health and wellbeing of residents and communities, local ‘in bloom’ charity Beautiful Perth and Perth and Kinross Council will be marking the achievement of two Green Flag Community Awards* from Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB) for the Heather Garden and Compassionate Friends Garden, both in Bellwood Riverside Park on the banks of the River Tay in Perth.  

    The Heather Garden has been a real partnership project between Beautiful Perth and the Council, with discussions beginning in 2011 and work getting underway on site in 2012 to transform and refresh a previously overgrown and less appealing area of the park. The garden now comprises 15 beds containing 600 varieties and over 16,000 heather plants, all maintained and managed by Beautiful Perth, providing year-round colour for visitors and a haven for insect pollinators. The charity was also in 2022 awarded the National Collection of Erica carnea heathers by Plant Heritage.  This follows on from the unique achievement of Riverside Park winning Best Park in the UK in the RHS Britain in Bloom Awards in both 2018 and 2019.  

    The Compassionate Friends Garden was developed to create a picturesque, peaceful garden for reflection and contemplation following a request from the Compassionate Friends UK, a charity that supports bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents. In 2012 remedial work done by the Council and Beautiful Perth uncovered a small round turreted stone building dating back to the 1800’s on site. The building forms the focal point of the garden, with further work uncovering a waterway and wells. The space was then transformed with sustainable pollinator plants for all year colour and interest by Beautiful Perth volunteers as well as the planting of rowan and snakeskin maple trees with marker stones and a sculpture of a robin. In 2018, Compassionate Friends held their annual gathering in Perth and unveiled a new bench for visitors and at the entrance to the garden, a beautiful carved commemorative stone.  

    Vice-Convener of Climate Change and Sustainability, Councillor Liz Barrett said: “As we head towards Love Parks Week, the fantastic achievement of Green Flag Awards for these two very different but equally beautiful gardens reflects how vital parks and open spaces are for our health and wellbeing as places to relax, exercise, appreciate the outdoors and nature and much more. 

    “I’d like to thank Beautiful Perth, and volunteer groups in other parts of Perth and Kinross, for their key role in maintaining and developing green spaces that benefit us all and contribute to improving our environment and biodiversity. Everyone can help, whether by volunteering locally or simply taking a few minutes to feedback to our Community Greenspace team about biodiversity in your local park.” 

    Chair of Beautiful Perth, Gordon Lindsay commented: “Our volunteers over many years have taken a genuine pride in cultivating and maintaining the Compassionate Friends and Heather Gardens to a high standard.  

    “Both gardens exhibit a unique horticultural skill level appreciated by the many visitors and tourists to Riverside Park and importantly provide an ideal haven for bees, butterflies and other wildlife. 

    “The Green Flag Awards are the “icing on the cake” for the ‘Beautiful Perth’ volunteers acknowledging their tireless work and efforts in a special corner of Perth.  We would also like to acknowledge and thank our supporters, Perth and Kinross Council, The Gannochy Trust, the Heather Society and Kilmac.” 

    Jamie Ormiston, Training and Accreditation Coordinator at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “Parks across Scotland are vital spaces for people of all ages to reconnect with nature and I’m delighted we once again have Green Flag Award winners all over the country – including plenty of new areas – for people to enjoy during the summer months. 

    “The Heather Garden and Compassionate Friends Garden are two of our new Community Award winners and their awards show the dedication, care and commitment of all involved in maintaining and improving Riverside Park. 

    “Our stalwart winners have a brilliant history of commitment to environmental excellence and a desire to offer visitors a safe and enjoyable place to visit.  

    “Our new winners have shown a similar desire and their journey is only just beginning but I look forward to many more wins in the future.” 

    *The Green Flag Awards are awarded to parks and green spaces that can demonstrate excellent management and environmental standards. Further information on the Awards can be found at Keep Scotland Beautiful’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government secures label-led measures to boost earnings for UK artists

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government secures label-led measures to boost earnings for UK artists

    Major boost for UK music creators as government drives industry to produce new measures to support legacy artists, songwriters and session musicians

    *Changes estimated by labels to deliver tens of millions of pounds in new investment to support musicians by 2030, rewarding artists for their work and driving growth through Plan for Change *Agreement backed by UK arms of major labels Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group

    UK music creators are set to benefit from a boost to their earnings thanks to the Government driving forward a new label-led agreement on streaming pay agreed today (Tuesday 22nd July).

    The Creator Remuneration Working Group (CRWG), chaired by Creative Industries Minister Sir Chris Bryant, has been meeting regularly since 2024 to explore industry-led action – driving growth in the creative industries as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    This process has delivered a set of measures designed to boost the earnings of legacy artists, songwriters and session musicians and marks a further step towards ensuring the music streaming market works for everyone, on top of existing industry programmes.

    The principles include a new framework for the renegotiation of contracts by artists who signed record deals before streaming became commonplace, in addition to support for the digitisation of their back catalogues so that it can be made available online. This aims to help legacy artists to increase their streaming earnings for their existing body of work. 

    Support for songwriters and composers includes a commitment to the payment of per diems and expenses for recording sessions, to ensure they are not left out of pocket.

    The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and Musicians’ Union also agreed to an uplift in session musician fees of up to 40% for pop sessions and 15% for classical to ensure they are more fairly paid for their work. 

    The agreed principles have been adopted by the BPI and Association of Independent Music (AIM) and recommended to their UK members. The UK divisions of Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group, the world’s three largest labels, have also committed to delivering them.

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    Streaming has totally revolutionised how audiences discover and enjoy music, and how artists connect with their fans across the globe.

    But we have heard loud and clear from creators that more needs to be done to ensure they are fairly compensated when their work is used on streaming platforms.

    That is why I am delighted that the industry has agreed these new measures, which will go a long way to making sure our talented artists and creators are properly rewarded for their hard work, while driving growth through our Plan for Change.

    Creative Industries Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    Everyone loves music and it’s about time we really valued the people who create it. Millions of us use music streaming platforms who provide a fantastic service to their customers, connecting users with a wealth of music from around the world. 

    But many musicians and songwriters are really struggling and artists simply don’t  think they receive their fair share of the profit generated by their work on these platforms. These new measures, which apply specifically in the UK, are an important step in ensuring creators are fairly paid for their work.

    I would like to thank the sector for coming together to drive this positive progress, which will benefit the music industry as a whole.

    Roberto Neri, CEO of Ivors Academy, said:

    We welcome and wish to thank Minister Bryant for the introduction of per diems for songwriters and his support in securing this agreement. There is no music industry without songwriters and these payments will ensure that songwriters are not out of pocket when turning up to work. We look forward to working together over the next 12 months to assess how this package benefits music makers and ensuring that all creators share in the success of streaming remuneration.

    The Government will support industry to deliver these measures in full, in order to improve conditions for UK music makers. The impact of the measures will be monitored and reviewed in a year’s time, working closely with members of the group to understand the extent to which they are improving creator earnings as intended. 

    The Government will then assess the need for further intervention, to ensure this package delivers on its objective to bring about real change for creators. 

    Labels estimate these changes will deliver tens of millions of pounds in new investment to support creators by 2030, which will help drive growth in the creative industries as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    The Government has also committed to continuing to look at the issue of streaming pay for session musicians and has convened a meeting in September with key organisations from the music industry to take this forward.

    Further quotes

    The Council Of Music Makers said: 

    We greatly appreciate the efforts of the Government in seeking to improve the streaming economy for music-makers. Minister Chris Bryant has dedicated a great deal of time and resources trying to agree creator-friendly terms with the BPI and major labels, in an attempt to address unfair remuneration. Over the next year, we will work in good faith to support music-makers to test these initiatives and whether they can deliver meaningful change. 

    We will work closely with the Government during the one year monitoring of these measures. In 2021 Parliament’s Culture, Media & Sport Select Committee raised several fundamental issues regarding the streaming business model, calling for ‘a complete reset’. The Council Of Music Makers remains committed to achieving this objective and reaching a fairer settlement for all music-makers and we will now collectively pursue additional legislative measures to achieve positive change for those that create the work our industry is built on.

    Sophie Jones, Chief Strategy Officer at the BPI, said: 

    After five years of detailed scrutiny and analysis, we are pleased to put in place these creator remuneration principles for UK labels in response to specific concerns identified in the UK’s streaming debate. Many more artists are succeeding in the era of streaming than before – and we are confident that these targeted measures will lead to positive and sustainable outcomes and support for legacy artists, songwriters and session musicians, ensuring that our members’ significant ongoing investment into the development of British talent and the growth of our world leading UK music industry will be to the benefit of all. This has been a collaborative process and we are grateful to our members and fellow trade organisations for their expertise and to Minister Chris Bryant and the DCMS officials for their stewardship of this process.

    Baron Brennan of Canton, former Chair of the DCMS Select Committee which launched the inquiry into the Economics of Music Streaming, said: 

    Protecting the dignity of British songwriters by putting money in their pockets for writing sessions is a real first, and greater transparency over artist renegotiation is most welcome. I commend Minister Bryant for all his efforts. Further progress is needed on streaming but I’m encouraged by the Minister’s commitment to pursue progress through further talks this autumn on session musician income from streaming.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa and the UN, at the UN Security Council debate on peace and security.

    Mr President, the United Kingdom thanks Pakistan for convening this timely debate at a time when multilateralism faces unprecedented strain.

    As the Secretary-General has said, the world is witnessing more conflict than at any time since the founding of the United Nations.

    From Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine to the protracted crisis in Gaza, the international community is being tested.

    Our response must strive for peace and be guided by the principles of the UN Charter.
    Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century.

    And this Council, as the UN organ with the primary responsibility for international peace and security, should play a central role.

    That includes through a collective commitment to the rule of law, including international humanitarian law, and to the peaceful settlement of disputes.

    These are not abstract ideals.

    They are principles by which we could collectively prevent and resolve conflict.

    That is why the United Kingdom has kept these principles at the heart of its foreign policy.
    But as we mark the UN’s 80th anniversary, we must seize this moment to revitalise the peace and security architecture, champion human rights, and strengthen the UN development system and humanitarian architecture to ensure all three pillars are collectively fit for purpose.

    We should make full use of the UN’s mediation and conflict prevention capabilities.
    In Sudan, we continue to urge the warring parties to engage meaningfully with existing diplomatic initiatives, including the United Nations’ mediation efforts to achieve a lasting national ceasefire and political solution.

    Here and elsewhere, we need the UN to help address the root causes of conflict.
    Peace operations should be more adaptable, politically attuned and better coordinated with other UN and regional actors, leveraging new technologies and local expertise.
    We must focus not only on brokering peace but on sustaining it.

    The UN’s efforts to verify the implementation of the Peace Agreement in Colombia is a good example of this work in the field.

    And here in New York, we can make better use of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture to support national efforts to sustain peace.

    Underscoring this, we must recall that crucially, sustainable peace can only be achieved through inclusive peace processes, with the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women.

    Mr President, the UN Charter is our shared foundation.

    In this moment of global uncertainty, we must recommit to multilateralism, not as a slogan, but as a strategy.

    The United Kingdom stands ready to work with all Member States to this end, including to uphold peace, security, and the rule of law.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN’s Guterres declares fossil fuel era fading; presses nations for new climate plans before COP30 summit

    Source: United Nations 2

    In a special address at UN Headquarters in New York, Mr. Guterres cited surging clean energy investment and plunging solar and wind costs that now outcompete fossil fuels.

    “The energy transition is unstoppable, but the transition is not yet fast enough or fair enough,” he said.

    The speech, A Moment of Opportunity: Supercharging the Clean Energy Age – a follow‑up to last year’s Moment of Truth – was delivered alongside a new UN technical report drawing on global energy and finance bodies.

    “Just follow the money,” Mr. Guterres said, noting that $2 trillion flowed into clean energy last year, $800 billion more than fossil fuels and up almost 70 per cent in a decade.

    Key points from the address

    • Point of no return – The world has irreversibly shifted towards renewables, with fossil fuels entering their decline
    • Clean energy surge – $2 trillion invested in clean energy last year, $800 billion more than fossil fuels
    • Cost revolution – Solar now 41 per cent cheaper and offshore wind 53 per cent cheaper than fossil fuel alternatives.
    • Global challenge – Calls on G20 nations to align new national climate plans with the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement
    • Energy security – Renewables ensure “real energy sovereignty”
    • Six opportunity areas – Climate plan ambition, modern grids, sustainable demand, just transition, trade reform, and finance for emerging markets.

    A shift in possibility

    He noted new data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) showing solar, once four times costlier, is now 41 per cent cheaper than fossil fuels.

    Similarly, offshore wind is 53 per cent cheaper, with more than 90 per cent of new renewables worldwide beating the cheapest new fossil alternative.

    “This is not just a shift in power. It is a shift in possibility,” he said.

    Renewables nearly match fossil fuels in global installed power capacity, and “almost all the new power capacity built” last year came from renewables, he said, noting that every continent added more clean power than fossil fuels.

    Clean energy is unstoppable

    Mr. Guterres underscored that a clean energy future “is no longer a promise, it is a fact”. No government, no industry and no special interest can stop it.

    “Of course, the fossil fuel lobby will try, and we know the lengths to which they will go. But, I have never been more confident that they will fail because we have passed the point of no return.”

    He urged countries to lock ambition into the next round of national climate plans, or NDCs, due within months. Mr. Guterres called on the G20 countries, which are responsible for 80 per cent of emissions, to submit new plans aligned with the 1.5°C limit and present them at a high‑level event in September.

    Targets, he added, must “double energy efficiency and triple renewables capacity by 2030” while accelerating “the transition away from fossil fuels”.

    Real energy sovereignty

    The Secretary-General also highlighted the geopolitical risks of fossil fuel dependence.

    “The greatest threat to energy security today is fossil fuels,” he said, citing price shocks after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    “There are no price spikes for sunlight, no embargoes on wind. Renewables mean real energy security, real energy sovereignty and real freedom from fossil-fuel volatility.”

    Six opportunity areas

    Mr. Guterres mapped six “opportunity areas” to speed the transition: ambitious NDCs, modern grids and storage, meeting soaring demand sustainably, a just transition for workers and communities, trade reforms to broaden clean‑tech supply chains, and mobilising finance to emerging markets.

    Financing, however, is the choke point. Africa, home to 60 per cent of the world’s best solar resources, received just 2 per cent of global clean energy investment last year, he said.

    Only one in five clean energy dollars over the past decade went to emerging and developing economies outside China. Flows must rise more than five-fold by 2030 to keep the 1.5-degree limit alive and deliver universal access.

    Mr. Guterres urged reform of global finance, stronger multilateral development banks and debt relief, including debt‑for‑climate swaps.

    “The fossil fuel age is flailing and failing. We are in the dawn of a new energy era,” he said in closing.

    “That world is within reach, but it won’t happen on its own. Not fast enough. Not fair enough. It is up to us. This is our moment of opportunity.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: SECURITY COUNCIL LIVE: High-level debate on peaceful settlements of dispute

    Source: United Nations 2

    The UN Security Council meets today for a high-level open debate on Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes, chaired by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. UN Secretary-General António Guterres is expected to brief as over 80 Member States join discussions on strengthening diplomacy and mechanisms for conflict prevention. UN News, in coordination with UN Meetings Coverage, brings you live updates. UN News App users can follow here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –