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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work is well underway on homes built at former Coventry garage sites

    Source: City of Coventry

    Work is progressing well on eight former garage sites across Coventry.

    Housing association, Citizen, is working with Excelsior Land and LoCaL Homes with support from Coventry City Council to build 19 properties at eight sites across the city including Whoberley, Stoke Aldermoor, Bell Green, Holbrooks and Cheylesmore.

    The homes are being built using timber frames which is a modern method of construction. The frames are built in the LoCaL factory in Walsall and are transported to the sites in Coventry where they are then assembled and built by Excelsior Land.

    There are several benefits to using timber frames including speed of build and sustainability – a new tree is planted for every tree that is felled to build the timber frame and there is very little waste.

    Councillor Naeem Akhtar from Coventry City Council said: “I was really impressed when I saw the way the homes are built. I visited the site on Henley Road in Bell Green and saw a derelict site now set to provide homes for families in Coventry.

    “There is a real need for good homes in Coventry, and as a partnership with Citizen, this highlights our commitment to find innovative ways of building houses where they are most needed.

    “Social housing is a real priority for the Council, and I’m delighted to see the progress that Citizen and other partners are making on the garage sites. I spoke to the workers on the site, and they are impressed with speed the properties go up and how little waste is generated.”

    Executive Director of Development at Citizen, Nick Byrne, said: “Work is progressing really well on our garage sites across Coventry.

    “We’re working with our partners to provide much needed housing in the area alongside transforming former garage sites.

    “Using timber frames as a Modern Method of Construction at this site will help produce less carbon dioxide emissions as opposed to traditional brick. The homes are also assembled on site quickly which means they can be built at a much faster pace compared to traditional build.

    “We also chose timber frames for the garage sites as they have limited access and space to store materials, so by using this construction method the homes were able to be built effectively.

    “At Citizen we are committed to working with our partners to make a positive difference to our customers and are looking forward to seeing these homes progress.”

    The homes at the sites will be a mix of one and three bed houses as well as one and two bed bungalows.

    Katie O’Cearbhhaill from Excelsior Land said: “Excelsior Land are delighted to be partnering with Citizen to provide much needed homes in the Coventry area. All of the homes we create are low carbon and this scheme is no exception.

    “We pride ourselves on working with our clients to regenerate local communities, and reduce crime hotspots by transforming these challenging garage sites into first class accommodation for the local residents. We are currently running 13% ahead of our programme schedule and attribute this to the positive partnership and proactive collaboration between Citizen Housing Group, LoCaL Homes and Excelsior Land.

    “Regenerating local communities using brown field sites is important to Excelsior Land and we look forward to carrying out many more projects like this!”

    Mike Doolan, Sales and Partnership Manager at LoCaL Homes added: “We are delighted to be working with Citizen, Coventry  City Council and Excelsior Land to deliver 19 new, thermally-efficient home which will meet a variety of housing need across the city.

    “Our off-site manufactured Eco-200 timber frame solutions, complete with brick slips, reduce construction time on site and produce less waste when compared to traditional building methods. This brings both environmental benefits and results in quicker handovers. The future occupants will be paying, on average, lower fuel bills thanks to the thermal-efficiency of our fabric-first approach.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Future use of Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of the Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee have discussed the finances of the Grantown on Spey Common Fund and welcomed the potential future good uses it will be used for to benefit the people of Grantown on Spey.

    Chair of the Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee Cllr Russell Jones said: “The development of the Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund is a long-term commitment that Badenoch and Strathspey Councillors are laying down the foundations now for future generations to come.

    “Members have welcomed the potential future uses of the Common Good Fund including examples such as: giving financial support to local charities and supporting community projects and community events.

    “The creation of the Fund will however take time before it can use disbursed, and we hope that in future the income to the Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund collected now and over the years will enable the creation of specific budgets for events and festivals and community projects to benefit the local community.

    “These ambitions to support the people of Grantown on Spey will take time to build the income streams Common Good Fund for future generations.”

    Cllr Bill Lobban added: “We want to see the Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund grow in the future and benefit the local community. It’s important that people know that the Fund will be used exclusively for the benefit of the people of Grantown on Spey and not on Council projects.

    Councillors noted a forecast 2024/25 year end position of the Common Good Fund revenue reserves of £910 and approved a proposed budget for 2025/26 with an anticipated income of £500 and year end revenue reserves of £1,410.

    In time all future proposals that would benefit the Grantown on Spey area alone, would come to the Area Committee for local Members consideration.

    11 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consultation opens on fisheries reforms

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Feedback is being sought on proposed changes to the Fisheries Act which Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says are the most significant reforms in the sector for decades.
    “The Coalition Government is committed to the success of the fishing industry, which generates around $1.6 billion in exports each year and employs 9000 people directly. The proposed changes, which I flagged in September last year, will remove unnecessary regulations that impede productivity and the potential of the sector. It is through changes in industries like this that New Zealand is going to fight its way back to economic prosperity,” Mr Jones says.
    The proposals in the consultation document released today, set out options to strengthen, streamline, and add to the tools available to set sustainable catch limits, improve privacy protections for fishers on vessels with onboard cameras, and more effectively deal with fish discarded under the Quota Management System.
    The proposals were developed following a seafood industry forum established last year.
    “Sustainability will always be the bottom line for fisheries management, and there’s an opportunity to lift export revenue by improving productivity and efficiency, rather than catch volume,” Mr Jones says.
    “These proposals make the most of improvements to data collection to drive an effective and efficient fisheries system, while continuing to ensure healthy sustainable fisheries.
    “They recognise the need to cut red tape from decision-making processes and improve responsiveness, efficiency and certainty. They include a range of options that would be applied to set sustainable catch limits while accounting for the strength of information available, the characteristics of the fish stock, and environmental and socio-economic factors.” 
    The rollout of cameras has provided more and better-quality information about the fishery but consideration must be given to protecting the privacy of Kiwis going about their work at sea.
    “This includes enhancing protections for on-board camera footage, amending the scope of where monitoring is not practical or necessary, and clarifying when cameras must be used,” Mr Jones says.
    “Finally, the proposals set out ways the rules around discards can be made more practical and workable for fishers where there is monitoring by onboard cameras or fisheries observers. 
    “I encourage anyone with an interest to read through the proposals and provide feedback.” 
    The consultation document and other details, including how to make a submission, can be found on MPI’s website.
    Submissions close at 5pm on 28 March 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ‘Equity Now’ Speaker to Address Immigration Law, Policies Under Trump Administration

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Professor Tania N. Valdez, a George Washington University Law School faculty member and an attorney who has represented immigrants for more than a decade, will speak about “Immigration Law and the New Presidential Administration’’ next month.

    Her March 11 virtual presentation is part of the School of Business’ Equity Now speaker series and it will be livestreamed at 6 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the university are welcome to participate.

    “Our nation’s focus on immigration enforcement has increased in the last few decades, and although I’m not sure I would have predicted it being this dramatic, it has all been leading to this moment,’’ Valdez said.

    More Immigrants Moving to America in Last 60 Years

    Professor Tania Valdez (Contributed Photo)

    For decades, the U.S. has welcomed more immigrants than any other country, and is currently home to approximately one-fifth of the world’s international immigrants, according to the Pew Research Center. The U.S. foreign-born population reached more than 47 million in 2023, composing about 14 percent of the total population. In contrast, in 1970, the immigrant population was about 4.7 percent of the total population. According to 2022 records, the largest population of U.S. immigrants were from Mexico, India, China, the Philippines, and El Salvador.

    While the Biden Administration had a more immigrant-friendly policy, President Trump campaigned on a platform of immigration reform and deportation. Since taking office in January, he has essentially shut down the American asylum system, empowered ICE agents to make sweeping arrests, and assigned the Pentagon to assist with border enforcement.

    Birthright Citizenship, ICE Enforcement, and Business Impact

    Valdez will examine myths and truths about immigration policy, explore current events relating to immigration, including birthright citizenship, and identify the consequences of an aggressive immigration policy on individuals, businesses, and the American economy.

    One of the topics that Valdez is passionate about is birthright citizenship, a constitutional right that guarantees that most people born in the United States automatically become U.S. citizens, regardless of their parents’ country of origin. A recent executive order by the Trump administration attempts to repeal that policy. Valdez will address the constitutionality of that order and the likely effects it will produce.

    She will also speak about mass deportation and detention. Her research highlights the inadequacies of protections for noncitizens in removal proceedings, particularly in the current era of aggressive immigration enforcement.

    “We’ve all heard about ICE enforcement and raids, and I’d like to talk about what it means for the immigration system as a whole and what rights and protections are afforded to immigrants through proceedings,’’ she said. “In the last month, there has been a ratcheting up of public displays of immigration enforcement and widespread fear about raids. By March 11, we will probably know more about the extent to which it’s actually happening.’’

    Valdez also hopes to address the impact of immigration enforcement on business, such as agriculture. “To date we’ve seen masses of people not showing up for work because they are afraid,’’ she said. “We have crops rotting in the fields. Agriculture did not have enough workers to begin with, and now it is far, far worse.’’

    The Equity Now Speaker Series is produced by the UConn School of Business in coordination with the Academy of Legal Studies in Business, Virginia Tech, Indiana University, and Temple University. This is the third of five programs during the 2024-25 academic year. To register for the program, please visit our Webex registration link

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Council directive on equal treatment: Potential European added value – 11-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    In June 2024, the Belgian Council Presidency put forward a compromise proposal for a new Council directive on equal treatment and it won the support of 24 of the 27 Member States. The proposed law calls for the EU acquis on non-discrimination and equality to be extended to four new grounds beyond the area of employment (religion or belief, age, sexual orientation and disability). This briefing looks into what might be the European added value of such a directive. While most Member States already offer legal protection for the stated grounds and areas, the proposed law could still be expected to generate benefits for society by ensuring comprehensive and consistent protection against discrimination throughout the EU. Everyone living in the EU could stand to benefit from the proposed law, although those groups that face greater risk of discrimination would likely benefit to a greater extent. An analysis of European Social Survey data suggests that about three quarters of the EU population (aged over 15) identify with at least one of four characteristics: (i) belonging to a religion or denomination; (ii) over 65 years of age; (iii) hampered in daily activities to some extent; (iv) not heterosexual. Providers of goods and services (e.g. businesses, schools, hospitals, landlords) could be expected to incur some costs to comply with the proposed law. Such costs, however, would be subject to proportionality and the availability of public support. Other costs could include the preparation of guidelines to ensure neutral provision of goods and services in times of limited supply. The compromise proposal could offer EU added value by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the EU’s anti-discrimination framework in fulfilling Treaty commitments. This added value would depend on the extent to which legal certainty were improved and discrimination recognised and internalised by service providers. The proposed law could nevertheless promote more harmonised living standards and free movement in the internal market.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ensuring fair trade and protecting Spanish and European fisheries – E-002723/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Since 2015 the EU and China cooperate in fighting illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing through a working group under the bilateral Ocean Partnership[1].

    It facilitates exchanges on the respective anti-IUU policies, the implementation of the EU catch certification scheme and on Chinese investigations and actions regarding alleged and confirmed IUU fishing activities of their distant waters fleet. The group meets at least once a year but intersessional exchanges are continuous regarding new cases of traceability or law enforcement.

    The IUU working group has been successful in increasing transparency and encouraging China to go into concrete results in fighting IUU fishing.

    One of the deliverables has been to trigger investigations and sanctions by Chinese authorities on national vessels that had perpetrated IUU fishing.

    Another important deliverable of the IUU working group is the adoption by China in 2023 of a dedicated legal basis for sanctioning non-compliance with the EU catch certification scheme.

    Since then, seven Chinese companies had their export permits revoked thanks to joint investigations by the Commission, Member States and other market states. Controls by Member States at EU borders are crucial to enhance traceability in the seafood supply chain.

    The digitalisation of the EU catch certification scheme, which was agreed by co-legislators in the revised Fisheries Control Regulation, will become effective in January 2026 and will further strengthen traceability and help safeguard European fishers.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/mare/document.cfm?doc_id=53843
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Urgent need to support beekeeping sector in the EU, especially in Greece – E-002941/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. As expressed in the replies to written questions 2466/2024[1] and 2537/2024[2], the sustainability of the European apiculture sector and fight against honey adulteration are key priorities for the Commission. Towards this end, significant support is provided to beekeepers under th e Common Agricultural policy (CAP) as well as through various policy initiatives to safeguard pollinators, including honeybees, and their environment. In addition to the support for the apiculture sector in the CAP Strategic Plans, aid is also available to farmers, including beekeepers, for the adoption of bee-friendly farming practices under eco-schemes and agri-environmental measures. These include the creation of feeding areas for pollinators, cultivation of melliferous plants and reduction of pesticide use, amongst others.

    The most recently introduced measures to fight against honey adulteration are detailed in the above-mentioned replies.

    2. While an annual pollination subsidy is not currently provided for in the legislation, the Commission will continue to engage with stakeholders and Member States to develop effective strategies for the future of the sector.

    3. Under the Greek CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027[3], over EUR 61 million (public expenditure) have been earmarked to support beekeepers through targeted interventions for apiculture, including for training and advisory services, research, investments for transhumance and honey analysis to enhance quality and improve marketing. Additional support is also available under various rural development interventions including for agri-environment commitments, with over EUR 18 million (public expenditure) allocated to beekeepers to introduce and maintain organic apiculture practices.

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002466-ASW_EN.pdf
    • [2] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002537-ASW_EN.pdf
    • [3] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/cap-my-country/cap-strategic-plans/greece_en
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Connectors for e-bike chargers – E-002923/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Electrically powered assisted cycles (EPACs) are subject to the Machinery Directive[1] as regards their safety. The harmonised standard EN 15194:2017+A1:2023 on EPACs was cited in the Official Journal on 15 May 2024[2] with a transitional period of 24 months, to allow the industry to gradually implement the new provisions including those on interoperability.

    Manufacturers of e-bikes will have to respect the harmonised standard in order to benefit from the presumption of conformity. Although harmonised standards are not mandatory, the presumption of conformity is a powerful incentive encouraging manufacturers to comply with them.

    With respect to the harmonisation of charging connector types for e-bikes and other light electric vehicles, the standards address the comunication aspects between vehicles and the electricity grid, but are not sufficient to ensure the physical interoperability between charging points and vehicle connectors.

    Following Article 94(6) of the Batteries Regulation[3], the Commission conducted in 2024 a study[4] ‘Assessment of harmonised standards for “common chargers” for rechargeable batteries powering light means of transport and specific categories of electrical and electronic equipment covered by Directive 2012/19/EU’.

    The study describes the fragmentation that exists in the market for battery-operated light means of transport with respect to their charging interoperability and the different market-led alternatives that are emerging.

    The Commission is currently reflecting how to further promote interoperability for battery-operated light means of tranport and intends to adopt a report in the first half of 2025.

    • [1] Directive 2006/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 May 2006 on machinery, and amending Directive 95/16/EC, OJ L 157, 9.6.2006, p. 24.
    • [2] Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/1329 of 13 May 2024 amending and correcting Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/1586, OJ L, 2024/1329, 15.5.2024.
    • [3]  Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 July 2023 concerning batteries and waste batteries, amending Directive 2008/98/EC and Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and repealing Directive 2006/66/EC, OJ L 191, 28.7.2023, p. 1-117.
    • [4] https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/0f8e257e-8526-11ef-a67d-01aa75ed71a1/language-en
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Recycling targets under the Packaging Directive – E-002353/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD)[1], in its Article 6(1) (f) to (i), lays down the obligation for Member States to reach certain recycling targets. Based on Article 6(1a), Member States may postpone the deadlines for achieving those targets, provided the conditions listed in that provision are fulfilled.

    The choice of whether to postpone any of those targets is made at national level, and this intention must be notified to the Commission at the latest 24 months before the respective deadline, pursuant to Article 6(1a) (d). If the conditions for the postponement are fulfilled, the postponed target(s) are implemented and applied at national level, as a matter of national law. Therefore, the recycling targets that are postponed at national level are not included in the proposal for a new Regulation on PPW (PPWR)[2].

    Article 52 of the new PPWR takes over the 2025 and 2030 packaging waste recycling targets from the PPWD. While the decision to postpone the targets will still be made at national level, the regulation empowers the Commission to reject a Member State’s intention to postpone the 2030 targets in case the mandatory implementation plan is not sufficiently compliant with the requirements. The regulation, adopted by the co-legislators, will be published in January 2025, and be applicable 18 months after its entry into force.

    2. Article 70 of the PPWR establishes provisions to govern the transition from the directive to the regulation. The aim is to ensure continuity of the legal regimes. Therefore, any non-conformity vis a vis the directive will be assessed according to these rules.

    • [1] European Parliament and Council Directive 94/62/EC of 20 December 1994 on packaging and packaging waste, OJ L 365, 31.12.1994, p. 10-23, amended by Directive (EU) 2018/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018, OJ L 150, 14.6.2018, p. 141-154.
    • [2] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC, COM/2022/677 final.
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update: U.S. Forces Strike on ISIS-Somalia

    Source: United States AFRICOM

    In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia on Feb. 01, 2025. The joint airstrikes targeted senior ISIS-Somalia leadership in a series of cave complexes approximately 50 miles southeast of Bosaso.  

    The command’s current assessment is that approximately 14 ISIS-Somalia operatives were killedand no civilians were harmed.  Among those killed was Ahmed Maeleninine, a key ISIS recruiter, financier, and external operations leader responsible for the deployment of jihadists into the United States and across Europe.

    Degrading ISIS and other terrorist organizations’ ability to plot and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our partners, and civilians remains central to U.S. Africa Command’s mission.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – IUCN red list update, tree species and deforestation – E-002320/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The regulation on Deforestation-free products (EUDR)[1] aims to prevent the placing on the EU market of products associated with deforestation and forest degradation.

    The EUDR requires that specific commodities — soy, beef, palm oil, wood, cocoa, rubber or coffee and their derived products — placed in the EU market are deforestation free, i.e. were produced on land that has not been subject to deforestation after 31 December 2020.

    The EUDR sets mandatory due diligence requirements for any company intending to place those commodities and products on the EU market or to export such products from the EU.

    The Commission remains fully committed to the Green Deal’s[2] central objective of making the EU climate-neutral by 2050. To this end, the Commission intends to propose setting out a 90% emissions reduction target for 2040 in the European Climate Law[3]. The Commission will also develop an ambitious and robust European Climate Adaptation Plan[4].

    The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030[5] provides that 30% of all EU land and sea area should be covered by protected areas, and that 10% of land and sea areas, including all remaining primary and old-growth forests in the EU, should become strictly protected areas by 2030.

    According to the subsidiarity principle it is, however, up to Member States, to define the criteria and the concrete protection measures for their old-growth forests.

    A Commission Staff working document[6] with further criteria and guidance for protected area designations recommends that additional protected area designations should focus, amongst others, on the information included in European and national red lists. A European Red list of trees[7] has been published in 2019.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2023 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation and repealing Regulation (EU) No 995/2010, OJ L 150, 9.6.2023, p. 206-247.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en
    • [3] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/european-climate-law_en
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/document/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en (p. 22).
    • [5] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/biodiversity-strategy-2030_en
    • [6] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/publications/criteria-and-guidance-protected-areas-designations-staff-working-document_en
    • [7] https://iucn.org/resources/publication/european-red-list-trees

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: High-Ranking Affiliate of Sinaloa Cartel Charged with Drug Conspiracy in Chicago

    Source: United States Attorneys General 2

    A grand jury in Chicago returned an indictment yesterday charging a high-ranking affiliate of the Sinaloa Cartel for allegedly manufacturing and distributing fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and other drugs and importing them into the United States.

    “As alleged, the defendant conspired to traffic dangerous drugs, including fentanyl, into the United States — and employed dozens of gunmen to protect his drug trafficking operation and the leadership of the Guzman faction of the Sinaloa Cartel,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Stopping Mexican cartels from poisoning our communities with fentanyl and other narcotics is a top priority of this Administration. Today’s indictment demonstrates that the Criminal Division is relentless in its pursuit of the drug traffickers who profit at the expense of the American people.”

    “Our nation’s fentanyl crisis has devastated individuals and families in northern Illinois and throughout the country,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual for the Northern District of Illinois. “Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to disrupt the production and trafficking of fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics before they can reach more victims.”

    “From San Diego to Chicago to D.C., we are united to bring down the traffickers pushing these poisons into American communities,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath for the Southern District of California. “We are attacking at every level — from street dealers to cartel leaders.”

    “This indictment reinforces the FBI’s unwavering commitment to hold accountable those who endanger our communities and traffic violence and drugs across our borders,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Let this serve as a clear message: if you engage in cartel activity, we will pursue you and bring you to justice. Together with our law enforcement partners at every level, we remain fully committed to protecting the American people and stopping the flow of these dangerous drugs into our nation.”

    According to court documents, Ceferino Espinoza Angulo, 43, employed dozens of gunmen in Mexico to protect and support the leadership of the Guzman faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, including Ivan Guzman-Salazar, Jesus Alfredo Guzman-Salazar, Ovidio Guzman-Lopez, and Joaquin Guzman-Lopez, collectively known as “the Chapitos.” Espinoza Angulo allegedly conspired to obtain fentanyl precursor chemicals and to manufacture, distribute, and import into the United States fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. Ceferino Espinoza also allegedly illegally possessed a machinegun in furtherance of his drug trafficking scheme.

    The Chapitos are the sons of Joaquin Guzman Loera, also known as “El Chapo,” who led the Sinaloa Cartel before being convicted by a federal jury in Brooklyn, New York, and sentenced to life in prison. The Chapitos allegedly assumed their father’s role as leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel. The Chapitos have been charged with drug trafficking in other U.S. indictments.

    Espinoza Angulo is charged with drug conspiracy and firearm offenses. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 30 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. Espinoza Angulo is believed to be residing in Mexico, and a U.S. warrant has been issued for his arrest.

    The FBI and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Valuable assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Special Operations Division, Bilateral Investigations Unit, and the Portland, Oregon, Police Bureau, Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Interdiction Taskforce.

    Trial Attorney Kirk Handrich of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Parthum and Andrew C. Erskine for the Northern District of Illinois, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Sutton for the Southern District of California prosecuted the case.

    The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug trafficking organizations and other criminal networks that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local enforcement agencies.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Water crisis in the province of Enna, compliance with EU legislation on sustainable water management and respect for the right of access to water – E-002008/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) [1] supports Member States and regions in improving water management systems and infrastructures. Under the Regional Programme Sicily ERDF 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 and the National Programme Infrastructures and Networks ERDF 2014-2020, some EUR 460 million have been allocated to support sustainable water management in Sicily, with priority for infrastructural interventions reducing losses in the water supply network. These investments concern new and upgraded water supply networks, improvements to reservoirs and the reuse of wastewater.

    While Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan allocates EUR 4.8 billion to enhance water supply management through targeted projects, the Council Implementing Decision Annex does not allocate resources specifically to the province of Enna. Any allocation to Enna is a decision of national and regional authorities.

    2. According to the Common Provisions Regulation[2] (CPR), the selection and funding of operations is the responsibility of the regional or national authorities managing the programmes. Furthermore, the CPR lays down enabling conditions for Member States to access the ERDF with a view to ensuring that the necessary prerequisites are met for the effective and efficient implementation of a selected specific objective.

    For the Regional Programme Sicily ERDF 2021-2027, the enabling condition ‘2.5 Updated planning for required investments in water and wastewater sectors’ is not yet fulfilled; therefore, payments of EU contributions to this sector have not started.

    The Commission monitors the programmes’ implementation and progress towards the fulfilment of the applicable enabling conditions in regular meetings with the managing authorities.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy.
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protecting the copyright of subtitles in European series and films and developing our AI using this data – E-002840/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Whether any subject matter enjoys protection as a work of authorship and merits copyright protection under EU copyright law would depend on whether it qualifies as an original work and can be expressed in a manner which makes it identifiable with sufficient precision and objectivity.

    If subtitles meet the criteria for copyright protection, their use by third parties must be authorised by the relevant rightsholders, unless specific exceptions or limitations apply in EU copyright law.

    Article 4 of Directive (EU) 2019/790[1] introduces an exception for text and data mining carried out on lawfully accessible copyright-protected content, which provide a relevant framework for the use of protected content for the training of artificial intelligence (AI) models.

    Under Article 4(3) of Directive (EU) 2019/790, rightsholders can expressly reserve the right ‘in an appropriate manner such as machine-readable means’, thus preventing their works from being used under the exception for text and data mining purposes, including in the context of AI.

    The respect of such rights reservation is supported by the AI Act[2]. Under the AI Act , general-purpose AI model providers must put in place a policy to respect EU copyright law and make publicly available a sufficiently detailed summary of the content used for regardless of where the training occurs.

    The Commission will continue to promote the development of AI in the EU, in the respect of copyright rules, by facilitating licensing between creative industries and AI companies.

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2019/790 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on copyright and related rights in the Digital Single Market and amending Directives 96/9/EC and 2001/29/EC https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/790/oj
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence and amending Regulations (EC) No 300/2008, (EU) No 167/2013, (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1139 and (EU) 2019/2144 and Directives 2014/90/EU, (EU) 2016/797 and (EU) 2020/1828 (Artificial Intelligence Act). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj/eng
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Implementation of forest maps and protection of private property in Greece – E-002804/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission ensures, within the remit of its competence, the respect of fundamental rights enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (the Charter), including the right to property[1].

    According to its Article 51(1) the provisions of the Charter are addressed to Member States only when they are implementing EU law.

    In this case, it is for Member States, including their judicial authorities, to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national law and international human rights obligations.

    The Commission is not responsible for monitoring the application of national laws for matters, such as property rights, which do not fall within EU competence.

    Therefore, the Commission has not issued and does not plan to issue any guidelines to resolve environmental protection conflicts with property rights .

    It is up to the Member States to identify and use EU co-financing, provided that the eligibility and selection criteria of any relevant EU programmes or funding tools are fulfilled. Cohesion Policy[2], through projects co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund[3], provides tools that can contribute to addressing challenges related to forest maps and property management in Greece[4].

    In line with this, Greece’s Recovery and Resilience Plan[5] includes a reform to finalise the national cadastre, establishing an efficient land registry system and providing legal certainty for property rights (measure 16986). By mid-2025, the cadastral mapping is expected to be completed, with all property rights available for public display.

    • [1] Article17 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/what/investment-policy_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [4] For instance, the project Development of an Integrated Information System for the Central Geospatial Infrastructure (ERDF co-financing: EUR 0.6 million) focuses on creating a comprehensive geospatial information system to manage grazing lands, immovable property, and agricultural registers, supporting improved land and forest management. Similarly, the project Digitization of the Historic Archive of Aerial Photographs (ERDF co-financing: EUR 3.3 million) involves preserving and digitizing aerial photographs to create a Geographic Information System (GIS), which will contribute to documenting forest and land boundaries, improving transparency, and supporting sustainable land management efforts.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Need for clear commitment and real support for the cities forming part of the ‘100 smart and climate-neutral cities by 2030’ mission and which have already received the EU mission label – E-000059/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In its communication of 2023 on EU Missions[1], the Commission stated that the ‘implementation of the current five Missions should be continued, and support should be increased, both politically and financially’.

    It also stressed that ‘a broader portfolio of instruments needs to be mobilised, with the Horizon Europe calls serving only as seed funding and orchestrators rather than the main instruments of deployment’.

    For the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission[2], this broadening of portfolio of instruments is important as the majority of the resources needed for the deployment of their Climate City contracts will have to come from the private sector.

    Beyond Research and Innovation funding, cities within the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities mission have received more than EUR 100 million of financial support from other EU programmes, other than Horizon Europe such as Connecting Europe Facility[3], LIFE[4], the European Urban Initiative[5]_[6] and the Digital Europe Programme[7].

    The Climate City Capital Hub[8], launched in June 2024, helps cities that have received the EU Mission Label[9] (18 have been targeted so far) to get projects ready for investment. It offers them advice on the best financing solutions, in close cooperation with existing advisory services, such as those offered by the European Investment Bank, and puts cities in touch with investors.

    In addition, EUR 21 million were secured in 2024 to deploy advisory services of the European Investment Bank (including European Local ENergy Assistance (ELENA)[10] and the InvestEU Advisory Hub[11]) to the cities that have received the EU Mission Label.

    Finally, the European Investment Bank also ringfenced a lending envelope of EUR 2 billion for labelled Mission Cities.

    • [1]  COM(2023) 457, 19/07/2023.
    • [2]  https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/climate-neutral-and-smart-cities_en
    • [3]  https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/connecting-europe-facility_en
    • [4]  https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/life_en
    • [5] As regards the European Urban Initiative of Cohesion Policy, calls for innovative action proposals have included references to embed proposals in relevant urban strategies and plans such as those of the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission
    • [6]  https://www.urban-initiative.eu/
    • [7]  https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/digital-europe-programme_en
    • [8]  https://netzerocities.eu/capital-hub/
    • [9]  https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/942e747e-3ccf-4121-a973-9cc8032fc421_en
    • [10] https://www.eib.org/en/products/advisory-services/elena/index
    • [11] https://investeu.europa.eu/investeu-programme/investeu-advisory-hub_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Time to lift the international sanctions on Syria? – 11-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Since the unexpected overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in early December 2024, Syria has embarked on an uncertain trajectory. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the armed jihadi group leading the offensive against the Assad forces, has now taken charge of the country and set up a caretaker government. Scepticism abounds in international circles about HTS owing to the group’s terrorist credentials and Salafist ideology. However, the new Syrian authorities have declared plans to establish a political transition inclusive of all minorities and segments of Syrian society, as well as increased engagement with neighbouring countries and other foreign players, offering the international community some reassurance. One of the main demands in the current context from all sides, within Syria as well as from other states and organisations, has been to lift the complex web of international economic, financial and trade sanctions against the country. Most of these sanctions were imposed after Assad’s brutal crackdown on protesters in 2011. Moreover, calls have been made to remove the designations of HTS and its leader Ahmed al-Sharaa from the international terrorist lists. Such steps are believed to be essential in addressing the significant economic and humanitarian challenges facing the country after nearly 14 years of civil war. The United States (US) imposes the most comprehensive sanctions on Syria, including secondary sanctions on foreign governments, non-US individuals and entities doing business with the Syrian government and sanctioned entities in Syria. The European Union (EU) has also imposed restrictive measures on certain Syrian economic sectors, along with asset freezes and travel bans on individuals or entities supporting the Assad regime. In January 2025, the US granted short-term waivers relating to the provision of basic services in response to requests for sanctions relief for Syria. Similarly, the EU Member States reached a political agreement to suspend certain restrictions gradually and conditionally. The UN Security Council has the authority to remove the terrorist designations of HTS and its leader from the ISIL (Da’esh)/Al-Qaida list.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Enabling more assistance for regions struck by floods through changes to the EU Solidarity Fund and Recovery and Resilience Facility regulatory framework – E-002590/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The mid-term revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)[1] increased the allocation for the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve by EUR 1.5 billion for the years 2024-2027. The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF)[2] now has an annual budget of EUR 1 016 million[3] (in 2018 prices). A review of the scope of the Fund is not planned under the 2021-2027 MFF.

    In addition, thanks to the Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE) Regulation, entered into force on 24 December 2024[4], Member States will be able to reprogramme (within the limits of its current scope of intervention) part of their European Regional Development Fund, Cohesion Fund, and European Social Fund+ allocations for reconstruction and repair actions. Member States have six months from the entry into force to submit the corresponding programme amendments to the Commission.

    Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), Member States committed close to EUR 9 billion in their recovery and resilience plans to finance measures related to natural disaster preparedness. The RRF Regulation allows Member States to request a targeted amendment of their plan if objective circumstances make it impossible for them to deliver on the previously agreed commitments. Natural disasters can constitute objective circumstances to justify the revision of recovery and resilience plans[5]. The Commission has recently also taken steps to simplify the process to amend the plans (when objective circumstances are invoked).

    • [1] Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/765 of 29 February 2024 amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the MFF for 2021-27.
    • [2] Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9): https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012
    • [3] EUR 1 144.1 million in 2024 prices.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2024/3236 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1057 and (EU) 2021/1058 as regards Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE), available at the following link: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/3236/oj
    • [5] This includes the possibility to shift RRF funds towards reforms and investments necessary to respond to natural disasters, or more generally to adjust previously agreed commitments to take account of the impact of such natural disasters on the plans’ implementation. The relevant guidance can be found at: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/3a3d5707-5adc-4f6a-a5b5-1d23f1a24235_en?filename=20240531_Draft_Guidance_on_recovery_and_resilience_plans.pdf
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Attacks by Türkiye on the Syrian Kurds – E-003087/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The fall of Assad’s criminal regime marks a historic moment for the Syrian people.

    The High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) confirms the EU commitment to a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned peaceful and inclusive political transition, where all groups participate at the negotiating table.

    The European Council conclusions of 19 December 2024[1] underlined ‘the need to ensure respect for human rights, including women’s rights, non-sectarian governance and the protection of members of religious and ethnic minorities, and to safeguard Syria’s cultural heritage’.

    It called on ‘all parties to preserve national unity and ensure the protection of all civilians, the provision of public services as well as the creation of conditions for an inclusive and peaceful political transition’.

    The EU stands ready to support the new phase in Syria in coordination with regional partners (Türkiye, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, others). The HR/VP expressed the EU’s position in international meetings, including in Aqaba[2], Riyadh as well as during her recent visit to Ankara.

    Türkiye has a legitimate right and responsibility to fight against terrorism, ensuring that this is done in accordance with the rule of law, respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, in full respect of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of neighbouring states.

    In October 2019, Member States committed to strong national positions regarding their arms export policy to Türkiye on the basis of the provisions of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP on arms export controls.

    There is no arms embargo to Türkiye in place. This would require unanimity. The responsible Council Working Group remains seized on this important matter.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [2] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/press-statement-eu-high-representative-foreign-affairs-and-security-policy-following-international_en

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Scarcity of water resources and Quintanilla de Flórez bottling plant – E-002568/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Water Framework Directive (WFD)[1] already sets the obligation for Member States to characterise water bodies and monitor and assess their status on a regular basis. This information is essential to adopt appropriate measures to prevent deterioration and achieve good water status of all water bodies, at the latest by end of 2027.

    This characterisation should be carried out following the guidance documents[2], established in the context of the ‘Common Implementation Strategy’ under the WFD. The latter establishes the need to set, on a site-specific basis, the water table level necessary to secure the good status of groundwater bodies taking into account inter alia climate change and extractions.

    The WFD does not specify how water resources should be allocated between different users within a Member State. However, it requests that the current and future requirements of the users be incorporated into a system of controls that guarantees the achievement of the objectives of the law. This requires water allocations to be regularly reviewed to ensure withdrawals are consistent with the goal of achieving good quantitative water status.

    • [1] Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy, OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1-73.
    • [2] Guidance document No 15. Guidance on Groundwater Monitoring: https://circabc.europa.eu/ui/group/9ab5926d-bed4-4322-9aa7-9964bbe8312d/library/d98ae176-3e4f-4aa8-a9a0-877814cec19b/details
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Extraction of rare earths on the island of Fuerteventura (Canary Islands) – E-002587/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is not aware of the referred prospection projects for the extraction of rare earths.

    The EU legal framework applicable to the extraction and processing of raw materials[1] aims to ensure that the activities within its scope, including mining, comply with high environmental standards.

    The Critical Raw Materials Act[2] (CRMA) provides a framework to ensure a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials streamlining permitting procedures in mining and in the critical raw materials supply chain while keeping environmental checks.

    I n the case of Strategic Projects for which the obligation to carry out assessments of the effects on the environment arises simultaneously from the Environmental Impact Assessment[3], Habitats[4], Birds[5], Water[6] and Waste Framework[7], Industrial Emissions[8], or the Seveso III[9] Directives, Member States shall apply a coordinated procedure fulfilling all the requirements of these acts[10].

    The regulation applies without prejudice to the obligations under the Aarhus and Espoo Conventions[11] and the requirements on public participation included in the above-mentioned legislation.

    Under the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive[12] and the Batteries Regulation[13], companies are required to take steps with regard to social and environmental risks when sourcing raw materials but those rules have not yet entered into application.

    The 2022 Communication on the EU’s outermost regions[14] stresses the importance of protecting and restoring the high biodiversity value of these regions. Several EU instruments can support biodiversity protection and restoration in the outermost region of the Canary Islands[15].

    • [1] Directive 2006/21/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2006 on the management of waste from extractive industries and amending Directive 2004/35/EC, OJ L 102, 11.4.2006, p. 15-34.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020, OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024.
    • [3] Directive 2011/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment, OJ L 26, 28.1.2012, p. 1-21, as amended by Directive 2014/52/EU of 16 April 2014, OJ L 124, 25.4.2014, p. 1-18.
    • [4] Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
    • [5] Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds (Codified version), OJ L 20, 26.1.2010, p. 7-25.
    • [6] Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy, OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1-73.
    • [7] Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives, OJ L 312, 22.11.2008, p. 3-30.
    • [8] Directive (EU) 2024/1785 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024 amending Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control) and Council Directive 1999/31/EC on the landfill of waste. OJ L, 2024/1785, 15.7.2024.
      Transposition date of this directive is 1 July 2026.
    • [9] Directive 2012/18/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on the control of major-accident hazards involving dangerous substances, amending and subsequently repealing Council Directive 96/82/EC, OJ L 197, 24.7.2012, p. 1-37.
    • [10] According to Article 12 of the CRMA.
    • [11] United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters, signed at Aarhus on 25 June 1998, and UNECE Convention on environmental impact assessment in a transboundary context, signed at Espoo on 25 February 1991 and its Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment, signed in Kyiv on 21 May 2003.
    • [12] Directive (EU) 2024/1760 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on corporate sustainability due diligence and amending Directive (EU) 2019/1937 and Regulation (EU) 2023/2859, OJ L, 2024/1760, 5.7.2024.
    • [13] Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 July 2023 concerning batteries and waste batteries, amending Directive 2008/98/EC and Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and repealing Directive 2006/66/EC, OJ L 191, 28.7.2023, p. 1-117.
    • [14] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic And Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, Putting people first, securing sustainable and inclusive growth, unlocking the potential of the EU’s outermost regions, COM (2022) 198 final.
    • [15] Eg. European Regional Development Fund: https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en or the regulation (EU) 2021/783 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2021 establishing a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE), and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013, OJ L 172, 17.05.2021, p.53.
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Water shortages in the French overseas territories – E-002967/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware of the challenges facing the outermost regions in terms of water shortages and is fully committed to supporting these regions in improving water management and related infrastructure.

    The Commission reiterated this commitment in its communication on the outermost regions[1] of May 2022, which aims to contribute to improving the quality of life of citizens in these regions, in particular as regards basic needs such as water and sanitation.

    An independent study[2] on living conditions and access to basic needs in the outermost regions published by the Commission in 2024 further sheds light into the remaining challenges related to access to drinking water and sanitation in some of these regions.

    The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) provides substantial financial support to the French outermost regions on structural investments in drinking water and sanitation, for example to ensure the resilience of water catchments, develop drinking water treatment facilities and equipment, and improve the efficiency of distribution networks.

    Support to drinking water is also a priority for cohesion policy in these regions in 2021-2027. For instance, in Réunion, Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, and Mayotte, the ERDF will invest respectively EUR 106 million, EUR 148 million, EUR 10 million and EUR 47.5 million to improve the quality of drinking water and sanitation infrastructure.

    In addition, the directive on the quality of water intended for human consumption[3] includes provisions to protect human health by ensuring that drinking water is clean and to improve access to drinking water, in particular for vulnerable and marginalised groups.

    Member States had to transpose this directive into national law by 12 January 2023, which France did.

    • [1] COM(2022) 198 final.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/information-sources/publications/studies/2024/study-on-living-conditions-and-access-to-selected-basic-needs-in-the-eu-outermost-regions_en
    • [3] Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2020 on the quality of water intended for human consumption, OJ L 435, 23.12.2020, p. 1-62.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Horizon Europe: lump sum funding – E-002331/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is of the opinion that the benefits of lump sums have materialised. Lump sums will be used when deemed the most appropriate approach.

    Most participants find that lump sums reduce their administrative burden[1]. Beneficiaries can choose the extent to which they seize the full simplification benefits; while some continue internal financial management tasks, most have stopped some or all of these[2], which are no longer an obligation in the lump sum grant agreement.

    1. Lump sums can be used irrespective of the Research and Innovation content. Horizon Europe governance and the Programme Committee establish where to use lump sums[3],[4]. The focus is on call topics for grants below EUR 10 million with 10 or fewer participants. Small and medium enterprises and/or newcomers are particularly positive about lump sums, so topics addressing these groups are good candidates. The recent lump sum assessment confirmed these criteria[5].

    2. Article 29 of the Horizon Europe Regulation[6] states that grant proposals, which include the estimated budget, are evaluated by a committee of external experts. This applies both to actual cost and lump sum grants. In line with the Financial Regulation, the evaluation of lump sum budgets is one of the safeguards for sound financial management in the decision authorising the use of lump sum under Horizon Europe[7].

    The legal basis for experts to evaluate the budget in lump sum proposals stems from the same Decision[8]. Section 3 thereof stipulates that for each work package, experts should review the budget estimate using relevant cost and resource benchmarks[9] to ensure that the proposed resources and lump sum distribution can achieve the expected outcomes.

    3. The Commission will continue to monitor lump sums, including as part of the Horizon Europe interim evaluation, and to improve the process, where needed[10],[11]. While the legal principles remain stable, the processes, tools, guidance and training are continuously improved in line with stakeholder feedback.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/other/comm/ls-assessment-report-2024_en.pdf , section ‘Overall satisfaction’, p. 24-25.
    • [2] e.g.  keeping timesheets.
    • [3] As requested by many stakeholders, lump sums are being rolled out gradually.
    • [4] The resulting work programmes are adopted by Commission decision.
    • [5] Link footnote 1 section ‘Survey results’, p. 24-40.
    • [6]  OJ L 170, 12.5.2021, p. 1-68.
    • [7] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/guidance/ls-decision_he_en.pdf
    • [8]  Idem footnote 7.
    • [9] S uch as market prices, statistical data, or historical data.
    • [10] Assessment of the Lump Sum Pilot (2018-2020)(https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/download/acd39d69-99db-4ddd-b788-7c36397b22dd_en?filename=assessment_of_the_lump_sum_pilot_2018-2020_report) of October 2021, the overall positive results available at https://www.europarl.europa.eu/stoa/en/document/EPRS_STU(2022)697218.
    • [11] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/other/comm/ls-assessment-report-2024_en.pdf, in particular sections ‘Written comments and suggestions’, p. 41-42, and ‘Conclusions and next steps’, p. 43-45.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – AI liability directive – E-002654/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The proposed Artificial Intelligence (AI) Liability Directive[1] was designed with a forward-looking approach to modernise certain fault-based liability rules, considering AI’s unique characteristics (opacity, complexity and autonomy), which differentiate it from traditional software.

    Legal certainty regarding liability is important for reducing risks and encouraging businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises and startups, to invest in AI. Harmonised rules for fault-based liability minimise fragmentation, creating a predictable environment for innovation while ensuring accountability.

    2. The proposed Directive does not create any administrative burden for businesses (no reporting, no registration, no documentation obligation) and enhances legal certainty.

    The proposed AI Liability Directive is targeted and proportionate, as it only deals with aspects of liability that are challenged by the specificities of the AI, while all other aspects of liability are left to national law.

    3. The Commission’s aim is to create a framework that does not stifle growth. The proposed Directive does not create any additional hurdles for companies, as it relies on obligations that companies must already comply with under European or national law.

    The AI Act[2] reduces risks for safety and fundamental rights, the Product Liability Directive[3] sets no-fault liability of producers for defective products, benefiting consumers, and the proposed AI Liability Directive covers liability for damages caused by AI, linked to the fault of any persons.

    Adaptation of fault-based liability to the specificities of AI allows any type of victims of accidents caused by AI systems to prove a successful liability claim and obtain compensation.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52022PC0496
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj/eng
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/2853/oj/eng

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Measures to support Western Macedonia – E-002843/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Cohesion Policy supports the creation of new small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs) in Greece, through the ‘Competitiveness’ programme, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the European Social Fund+ (ESF+)[1], and horizontal employment actions also covering Western Macedonia, through the ‘Human Resources and Social Cohesion’ programme, co-funded by ESF+.

    The programme ‘Western Macedonia’ allocates some EUR 20 million[2] for the creation of new and existing SMEs along with EUR 13.2 million[3] for employment initiatives.

    The Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan[4] with EUR 2.9 billion supports job creation, youth employment, education, and entrepreneurship in Greece, while an additional EUR 619 million aims to foster economic development in Western Macedonia[5].

    The ESF+ finances employment actions, active labour market policies, training initiatives, and social economy projects aimed at job creation. Eligible individuals and entities can apply for financing through relevant calls.

    The Just Transition Fund allocates resources to employment initiatives and fosters entrepreneurship for youth, promoting green skills development[6] while the Just Transition Platform manages initiatives on youth mobilisation and young people’s skill development.

    The ‘Human Resources and Social Cohesion’ programme supports entrepreneurship initiatives for the socioeconomic integration of young people in Greece[7][8].

    The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme[9] allows new entrepreneurs to learn from experienced business owners in other countries.

    Also, they can enhance their skills via the European learning platform Entrepreneurship4All[10] and participate in the European Enterprise Promotion Awards[11].

    • [1] Indicatively, some EUR 2.7 billion from the ERDF is available to support small and medium-sized enterprises in Greece.
    • [2] Co-funded by ERDF.
    • [3] Co-funded by ESF+.
    • [4] Components 3.1 and 3.2.
    • [5] The plan also includes two investments contributing to the economic development in Western Macedonia. Measure 16871 (Revitalization actions of the most affected territories (Just transition territories)) supports land rehabilitation in the areas of former lignite mines to alleviate its transition towards a climate-neutral economy. Measure 16628 (Central Greece Highway E-65: Trikala-Egnatia Section) finances the construction of a motorway, connecting Southern Greece, Thessaly and Western Macedonia with the Western Balkans and the rest of Europe to improve connectivity for residents and businesses in the region.
    • [6]  For example, the Just Transition Platform (JTP) runs a JTP Working Group on Equal Opportunities to provide a forum for vulnerable groups to share good practices, exchange knowledge and discuss concerns and achievements. In addition, the Just Transition Platform manages since 2023 initiatives on youth mobilisation, re-skilling and up-skilling measures for young people. Support through the Just Transition Platform also promotes the development of green skills for youth to enhance entrepreneurship and development of the SMEs and start-up.
    • [7]  Including the region of Western Macedonia.
    • [8]  In 2014-2020, the Youth Employment Initiative mobilised over EUR 500 million to finance training, work experience and entrepreneurship support programmes for unemployed young people in Greece. Similar measures are being funded by the ESF+ allocation for the period 2021-2027 with a budget of EUR 860 million.
    • [9]  https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/
    • [10]  https://entrepreneurship4all.eu/why-e4all/
    • [11]  https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/smes/learn-and-plan-entrepreneurship/european-enterprise-promotion-awards_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Jones Healthcare and Technology Innovation Conference Set to Take Place at the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, NV, April 8-9, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES and NEW YORK,, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The highly anticipated Jones Healthcare and Technology Innovation Conference will take place on April 8-9, 2025, at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. This premier event will bring together leading Healthcare and Technology companies, institutional investors, and key opinion leaders to discuss the latest trends and innovations shaping both industries. We are honored to announce Eric F. Trump as our keynote speaker for the conference, with additional speakers to be announced.

    Over the course of the two-day conference, participants will have the opportunity to engage in expert-led panels, corporate presentations, dynamic fireside chats and one-on-one meetings covering the latest developments in Healthcare and Technology. The event will serve as a platform for insightful discussions on the future of these rapidly evolving sectors, offering valuable networking opportunities for investors and innovators.

    “We are thrilled to host the Jones Healthcare and Technology Innovation Conference in Las Vegas,” said Alan Hill, CEO of Jones. “This conference will provide a unique forum for collaboration, offering a deep dive into the cutting-edge innovations in healthcare and technology. As these industries continue to converge, the event will highlight the tremendous opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for both sectors.”

    Moe Cohen, Head of Investment Banking at Jones, added, “Our goal is to foster meaningful discussions that will drive forward-thinking solutions in the healthcare and technology sectors. We are excited to bring together some of the brightest minds and most influential leaders to tackle the most pressing issues and unlock the next wave of breakthroughs in these dynamic industries.”

    If you are interested in attending, please contact your Jones representative to inquire about an invitation.

    For more information about the conference, sponsorship opportunities, or to register, please email mdoyle@jonestrading.com.

    About Jones:

    JonesTrading Institutional Services, LLC (“Jones”) is a leading full-service investment banking firm, providing a comprehensive suite of services, including capital markets, M&A, and strategic advisory to corporate clients. The firm is dedicated to building lasting partnerships by delivering innovative solutions, deep industry expertise, and tailored strategies that drive value and success. Founded in 1975, Jones has established itself as the global leader in block trading and a premier liquidity provider to institutional investors. The firm’s offerings also include derivatives trading, outsourced trading, electronic trading, prime services, private markets trading, and research/market intelligence. Member FINRA and SIPC.

    For more information, please visit jonestrading.com

    Human Resources
    HR@jonestrading.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Jim Chalmers wants to fix Australia’s broken road tax system. Here’s what one solution might look like

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hussein Dia, Professor of Future Urban Mobility, Swinburne University of Technology

    Taras Vyshnya/Shutterstock

    Australia’s road tax system has a problem. Revenue from the fuel excise – the primary way we tax motoring – has been declining steadily as a proportion of government revenue over the past two decades.

    Politicians, policy experts and business leaders have all long called for reform. Now, change could be on the horizon.

    The Australian Financial Review reports that at a closed-door dinner with business leaders in Canberra last week, Treasurer Jim Chalmers hinted that addressing falling fuel excise revenue would be a tax reform priority if Labor is re-elected.

    One option would be a road user charge on electric vehicles (EVs), which obviously don’t pay fuel excise. But singling them out would undermine the government’s own efforts in promoting EVs to help meet the nation’s emissions reduction targets.

    There are also other inequities in the way the current fuel excise works. Our previous research has shown Australia is ready for a rational and transparent discussion about road-user charging on all vehicles, not just electric ones.

    How we tax roads today

    Currently, Australian motorists pay several government taxes and other fees on their vehicles.

    One is the fuel excise. This tax, collected by the Commonwealth, is paid per litre of fuel purchased and is indexed every six months to account for inflation.

    Australia’s existing fuel excise is charged per litre of fuel.
    Daria Nipot/Shutterstock

    Then there are registration fees, typically paid every six or 12 months and collected by state and territory governments.

    Vehicle owners also have to pay compulsory third-party insurance, which in some states is bundled with registration fees.

    When buying or transferring ownership of a vehicle, other fees can apply. These include stamp duty as well as the luxury car tax on vehicles priced above a certain threshold.

    The system isn’t working

    As a proportion of Australian taxation revenue, revenue from the fuel excise has dwindled from 7.4% in 2000 to 3.9% in 2025.

    It might be tempting to blame electric cars for this decline. But this share began declining steadily long before EVs were introduced in Australia, and is projected to fall further.

    Falling fuel excise revenue can be attributed to a range of other factors. Improvements in engine fuel consumption have had a substantial impact on the number of litres used to travel the same distances.

    In Australia, the average fuel consumption of passenger cars in 2005 was 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres. In 2024, this figure was around 6.9 litres.

    Fuel consumption rates are expected to improve further and match those in other nations with the introduction of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, which came into effect at the start of this year.

    Public transport usage has also been trending upwards in many of Australia’s major cities since the turn of the millennium, reducing reliance on private cars.

    Need for an alternative

    Australia’s current road taxes are blunt instruments that don’t reflect the true societal costs of driving.

    The fuel excise, for example, does not properly account for traffic congestion or emissions. A driver who travels in regional Victoria or in an outer suburb of Sydney for local shopping or school drop-offs will pay the same excise as a driver who contributes to congestion by travelling into the city centre.

    Similarly, car registration fees are not related to the number of kilometres travelled, congestion created, or emissions produced by driving.

    One of the most widely known alternatives alternatives to a fuel excise tax is a pay-per-distance road user charge. Such charges work by charging vehicles a fee per kilometre travelled.

    This would not be a new tax on top of existing taxes – it would replace current fuel excise and car registration fees.

    Adjustments to this model can include exempting some groups from the charges (such as low-income families, taxis and emergency service vehicles), adjusting charges for different categories of vehicles, and applying congestion charges under certain conditions.

    Failed attempts

    Targeting electric vehicles with a road user charge has been an acute priority for many states, as they are currently completely exempt from paying the fuel excise.

    In 2021, the Victorian government introduced a controversial distance-based charge for EVs. But this scheme was challenged in the High Court and ruled unconstitutional.

    Victoria’s measure was found to be a form of excise, and only the Commonwealth can impose such a tax.

    Following the ruling, the treasurer asked state and territory treasurers to look into the design of a national scheme in December 2023. But this process reportedly stalled.

    Support for reform

    Today, there are about 300,000 EVs on Australian roads (including around 248,000 battery electric cars and 53,500 plug-in hybrids).

    That’s only a tiny fraction of the 21 million cars registered across the nation. Over coming decades, as EVs take a greater share of total vehicles on the road, the hit to already flagging fuel excise revenue will become acute.

    In the meantime, our own previous research and public surveys show Australia is ready for a rational and transparent discussion about road-user charging on all vehicles, not only electric vehicles.

    We found most respondents would support such charges if they were transparent, equitable and replace or reduce other road taxes.


    The Conversation, CC BY

    There have already been several Australian studies around the shape and form of road user charges that can inform the discussions and public consultations.

    We also found willingness to pay a road-user charge varies with the level of expected savings. Most respondents were willing to pay a road-user charge if it saved them on registration fees and fuel taxes.

    If well planned and implemented, a national approach to road-user charges can raise enough revenue to replace the fuel excise tax. It will also ease congestion, promote sustainable transport and help achieve Australia’s targets for cutting transport emissions.

    Hussein Dia receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the iMOVE Australia Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, and Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

    Hadi Ghaderi receives funding from the iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, IVECO Trucks Australia limited, Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre, Victoria Department of Education and Training, Australia Post, Bondi Laboratories, Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre, Sphere for Good, Australian Meat Processor Corporation, City of Casey, 460degrees and Passel.

    – ref. Jim Chalmers wants to fix Australia’s broken road tax system. Here’s what one solution might look like – https://theconversation.com/jim-chalmers-wants-to-fix-australias-broken-road-tax-system-heres-what-one-solution-might-look-like-249477

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sam Nujoma’s Steadfast Leadership as Namibia’s First Elected President Left Indelible Mark on His Country and the World, Secretary-General Says, Mourning His Passing

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Press Release

    SG/SM/22550

    The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

    The Secretary-General joins the people of Namibia in mourning the passing of His Excellency Dr. Sam Nujoma.

    An architect of Namibia’s liberation struggle and recognized as its founding father, Dr. Nujoma led the nation’s transition to independence in 1990, when he was elected as the country’s first President.  The United Nations stood alongside Dr. Nujoma and all Namibians, as the world witnessed the raising of the flag of the newly free and sovereign nation on 21 March of that year.

    As President, Dr. Nujoma demonstrated steadfast leadership in the face of immense challenges, leaving an indelible mark on his country, Africa and the world.

    The Secretary-General extends his heartfelt condolences to Dr. Nujoma’s family and to the Government and people of Namibia.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Murder charge filed in Lake Hawea homicide

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Otago Lakes Area Commander, Inspector Paula Enoka:

    A man is appearing in court today charged with the murder of Karen White last year.

    Ms White was killed in her Lake Hawea home on Friday 8 March, 2024.

    Following a lengthy investigation, Police have now charged a 61-year-old man with murder, and he is due in Queenstown District Court today.

    Police continue to support the family and friends of Ms White, and our condolences go out to them.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fisheries reform: proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Have your say

    Fisheries New Zealand wants your feedback on a package of proposals that will enhance value to fishers and better ensure sustainability. These proposed reforms will:

    • improve the responsiveness, efficiency, and certainty of decision-making
    • provide greater protection for on-board camera footage and ensure the on-board camera programme is workable
    • implement new rules for commercial fishers that set out when QMS (Quota Management System) fish must be landed and when they can be returned to the sea.

    The consultation opened on 12 February and will close at 5pm on 28 March 2025.

    Online public meetings

    During the consultation period, we’ll be holding 3 public online meetings. At these sessions, we’ll give you a high-level presentation on the proposals and you’ll have a chance to ask questions.

    • Session 1 – Monday 24 February 2025
    • Session 2 – Monday 3 March 2025
    • Session 3 – Thursday 13 March 2025.

    If you would like to attend one of the meetings, you must register.

    Register for an online meeting – SurveyMonkey

    We encourage you to read the consultation document before you attend.

    Consultation document

    Proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act 1996 [PDF, 2.4 MB]

    Related document: supplementary information

    Part 3 of the consultation document seeks input into how we plan to implement new rules for commercial fishers that set out when QMS species must be landed and when they can be returned to the sea. Further detail on one of the proposals is in the supplementary information document.

    Proposed adjustments to Total Allowable Catch settings for stocks where a current landing exception is removed [PDF, 585 KB]

    Why we’re making these changes

    The Government has made commitments to lift New Zealand’s productivity and economic growth – increasing opportunities and prosperity for all New Zealanders, including the seafood sector.

    We now have access to better quality and more frequent data through electronic reporting by fishers and verification of some of this data by onboard cameras and fisheries observers.

    The proposed changes respond to the Government’s goals and take advantage of new data and analytical tools to improve how we manage New Zealand’s fisheries.

    Making your submission

    We must get your feedback by 5pm on Friday 28 March 2025. We’d prefer you used our online survey form but you can also email or post a submission. 

    Online submission form – SurveyMonkey

    Email

    Email your submissions to fish.reform@mpi.govt.nz

    Post

    Post your written submission to:

    Fisheries Policy Team
    Policy and Trade Branch
    Ministry for Primary Industries
    PO Box 2526 Wellington 6140
    New Zealand.

    What to include in your email and postal submission

    Make sure you tell us:

    • the title of the consultation document [‘Proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act 1996’]
    • your name and title
    • your organisation’s name (if you are submitting on behalf of an organisation, and whether your submission represents the whole organisation or a section of it)
    • your contact details (such as phone number, address, and email).

    Submissions are public information

    Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

    People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

    If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

    Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –