NewzIntel.com

Category: Latin America

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester’s Aviva Studios scoops prestigious RIBA architecture award

    Source: City of Manchester

    Manchester’s landmark cultural space Aviva Studios, designed by OMA, has scooped a prestigious award as one of only four buildings in the region to be recognised with a 2025 RIBA North West Award.

    The award means the multi-purpose arts venue, also voted last year by TIME as one of the top 50 places to visit in the world – the only UK entry on the list – will now be considered by RIBA for a National Award later in the year.

    Designed by international architects OMA, the building’s development was led by the city council with further backing from HM Government and Arts Council England.

    The RIBA jury praised the success of the building’s architects in navigating the various constraints of the site, alongside the river Irwell and with a road bisecting the site.

    They said: “Sandwiched between listed railway arches, the River Irwell, the Science and Industry Museum and a rash of new apartment blocks that form the regeneration of the former Granada TV Studios, this was not the most obvious of locations for a major arts building.”

    Jury members were also particularly impressed with the ‘technical virtuosity’ demonstrated by the architects in resolving the conflicting requirements of the building that might at any one time see an orchestra performing in one space, alongside a nightclub in another, while ensuring total acoustic separation between the two events.

    The RIBA award is not the first time Aviva Studios has been recognised for the uniqueness of the building and what it offers. Last year it was recognised by TIME as one of the world’s 50 greatest places to visit – the only UK entry on the list, sitting alongside places in Hawaii, Australia, Morocco, China, Chile, India and far beyond.

    The building is operated by Manchester-based Factory International who are responsible both for year-round programming at Aviva Studios and the biennial Manchester International Festival.

    Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader Manchester City Council, said: “Aviva Studios has already made a big impact on the cultural scene in Manchester.  Being recognised by RIBA with a regional award is brilliant news and testament to the building’s unique design.  Architects OMA have helped us create a landmark new building for culture and the arts in the UK right here in the heart of Manchester – a building that is winning plaudits across the world and attracting thousands of new visitors to the city.”

    Each of the RIBA regional award winners were selected by an expert jury who visited all shortlisted projects.

    RIBA North West Jury Chair Dominic Wilkinson, Principal Lecturer Liverpool John Moores University, said: “The award winning projects from the North West region present a diverse example of the positive impact architecture can have on the lives of its users, with everything from medical buildings with highly challenging client requirements to single family houses enriching the lives of its owners. Public and private sectors are represented with schemes of all sizes and complexities.  

    “The winners ranging from large cultural venues delivering world class innovative creative programmes to state of the art education facilities training future engineers, illustrate the value for clients and the public in commissioning quality architecture. These projects taken together along with the larger selection of shortlisted schemes demonstrate a positive future for architecture in the region.”

    Speaking on all the UK Award winners, RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki, said: “This year’s winners exemplify architecture’s power to transform—turning spaces into places of connection, creativity, and care. Spanning the length of the UK and diverse in form and function, our 2025 winners show a deep sensitivity to place and a strong coherence of thought between all teams involved. Individually these projects inspire and uplift, but collectively, they remind us that architects do far more than design buildings, they shape the way we live, work and connect.” 

    RIBA North West Award winners will now be considered for a highly coveted RIBA National Award in recognition of their architectural excellence, which will be announced on 10 July. The shortlist for the RIBA Stirling Prize for the best building of the year will be drawn from the RIBA National Award-winning projects later in the year.

    Read the full citation by RIBA on Aviva Studios here

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: The Inaugural Address

    Source: The White House

    U.S. Capitol
    Washington, D.C.

    12:10 P.M. EST

    THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you very much, everybody.  (Applause.)  Wow.  Thank you very, very much.

    Vice President Vance, Speaker Johnson, Senator Thune, Chief Justice Roberts, justices of the Supreme Court of the United States, President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, President Biden, Vice President Harris, and my fellow citizens, the golden age of America begins right now.  (Applause.)  
     
    From this day forward, our country will flourish and be respected again all over the world.  We will be the envy of every nation, and we will not allow ourselves to be taken advantage of any longer.  During every single day of the Trump administration, I will, very simply, put America first.  (Applause.) 
     
    Our sovereignty will be reclaimed.  Our safety will be restored.  The scales of justice will be rebalanced.  The vicious, violent, and unfair weaponization of the Justice Department and our government will end.  (Applause.)  
     
    And our top priority will be to create a nation that is proud, prosperous, and free.  (Applause.)

    America will soon be greater, stronger, and far more exceptional than ever before.  (Applause.) 
     
    I return to the presidency confident and optimistic that we are at the start of a thrilling new era of national success.  A tide of change is sweeping the country, sunlight is pouring over the entire world, and America has the chance to seize this opportunity like never before.  
     
    But first, we must be honest about the challenges we face.  While they are plentiful, they will be annihilated by this great momentum that the world is now witnessing in the United States of America. 
     
    As we gather today, our government confronts a crisis of trust.  For many years, a radical and corrupt establishment has extracted power and wealth from our citizens while the pillars of our society lay broken and seemingly in complete disrepair.  
     
    We now have a government that cannot manage even a simple crisis at home while, at the same time, stumbling into a continuing catalogue of catastrophic events abroad. 
     
    It fails to protect our magnificent, law-abiding American citizens but provides sanctuary and protection for dangerous criminals, many from prisons and mental institutions, that have illegally entered our country from all over the world.  
     
    We have a government that has given unlimited funding to the defense of foreign borders but refuses to defend American borders or, more importantly, its own people. 
     
    Our country can no longer deliver basic services in times of emergency, as recently shown by the wonderful people of North Carolina — who have been treated so badly — (applause) — and other states who are still suffering from a hurricane that took place many months ago or, more recently, Los Angeles, where we are watching fires still tragically burn from weeks ago without even a token of defense.  They’re raging through the houses and communities, even affecting some of the wealthiest and most powerful individuals in our country — some of whom are sitting here right now.  They don’t have a home any longer.  That’s interesting.  But we can’t let this happen.  Everyone is unable to do anything about it.  That’s going to change. 
     
    We have a public health system that does not deliver in times of disaster, yet more money is spent on it than any country anywhere in the world.  

    And we have an education system that teaches our children to be ashamed of themselves — in many cases, to hate our country despite the love that we try so desperately to provide to them.  All of this will change starting today, and it will change very quickly.  (Applause.)
     
    My recent election is a mandate to completely and totally reverse a horrible betrayal and all of these many betrayals that have taken place and to give the people back their faith, their wealth, their democracy, and, indeed, their freedom.  From this moment on, America’s decline is over.  (Applause.)
     
    Our liberties and our nation’s glorious destiny will no longer be denied.  And we will immediately restore the integrity, competency, and loyalty of America’s government. 
     
    Over the past eight years, I have been tested and challenged more than any president in our 250-year history, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. 
     
    The journey to reclaim our republic has not been an easy one — that, I can tell you.  Those who wish to stop our cause have tried to take my freedom and, indeed, to take my life. 
     
    Just a few months ago, in a beautiful Pennsylvania field, an assassin’s bullet ripped through my ear.  But I felt then and believe even more so now that my life was saved for a reason.  I was saved by God to make America great again.  (Applause.)
     
    Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

    Thank you very much.  (Applause.)
     
    That is why each day under our administration of American patriots, we will be working to meet every crisis with dignity and power and strength.  We will move with purpose and speed to bring back hope, prosperity, safety, and peace for citizens of every race, religion, color, and creed. 
     
    For American citizens, January 20th, 2025, is Liberation Day.  (Applause.)  It is my hope that our recent presidential election will be remembered as the greatest and most consequential election in the history of our country.  
     
    As our victory showed, the entire nation is rapidly unifying behind our agenda with dramatic increases in support from virtually every element of our society: young and old, men and women, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, urban, suburban, rural.  And very importantly, we had a powerful win in all seven swing states — (applause) — and the popular vote, we won by millions of people.  (Applause.) 

    To the Black and Hispanic communities, I want to thank you for the tremendous outpouring of love and trust that you have shown me with your vote.  We set records, and I will not forget it.  I’ve heard your voices in the campaign, and I look forward to working with you in the years to come. 
     
    Today is Martin Luther King Day.  And his honor — this will be a great honor.  But in his honor, we will strive together to make his dream a reality.  We will make his dream come true.  (Applause.)
     
    Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.)
     
    National unity is now returning to America, and confidence and pride is soaring like never before.  In everything we do, my administration will be inspired by a strong pursuit of excellence and unrelenting success.  We will not forget our country, we will not forget our Constitution, and we will not forget our God.  Can’t do that.  (Applause.)
     
    Today, I will sign a series of historic executive orders.  With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense.  It’s all about common sense.  (Applause.)
     
    First, I will declare a national emergency at our southern border.  (Applause.)
     
    All illegal entry will immediately be halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came.  We will reinstate my Remain in Mexico policy.  (Applause.)
     
    I will end the practice of catch and release.  (Applause.)
     
    And I will send troops to the southern border to repel the disastrous invasion of our country.  (Applause.)
     
    Under the orders I sign today, we will also be designating the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.  (Applause.)
     
    And by invoking the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, I will direct our government to use the full and immense power of federal and state law enforcement to eliminate the presence of all foreign gangs and criminal networks bringing devastating crime to U.S. soil, including our cities and inner cities.  (Applause.) 
     
    As commander in chief, I have no higher responsibility than to defend our country from threats and invasions, and that is exactly what I am going to do.  We will do it at a level that nobody has ever seen before.
     
    Next, I will direct all members of my cabinet to marshal the vast powers at their disposal to defeat what was record inflation and rapidly bring down costs and prices.  (Applause.) 
     
    The inflation crisis was caused by massive overspending and escalating energy prices, and that is why today I will also declare a national energy emergency.  We will drill, baby, drill.  (Applause.)
     
    America will be a manufacturing nation once again, and we have something that no other manufacturing nation will ever have — the largest amount of oil and gas of any country on earth — and we are going to use it.  We’ll use it.  (Applause.)
     
    We will bring prices down, fill our strategic reserves up again right to the top, and export American energy all over the world.  (Applause.) 
     
    We will be a rich nation again, and it is that liquid gold under our feet that will help to do it. 
     
    With my actions today, we will end the Green New Deal, and we will revoke the electric vehicle mandate, saving our auto industry and keeping my sacred pledge to our great American autoworkers.  (Applause.)
     
    In other words, you’ll be able to buy the car of your choice.
     
    We will build automobiles in America again at a rate that nobody could have dreamt possible just a few years ago.  And thank you to the autoworkers of our nation for your inspiring vote of confidence.  We did tremendously with their vote.  (Applause.)  
     
    I will immediately begin the overhaul of our trade system to protect American workers and families.  Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich other countries, we will tariff and tax foreign countries to enrich our citizens.  (Applause.)
     
    For this purpose, we are establishing the External Revenue Service to collect all tariffs, duties, and revenues.  It will be massive amounts of money pouring into our Treasury, coming from foreign sources. 
     
    The American dream will soon be back and thriving like never before.  

    To restore competence and effectiveness to our federal government, my administration will establish the brand-new Department of Government Efficiency.  (Applause.)
     
    After years and years of illegal and unconstitutional federal efforts to restrict free expression, I also will sign an executive order to immediately stop all government censorship and bring back free speech to America.  (Applause.)
     
    Never again will the immense power of the state be weaponized to persecute political opponents — something I know something about.  (Laughter.)  We will not allow that to happen.  It will not happen again.
     
    Under my leadership, we will restore fair, equal, and impartial justice under the constitutional rule of law.  (Applause.)
     
    And we are going to bring law and order back to our cities.  (Applause.) 
     
    This week, I will also end the government policy of trying to socially engineer race and gender into every aspect of public and private life.  (Applause.)  We will forge a society that is colorblind and merit-based.  (Applause.)  
     
    As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female.  (Applause.)
     
    This week, I will reinstate any service members who were unjustly expelled from our military for objecting to the COVID vaccine mandate with full back pay.  (Applause.)
     
    And I will sign an order to stop our warriors from being subjected to radical political theories and social experiments while on duty.  It’s going to end immediately.  (Applause.)  Our armed forces will be freed to focus on their sole mission: defeating America’s enemies.  (Applause.)
     
    Like in 2017, we will again build the strongest military the world has ever seen.  We will measure our success not only by the battles we win but also by the wars that we end — and perhaps most importantly, the wars we never get into.  (Applause.)  
     
    My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier.  That’s what I want to be: a peacemaker and a unifier.
     
    I’m pleased to say that as of yesterday, one day before I assumed office, the hostages in the Middle East are coming back home to their families.  (Applause.)
     
    Thank you.
     
    America will reclaim its rightful place as the greatest, most powerful, most respected nation on earth, inspiring the awe and admiration of the entire world. 
     
    A short time from now, we are going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America — (applause) — and we will restore the name of a great president, William McKinley, to Mount McKinley, where it should be and where it belongs.  (Applause.)
     
    President McKinley made our country very rich through tariffs and through talent — he was a natural businessman — and gave Teddy Roosevelt the money for many of the great things he did, including the Panama Canal, which has foolishly been given to the country of Panama after the United Spates — the United States — I mean, think of this — spent more money than ever spent on a project before and lost 38,000 lives in the building of the Panama Canal. 
     
    We have been treated very badly from this foolish gift that should have never been made, and Panama’s promise to us has been broken. 
     
    The purpose of our deal and the spirit of our treaty has been totally violated.  American ships are being severely overcharged and not treated fairly in any way, shape, or form.  And that includes the United States Navy.
     
    And above all, China is operating the Panama Canal.  And we didn’t give it to China.  We gave it to Panama, and we’re taking it back.  (Applause.)
     
    Above all, my message to Americans today is that it is time for us to once again act with courage, vigor, and the vitality of history’s greatest civilization. 
     
    So, as we liberate our nation, we will lead it to new heights of victory and success.  We will not be deterred.  Together, we will end the chronic disease epidemic and keep our children safe, healthy, and disease-free.  
     
    The United States will once again consider itself a growing nation — one that increases our wealth, expands our territory, builds our cities, raises our expectations, and carries our flag into new and beautiful horizons.  
     
    And we will pursue our manifest destiny into the stars, launching American astronauts to plant the Stars and Stripes on the planet Mars.  (Applause.)
     
    Ambition is the lifeblood of a great nation, and, right now, our nation is more ambitious than any other.  There’s no nation like our nation.
     
    Americans are explorers, builders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and pioneers.  The spirit of the frontier is written into our hearts.  The call of the next great adventure resounds from within our souls. 
     
    Our American ancestors turned a small group of colonies on the edge of a vast continent into a mighty republic of the most extraordinary citizens on Earth.  No one comes close.
     
    Americans pushed thousands of miles through a rugged land of untamed wilderness.  They crossed deserts, scaled mountains, braved untold dangers, won the Wild West, ended slavery, rescued millions from tyranny, lifted billions from poverty, harnessed electricity, split the atom, launched mankind into the heavens, and put the universe of human knowledge into the palm of the human hand.  If we work together, there is nothing we cannot do and no dream we cannot achieve.  
     
    Many people thought it was impossible for me to stage such a historic political comeback.  But as you see today, here I am.  The American people have spoken.  (Applause.)
     
    I stand before you now as proof that you should never believe that something is impossible to do.  In America, the impossible is what we do best.  (Applause.)
     
    From New York to Los Angeles, from Philadelphia to Phoenix, from Chicago to Miami, from Houston to right here in Washington, D.C., our country was forged and built by the generations of patriots who gave everything they had for our rights and for our freedom.  
     
    They were farmers and soldiers, cowboys and factory workers, steelworkers and coal miners, police officers and pioneers who pushed onward, marched forward, and let no obstacle defeat their spirit or their pride.  
     
    Together, they laid down the railroads, raised up the skyscrapers, built great highways, won two world wars, defeated fascism and communism, and triumphed over every single challenge that they faced. 
     
    After all we have been through together, we stand on the verge of the four greatest years in American history.  With your help, we will restore America promise and we will rebuild the nation that we love — and we love it so much.  
     
    We are one people, one family, and one glorious nation under God.  So, to every parent who dreams for their child and every child who dreams for their future, I am with you, I will fight for you, and I will win for you.  We’re going to win like never before.  (Applause.)
     
    Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

    Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

    In recent years, our nation has suffered greatly. But we are going to bring it back and make it great again, greater than ever before. 
     
    We will be a nation like no other, full of compassion, courage, and exceptionalism.  Our power will stop all wars and bring a new spirit of unity to a world that has been angry, violent, and totally unpredictable. 
     
    America will be respected again and admired again, including by people of religion, faith, and goodwill.  We will be prosperous, we will be proud, we will be strong, and we will win like never before. 
     
    We will not be conquered, we will not be intimidated, we will not be broken, and we will not fail.  From this day on, the United States of America will be a free, sovereign, and independent nation. 
     
    We will stand bravely, we will live proudly, we will dream boldly, and nothing will stand in our way because we are Americans.  The future is ours, and our golden age has just begun. 
     
    Thank you.  God bless America.  Thank you all.  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you very much.  Thank you very much.  Thank you.  (Applause.)  

    Thank you.  (Applause.)

    END  12:40 P.M. EST

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Governors are leading the fight against climate change and deforestation around the world, filling a void left by presidents

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mary Nichols, Distinguished Counsel for the Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, University of California, Los Angeles

    Forests like the Amazon play vital roles in balancing the environment, from storing carbon to releasing oxygen. Silvestre Garcia-IntuitivoFilms/Stone/Getty Images

    When the annual U.N. climate conference descends on the small Brazilian rainforest city of Belém in November 2025, it will be tempting to focus on the drama and disunity among major nations. Only 21 countries had even submitted their updated plans for managing climate change by the 2025 deadline required under the Paris Agreement. The U.S. is pulling out of the agreement altogether.

    Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Chinese President Xi Jinping and the likely absence of – or potential stonewalling by – a U.S. delegation will take up much of the oxygen in the negotiating hall.

    You can tune them out.

    Trust me, I’ve been there. As chair of the California Air Resources Board for nearly 20 years, I attended the annual conferences from Bali in 2007 to Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt, in 2023. That included the exhilarating success in 2015, when nearly 200 nations committed to keep global warming in check by signing the Paris Agreement.

    In recent years, however, the real progress has been outside the rooms where the official U.N. negotiations are held, not inside. In these meetings, the leaders of states and provinces talk about what they are doing to reduce greenhouse gases and prepare for worsening climate disasters. Many bilateral and multilateral agreements have sprung up like mushrooms from these side conversations.

    This week, for example, the leaders of several state-level governments are meeting in Brazil to discuss ways to protect tropical rainforests that restore ecosystems while creating jobs and boosting local economies.

    What states and provinces are doing now

    The real action in 2025 will come from the leaders of states and provinces, places like Pastaza, Ecuador; Acre and Pará, Brazil; and East Kalimantan, Indonesia.

    While some national political leaders are backing off their climate commitments, these subnational governments know they have to live with increasing fires, floods and deadly heat waves. So, they’re stepping up and sharing advice for what works.

    State, province and local governments often have jurisdiction over energy generation, land-use planning, housing policies and waste management, all of which play a role in increasing or reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    Their leaders have been finding ways to use that authority to reduce deforestation, increase the use of renewable energy and cap and cut greenhouse gas emissions that are pushing the planet toward dangerous tipping points. They have teamed up to link carbon markets and share knowledge in many areas.

    In the U.S., governors are working together in the U.S. Climate Alliance to fill the vacuum left by the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle U.S. climate policies and programs. Despite intense pressure from fossil fuel industry lobbyists, the governors of 22 states and two territories are creating policies that take steps to reduce emissions from buildings, power generation and transportation. Together, they represent more than half the U.S. population and nearly 60% of its economy.

    Tactics for fighting deforestation

    In Ecuador, provinces like Morona Santiago, Pastaza, and Zamora Chinchipe are designing management and financing partnerships with Indigenous territories for protecting more than 4 million hectares of forests through a unique collaboration called the Plataforma Amazonica.

    Brazilian states, including Mato Grosso, have been using remote-sensing technologies to crack down on illegal land clearing, while states like Amapá and Amazonas are developing community-engaged bioeconomy plans – think increased jobs through sustainable local fisheries and producing super fruits like acaí. Acre, Pará and Tocantins have programs that allow communities to sell carbon credits for forest preservation to companies.

    Global Forest Watch uses satellite data to track forest cover change. Green shows areas with at least 30% forest cover in 2000. Pink is forest loss from 2003-2023. Blue is forest gain from 2000 to 2020.
    Global Forest Watch, CC BY

    States in Mexico, including Jalisco, Yucatán and Oaxaca, have developed sustainable supply chain certification programs to help reduce deforestation. Programs like these can increase the economic value in some of foods and beverages, from avocados to honey to agave for tequila.

    There are real signs of success: Deforestation has dropped significantly in Indonesia compared with previous decades, thanks in large part to provincially led sustainable forest management efforts. In East Kalimantan, officials have been pursuing policy reforms and working with plantation and forestry companies to reduce forests destruction to protect habitat for orangutans.

    It’s no wonder that philanthropic and business leaders from many sectors are turning to state and provincial policymakers, rather than national governments. These subnational governments have the ability to take timely and effective action.

    Working together to find solutions

    Backing many of these efforts to slow deforestation is the Governors’ Climate and Forests Task Force, which California’s then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger helped launch in 2008. It is the world’s only subnational governmental network dedicated to protecting forests, reducing emissions and making people’s lives better across the tropics.

    Today, the task force includes 43 states and provinces from 11 countries. They cover more than one-third of the world’s tropical forests. That includes all of Brazil’s Legal Amazon region, more than 85% of the Peruvian Amazon, 65% of Mexico’s tropical forests and over 60% of Indonesia’s forests.

    From a purely environmental perspective, subnational governments and governors must balance competing interests that do not always align with environmentalists’ ideals. Pará state, for example, is building an 8-mile (13 kilometer) road to ease traffic that cuts through rainforest. California’s investments in its Lithium Valley, where lithium used to make batteries is being extracted near the Salton Sea, may result in economic benefits within California and the U.S., while also generating potential environmental risks to air and water quality.

    Each governor has to balance the needs of farmers, ranchers and other industries with protecting the forests and other ecosystems, but those in the task force are finding pragmatic solutions.

    Pará State Gov. Helder Barbalho arrives for the Amazon Summit in August 2023. Eight South American countries agreed to launch an alliance to fight deforestation in the Amazon at the meeting.
    Evaristo SA / AFP via Getty Images

    The week of May 19-23, 2025, two dozen or more subnational leaders from Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Indonesia and elsewhere are gathering in Rio Branco, Brazil, for a conference on protecting tropical rainforests. They’ll also be ironing out some important details for developing what they call a “new forest economy” for protecting and restoring ecosystems while creating jobs and boosting economies.

    Protecting tropical forest habitat while also creating jobs and economic opportunities is not easy. In 2023, data show the planet was losing rainforest equivalent to 10 soccer fields a minute, and had lost more than 7% since 2000.

    But states and cities are taking big steps while many national governments can’t even agree on which direction to head. It’s time to pay attention more to the states.

    Mary Nichols is affiliated with the Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, which cosponsors the Governors’ Climate and Forests Task Force.

    – ref. Governors are leading the fight against climate change and deforestation around the world, filling a void left by presidents – https://theconversation.com/governors-are-leading-the-fight-against-climate-change-and-deforestation-around-the-world-filling-a-void-left-by-presidents-256988

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 19 May 2025 News release WHO validates Mauritania for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Mauritania as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, making it the seventh country in WHO’s African Region to achieve this significant milestone. The validation certificate was received by Honorable Abdallahi Sidi Mohamed Wedih, Minister of Health and Aïcha Vall Vergès, Ambassador of Mauritania to Switzerland at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly.

    “I congratulate the government and the people of Mauritania for this achievement,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This is another example of the incredible progress we have made against neglected tropical diseases and gives hope to many other nations still fighting against trachoma that they too can eliminate this disease.”

    Mauritania has a long history of a fight against trachoma that dates back to the 1960s. However, it was not until early 2000 that the country conducted population-based epidemiological surveys to map trachoma with the support of the Organization for the Prevention of Blindness (OPC), the Institute of Tropical Ophthalmology of Africa (IOTA) and WHO. Trachoma control activities were integrated into the National Programme for the Fight against Blindness at the Ministry of Health.

    Mauritania implemented the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy to eliminate trachoma with the support of partners. These activities included provision of surgery to treat the late blinding stage of the disease, conducting mass administration of antibiotic treatment with azithromycin donated by Pfizer through the International Trachoma Initiative, carrying out public awareness campaigns to promote facial cleanliness and personal hygiene as well as improvement in access to water supply and sanitation.

    “Eliminating trachoma is a landmark victory for public health in Mauritania,” said Dr Charlotte Faty Ndiaye, WHO Representative in Mauritania. “This success reflects the strong leadership and commitment of the Government, supported by the dedication of health workers, communities, and partners, with the guidance and support of WHO. We will remain vigilant and support the country to preserve this success and protect those most at risk from trachoma.”

    Trachoma is the second neglected tropical disease to be eliminated in Mauritania. In 2009, the country had already been certified free of dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) transmission. Globally, Mauritania joins 21 other countries that have been validated by WHO for having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. These are Benin, Cambodia, China, Ghana, India, Iraq, Islamic Republic of Iran, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malawi, Mali, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Gambia, Togo, Vanuatu and Viet Nam. These countries are part of a wider group of 55 countries that have eliminated one or more neglected tropical diseases.

    WHO is supporting Mauritania’s health authorities to closely monitor communities where trachoma was previously endemic to ensure there is no resurgence of the disease.

    Disease prevalence

    As of April 2024, trachoma remains a public health problem in 37 countries with an estimated 103 million people living in areas requiring interventions against the disease. Trachoma is found mainly in the poorest and most rural areas of Africa, Central and South America, Asia, the Western Pacific and the Middle East. The African Region is disproportionately affected by trachoma with 93 million people living in at-risk areas in April 2024, representing 90% of the global trachoma burden.

    Significant progress has been made in the fight against trachoma over the past few years and the number of people requiring antibiotic treatment for trachoma in the African Region fell by 96 million from 189 million in 2014 to 93 million as of April 2024, representing a 51% reduction.

    Following Mauritania’s success, there are now 20 countries in WHO’s African Region that are targeting trachoma elimination.
     

    Note to editors

    Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease. It is caused by infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which spreads from person to person through contaminated fingers, fomites and flies that have come into contact with discharge from the eyes or nose of an infected person. Environmental risk factors for trachoma transmission include poor hygiene, overcrowded households, and inadequate access to water and sanitation.

    Elimination of trachoma as a public health problem is defined as: (i) a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis “unknown to the health system” of <0.2% in adults aged ≥15 years (approximately 1 case per 1000 total population), and (ii) a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation – follicular in children aged 1–9 years of <5%, sustained for at least two years in the absence of ongoing antibiotic mass treatment, in each formerly endemic district; plus (iii) the existence of a system able to identify and manage incident trachomatous trichiasis cases, using defined strategies, with evidence of appropriate financial resources to implement those strategies.

    To eliminate trachoma as a public health problem, WHO recommends the SAFE strategy: a comprehensive approach to reduce transmission of the causative organism, clear existing infections and deal with their effects.

    The road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030 targets the prevention, control, elimination or eradication of 20 diseases and disease groups. Progress against trachoma and other neglected tropical diseases alleviates the human and economic burden that they impose on the world’s most disadvantaged communities.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests illegally present Guatemalan national for assaulting a federal agent

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PROVIDENCE, R.I. – U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested a previously deported Guatemalan national illegally present in the United States on a charge of assault, resisting, and impeding a law enforcement officer in the performance of official duties.

    It is alleged that on April 30, Miguel Tamup-Tamup, aka Miguel Us-Tamup, 28, struggled with an ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officer and ICE Homeland Security Investigations special agents as they attempted to apprehend him for being illegally present in the United States as authorized by a warrant for arrest of alien and an HSI special agent suffered serious injury.

    “This individual’s aggressive actions during a lawful arrest led to serious injury to our special agents. The safety of our special agents and officers is paramount and those who resist and commit assault will find themselves facing serious criminal consequences,” said ICE HSI Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol.

    According to the criminal complaint, an ICE ERO officer and HSI special agents stopped a car that Tamup was operating. After he refused to exit, law enforcement guided him out of the vehicle. While the agents attempted to place Tamup in handcuffs, he resisted, threw his upper body and shoulders against the agents, flailed his arms, and broke an agent’s hold. During the encounter, one of the HSI special agents fell to the ground and suffered a serious leg injury. Tamup fled as the injured agent was attended to by the other agents. The special agent received medical treatment and is expected to fully recover.

    Charging documents show that Tamup came to ICE’s attention after his arrest on April 19 by the Providence Police Department on a charge of driving under the influence after his car allegedly collided with another vehicle. He was subsequently arraigned and released. Tamup’s fingerprints matched ICE fingerprint records associated with a person flagged as being in the United States illegally.

    On May 15, ICE located Tamup at a Providence residence and took him into custody. He made an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and has been ordered detained.

    A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Codere Online presents Rayados’ jersey for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Codere Online will officially sponsor Club de Fútbol Monterrey at the 2025 Club World Cup.
    • Rayados, Codere Online and Puma present the uniform with which the team will commemorate the club’s 80th anniversary.

    Mexico City/Madrid, May 19, 2025 – (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) Codere Online (Nasdaq: CDRO / CDROW), a leading online gaming operator in Spain and Latin America, has launched the commemorative jersey that will accompany Club de Futbol Monterrey at the 2025 Club World Cup. This special edition kit comes as part of the Club’s 80th Anniversary celebrations.

    With this sponsorship, the Codere logo will be displayed exclusively on the front of Monterrey Football Club’s jersey during the 32-team tournament. In addition, Codere Online will offer unique and differentiated experiences so all fans can experience the largest-ever Club World Cup in a special way and support the club in its participation in the tournament.

    As part of the strategic communication efforts for the tournament and the club’s 80th anniversary, Codere Online and Rayados will launch an advertising campaign starting today and during the following months, which can be seen across various media channels.

    Alberto Telias, Chief Marketing Officer at Codere Online, said: “We are very happy and proud to be able to join and continue to support Club de Futbol Monterrey in all its projects. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the club, and we couldn’t miss the celebrations of the club with which we have been walking hand in hand for the last four years.

    “Their significant growth and results in both Liga MX and international tournaments are what allow us to be here today, announcing this jersey for their participation in the Club World Cup.

    “Undoubtedly, Rayados has helped us solidify our presence in the country with Codere.mx now being one of the leading online gaming operators in the market.”

    Pedro Esquivel, Executive President of Club de Futbol Monterrey, added: “It is a pleasure for the club to always be able to count on the support of an internationally renowned brand like Codere and, even more, to have them as our sponsor for this important tournament for the club.
    “The Club World Cup, in the framework of our 80th anniversary, is undoubtedly a very important international showcase for us, and we are sure it will help us continue to consolidate our growth and achieve our objectives.”

    NASDAQ Tower (New York)
    To celebrate the announcement of this special jersey between Codere Online and Club de Futbol Monterrey, and as a demonstration of the mutual appreciation between the two institutions, the Nasdaq Tower, located in Times Square, New York, will glow with an advertisement that will be projected every hour throughout the day today.

    About Codere Online 

    Codere Online refers, collectively, to Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. and its subsidiaries. Codere Online, launched in 2014 as part of the renowned casino operator Codere Group, offers online sports betting and online casino through its state-of-the art website and mobile applications. Codere Online currently operates in its core markets of Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Panama and Argentina; this online business is complemented by Codere Group’s physical presence in Spain and throughout Latin America, forming the foundation of the leading omnichannel gaming and casino presence.

    About Codere Group
    Codere Group is a multinational group devoted to entertainment and leisure. It is a leading player in the private gaming industry, with four decades of experience and with presence in seven countries in Europe (Spain and Italy) and Latin America (Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, and Uruguay).

    Contacts:

    Investors and Media
    Guillermo Lancha
    Director, Investor Relations and Communications
    Guillermo.Lancha@codere.com
    (+34) 628.928.152

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Sara McQuillan talks about International Women in Maritime day

    Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA

    Headline: Sara McQuillan talks about International Women in Maritime day

    May 18 marks the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) annual International Women in Maritime day, and in honour of it, we asked one of the members of our team to speak to us about her experiences of working offshore, and how her gender might have impacted her compared to her male colleagues.

    Q: Hi Sara, thank you for agreeing to speak to us, could you describe your journey into hydrographic surveying and what drew you to work at sea in this specialised field?

    A: I studied Geography at university and became interested in geospatial information systems which led me to pursue a hydrographic survey course. This opened the door for me to join an offshore construction company as a graduate hydrographic surveyor. Despite not knowing much about the offshore industry, I enjoyed the discipline and thought I would give it a go. Little did I know, it would become something I am so passionate about! Fifteen years later, I’m still working with fantastic hydrographic survey professionals developing technical guidance to support other survey professionals and supporting programs to ensure safety and quality offshore.

    Q: What did a typical day look like for you onboard, and what were some of the most memorable or challenging projects you’ve worked on?

    A: At the start of a job, during mobilisation, the surveyor has a lot of work to do – installation of sensors, calibrations, verifications, setting up the navigation software, liaising with the relevant teams for the job (ROV/Dive/Marine/OM) to ensure the team was prepared. After a couple of years offshore, my preferred shift was midnight to noon and although this meant I was usually the only surveyor on shift and there was minimal onshore support available, it was quieter and I enjoyed the responsibility. 

    I would be responsible for ensuring all the survey sensors were operating as required, and to the accuracy expected. That all necessary data was provided in real time to the required teams on board, logged and reported. I was primarily based on construction vessels, so my day to day would involve positioning support for subsea installations.

    In 2013 I took part in the Guara-Lula project offshore of Brazil which was the development of a field in the Santos pre-salt basin. This project was a completely different kettle of fish for the survey team on this vessel after years in the UK, the North Sea and Norway. The operations involved were in 2km of water depth and therefore required the use of a wide suite of sensors to obtain accurate subsea positioning in deep water. This required the installation and maintenance of two very large (18 transponder) subsea positioning arrays along with high grade ROV based sensors for the installation operations. This was a very busy project working in a small survey team of five. It was the best project I worked on as it was the time I learned the most. It was incredibly busy and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way!

    Q: How has your experience been as a woman working in the maritime sector, particularly in the often male-dominated environment of offshore surveying?

    A: I am fortunate to have discovered a field I am passionate about. Hydrographic Survey, as a scientific discipline, draws academics who are dedicated and focused on their work. However, the general offshore environment when I began in 2010, was challenging  and I was often singled out for my gender. On a vessel of around 120 people, there would have been around five women on board. Sexism and misogyny was always present  but not acknowledged, addressed or prevented. Thankfully, towards the end of my offshore career, things started to change. More women were present and that alone changed the dynamic away from being solely a male world. In my offshore space, attitudes were shifting towards an environment where gender wasn’t noted. However,  there was, and still is, a way to go but I was glad to see it moving.

    Q: Have you noticed any shifts in how women are perceived or supported in maritime careers since you began, and what further changes would you like to see?

    A: In 2025 I am happy to see there are more opportunities for women in the Maritime sector and a move towards a more gender balanced workforce. In my opinion this is down to some of the incredible professionals across the world who forged through male-dominated environments and changed perceptions, not just by those currently in the space, but also by those looking to enter it.

    In general, the maritime industry seems to be prioritising diversity by focusing on attracting women to careers in the sector. Initiatives run by organisations like the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) and the IMO promote inclusive policies, recruitment, and education for women. Simply changing the gender balance should open doors and careers for those who may not have considered it previously, changing these spaces for everyone, but particularly women.

    Q: What advice would you offer to young women considering a career in hydrographic surveying or maritime more broadly?

    A: If you enjoy a subject, go for it. If you are apprehensive of entering a male dominated place because of your gender, just get in, take up space, work hard, earn respect, make it your space. Don’t allow your gender to define what you can do.

    As for Hydrographic Survey and Hydrography in general, it is full of women. Fantastic academics and practical professionals, working across many different industries, developing new technologies and working within a real-world environment. It’s a fantastic discipline to enter with endless possibilities for careers supporting things like mapping the unknown parts of the ocean, Global Positioning Systems, climate change and environmental sustainability (among others) whilst using and developing state-of-the-art technology. It’s an exciting place to be, come join us.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests 11 illegal aliens during Lowell worksite enforcement operation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOWELL, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and federal law enforcement partners arrested 11 illegal aliens during a worksite enforcement operation targeting a business with alleged unauthorized hiring practices in Lowell May 16.

    ICE Homeland Security Investigations special agents and ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officers conducted the arrests at a staging area for a Massachusetts-based roofing business. After interviews and records checks, 11 individuals were arrested for being illegally present in the United States. The individuals arrested are all Ecuadorian citizens.

    ICE HSI New England Worksite Enforcement group led the investigation with support from ICE ERO Boston, DEA New England division, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Boston field division.

    Federal law requires employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all individuals they hire, using the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9. ICE uses the I-9 inspection program to promote compliance with these requirements, as part of a broader strategy to address and deter the employment of unauthorized workers. These inspections are among the federal government’s most effective tools to enforce U.S. employment laws.

    HSI’s worksite enforcement strategy includes leveraging the agency’s full range of investigative capabilities. Worksite investigations often uncover additional criminal activity such as alien smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering, document fraud, worker exploitation, and substandard wages or working conditions.

    Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo removes 2 criminal illegal aliens and foreign fugitives wanted for felonies in home country to Guatemala

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Buffalo removed two illegally present Guatemalan fugitives wanted in their home country for felony offenses May 12.

    Cesar Germain Lopez-Chacon, 28, entered the United States on an unknown date and at an unknown location without admission by an immigration official. The Asbury Park Police Department in New Jersey arrested Lopez-Chacon Jan. 13, 2023, for domestic assault, possession of a controlled substance and possess/intent to use drug paraphernalia. A week later, ICE Newark learned Lopez-Chacon had an outstanding warrant in Guatemala for assaulting a government official. The Neptune Township Police Department arrested Lopez-Chacon for theft July 19, 2024. Lopez-Chacon was released from local custody on each occasion before ICE could lodge and immigration detainer.

    ICE Newark arrested Lopez-Chacon for violating the Immigration and Nationality Act during a targeted enforcement operation March 7, and subsequently transferred him to ICE Buffalo. ICE Buffalo detained him in Buffalo Federal Detention Facility for the duration of his removal proceedings. An immigration judge order Lopez-Chacon removed from the U.S. April 23.

    Francisco Manuel Lopez, 32, also entered the United States on and unknown date and at an unknown location without admission by an immigration official. ICE New York City encountered Lopez, Feb. 19, 2014, at the Rikers Island Correctional Facility in the Bronx, initiated removal proceedings and lodged an immigration detainer against his release. Officers arrested him a week later pursuant to a warrant. An immigration judge ordered him removed on April 1, 2014, and he was subsequently removed from the U.S. May 12 that same year.

    Lopez illegally reentered the U.S. without inspection. On Dec. 11, 2017, the U.S. Border Patrol arrested him near Santa Teresa, New Mexico, served him a notice of intent/decision to reinstate prior order, and turned him over to the U.S Marshals Service for criminal prosecution for illegal reentry. The U.S. District Court of New Mexico convicted Lopez of illegal reentry of a removed alien. Following this conviction, the U.S. Marshals Service transferred Lopez to the New York City Police Department in Manhattan due to an outstanding warrant. The Kings County Criminal Court convicted Lopez of criminal possession of a weapon and assault with a weapon July 2, 2024. ICE New York City lodged an immigration detainer with the Ulster Correctional Facility Sept. 3, 2024. ICE Buffalo arrested Lopez April 21 upon his release from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision pursuant to his warrant of removal.

    On April 23, 2025, ICE Buffalo confirmed that Lopez is an international fugitive wanted in his home country for gender-based violence.

    Both aliens were turned over to the legal authorities upon arrival in Guatemala.

    Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by completing ICE’s online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO Buffalo’s mission to increase public safety on X at @EROBuffalo.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests Honduran alien charged with multiple child abuse crimes in Connecticut

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HARTFORD, Conn. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Jorge Martinez Duenas, a 44-year-old illegal alien from Honduras charged with multiple crimes related to child endangerment and abuse, on March 3.

    “Jorge. Martinez has already been removed from the U.S. twice, and now he faces charges of victimizing a child in Connecticut,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde, who oversees ERO’s efforts in New England. “Children are among the most vulnerable members of our society, and we have zero tolerance for people who hurt them. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize the safety of our public and relentlessly pursue illegal alien child abusers in order to protect our communities.”

    Officers from ICE Boston’s Hartford field office encountered Martinez following his arrest by the Wethersfield Police Department in February 2008.

    ICE officers served Martinez with a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.

    On Feb. 20, 2008, the DOJ immigration judge ordered Martinez removed from the United States. ICE Boston removed Martinez from the United States to Honduras March 28, 2008. On April 23, 2008, the Connecticut Superior Court in New Britain declined to prosecute any of the charges.

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Martinez Sept. 5, 2008, after he illegally re-entered the United States, and on Sept. 13, 2008, ICE again removed Martinez from the United States to Honduras.

    Martinez illegally reentered the country sometime between then and Sept. 12, 2024, when the Connecticut State Police arrested and charged him with risk of injury to a child, intent to commit cruelty on a child under the age of 19, and unlawful restraint in the first degree. All the charges are currently pending with the Connecticut Superior Court in New Britain.

    The police released Martinez from custody before ICE could lodge an immigration detainer against him. Officers with ICE Boston’s Hartford field office arrested Martinez March 3, while he was at-large in the community. He remains in ICE custody.

    Report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests Brazilian alien charged with sex crimes against Massachusetts resident

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    FALL RIVER, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in partnership with Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, arrested illegally present Brazilian national Cristiano Schneider Capdevila Croxato during a traffic stop in Fall River April 8. The 47-year-old criminal alien was convicted of assault and battery on a family or household member Nov. 19, 2024, and has a long list of criminal charges in his past.

    “Mr. Schneider violated the terms of his lawful admission to the United States, and since then, he’s apparently committed a laundry list of crimes that put Massachusetts residents at risk,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “Boston isn’t a place for serial criminals to hide. Our officers will continue to prioritize the safety of our communities by arresting, detaining and removing criminal alien offenders to prevent them from threatening our families, friends or neighbors.”

    Since Schneider entered the U.S. in November 2018, he’s been arraigned on the following charges:

    • Violation of an abuse prevention order on March 29, 2024.
    • Receiving a stolen motor vehicle on May 20, 2024.
    • Indecent assault and battery on a person 14 years or over on May 20, 2024.
    • Indecent assault and battery on a person 14 years or over — two counts — on July 12, 2024.

    Schneider has a current and open restraining order and a closed restraining order. He is on active probation with the Fall River District Court until Nov. 18, 2025.

    He will remain in ICE custody pending removal from the United States.

    Report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 19 May 2025 Departmental update HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections agenda at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The Seventy-eight World Health Assembly (WHA78) takes place on 19−27 May 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. 

    Elimination awards

    During the plenary session on Monday, 19 May, the Director-General will award Botswana for achieving gold tier status on the path to elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV as a public health problem.

    Botswana was already the first country in the world to meet the criteria for silver tier status on the path to elimination of HIV, in 2021. Now, Botswana is the first country to achieve gold tier status, by reaching stringent targets for HIV prevalence among new mothers, HIV incidence among newborns, and service coverage for antenatal care, HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy. 

    Official side events

    Several official side events on HIV, viral hepatitis and STIs will take place during the WHA78. These events require access to the Palais de Nations and only accredited delegated can access. You can find more details in WHO’s page dedicated to WHA78 official side events.

    Date and time

    Event title and details

    Description

    Monday, 19 May

    19:30–20:50

    Getting the world back on track: Ending AIDS by 2030 still possible!

    Location: Palais des Nations – Room/Salle VIII

    Organizers: International AIDS Society (IAS), PATH, GNP+

    The side-event will focus on the significant challenges facing the global HIV response, particularly in the light of recent funding cuts. It will explore how countries are addressing funding gaps and forging regional and national partnerships to sustain HIV programmes, while identifying innovative financing models.

    The discussion will focus on the consequences of the funding cuts, strategies for ensuring the continuity of HIV services and the importance of domestic resource mobilization to achieve the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.

    Wednesday, 21 May

    18:00–19:20

    Uniting in Global Solidarity for Hepatitis Elimination: Acting to Prevent Liver Cancer in Support of the NCD Agenda.

    Location: Palais des Nations – Room/Salle VII

    Organizers: Pakistan, Tanzania, Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, African Union, World Hepatitis Alliance, Medicines Patent Pool

    The integration of hepatitis vaccination, diagnostics and treatment within existing frameworks for UHC and PHC will advance progress toward the global goals of hepatitis elimination and cancer prevention.

    The WHA offers a critical opportunity to raise awareness and drive commitment to achieve the elimination of hepatitis and reduction of liver cancer globally. This platform can also provide a basis to launch a Coalition of Member States dedicated to raising the visibility of hepatitis and accelerating global efforts to eliminate it.

    Friday, 23 May

    18:00–19:20

    The contribution of selfcare to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights.

    Location: Palais des Nations Room/Salle VIII

    Organizers: Belgium, Uruguay, Luxembourg, Global Network of People Living with HIV

    This side event will explore how self-care interventions are transforming the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) landscape, supporting primary health care (PHC) and advancing universal health coverage (UHC). Evidence-based self-care interventions for SRHR are recommended by WHO for all economic contexts. Self-care interventions offer practical, empowering solutions to overcome persistent barriers to advance quality SRHR for all.

    This side event will highlight the multidimensional benefits of self-care interventions through concrete examples, including impact at national level, and innovation.

    Non-official side events

    A large number of non-official side events will take place during WHA78 in different venues across Geneva. These events are convened by a diverse range of partner organizations with the technical support from WHO Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs (HHS). 

    Date and time

    Event title and details

    Description

    Wednesday, 21 May

    18:30–20:30

    A new era of HIV prevention: Accelerating access to long-acting technologies through sustainable prevention systems and financing.

    Location: UNAIDS / WHO D building – Kofi Annan Room

    Organizers: UNAIDS (in collaboration with UNFPA, WHO and UNDP), the Federal Republic of Brazil and the Netherlands

    This high-level dialogue organized by the Global HIV Prevention Coalition (GPC) aims to galvanize political leadership, financing, and coordinated action to drive a transformational HIV prevention push.

    The meeting will serve as a platform for Ministers of Health, global health partners, pharmaceutical companies, and civil society to explore opportunities to expand access to new long-acting prevention technologies as a powerful addition to existing effective options.

    Registration

    Virtual participation: Livestream on YouTube

    Thursday, 22 May

    18:30–20:30

    Communities at the heart of global health and health security: why sustained funding for community-led health systems matters now more than ever

    Location: UNAIDS / WHO D building – Kofi Annan Room

    Organizers: Coalition PLUS, Frontline AIDS, UNAIDS and WHO

    This high-level discussion will focus on the critical role that communities play in shaping global health and health security policies. In light of ongoing global health challenges, including pandemics, rising health inequities, funding cuts, and the increasing burden on health systems, it is now more important than ever to prioritize community-led health systems.

    Registration:

    In person

    Virtual

    Furthermore, throughout WHA78 week, the HHS Department will engage informally with Member States to provide an overview of the process for revising the Global Health Sector Strategies on HIV, viral hepatitis, and STIs (2022–2030), and to discuss preparations for the mid-term review, which is scheduled to be presented at the World Health Assembly in 2026. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 19 May 2025 News release WHO certifies Mauritania for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Mauritania as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem, making it the seventh country in WHO’s African Region to achieve this significant milestone. The certification was received by Honorable Abdallahi Sidi Mohamed Wedih, Minister of Health and Aïcha Vall Vergès, Ambassador of Mauritania to Switzerland at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly.

    “I congratulate the government and the people of Mauritania for this achievement,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This is another example of the incredible progress we have made against neglected tropical diseases and gives hope to many other nations still fighting against trachoma that they too can eliminate this disease.”

    Mauritania has a long history of a fight against trachoma that dates back to the 1960s. However, it was not until early 2000 that the country conducted population-based epidemiological surveys to map trachoma with the support of the Organization for the Prevention of Blindness (OPC), the Institute of Tropical Ophthalmology of Africa (IOTA) and WHO. Trachoma control activities were integrated into the National Programme for the Fight against Blindness at the Ministry of Health.

    Mauritania implemented the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy to eliminate trachoma with the support of partners. These activities included provision of surgery to treat the late blinding stage of the disease, conducting mass administration of antibiotic treatment with azithromycin donated by Pfizer through the International Trachoma Initiative, carrying out public awareness campaigns to promote facial cleanliness and personal hygiene as well as improvement in access to water supply and sanitation.

    “Eliminating trachoma is a landmark victory for public health in Mauritania,” said Dr Charlotte Faty Ndiaye, WHO Representative in Mauritania. “This success reflects the strong leadership and commitment of the Government, supported by the dedication of health workers, communities, and partners, with the guidance and support of WHO. We will remain vigilant and support the country to preserve this success and protect those most at risk from trachoma.”

    Trachoma is the second neglected tropical disease to be eliminated in Mauritania. In 2009, the country had already been certified free of dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) transmission. Globally, Mauritania joins 21 other countries that have been validated by WHO for having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. These are Benin, Cambodia, China, Ghana, India, Iraq, Islamic Republic of Iran, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malawi, Mali, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Gambia, Togo, Vanuatu and Viet Nam. These countries are part of a wider group of 55 countries that have eliminated one or more neglected tropical diseases.

    WHO is supporting Mauritania’s health authorities to closely monitor communities where trachoma was previously endemic to ensure there is no resurgence of the disease.

    Disease prevalence

    As of April 2024, trachoma remains a public health problem in 37 countries with an estimated 103 million people living in areas requiring interventions against the disease. Trachoma is found mainly in the poorest and most rural areas of Africa, Central and South America, Asia, the Western Pacific and the Middle East. The African Region is disproportionately affected by trachoma with 93 million people living in at-risk areas in April 2024, representing 90% of the global trachoma burden.

    Significant progress has been made in the fight against trachoma over the past few years and the number of people requiring antibiotic treatment for trachoma in the African Region fell by 96 million from 189 million in 2014 to 93 million as of April 2024, representing a 51% reduction.

    Following Mauritania’s success, there are now 20 countries in WHO’s African Region that are targeting trachoma elimination.
     

    Note to editors

    Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease. It is caused by infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which spreads from person to person through contaminated fingers, fomites and flies that have come into contact with discharge from the eyes or nose of an infected person. Environmental risk factors for trachoma transmission include poor hygiene, overcrowded households, and inadequate access to water and sanitation.

    Elimination of trachoma as a public health problem is defined as: (i) a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis “unknown to the health system” of <0.2% in adults aged ≥15 years (approximately 1 case per 1000 total population), and (ii) a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation – follicular in children aged 1–9 years of <5%, sustained for at least two years in the absence of ongoing antibiotic mass treatment, in each formerly endemic district; plus (iii) the existence of a system able to identify and manage incident trachomatous trichiasis cases, using defined strategies, with evidence of appropriate financial resources to implement those strategies.

    To eliminate trachoma as a public health problem, WHO recommends the SAFE strategy: a comprehensive approach to reduce transmission of the causative organism, clear existing infections and deal with their effects.

    The road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030 targets the prevention, control, elimination or eradication of 20 diseases and disease groups. Progress against trachoma and other neglected tropical diseases alleviates the human and economic burden that they impose on the world’s most disadvantaged communities.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches 100x Leverage, No KYC, $50 Welcome Bonus, and Double Deposit Bonus to Empower Crypto Futures Traders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin surged from $74,500 to break the $100,000 threshold, many analysts agree that a new crypto bull market has officially begun. In this environment, savvy investors are increasingly turning to high-leverage futures trading as a way to maximize returns with minimal capital.

    BexBack is embracing this shift by doubling down on its trader-first strategy, launching a powerful set of promotional incentives: a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and up to 100x leverage across 50+ leading cryptocurrencies. Most importantly, the platform offers trading with no KYC required, making it accessible to users who were previously limited by verification or leverage restrictions. These tools are designed to help traders fully capitalize on the momentum of the bull market — with more flexibility, more power, and fewer barriers.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $60,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $63,000, your profit will be (63,000 – 60,000) * 100 BTC / 60,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and 50+ others futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC and 1M USDT in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (available after making a deposit of at least 100 USDT or 0.001 BTC and completing one trade within one week of registration), giving you the edge to become a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7b581bb4-df3d-4643-a17a-66e245ace5a7

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/afa8ddc4-bc5c-4d6a-9549-7f04cd1edce6

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ffc63ec-36f2-4692-81ef-b34b15678e72

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ca711b05-6553-405f-a954-587d09dcdc54

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation and Corteva Bring Free AI Bootcamp to Indianapolis, Des Moines Area Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    INDIANAPOLIS, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Mark Cuban Foundation is proud to announce its bootcamp in partnership with Corteva. The program will bring back the highly acclaimed Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp to Indianapolis, Indiana, while expanding its reach for the first time to Des Moines, Iowa area high schools. This collaboration emphasizes the Foundation’s mission to reach students in underserved and previously unconnected regions, providing them with opportunities to engage with innovative technology.

    Corteva’s global headquarters and crop protection business unit is located in Indianapolis, while its seed business is based in Johnston, Iowa, near Des Moines.

    “We leverage AI tools throughout our innovation pipeline to deliver leading seed and crop protection products to farmers worldwide,” said Brian Lutz, vice president of agricultural solutions at Corteva. “We’re excited to collaborate with the Mark Cuban Foundation for the third consecutive year to help students gain experience with AI, and to understand the remarkable capabilities of this technology.”

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation for their future, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for underserved high school students with a transparent focus on underrepresented communities, first-generation college students, and those from low to moderate-income households. The AI Bootcamp Program provides students with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during bootcamp.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. Thanks to our work with Corteva, the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamps, taking place on November 1st, 8th, and 15th is hosted and staffed by Corteva, a global pure-play agriculture company that combines industry-leading innovation, high-touch customer engagement and operational execution to deliver solutions for the world’s most pressing agriculture challenges.

    Corteva hosted a camp last year and is one of more than 25 host companies selected to host camps across the U.S. in 2025.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp

    Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th -12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    About Corteva
    Corteva, Inc. (NYSE: CTVA) is a global pure-play agriculture company that combines industry-leading innovation, high-touch customer engagement and operational execution to profitably deliver solutions for the world’s most pressing agriculture challenges. Corteva generates advantaged market preference through its unique distribution strategy, together with its balanced and globally diverse mix of seed, crop protection, and digital products and services. With some of the most recognized brands in agriculture and a technology pipeline well positioned to drive growth, the company is committed to maximizing productivity for farmers, while working with stakeholders throughout the food system as it fulfills its promise to enrich the lives of those who produce and those who consume, ensuring progress for generations to come. More information can be found at www.corteva.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Tomato trade dispute between the US and Mexico is boiling over again – with 21% tariffs due in July

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Andrew Muhammad, Professor of Agriculture and Resource Economics, University of Tennessee

    The country of origin – Mexico – is noted on the label of a package of Campari tomatoes for sale in the produce section of a Safeway grocery store on March 4, 2025, in Denver. AP Photo/David Zalubowski

    Although technically they’re a fruit, tomatoes are one of the most-consumed vegetables, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Among the fresh produce the nation buys from foreign countries, tomatoes often rank first or second, behind avocados.

    This trade is now jeopardized because the Trump administration has revived a three-decade-old effort to limit imports.

    As economists who study global trade issues affecting agricultural commodities and processed food products, we have assessed the benefits of imported tomatoes and other products on consumers and businesses. Fresh tomato imports ensure year-round availability for consumers, contribute significantly to the U.S. economy by generating billions in sales and supporting thousands of jobs, and promote competitive pricing that benefits both consumers and businesses.

    New import restrictions could put all that at risk because domestic production cannot satisfy national demand. For tomatoes, like steel and other products, efforts to reverse trade imbalances can decrease consumer satisfaction and potentially destroy more jobs and economic activity than they create.

    Initiating a dumping investigation

    This tussle over tomatoes began in the 1990s.

    At that time, unprecedented growth in tomato imports from Mexico prompted U.S. producers to ask the Clinton administration to investigate whether they were being sold at unfairly low prices. If that were the case, it would violate both World Trade Organization rules and U.S. trade policy.

    The U.S. responded with an antidumping investigation, conducted by the Department of Commerce and U.S. International Trade Commission. The agencies were tasked with seeing if imports are being sold in the U.S. at less than fair market value – the definition of dumping.

    Dumping can harm domestic producers by depressing local prices to compete with imports, causing financial distress. An antidumping duty is essentially a tariff.

    The Commerce Department ruled against Mexican producers, finding that they had engaged in dumping, but reached an agreement with them. Mexican tomato exporters agreed to set minimum prices, leading the U.S. to call off its investigation. The U.S. and Mexico have subsequently entered into a string of suspension agreements over the years.

    The first was implemented in 1996, and the most recent took effect in 2019 during President Donald Trump’s prior term after his administration had threatened to impose a 17.5% tomato tariff.

    Squashing the tomato suspension agreement

    But in April 2025, the Commerce Department announced that it would withdraw from the latest tomato suspension agreement. The Trump administration plans to begin to impose, starting in July, antidumping duties of 21% on fresh tomatoes imported from Mexico.

    It is not obvious at this stage if American importers and consumers will bear the full burden of this tariff, or if Mexican tomato exporters will absorb this cost.

    This move is supposed to benefit fresh tomato producers in the U.S. – most of which are in Florida, with a significantly smaller number located in California. The tariffs could, however, hurt produce distributors, wholesalers and retailers, as well as American consumers.

    People in the U.S. have become accustomed to buying fresh tomatoes to toss into their salads and stuff into their sandwiches year-round, even though in most of the country you can only harvest field-grown tomatoes in the warmest months of the year.

    Focusing only on fresh tomatoes

    This dispute doesn’t involve all the tomatoes and tomato products Americans eat.

    U.S. tomato production is split into two main categories. Fresh tomatoes are usually purchased in a supermarket’s fresh produce section, to be consumed whole, chopped or sliced. This dispute is about those tomatoes.

    The other kind is processing tomatoes, which companies use for making tomato paste, canned or stewed tomatoes and tomato sauce. California leads the nation in processing tomato production. Unlike fresh tomatoes, where the U.S. imports far more than it produces or exports, the U.S. is actually running a trade surplus in processed tomato products.

    When the North American Free Trade Agreement was implemented in January 1994, U.S. fresh tomato production was more than four times the quantity of imported fresh tomatoes: 3.7 billion pounds (1.7 million metric tons) produced versus only 870 million pounds (400,000 metric tons) imported.

    Domestic production has steadily declined since then, while imports have increased. Imported fresh tomatoes are now twice as plentiful: 2.2 billion pounds (1 million metric tons) were grown in the U.S. in 2023, compared with 4.4 billion pounds (2 million metric tons)“ imported .

    This happened as Americans were eating more fresh tomatoes than ever: almost 20 pounds (9 kilograms) per capita in 2023.

    Mexico supplies most of the fresh tomatoes Americans buy in supermarkets.
    Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

    Influx didn’t clearly affect prices

    In 2024, fresh tomato imports totaled US$3.6 billion, with $3.1 billion coming from Mexico. This was a 367% increase since NAFTA took effect, adjusted for inflation.

    Given that costs of production are lower in Mexico for many products, especially in the fresh produce sector where labor costs are less than half U.S. levels, you might figure that this arrangement has kept prices for fresh tomatoes in the U.S. low. But there’s little evidence to support that. Instead, the opposite seems true.

    In 1995, the price that U.S. importers paid of Mexican tomatoes was 31 cents per pound. Since then, import prices have steadily increased to 74 cents per pound in 2024. They have often exceeded prices paid to American farmers and kept pace with the overall rise in food prices the past three decades.

    While restricting imported Mexican tomatoes might benefit U.S. tomato producers by making it easier for them to raise their prices, there are other factors to consider. Imports play a crucial role in boosting economic activity and creating jobs. According to a recent study, these imports generated a total economic impact of more than $8 billion.

    The extra $5 billion comes from all the value-added activities associated with getting that produce from the border to consumers. That total economic impact supports approximately 47,000 U.S. jobs tied to tomato storage, distribution, wholesaling and retailing.

    We would expect antidumping duties on imported fresh tomatoes to increase prices, and reduce the amount of fresh tomatoes Americans can buy. That would also shrink some of the economic impact and eliminate some of the jobs spurred by the imported tomato boom.

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

    – ref. Tomato trade dispute between the US and Mexico is boiling over again – with 21% tariffs due in July – https://theconversation.com/tomato-trade-dispute-between-the-us-and-mexico-is-boiling-over-again-with-21-tariffs-due-in-july-255813

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Cutting HIV aid means undercutting US foreign and economic interests − Nigeria shows the human costs

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kathryn Rhine, Associate Professor of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

    A large number of children are born with HIV in Nigeria. Kristian Buus/Corbis News via Getty Images

    A little over two decades ago, addressing Nigeria’s HIV crisis topped U.S. President George W. Bush’s priorities. Africa’s most populous nation had 3.5 million HIV cases, and the disease threatened to destabilize the region and ultimately compromise U.S. interests. These interests included securing access to Nigeria’s substantial oil reserves, maintaining regional military stability and protecting trade partnerships worth billions.

    Following years of agitation from AIDS activists, Bush launched the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, in 2003. This U.S.-led HIV treatment program has since saved tens of millions of lives around the globe.

    While living in Nigeria for my work as a medical anthropologist, I witnessed PEPFAR’s rollout and saw firsthand how the powerful therapies it provided transformed Nigerian lives. The women I worked with told me they could finally put aside the fears of death or abandonment that had consumed their days. Instead, they could focus on a newly expanded horizon of possibilities: building careers, finding love, having healthy children.

    Now, however, a serious threat to preventing and treating HIV worldwide looms. The Trump administration’s decision to substantially restrict access to a vital HIV prevention tool – PEPFAR-funded preexposure prophylaxis, or PrEP – would cut off ongoing treatment for millions of people and block future access for countless others who need this protection.

    The Trump administration aims to cut HIV prevention funding.

    The timing is devastating: Scientists recently made a major advance in HIV prevention. Named the 2024 Breakthrough of the Year by the journal Science, the drug lenacapavir offers six months of HIV protection with one injection. Unlike previous PrEP options that required daily pills, which created significant barriers to consistent access and adherence, this twice-yearly injection dramatically simplifies prevention.

    By undermining access to a treatment that has been essential to reducing HIV rates, the Trump administration’s new restrictions threaten to derail two decades of bipartisan investment in eliminating HIV globally. The consequences extend well beyond individual lives.

    Afterlife of aid

    “Some people that have it, they choose to be wicked and just spread it all around,” confided Elizabeth, a woman I interviewed during my time in Nigeria. I am using a pseudonym to protect her privacy. “They say, ‘Somebody gave it to me, so I am going to spread it too.’ But if they know that they can live positively with the virus, it would reduce their evil thoughts.”

    Elizabeth’s words reveal a concerning dynamic: When hope for treatment disappears, a dangerous desperation can take its place. Patients who feel abandoned by health care systems might lose motivation to protect others from HIV. They may also stop seeking medical care, abandon prevention measures and turn away from future aid.

    Cultural anthropologists use the phrase “the afterlife of aid” to describe what happens after global aid programs are withdrawn or drastically reduced. Communities are left not just without resources but with a lasting sense of betrayal that undermines their willingness to seek help, creating cycles of skepticism that can persist for generations.

    Treatment as hope

    In my fieldwork, I’ve witnessed how managing life with the virus involves far more than taking medications. It requires carefully navigating personal relationships, family obligations, cultural expectations and hopes for the future.

    Many of the women I worked with had contracted HIV from their husbands or boyfriends. Some even suspected their partners’ positive status but were unable to protect themselves. Before these medications, women – both HIV positive and HIV negative – had to choose between risking rejection or risking transmission.

    The welfare of entire families depends on access to HIV medication. Here, a woman who is the sole provider of several children takes antiretroviral treatment.
    Saurabh Das/AP Photo

    Elizabeth and David’s story illustrates these challenges. They had been together for more than a year when David proposed. “When I sensed he was serious about marriage, I knew I had to tell him my status,” Elizabeth told me during one of our many conversations. Though initially shocked, he remained committed to their relationship.

    Elizabeth had maintained a decade of careful adherence to her HIV treatment, but the couple still struggled with consistent condom use. David described using condoms as akin to “eating candy with the wrapper still on it.” He also was eager to have a baby. While PrEP had greatly reduced transmission risk, it placed the full burden of protecting her husband on Elizabeth.

    The path Elizabeth navigated highlights how Nigerian cultural expectations complicated their situation. When proving one’s fertility is often considered essential to establishing gender identity, the pressure to have sex without protection created additional tension. Moreover, Elizabeth’s need to balance her own health needs with her husband’s desires reflected the delicate negotiation many Nigerian women face between personal well-being and marriage.

    As Elizabeth prepared for the birth of their child, she expressed both joy and anxiety: “I have to stay healthy for both of them now.”

    Politicizing global health

    Previous interruptions in aid foreshadow what’s at stake when shifts in U.S. political priorities compromise global health funding.

    Consider the global spike in maternal and child mortality when President Ronald Reagan instituted the Mexico City Policy, often referred to as the “global gag rule.” It blocked U.S. funding to all international nongovernmental organizations that provided or even referred abortion services.

    This policy has been repeatedly implemented by Republican administrations – including those of George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush and Donald Trump during his first term – and subsequently rescinded by Democratic presidents, creating a disruptive cycle of funding uncertainty. Among these affected organizations are recipients of PEPFAR funds.

    The human cost of this policy pendulum is measurable and significant. Researchers have found that when this law is enacted, nations across the globe suffer increased death rates for newborns and mothers as well as jumps in HIV cases. In countries heavily dependent on U.S. aid, the Mexico City Policy has resulted in approximately 80 additional child deaths and nine additional maternal deaths per 100,000 live births annually and about one additional HIV infection per 10,000 uninfected people.

    The Trump administration reinstated the global gag rule in 2017.
    Erik McGregor/LightRocket via Getty Images

    My research in Nigeria also reveals the fragile progress that now hangs in the balance. Before treatments arrived, HIV ravaged Nigerian communities. In 2001, nearly 6% of the population had HIV, totaling around 3.5 million people. The Hausa language reflected this trauma: Terms for AIDS also meant “lifeless body” and “nearby grave.”

    Following the rollout of HIV treatments, Nigeria’s cases dropped dramatically – by 2010, prevalence had fallen to 4.1%. Declines continued steadily as treatment access expanded from 360,000 people in 2010 to over 1 million by 2018. This progress was heavily dependent on international support, with PEPFAR and other global donors providing over 80% of the US$6.2 billion spent fighting HIV in Nigeria between 2005 to 2018.

    In 2019, around 1.3% of the population had HIV, or 1.9 million people.

    From personal choice to global security

    What’s at stake isn’t just increasing HIV rates. The Trump administration’s reductions in foreign aid threaten to unravel over two decades of U.S. investment in global security and economic growth.

    Public health crises rarely stay contained within national boundaries. When health systems fail in West Africa, diseases can quickly spread overseas and require costly emergency responses. The 2014 Ebola outbreak demonstrated this reality, when cases reached America and prompted a $5.4 billion emergency response. Similarly, the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, which infected around 60 million Americans, showed how quickly infectious diseases circle the globe when surveillance and containment systems are inadequate.

    Inconsistent aid, in turn, undermines American global leadership and creates openings for competing powers to establish their influence. China has actively exploited these gaps, establishing bilateral trade with Africa reaching $295 billion in 2024. While the U.S. reduced its global health engagement during previous administrations, China expanded its global health diplomacy, partnering on issues ranging from infectious disease prevention and control to health emergency response and health technology innovation.

    Meanwhile, restrictions in PrEP access risk recreating the same impossible choices women faced at the advent of the epidemic: choosing between disclosing their status and risking abandonment; accepting unprotected sex and risking transmission, or refusing unprotected sex and risking violence or loss of economic support.

    I believe the result is a far less safe world where preventable suffering continues, hard-won progress unravels and the promise of an AIDS-free generation remains unfulfilled.

    Kathryn Rhine has received funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the Wenner Gren Foundation, the American Philosophical Society, the West African Research Association, the American Council of Learned Societies, Fulbright programs, the National Science Foundation, and the National Security Education Program. These views are her own and not those of her institution.

    – ref. Cutting HIV aid means undercutting US foreign and economic interests − Nigeria shows the human costs – https://theconversation.com/cutting-hiv-aid-means-undercutting-us-foreign-and-economic-interests-nigeria-shows-the-human-costs-253705

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Seven countries in Latin America where human rights are taking the biggest hit

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nicolas Forsans, Professor of Management and Co-director of the Centre for Latin American & Caribbean Studies, University of Essex

    Latin America is undergoing one of its most profound human rights crises in decades. The region’s civic space is shrinking rapidly, from mass surveillance and arbitrary arrests to political repression, enforced disappearances and impunity for state violence.

    The 2025 State of the World’s Human Rights report, released by Amnesty International, lays bare the magnitude of the challenge. Seven countries – Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Mexico, Colombia, Cuba and El Salvador – are at the epicentre of this authoritarian surge.

    Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January has only deepened the problem. In a separate report published in the same week, Amnesty argues that Trump’s nationalist rhetoric and policy reversals have emboldened strongman leaders. These have undercut international accountability and accelerated rights violations across the hemisphere.

    Here are the countries where the assault on human rights is being felt most acutely.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences. Join The Conversation for free today.

    1. Haiti

    Nowhere has the collapse in human rights been more visible than in Haiti. By the end of 2024, more than 700,000 people – half of them children – had been internally displaced due to spiralling gang violence and state failure.

    Criminal organisations routinely engaged in killings, sexual violence and attacks on hospitals and schools. A December 2024 massacre in Cité Soleil, a densely populated part of the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince, saw at least 207 people executed by the Wharf Jérémie gang.

    The justice system has all but ceased to function. Meanwhile, deportations of Haitians from the US and neighbouring Dominican Republic has surged.

    According to Amnesty, nearly 200,000 people were returned without due process in 2024 alone. Trump’s crackdown on migration, framed as necessary for border security, has accelerated these mass removals.

    2. Nicaragua

    Nicaragua’s president, Daniel Ortega, has refined authoritarianism into an efficient machine of repression. More than 5,000 civil society groups, private universities and media outlets have been closed since 2018. This included 1,500 from January to September 2024 alone.

    Over 400 critics have been stripped of nationality since 2023 and dozens of journalists have been forcibly disappeared or jailed. The legal status of hundreds of evangelical groups has also been revoked.

    In 2024, the government criminalised dissent to the point where entire sectors of civil society have vanished. Indigenous communities, meanwhile, faced displacement and armed attacks from pro-government militias, with little international response.

    3. Venezuela

    Venezuela remains mired in repression. A presidential election in July 2024, which was stolen by Nicolás Maduro, was followed by the arbitrary detention and torture of protesters – including children. Independent journalists were arrested and NGOs threatened with closure.

    Many Venezuelans subsequently fled the country. Persecutions and despair at the election results saw 20,000 people migrate northwards through the jungle of the Darién Gap in September 2024 alone, a 70% increase on the previous month.



    Read more:
    Venezuela: Maduro’s declaration of victory isn’t fooling anyone

    In reality, the numbers are probably much higher. A poll following the election indicated that 43% of those remaining in the country were considering emigrating, but official data has not been made available. More than 7.8 million citizens have left Venezuela over the past ten years, with around 28 million people still residing there.

    In June 2023, the International Criminal Court resumed its investigation into the Maduro regime for alleged crimes against humanity. But Venezuela’s government continues to obstruct justice. With Trump’s administration disinterested in multilateral mechanisms, efforts to restore democracy face steeper odds.

    4. Mexico

    Mexico’s public security has become dangerously militarised. A constitutional amendment in September 2024, a few days before the end of the Andrés Manuel López Obrador administration, placed the National Guard under military control. This has enabled widespread abuses including extrajudicial killings. Nine human rights defenders and four journalists were killed in 2024 alone.

    López Obrador’s administration undermined press freedom at home. It also failed to protect those seeking asylum. And with Trump back in office, deportations from the US to Mexico have increased. Returnees are often placed at risk of cartel violence and exploitation.

    5. Colombia

    Colombia suffered Latin America’s longest running insurgency, lasting over 50 years. Despite the country’s robust institutional frameworks, peace remains elusive. In 2024, over 195,000 people were forcibly confined by armed groups, and landmines continue to endanger more than 600,000 civilians.

    Child recruitment, sexual violence and targeted killings of former combatants from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc) rebel group have surged. Meanwhile, progress on implementing the 2016 peace accord remains slow.

    Investigations into military-perpetrated extrajudicial killings are ongoing, but face budgetary constraints and political pushback. Trump’s withdrawal of US support for transitional justice mechanisms has further weakened international backing for Colombia’s fragile reconciliation efforts.



    Read more:
    Colombia’s fragile peace process in danger as guerrilla violence rises

    6. Cuba

    The Cuban authorities are continuing to suppress dissent through arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and censorship. Over 100 people were arrested for protesting in 2024, with many forced into self-incriminating video confessions. Independent media and activists were subject to constant surveillance and harassment.

    Amid economic collapse, more than 18% of the population has fled the island in two years. These mass migrations often result in perilous journeys and widespread family separations. The economic crisis has been exacerbated by US sanctions reimposed and intensified under Trump.

    7. El Salvador

    President Nayib Bukele’s model of mass incarceration continues to attract global attention. Nearly 84,000 people have been arrested since 2022 under a state of emergency that suspends basic rights and legal guarantees.

    Surveillance, arbitrary detentions and public humiliation of detainees have become routine. Trump’s vocal admiration of Bukele’s “tough on crime” stance has lent international legitimacy to this dangerous approach.



    Read more:
    Nayib Bukele: El Salvador’s strongman leader doing Donald Trump’s legwork abroad

    Trump’s return to the White House has intensified human rights setbacks across Latin America. His withdrawal from human rights and climate agreements has emboldened authoritarian regimes to suppress dissent and accelerate policies to exploit resources without fear of US pressure or accountability.

    Latin American migrants in the US have also faced a resurgence of mass deportations. Rhetoric portraying migrants as criminals has fuelled xenophobia and enabled sweeping immigration raids and policy rollbacks. Sanctuary cities like Chicago have been targeted and legal protections for undocumented residents eroded.

    Latin America’s current trajectory suggests a drift not just toward repression, but a normalisation of state violence. While local resistance remains strong, particularly among grassroots activists and civil society, international solidarity has been weakened by geopolitical shifts.

    The region risks cementing a new era of authoritarian resilience – one in which the defence of human rights is not just dangerous but futile.

    Nicolas Forsans 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. Seven countries in Latin America where human rights are taking the biggest hit – https://theconversation.com/seven-countries-in-latin-america-where-human-rights-are-taking-the-biggest-hit-255782

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How aid cuts could make vulnerable communities even less resilient to climate change

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Kalle Hirvonen, Senior Research Fellow, International Food Policy Research Insitute; Research Fellow, UNU-WIDER, United Nations University

    An irrigation project in Mozambique. Marcos Villalta / Save the Children, CC BY-NC-ND

    As global temperatures rise and climate-related disasters become more frequent, the need to adapt is rapidly increasing. That need for adaptation – from adjusting farming practices to diversifying livelihoods and strengthening infrastructure – is most acute in vulnerable low- and middle-income countries such as Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Haiti and Vietnam.

    Despite contributing a negligible share of historical global greenhouse gas emissions, these countries are facing the brunt of climate change. Yet as the demand for long-term resilience grows, international aid priorities are shifting in the opposite direction.

    Over the past three years, several major rich countries have substantially cut their development aid budgets. Remaining funds have been redirected towards emergency relief.

    This shift could undermine the climate finance commitments made by wealthy countries to mobilise US$300 billion (£228 billion) a year for climate action in the most vulnerable low- and middle-income countries by 2035.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Emergency aid, while vital for saving lives during crises such as droughts and floods, is reactive by nature. It arrives only after disaster has struck, often with a substantial delay.

    By contrast, climate adaptation is proactive. It focuses on anticipating future risks and helping communities prepare for changing environments.

    A key part of this is supporting transitions away from sectors like crop agriculture that are particularly vulnerable to climate-related shocks. In some cases, adapting to a changing climate may also require helping families move safely — turning relocation into a choice rather than a last resort.

    In Ethiopia, one of the world’s most drought-prone countries, a US government-funded food security programme aimed to strengthen resilience by offering livelihood training, organising savings groups and providing a US$200 lump sum to poor rural households. Research shows that this programme improved food security and protected assets during periods of drought.

    Livestock farming in the Somali region of Ethiopia which was severely affected by droughts in 2011.
    Malini Morzaria/EUECHO, CC BY-NC-ND

    In Nicaragua, families who received cash transfers alongside vocational training or investment grants were better protected against drought shocks than those relying on cash alone. These households could supplement farming with other income sources. This made them less vulnerable to drought-related losses and helped stabilise their earnings throughout the year.

    These schemes are known as “cash-plus programmes”. They help create the conditions for households to adapt and thrive. But when climate and environmental shocks overwhelm the resilience of local communities, relocation may still become the only viable option.

    That’s why proactive adaptation efforts need to be scaled up and broadened — not only to meet immediate needs but to support longer-term transitions. This includes investing in sustainable livelihoods through diversified income sources, skills training and, when necessary, enabling safe and voluntary relocation.

    Some pilot interventions that supported seasonal rural-to-urban migration have shown what’s possible. In Bangladesh, a small migration subsidy of just US$8.50 helped the participating poor farm households affected by seasonal famine cover travel costs.

    Migration for temporary work increased by 22%, and families back home experienced improvements in food security. With even modest support, people were able to access job opportunities in cities and strengthen their resilience.

    Programmes that make it easier for people to choose to move from rural areas to cities could help families move with dignity rather than in desperation. However, scaling up such initiatives successfully remains a challenge, requiring strong political commitment and effective governance.

    Climate relocation

    Without proactive planning and support, migration often happens out of necessity rather than choice. This kind of displacement typically occurs within national borders rather than across continents — contrary to popular narratives.

    In fact, 59% of the world’s forcibly displaced population live within their own country. By the end of 2023, a record 75.9 million people across 116 countries were internally displaced — a 51% increase over the previous five years, driven in part by climate change.

    A family leave their home in Oklahoma, US, as a result of the 1930s dust bowl disaster.
    Dorothea Lange/Library of Congress, Farm Security Administration/Office of War Information.

    History provides sobering lessons about relocation triggered by environmental collapse. In the 1930s, a severe drought and dust storms struck the Great Plains in the US, creating the “dust bowl”. This devastated farmland and forced millions of people to leave their homes, as economic hardship became widespread and the land so degraded that crops wouldn’t grow.

    Today, similar patterns loom as droughts, floods and rising seas threaten livelihoods around the world. Small island states such as Tuvalu face existential threats from rising sea levels, with entire communities at risk of being displaced.

    These mounting threats underscore a hard truth: the window for effective climate adaptation is rapidly closing. As climate disruptions intensify, the case for long-term investment in resilience has never been clearer. Without proactive adaptation, the cycle of crisis and response will only deepen.

    Societies can adapt, but doing so takes foresight, investment and courage. In the face of escalating climate risks, bold, forward-looking policies are not a luxury — they are a necessity. By supporting longer-term strategies, rich-country governments and aid charities can enable vulnerable communities to withstand, adapt and, when necessary, move with dignity.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Kalle Hirvonen’s recent and ongoing research has been funded by the CGIAR Trust Fund (https://www.cgiar.org/funders/), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.

    Olli-Pekka Kuusela 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 aid cuts could make vulnerable communities even less resilient to climate change – https://theconversation.com/how-aid-cuts-could-make-vulnerable-communities-even-less-resilient-to-climate-change-255358

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Nuvini Group Announces Participation in the Sidoti Micro-Cap Investor Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nuvini Group Limited (Nasdaq: NVNI) (“Nuvini” or the “Company”), a leading acquirer of private B2B SaaS companies in Latin America, today announced that management will participate in the Sidoti Virtual Micro-Cap Conference being held on May 21-22, 2025.

    Nuvini Chief Executive Officer and Founder Pierre Schurmann will present virtually on Thursday, May 22 at 8:30a.m. Eastern Time. A link to the webcast and associated presentation materials can be accessed here and through the Company’s investor relations website.

    Additionally, management will be available for one-on-one meetings throughout the conference. To schedule a one-on-one meeting with Nuvini’s management please contact your Sidoti conference representative or reach out to investor relations at NVNI@mzgroup.us.

    About Nuvini
    Headquartered in São Paulo, Brazil, Nuvini is Latin America’s leading private serial acquirer of B2B SaaS companies. The company focuses on acquiring profitable, high-growth SaaS businesses with strong recurring revenue and cash flow generation. By fostering an entrepreneurial environment, Nuvini enables its portfolio companies to scale and maintain leadership within their respective industries. The company’s long-term vision is to buy, retain, and create value through strategic partnerships and operational expertise.

    Investor Relations Contact
    Sofia Toledo
    ir@nuvini.co

    MZ North America
    NVNI@mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/PARAGUAY – In an atmosphere of celebration, joy and gratitude, the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians celebrated 125 years of presence in the country

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 19 May 2025

    FMA

    Asunción (Agenzia Fides) – On April 29, 2025, the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), together with young people, lay people and the Salesian Family, celebrated the 125th anniversary of the arrival of the first nine FMA, who arrived in Paraguay with great zeal and apostolic spirit on April 30, 1900, to dedicate themselves to the education of children.”The first nine missionaries who came to Paraguay were moved by the missionary zeal that Christ had awakened in Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello, and felt the passion and fervent desire to transmit the faith…” said Father Néstor Ledesma, Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco of the Province of the Assumption (PAR), in his homily at the solemn Eucharistic celebration. “These first sisters, as the light of Christ, not only showed the way, but were and are the powerful force that transforms hearts and leads people to God.” The event, according to the statement issued by the FMA, took place in an atmosphere of festivity, joy, and gratitude, in which the legacy of education, faith, and hope was celebrated together. Several religious communities in Paraguay participated in the celebrations and expressed their solidarity and joy at this historic milestone. Delegates from communities of the FMA from across the country were also present. This anniversary was not only religious in nature, but was also celebrated at the municipal and national levels. The City Council of Asunción declared it of interest to the city and highlighted the educational and evangelizing commitment of the FMA, while the Chamber of Deputies emphasized the national and cultural interest and recognized the missionaries’ contribution to the integral development of Paraguayan youth. Cardinal Adalberto Martínez Flores, Metropolitan Archbishop of Asunción, and Provincial Superior Ángeles Grassi also conveyed their congratulations on behalf of the Archdiocese and the Province of the Immaculate Conception (URU) of Uruguay. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 19/5/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gilat Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Revenues Increased 21% Year-over-Year with Adjusted EBITDA of $7.6 Million

    Reiterates Guidance for 2025

    PETAH TIKVA, Israel, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, today reported its results for the first quarter, ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

    • Revenues of $92million, up 21% compared with $76.1million in Q12024;
    • GAAP operating loss of $2.7 million,compared with GAAP operating income of $5.4 million in Q1 2024 mainly due to a loss of about $3.6 million from Gilat Stellar Blu’s ramp up process, amortization of purchased intangibles derived from the Stellar Blu acquisition, and other operating expenses, related to earnout liabilities and one-time acquisition-related costs;
    • Non-GAAP operating income of $5.2million, compared with $6.6million in Q1 2024;
    • GAAP net loss of $6.0 million, or $0.11 per share, compared with GAAP net income of $5.0 million, or $0.09 per diluted share, in Q1 2024;
    • Non-GAAP net income of $1.8 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, compared with $6.0 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, in Q1 2024;
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $7.6 million, compared with $9.3 million in Q1 2024, which includes a loss of about $3.6 million from Gilat Stellar Blu’s ramp up process. Adjusted EBITDA, excluding such loss, was $11.2 million.

    Forward-Looking Expectations

    The Company today reiterated its guidance for 2025.

    Expectations are for revenue between $415 and $455 million, representing year-over-year growth of 42% at the midpoint. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be between $47 and $53 million, representing year-over-year growth of 18% at the midpoint.  

    Management Commentary

    Adi Sfadia, Gilat’s CEO, commented: “Gilat delivered solid Q1 2025 results, demonstrating strong execution across the company and positive impact from our new organizational structure. Gilat Defense is experiencing significant momentum, fueled by growing demand for its broad portfolio of products and services and is becoming an increasingly important contributor to our growth. This growth is supported by macro-geopolitical factors that are driving increased investment in secure, mission-critical communications worldwide.”

    Mr. Sfadia added, “Regarding Gilat Commercial, our IFC business continues to expand as we deliver on customer commitments and grow our market base. Gilat Stellar Blu’s ramp up is on track, and its Sidewinder ESA is now flying on over 150 aircraft, with strong feedback and additional orders expected very soon. We are collaborating with our partners to expand into new applications such as ISR and VVIP aviation. We’re also in the process of developing OEM installation and broader modem compatibility, further establishing Sidewinder as the go-to multi-orbit IFC solution.”

    Mr. Sfadia concluded, “Based on our strong beginning to 2025 and as Stellar Blu’s ramp up finalizes, we are on track to deliver a record year in both revenues and non-GAAP profitability as we capture the expanding opportunities in mission-critical communications and next-generation satellite solutions.”

    Key Recent Announcements

    • Gilat Receives Over $15 Million in Orders from Leading Satellite Operators
    • Gilat Receives a Multimillion Order from a Global Defense Organization
    • Gilat Receives over $11 Million Defense Contract from a Leading UAV Company
    • Gilat Awarded Up to $23 Million Multi-Year Contract to Service Satellite Transportable Terminal Units for US DoD Customers
    • Gilat Receives $6 Million Defense Contract to Provide Military Communications solutions in Asia-Pacific
    • Gilat Receives $4 Million in Orders for Advanced Portable Satellite Terminals from Global Defense Customers
    • Gilat Awarded Over $5 Million to Support Critical Connectivity for Defense Forces

    Conference Call Details

    Gilat’s management will discuss its first quarter 2025 results and business achievements and participate in a question-and-answer session:

    Date: Monday, May 19, 2025
    Start: 09:00 AM EST / 16:00 IST
    Dial-in: US: 1-888-407-2553
      International: +972-3-918-0609

    A simultaneous webcast of the conference call will be available on the Gilat website at http://www.gilat.com and through this link: https://veidan.activetrail.biz/gilatq1-2025.

    The webcast will also be archived for a period of 30 days on the Company’s website and through the link above.

    Non-GAAP Measures

    The attached summary unaudited financial statements were prepared in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). To supplement the consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP, the Company presents non-GAAP presentations of gross profit, operating expenses, operating income, income before taxes on income, net income, Adjusted EBITDA, and earnings per share. The adjustments to the Company’s GAAP results are made with the intent of providing both management and investors with a more complete understanding of the Company’s underlying operational results, trends, and performance. Non-GAAP financial measures mainly exclude, if and when applicable, the effect of stock-based compensation expenses, amortization of purchased intangibles, lease incentive amortization, other non-recurring expenses, other integration expenses, other operating expenses (income), net, and income tax effect on the relevant adjustments.

    Adjusted EBITDA is presented to compare the Company’s performance to that of prior periods and evaluate the Company’s financial and operating results on a consistent basis from period to period. The Company also believes this measure, when viewed in combination with the Company’s financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP, provides useful information to investors to evaluate ongoing operating results and trends. Adjusted EBITDA, however, should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income for the period and may not be indicative of the historic operating results of the Company; nor is it meant to be predictive of potential future results. Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP and may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures for other companies. Reconciliation between the Company’s net income and adjusted EBITDA is presented in the attached summary financial statements.

    Non-GAAP presentations of gross profit, operating expenses, operating income, income before taxes on income, net income, adjusted EBITDA and earnings per share should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for any of the consolidated statements of operations prepared in accordance with GAAP, or as an indication of Gilat’s operating performance or liquidity.

    About Gilat

    Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With over 35 years of experience, we create and deliver deep technology solutions for satellite, ground and new space connectivity and provide comprehensive, secure end-to-end solutions and services for mission-critical operations, powered by our innovative technology. We believe in the right of all people to be connected and are united in our resolution to provide communication solutions to all reaches of the world.

    Our portfolio includes a diverse offering to deliver high value solutions for multiple orbit constellations with very high throughput satellites (VHTS) and software defined satellites (SDS). Our offering is comprised of a cloud-based platform and high-performance satellite terminals; high performance Satellite On-the-Move (SOTM) antennas; highly efficient, high-power Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC) and includes integrated ground systems for commercial and defense, field services, network management software, and cybersecurity services.

    Gilat’s comprehensive offering supports multiple applications with a full portfolio of products and tailored solutions to address key applications including broadband access, mobility, cellular backhaul, enterprise, defense, aerospace, broadcast, government, and critical infrastructure clients all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. For more information, please visit: www.gilat.com

    Certain statements made herein that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel, including those related to the hostilities between Israel and Hamas. For additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties associated with Gilat’s business, reference is made to Gilat’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.

    Contact:

    Gilat Satellite Networks
    Hagay Katz, Chief Products and Marketing Officer
    hagayk@gilat.com

    Alliance Advisors

    GilatIR@allianceadvisors.com
    Phone: +1 212 838 3777

    GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.      
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)      
    U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)      
        Three months ended
     March 31,
       
          2025       2024  
        Unaudited
             
    Revenues $ 92,037     $ 76,078  
    Cost of revenues   63,639       48,024  
             
    Gross profit   28,398       28,054  
             
    Research and development expenses, net   11,621       9,319  
    Selling and marketing expenses   8,202       7,077  
    General and administrative expenses   6,784       8,077  
    Other operating expenses (income), net   4,538       (1,810 )
             
    Total operating expenses   31,145       22,663  
             
    Operating income (loss)   (2,747 )     5,391  
             
    Financial income (expenses), net   (936 )     513  
             
    Income (loss) before taxes on income   (3,683 )     5,904  
             
    Taxes on income   (2,313 )     (940 )
             
    Net income (loss) $ (5,996 )   $ 4,964  
             
    Earnings (losses) per share (basic and diluted) $ (0.11 )   $ 0.09  
             
    Weighted average number of shares used in              
    computing earnings (losses) per share (Basic and Diluted)   57,037,671       57,016,585  
             
    GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.
    RECONCILIATION BETWEEN GAAP AND NON-GAAP CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)
    FOR COMPARATIVE PURPOSES
    U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
        Three months ended   Three months ended
        March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024  
        GAAP   Adjustments (*)   Non-GAAP   GAAP   Adjustments (*)   Non-GAAP  
        Unaudited   Unaudited
                               
    Gross profit $ 28,398   810   $ 29,208   $ 28,054   726   $ 28,780
    Operating expenses 31,145   (7,090)   24,055   22,663   (499)   22,164
    Operating income (loss) (2,747)   7,900   5,153   5,391   1,225   6,616
    Income (loss) before taxes on income (3,683)   7,900   4,217   5,904   1,225   7,129
    Net income (loss) $ (5,996)   7,823   $ 1,827   $ 4,964   1,050   $ 6,014
                             
    Earnings (losses) per share (basic and diluted) $ (0.11)   $ 0.14   $ 0.03   $ 0.09   $ 0.02   $ 0.11
                             
                             
    Weighted average number of shares used in computing earnings (losses) per share                      
      Basic 57,037,671       57,037,671   57,016,585       57,016,585
      Diluted 57,037,671       58,005,232   57,016,585       57,108,734
                             
                             
     (*)  Adjustments reflect the effect of stock-based compensation expenses as per ASC 718, amortization of purchased intangibles, other operating income (expenses), net, other integration expenses and income tax effect on such adjustments which is calculated using the relevant effective tax rate.  
                             
            Three months ended           Three months ended    
            March 31, 2025           March 31, 2024    
            Unaudited           Unaudited    
                             
    GAAP net income (loss)   $ (5,996)           $ 4,964    
                           
    Gross profit                    
    Stock-based compensation expenses   173           150    
    Amortization of purchased intangibles   600           507    
    Other integration expenses   37           69    
          810           726    
    Operating expenses                    
    Stock-based compensation expenses   901           717    
    Stock-based compensation expenses related to business combination   607           1,324    
    Amortization of purchased intangibles   884           257    
    Other operating expenses (income), net *)   4,538           (1,810)    
    Other integration expenses   160           11    
            7,090           499    
                             
    Taxes on income   (77)           (175)    
                             
    Non-GAAP net income   $ 1,827           $ 6,014    
                             
                             
    *) Including M&A expenses related to business combinations in the amounts of $2,205 and $318 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively
                             
    GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.      
    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION      
    U.S. dollars in thousands      
           
           
    ADJUSTED EBITDA:      
           
       Three months ended
       March 31,
       2025     2024 
      Unaudited
           
    GAAP net income (loss) $ (5,996 )   $ 4,964  
    Adjustments:      
    Financial expenses (income), net   936       (513 )
    Taxes on income   2,313       940  
    Stock-based compensation expenses   1,074       867  
    Stock-based compensation expenses related to business combination   607       1,324  
    Depreciation and amortization (*)   3,962       3,481  
    Other operating expenses (income), net   4,538       (1,810 )
    Other integration expenses   197       80  
           
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 7,631     $ 9,333  
           
    (*) Including amortization of lease incentive      
           
    SEGMENT REVENUES:      
           
       Three months ended
       March 31,
        2025       2024  
      Unaudited
           
    Commercial $ 64,220     $ 41,193  
    Defense   23,011       17,230  
    Peru   4,806       17,655  
           
    Total revenues $ 92,037     $ 76,078  
           
    GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.      
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS      
    U.S. dollars in thousands      
           
      March 31,   December 31,
        2025       2024  
      Unaudited   Audited
           
    ASSETS      
           
    CURRENT ASSETS:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 63,783     $ 119,384  
    Restricted cash   470       853  
    Trade receivables, net   49,164       49,600  
    Contract assets   33,394       24,941  
    Inventories   59,431       38,890  
    Other current assets   34,395       21,963  
           
       Total current assets   240,637       255,631  
           
    LONG-TERM ASSETS:      
    Restricted cash   13       12  
    Long-term contract assets   7,450       8,146  
    Severance pay funds   5,847       5,966  
    Deferred taxes   9,912       11,896  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets   6,400       6,556  
    Other long-term assets   8,539       5,288  
           
    Total long-term assets   38,161       37,864  
           
    PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET   69,878       70,834  
           
    INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET   64,928       12,925  
           
    GOODWILL   169,444       52,494  
           
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 583,048     $ 429,748  
           
    GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.      
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Cont.)      
    U.S. dollars in thousands      
           
      March 31,   December 31,
        2025       2024  
      Unaudited   Audited
           
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
           
    CURRENT LIABILITIES:      
    Current maturities of long-term loan $ 3,000     $ –  
    Trade payables   20,364       17,107  
    Accrued expenses   48,245       45,368  
    Advances from customers and deferred revenues   71,701       18,587  
    Operating lease liabilities   2,865       2,557  
    Other current liabilities   24,617       17,817  
           
       Total current liabilities   170,792       101,436  
           
    LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:      
    Long-term loans   57,469       2,000  
    Accrued severance pay   6,536       6,677  
    Long-term advances from customers and deferred revenues   254       580  
    Operating lease liabilities   3,608       4,014  
    Other long-term liabilities   44,875       10,606  
           
       Total long-term liabilities   112,742       23,877  
           
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
    Share capital – ordinary shares of NIS 0.2 par value   2,736       2,733  
    Additional paid-in capital   944,657       943,294  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (6,411 )     (6,120 )
    Accumulated deficit   (641,468 )     (635,472 )
           
    Total shareholders’ equity   299,514       304,435  
           
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 583,048     $ 429,748  
           
    GILAT SATELLITE NETWORKS LTD.      
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS      
    U.S. dollars in thousands      
           
      Three months ended
      March 31,
      2025   2024
      Unaudited
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net income (loss) $ (5,996 )   $ 4,964  
    Adjustments required to reconcile net income (loss)      
     to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:      
    Depreciation and amortization   3,905       3,425  
    Stock-based compensation expenses   1,681       2,191  
    Accrued severance pay, net   (22 )     (55 )
    Deferred taxes, net   1,984       451  
    Decrease (increase) in trade receivables, net   4,528       (8,797 )
    Decrease (increase) in contract assets   (7,798 )     6,248  
    Decrease in other assets and other adjustments (including short-term, long-term      
    and effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash)   18,390       3,507  
    Increase in inventories   (11,456 )     (3,193 )
    Decrease in trade payables   (7,828 )     (666 )
    Decrease in accrued expenses   (6,358 )     (1,240 )
    Decrease in advances from customers and deferred revenues   (1,096 )     (2,754 )
    Increase in other liabilities   3,454       139  
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   (6,612 )     4,220  
           
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Purchase of property and equipment   (1,490 )     (793 )
    Investment in other asset   (2,500 )     –  
    Acquisitions of subsidiary, net of cash acquired   (104,943 )     –  
    Net cash used in investing activities   (108,933 )     (793 )
           
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Repayment of short-term debt, net   –       (2,744 )
    Proceeds from long-term loan, net of associated costs   58,970       –  
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   58,970       (2,744 )
           
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   592       (268 )
           
    Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   (55,983 )     415  
           
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the period   120,249       104,751  
           
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of the period $ 64,266     $ 105,166  
           

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Gate Introduces Brand New Domain Gate.com and Brand Logo, Advancing Toward the “Next-Generation Crypto Exchange”

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PANAMA CITY, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gate, a global leading cryptocurrency trading platform, has officially adopted the new international domain Gate.com and unveiled a redesigned brand logo, marking a significant milestone in the platform’s evolution. This strategic move aims to unify brand identity, strengthen global presence, and enhance user trust, heralding a new chapter in Gate’s development. The upgrade follows Gate’s 12th anniversary celebrations and aligns closely with the platform’s newly articulated vision, unveiled at its global event in Dubai, to become the “next-generation crypto exchange”. It signifies a transformative leap from industry leadership to innovation leadership, and from technical excellence to global strategic expansion.

    Previously, Gate also adopted a new Chinese name “Damen” ( 大门, meaning “The Gate”), symbolizing an open gateway to the future of crypto for users worldwide. The unified refresh of domain and logo reflects the platform’s commitment to inclusivity and signals the beginning of a new chapter in building a trusted, globally connected crypto ecosystem.

    Brand Refresh: From Visual Upgrade to Strategic Evolution

    As a pioneer in the crypto industry, Gate has focused on building a secure, compliant, and innovative digital asset trading ecosystem since its founding in 2013. Today, the platform serves over 23 million users worldwide, supports trading in over 3,800 cryptocurrencies across spot, futures, leverage, and financial products, ranking Top 3 globally by comprehensive strength. It was also among the first exchanges to implement zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) technology to verify reserve transparency, ensuring 100% verifiability of platform assets. According to its latest proof-of-reserves report, Gate’s total reserves exceed $10.865 billion, with a reserve ratio of 128.57%.

    This brand overhaul not only elevates Gate’s visual identity but also marks a critical step in its global outreach strategy. The new domain Gate.com is concise, highly recognizable, and globally intuitive, enhancing user perception of the platform’s professionalism and credibility. The newly designed logo adopts a modern, minimalist aesthetic that encapsulates Gate’s core principles of “trust as the foundation”, “technological innovation”, and “continuous evolution”, representing a comprehensive upgrade in technology, ecosystem, and compliance.

    In addition, Gate Group’s global platform Gate, along with all its locally licensed entities, Gate Japan, Gate Dubai, and Gate Europe, will adopt the unified brand name “Gate”. The brand upgrade presents a cohesive global identity and further strengthens Gate’s professional image and international influence as a leading global exchange.

    Strategic Leap: Building the “Next-Generation Crypto Exchange”

    Beneath the surface of this brand transformation lies a bolder strategic ambition. On April 30, at Gate’s 12th Anniversary Global Celebration in Dubai, Founder and CEO Dr. Han introduced the vision to build the “next-generation crypto exchange”. This strategy emphasizes transformative growth across three core pillars:

    • Technology-Driven Innovation: Continuously upgrading the trading experience through iterative product development and breakthroughs in underlying technologies.
    • Global Compliance: Establishing a robust global compliance network backed by licenses and regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions, strengthening industry credibility.
    • Ecosystem Integration: Expanding from trading to encompass Web3, infrastructure, and investment services, building a closed-loop digital economy.

    Gate’s mission is to continuously enhance its offerings with a professional, secure, and open approach, aiming to become a foundational infrastructure for the global digital economy and to provide future-ready, trustworthy digital asset services to users worldwide.

    Global Compliance Footprint: Expanding with Purpose

    Gate Group places strong emphasis on a “compliance-first” strategy, steadily advancing its global regulatory presence. In recent years, its various entities have obtained or completed regulatory registrations, licences, authorizations, or approvals across various jurisdictions, such as Lithuania, Argentina, Malta, Italy, Bahamas, Gibraltar, and Hong Kong.

    In 2024, Gate Group’s entity completed the acquisition of Japan-licensed exchange Coin Master, further consolidating its compliance footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. Most recently, Gate Technology FZE (“Gate Dubai”), an entity of Gate Group, recently received a full operational license from Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) in Dubai. The license authorizes Gate Dubai to offer crypto asset trading services to institutional investors, qualified investors, and retail users, marking a major milestone in its expansion into the MENA region and global markets. It is a testament to its long-standing commitment to security, transparency, and user protection.

    With parallel advancements in technology innovation, user experience, ecosystem expansion, and global compliance, Gate is evolving from a top-tier trading platform into a trusted global digital finance ecosystem. The launch of the Gate.com domain and refreshed logo represents more than a brand update—it is a declaration of Gate’s long-term commitment and vision for the global user community. Looking ahead, Gate remains firmly committed to its development principles of user-first, technological innovation, and global compliance, and will continue to work alongside users, developers, and partners worldwide to shape a safe, open, and sustainable crypto future.

    Media Contact:
    Elaine Wang at elaine.w@gate.io

    Disclaimer:
    The content herein does not constitute any offer, solicitation, or recommendation. You should always seek independent professional advice before making any investment decisions. Please be noted that Gate may restrict or prohibit the use of all or a portion of the Services from Restricted Locations. For more information, please read the User Agreement via https://www.gate.io/legal/user-agreement.

    Disclaimer : This is a paid post and is provided by Gate. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3cbdb202-bb7b-4591-9a4b-38ccd1e83c12

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legal News – Former NZ Associate Minister Of Foreign Affairs Calls On NZ Government To Uphold International Law Over US Designation of Cuba

    Source: Hon Matthew Robson

    Former NZ Associate Minister Of Foreign Affairs, Hon Matt Robson, has called on the New Zealand Government to uphold International Law.

    “New Zealand prides itself on being in the forefront of countries supporting the international rule of law and not the international rule of might ”, said former Associate Foreign Minister in the Helen Clark government, the Hon Matt Robson.

    “To uphold this principled position Foreign Minister, the Hon Winston Peters, must strongly condemn the US action of placing Cuba on its “List of Non-Cooperative Terrorism countries.

    “This illegal act is a further breach of international law alongside the ever-tightening unilateral sanctions on Cuba, in place since 1960, which have been condemned as illegal by an overwhelming vote in the UN General Assembly, including that of New Zealand vote” said the Hon Matt Robson.

    “Cuba is recognised by the UN for its commitment to anti-terrorism measures. The irony is that it has been the United States that has supported terrorism against Cuba from the attempted assassination of its leaders, military invasions ,economic sabotage to the bombing of a Cuban airliner and protection in the US of the culprits.”

    “Cuba is renowned not for terrorism but for sending medical professionals to the poorest countries of the world since 1960, training doctors in Cuba from those countries, including many from Pacific nations, and during Covid providing specialist health personnel, including to developed Italy , to world acclaim”.

    “The Hon Winston Peters should place New Zealand on the side of the vast majority of countries supporting international law and condemn the United States for its illegal persecution of a developing country,” Hon Matt Robson said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Environmentalists question Henry Puna’s role in deep sea mining firm

    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist

    Environmentalists in the Cook Islands have criticised former Prime Minister and Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) head Henry Puna for joining the board of a deep sea mining company.

    Puna, who finished his term as PIF secretary-general in May last year, played a pivotal part in the creation of multi-use marine park, Marae Moana, in 2017.

    The marine protected area extends over the entire country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), covering an area roughly the size of Mexico.

    It prohibits large-scale commercial fishing and seabed mining within 50 nautical miles of each of the 15 islands.

    Puna has now joined the board of deep sea mining company Cobalt Seabed Resources (CSR) — a joint venture between the Cook Islands government and the Belgian company Global Sea Mineral Resources.

    CSR is currently undertaking exploration in the Cook Islands EEZ, along with two other companies. It also has an exploration licence in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located in the high seas in the central Pacific Ocean.

    Environmental advocates say Puna’s new role conflicts with his conservation work.

    Simultaneously pushing for Marae Moana
     The Te Ipukarea Society said Puna was interested in the deep sea mining industry while simultaneously pushing for the creation of Marae Moana during his time as Prime Minister.

    “It is something to be wary about with his new role and maybe how he will go about green washing how the deep sea mining company operates within our waters and their actions,” the environmental charity’s director Alana Smith said.

    While in Parliament, Puna was an MP for the Northern Group atoll Manihiki.

    Manihiki resident Jean-Marie Williams said Puna was a good man

    However, Williams believes the benefits of deep sea mining will not be seen on his island.

    “We could make money out of it,” he said. “But who’s going to make money out of it? Definitely not the people of Manihiki.

    “The corporat[ions] will make money out of it.”

    ‘First to know’
    However, William Numanga, who previously worked for Puna as a policy analyst, does not view it like that.

    “Remember, Henry lives on an atoll, up north, so if there is any effect on the environment, he would be first to know,” Numanga said.

    “I do not think he will be putting aside a lot of the environmental concerns or challenges. He will be making sure that those environmental concerns are factored into this development process,” he added.

    Henry Puna ended his term as the PIF secretary general in May 2024 . . . a “passion for environmental protection”. Image: RNZ Pacific/Eleisha Foon

    He believes Puna’s “passion for environmental protection”, coupled with his desire for economic development, makes him a good fit for the role.

    Auckland doctoral student Liam Koka’ua said the company, which has the aim of extracting valuable minerals from the seabed, went against the purpose of Marae Moana.

    “If you truly believe Marae Moana is a place that must be protected at all costs and protected for our sustained livelihood and future and be protected for generations to come, then I don’t think rushing into an experimental industry that could potentially have huge impacts is aligned with those intentions,” Koka’ua said.

    RNZ Pacific has made multiple attempts to reach Puna for comment, but has yet to receive a response.

    However, in a statement, he said CSR was “uniquely placed to make advances for the people of the Cook Islands”.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Brazil and US suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (May 19) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Municipality of Montenegro of the State of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil, and Aurora County of the State of South Dakota and Douglas County of the State of Illinois in the United States (US) respectively, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

    A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 9 400 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Brazil; and about 12 290 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 1.19 million poultry eggs from the US in the first three months of this year.

    “The CFS has contacted the Brazilian and American authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Eucharistic Celebration for the Beginning of the Petrine Ministry of the Bishop of Rome Leo XIV

    Source: The Holy See

    Eucharistic Celebration for the Beginning of the Petrine Ministry of the Bishop of Rome Leo XIV, 18.05.2025
    At 10.00 today, Fifth Sunday of Easter, on the parvis of the Vatican Basilica, the Holy Father Leo XIV presided over the Holy Mass for the official beginning of his Petrine Ministry.
    Before the Eucharistic Celebration, the Pope descended, with the Patriarchs of the Eastern Churches, to the tomb of Saint Peter beneath the Vatican Basilica and paused there in prayer, then incensing the Apostolic Trophaeum.
    Returning to the Basilica, the Holy Father joined in the procession of the concelebrating Cardinals, preceded by the deacons who brought the pastoral pallium, the Fisherman’s Ring and the Book of Gospels, up to the altar of on the parvis of the Basilica, to the singing of the Laudes Regiae.
    During the Eucharistic Celebration, after the proclamation of the Gospel, the rites specific to the beginning of the pontificate took place: the imposition of the pallium by the Cardinal Deacon Mario Zenari, with a prayer recited by the Cardinal Presbyter Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, O.F.M. Cap., the consignment of the Fisherman’s Ring by the Cardinal Bishop Luis Antonio Tagle, and the obedience pledged to the Holy Father by three Cardinals, on behalf of the entire College: Cardinal Frank Leo (for North America), Cardinal Jaime Spengler, O.F.M. (for South America), and Cardinal John Ribat, M.S.C. (for Oceania). Other representatives of the People of God also pledged obedience to the Holy Father: the Bishop Luis Alberto Barrera of Callao, Peru; the priest Reverend Guillermo Inca Pereda; the deacon Teodoro Mandato; the religious Sr. Oonah O’Shea, president of the International Union of Superiors General, and Father Arturo Sosa, S.J., president of the Union of Superiors General; a married couple, Rafael Santa Maria and Ana María Olguín; and the young people Josemaria Diaz and Sheyla Cruz.
    During the Holy Mass, concelebrated with the Cardinals, the Patriarchs and the Major Archbishops of the Eastern Catholic Churches, the Holy Father Leo XIV delivered the following homily:

    Homily of the Holy Father
    Dear Brother Cardinals,
    Brother Bishops and Priests,
    Distinguished Authorities and Members of the Diplomatic Corps.
    Greetings to the pilgrims who have come for the Jubilee of Confraternities!
    I greet all of you with a heart full of gratitude at the beginning of the ministry that has been entrusted to me.  Saint Augustine wrote: Lord, “you have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you” (Confessions, I: 1,1).
    In these days, we have experienced intense emotions.  The death of Pope Francis filled our hearts with sadness.  In those difficult hours, we felt like the crowds that the Gospel says were “like sheep without a shepherd” (Mt 9:36).  Then, on Easter Sunday, we received his final blessing and, in the light of the resurrection, we experienced the days that followed in the certainty that the Lord never abandons his people, but gathers them when they are scattered and guards them “as a shepherd guards his flock” (Jer 31:10).
    In this spirit of faith, the College of Cardinals met for the conclave.  Coming from different backgrounds and experiences, we placed in God’s hands our desire to elect the new Successor of Peter, the Bishop of Rome, a shepherd capable of preserving the rich heritage of the Christian faith and, at the same time, looking to the future, in order to confront the questions, concerns and challenges of today’s world.  Accompanied by your prayers, we could feel the working of the Holy Spirit, who was able to bring us into harmony, like musical instruments, so that our heartstrings could vibrate in a single melody.
    I was chosen, without any merit of my own, and now, with fear and trembling, I come to you as a brother, who desires to be the servant of your faith and your joy, walking with you on the path of God’s love, for he wants us all to be united in one family.
    Love and unity: these are the two dimensions of the mission entrusted to Peter by Jesus.
    We see this in today’s Gospel, which takes us to the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus began the mission he received from the Father: to be a “fisher” of humanity in order to draw it up from the waters of evil and death.  Walking along the shore, he had called Peter and the other first disciples to be, like him, “fishers of men”.  Now, after the resurrection, it is up to them to carry on this mission, to cast their nets again and again, to bring the hope of the Gospel into the “waters” of the world, to sail the seas of life so that all may experience God’s embrace.
    How can Peter carry out this task?  The Gospel tells us that it is possible only because his own life was touched by the infinite and unconditional love of God, even in the hour of his failure and denial.  For this reason, when Jesus addresses Peter, the Gospel uses the Greek verb agapáo, which refers to the love that God has for us, to the offering of himself without reserve and without calculation.  Whereas the verb used in Peter’s response describes the love of friendship that we have for one another. Consequently, when Jesus asks Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” (Jn 21:16), he is referring to the love of the Father.  It is as if Jesus said to him, “Only if you have known and experienced this love of God, which never fails, will you be able to feed my lambs.  Only in the love of God the Father will you be able to love your brothers and sisters with that same ‘more’, that is, by offering your life for your brothers and sisters.”
    Peter is thus entrusted with the task of “loving more” and giving his life for the flock.  The ministry of Peter is distinguished precisely by this self-sacrificing love, because the Church of Rome presides in charity and its true authority is the charity of Christ.  It is never a question of capturing others by force, by religious propaganda or by means of power.  Instead, it is always and only a question of loving as Jesus did.
    The Apostle Peter himself tells us that Jesus “is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, and has become the cornerstone” (Acts 4:11).  Moreover, if the rock is Christ, Peter must shepherd the flock without ever yielding to the temptation to be an autocrat, lording it over those entrusted to him (cf. 1 Pet 5:3).  On the contrary, he is called to serve the faith of his brothers and sisters, and to walk alongside them, for all of us are “living stones” (1 Pet 2:5), called through our baptism to build God’s house in fraternal communion, in the harmony of the Spirit, in the coexistence of diversity.  In the words of Saint Augustine: “The Church consists of all those who are in harmony with their brothers and sisters and who love their neighbour” (Serm. 359,9).
    Brothers and sisters, I would like that our first great desire be for a united Church, a sign of unity and communion, which becomes a leaven for a reconciled world.
    In this our time, we still see too much discord, too many wounds caused by hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the Earth’s resources and marginalises the poorest.  For our part, we want to be a small leaven of unity, communion and fraternity within the world.  We want to say to the world, with humility and joy: Look to Christ!  Come closer to him!  Welcome his word that enlightens and consoles!  Listen to his offer of love and become his one family: in the one Christ, we are one.  This is the path to follow together, among ourselves but also with our sister Christian churches, with those who follow other religious paths, with those who are searching for God, with all women and men of good will, in order to build a new world where peace reigns!
    This is the missionary spirit that must animate us; not closing ourselves off in our small groups, nor feeling superior to the world.  We are called to offer God’s love to everyone, in order to achieve that unity which does not cancel out differences but values the personal history of each person and the social and religious culture of every people.
    Brothers and sisters, this is the hour for love!  The heart of the Gospel is the love of God that makes us brothers and sisters.  With my predecessor Leo XIII, we can ask ourselves today: If this criterion “were to prevail in the world, would not every conflict cease and peace return?” (Rerum Novarum, 20).
    With the light and the strength of the Holy Spirit, let us build a Church founded on God’s love, a sign of unity, a missionary Church that opens its arms to the world, proclaims the word, allows itself to be made “restless” by history, and becomes a leaven of harmony for humanity.
    Together, as one people, as brothers and sisters, let us walk towards God and love one another.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 19 May 2025 Departmental update World No Tobacco Day 2025 Awards – meet the winners

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Each year, WHO honours individuals and organizations from each of the six WHO regions for their outstanding contributions to tobacco control. These accolades include the WHO Director-General’s Special Recognition Awards, the World No Tobacco Day Awards, and, in 2025, one WHO Director-General’s Special Recognition Certificate.

    The recipients of the 2025 awards are:

    WHO Director-General Special awards:

    • Dr Mohamed Muizzu, President, Republic of Maldives
    • The Ministry of Health and Wellness, Republic of Mauritius

    WHO Director-General’s Special Recognition certificate:

    • Global Center for Good Governance in Tobacco Control (GGTC)

    African Region

    • Programme National de Lutte contre le Tabagisme, l’Alcoolisme, la Toxicomanie et les autres Addictions (PNLTA), Republic of Côte d’Ivoire
    • Dr Brou Dieudonne Koffi, Secretary, Organization of the Network of NGOs Engaged in Tobacco Control (ROCTACI), Republic of Côte d’Ivoire
    • Labram Massawudu Musah, Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development, Republic of Ghana
    • Elvina Majiwa, Student, United States International University-Africa, Republic of Kenya
    • Charity Aienobe-Asekharen, Health Promotion, Education and Community Development Initiative (HPECDI), Federal Republic of Nigeria

    Region of the Americas

    • Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA), Federative Republic of Brazil
    • Lisa Lu, CEO, International Youth Tobacco Control, United States of America

    Shared award:

    • Ministry of Finance, Federative Republic of Brazil
    • Ministry of Health, Federative Republic of Brazil

    Shared award:

    • Denis Choinière, Retired Director, Tobacco Products Regulatory Office, Health Canada
    • Clifton Curtis (in memoriam), Environmental Lawyer, United States of America

    Shared award:

    • Colectivo Todas y Todos por la Vida, Republic of Ecuador
    • Acción Jurídica Popular, Republic of Ecuador

    Shared award:

    • Asociación de Periodismo con Lupa, Republic of Peru
    • Cooperativa de Trabajo Sudestada, Eastern Republic of Uruguay
    • Proyecto sobre Organización, Desarrollo, Educación e Investigación (PODER), United Mexican States

    Eastern Mediterranean Region

    • Dr Seyed Morteza Khatami, Deputy for Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Islamic Republic of Iran
    • Mr Lhassane Hallou, Director of Studies and International Cooperation, Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes, Kingdom of Morocco
    • Hamad Medical Corporation Tobacco Control Centre, WHO Collaborating Centre, State of Qatar

    European Region

    • Dr Lena Nanushyan, First Deputy Minister of Health, Republic of Armenia
    • Dr Franz Pietsch, Head of Directorate, Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, Republic of Austria
    • Mr Frank Vandenbroucke, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Social Affairs and Public Health, Kingdom of Belgium
    • Professor Constantine Vardavas, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
    • Dr Shukhrat Shukurov, Chief Specialist, Institute of Health and Strategic Development, Republic of Uzbekistan

    South-East Asia Region

    • National Board of Revenue, People’s Republic of Bangladesh
    •  State Tobacco Control Cell, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, Republic of India
    •  Ministry of Health and Population, Nepal
    •  Mr Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, Chairman of Bangkok Tobacco Products Control Committee, Kingdom of Thailand

    Western Pacific Region

    • Professor Emily Banks AM, Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health, Senior Principal Research Fellow, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Australia
    • Te Marae Ora, Ministry of Health, Cook Islands
    • Philippine College of Chest Physicians, Republic of the Philippines
    • Ms Dao Hong Lan, Minister of Health, Socialist Republic of Viet Nam

    Shared award:

    • YB Datuk Seri Dr Haji Dzulkefly bin Ahmad, Minister of Health, Malaysia
    • Dr Noraryana Binti Hassan, Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health, Malaysia
    • Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control, Malaysia

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • Trump to speak to Putin on end to war in Ukraine as Europeans demand ceasefire

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump is set to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday about peace in Ukraine as European leaders demanded that the Kremlin accept an immediate ceasefire to halt the region’s deadliest conflict since World War Two.

    Putin sent thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, triggering the gravest confrontation between Russia and the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

    Trump, who says he wants to be remembered as a peacemaker, has repeatedly called for an end to the “bloodbath” of Ukraine, which his administration casts as a proxy war between the United States and Russia.

    Under pressure from Trump, delegates from the warring countries met last week in Istanbul for the first time since March 2022, after Putin proposed direct talks and Europeans and Ukraine demanded an immediate ceasefire.

    “The subjects of the call will be stopping the ‘bloodbath’ that is killing, on average, more than 5,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers a week, and trade,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social website.

    “Hopefully it will be a productive day, a ceasefire will take place, and this very violent war, a war that should have never happened, will end.”

    Trump, who said that progress on peace was unlikely until he and Putin get together, said he would speak to Putin at 10 a.m. Eastern Time (1400 GMT) on Monday. The Kremlin said preparations for a call were underway.

    Trump, whose administration has made clear that Russia could face additional sanctions if it does not take peace talks seriously, said he would also speak to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and various members of NATO.

    Putin, whose forces control a fifth of Ukraine and are advancing, has stood firm on his conditions for ending the war, despite public and private pressure from Trump and repeated warnings from European powers.

    On Sunday, Russia launched its largest drone attack on Ukraine since the start of the war.

    Ukraine’s intelligence service said it also believed Moscow intended to fire an intercontinental ballistic missile on Sunday, though there was no confirmation from Russia.

    In June 2024, Putin said Ukraine must officially drop its NATO ambitions and withdraw its troops from the entire territory of the four Ukrainian regions Russia claims.

    On Sunday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed Russia’s war against Ukraine with leaders of the United States, Italy, France and Germany, a Downing Street spokesperson said.

    “Tomorrow, President Putin must show he wants peace by accepting the 30-day unconditional ceasefire proposed by President Trump and backed by Ukraine and Europe,” French President Emmanuel Macron said on X after Sunday’s call.

    Putin is wary of a ceasefire and says fighting cannot be paused until a number of crucial conditions are worked out or clarified.

    European leaders say Putin is not serious about peace, though they fear Trump and he may force a punitive peace deal that will leave Ukraine essentially shorn of a fifth of its territory and lacking a strong security guarantee against possible future attack from Russia.

    Former U.S. President Joe Biden, Western European leaders and Ukraine cast the invasion as an imperial-style land grab and repeatedly vowed to defeat Russian forces which they say could one day attack NATO, a claim denied by Moscow.

    Putin casts the war as a watershed moment in Moscow’s relations with the West, which he says humiliated Russia after the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union by enlarging NATO and encroaching on what he considers Moscow’s sphere of influence, including Ukraine.

    (Reuters)