NewzIntel.com

Category: Law Enforcement

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australian schools need to address racism. Here are 4 ways they can do this

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aaron Teo, Lecturer in Curriculum and Pedagogy, University of Southern Queensland

    The Australian Human Rights Commission wants to see schools address racism, as part of a broader push to address the problem across Australian society.

    As it says in a recent report,

    People are not born with racist attitudes or beliefs […] Addressing racism in schools is crucial to ensure that victims do not leave education facing lifelong disadvantage, and perpetrators do not enter adulthood believing racist behaviours are acceptable […].

    But racism is hardly mentioned in the Australian Curriculum – for example, it is noted in passing in the health and physical education curriculum for years 5 to 8. However, there is no consistent approach across subject areas, or at the state level.

    This means teaching about racism is largely left up to individual schools and teachers.

    Yet research shows they can be reluctant to speak about these issues with students. This is for a range of reasons, such as worrying they will say the wrong thing.

    How should school systems, schools and teachers address racism? Here are four ways.

    1. Teach racial literacy

    We know children demonstrate stereotyping and prejudice from an early age and students from racial minorities are frequently targets of racism and discrimination at school.

    In Australia, racism debates can also involve dangerous and ill-informed opinions.

    So we need to start teaching children and young people about racial literacy skills from the first year of schooling. This means they grow up to have the knowledge and language to talk about and confront racism.

    Some of these skills include:

    • being able to identify how racism appears in everyday interactions, the media and society more broadly

    • debunking common myths about racism, such as it is a “thing of the past”. Or “everyone has equal access to the same opportunities and outcomes if they work hard enough”

    • understanding the impacts of racism, including on people’s opportunities, education and their health and wellbeing

    • understanding how our own backgrounds, privilege and bias can influence how we confront or don’t confront racism.

    Students also need to learn how racism can be structural, systemic and institutional. This means racism is not just about an individuals’ beliefs or actions. Laws, policies, the way organisations are run and cultural norms can all result in inequitable treatment, opportunities and outcomes.

    2. Teach students how to react

    We also need to teach children how to react when they witness racism with age-appropriate tools.

    For both primary and secondary students, the first question should always be, “Is it safe for me to act?”, followed by “Am I the best person to act in this situation?”. Depending on their answers, they could:

    • report the incident to an appropriate adult or person in authority

    • show solidarity with the victim by comforting them and letting them know what happened was not OK

    • interrupt, distract or redirect the perpetrator

    • seek help from friends, a passerby or teacher.

    3. Create safe classrooms and playgrounds

    Teachers need to ensure classrooms and schools are safe spaces to discuss racism.

    This can include:

    • acknowledging how our own experiences, biases and privileges shape our world views

    • clearly defining the purpose of a discussion and the ground rules

    • using inclusive language.

    In particular, schools have a unique duty of care for minority students, who need to know they can talk openly about these issues with their peers and teachers without fear or judgement.

    This includes addressing sensitive topics like how they might experience or witness racism, the effect it can have on their health and wellbeing and those around them, and the consequences of talking about or reporting racism.

    4. Develop teachers’ skills

    As part of creating safe classrooms, teachers need to be able to confidently discuss tricky topics in an age-appropriate way.

    Our work has shown some teachers deny racism or perpetuate racist stereotypes. Others may avoid the topic, worrying they will say or do the wrong thing.

    Our current (as yet unpublished) research on anti-racism training with classroom teachers suggests they can increase their confidence to talk and teach about racism if given appropriate, and sustained training.

    What needs to happen now?

    We need anti-racism education to be an official part of school curricula. To accompany this, we need genuine commitments and modelling from policymakers, school leaders, teachers, parents and carers to address racism in schools.

    We need to talk openly about racism in schools. That means explicitly naming it, calling it out, and not getting defensive when it is identified and action is required.

    Aaron Teo is Convenor for the Australian Association for Research in Education Social Justice Special Interest Group, Queensland Convenor for the Asian Australian Alliance, member of the Challenging Racism Project, and member of the Advisory Committee for the Australian Human Rights Commission’s study into racism in Australian universities

    Rachel Sharples has received funding from the Australian Research Council and the NSW Department of Education. She is a member of the Challenging Racism Project (CRP) and the Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Communities (CRIS).

    – ref. Australian schools need to address racism. Here are 4 ways they can do this – https://theconversation.com/australian-schools-need-to-address-racism-here-are-4-ways-they-can-do-this-239823

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Camden Men Sentenced to Prison for String of Armed Robberies and Carjackings

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    CAMDEN, N.J. – Two Camden men have been sentenced to prison for their respective roles in conspiracies that involved committing armed carjackings and robbing multiple gas stations in southern New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

    Kamau Bradshaw, 22, was sentenced today to 108 months in prison; Paul Rogers, 30, was sentenced on Aug. 7, 2024, to 188 months in prison. Both defendants previously pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Renée Marie Bumb to informations charging them with one count of conspiring to commit armed robberies, one count of committing an armed robbery, and one count of conspiring to commit armed carjackings. Judge Bumb imposed the sentences in Camden federal court.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    On Sept. 14, 2021, two masked individuals carrying an AR-style rifle robbed a gas station in Pennsauken, New Jersey. One of the robbers wore a gray Nike hooded sweatshirt and scuffed tan work boots. The second robber wore a tan hooded sweatshirt with “REACTIVE” printed on the sleeves and striped boxer shorts. They obtained cash and cigarettes while brandishing the firearm. Shortly after the robbery, two individuals were seen returning to a residence in Camden with a large duffle bag. On Sept. 17, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a federal search warrant at the Camden residence and recovered, among other items, a duffle bag, an AR-style rifle, a gray Nike sweatshirt, scuffed tan work boots, and a tan hooded sweatshirt with “REACTIVE” printed on the sleeves. Bradshaw and Rogers were present when law enforcement agents executed the search warrant, at which time Bradshaw was wearing striped boxer shorts consistent with those worn by one of the robbers during the robbery.

    Rogers and Bradshaw each admitted their role in eight gas station robberies or attempted robberies in addition to the Sept. 14, 2021, robbery in Pennsauken, including robberies in Haddon Township on Aug. 30, 2021; Pennsauken on Aug. 30, 2021; Bridgeton on Aug. 31, 2021; Brooklawn on Aug. 31, 2021; Vineland on Aug. 31, 2021; Pennsauken on Sept. 1, 2021; Haddon Township on Sept. 1, 2021; and Haddon Township on Sept. 16, 2021. Two of the gas stations were victimized more than once. At each gas station, at least one member of the conspiracy brandished what appeared to be an assault weapon in order to threaten the gas station attendant.

    For several of the robberies, Bradshaw and Rogers used a car they obtained by committing an armed carjacking in Philadelphia. Members of the carjacking conspiracy traveled from Camden to Philadelphia and brandished what appeared to be an assault weapon in order to force a driver and passenger from an automobile. They returned to Camden with the victims’ car, which they proceeded to use to drive to and from some of their gas stations robberies.

    In addition to the prison term, Chief Judge Bumb sentenced Rogers and Bradshaw each to three years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Ross A. Marchetti, with the investigation leading to the sentencings. He also thanked the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, Bridgeton City Police Department, Brooklawn Borough Police Department, Camden County Police Department, Haddon Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Oaklyn Police Department, Pennsauken Township Police Department, Vineland Police Department, and the Philadelphia Police Department.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Meteghan — Meteghan RCMP Detachment arrest two following theft of anchors

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Meteghan RCMP Detachment has charged a man and woman after recovering stolen property.

    On October 10, at approximately 8:00 a.m., Meteghan RCMP Detachment responded to a reported theft of 54 anchors. Officers learned that the anchors, valued at approximately $11,000, had been stolen overnight from a business on Hwy. 1 in Meteghan Centre.

    Investigators were able to identify a vehicle of interest, and at approximately 11:30 a.m. that same day, they located a matching vehicle travelling on Hwy. 1. A traffic stop was conducted, and two occupants were arrested in relation to the theft.

    The anchors were soon recovered at a scrap yard in Yarmouth.

    Andrew Corkum, 45, of Belliveaus Cove, and Kimberly Robichaud, 41, of Yarmouth, have each been charged with Theft Over $5000. They have been released from custody and are due in Yarmouth Provincial Court on November 22 at 9:30 a.m.

    Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment to report crime or suspicious activity in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at http://www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Secures $8M from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation to Address Redlining in Black Communities in Birmingham, Alabama

    Source: US State of California

    Combating Redlining Initiative Surpasses $150M in Relief for Redlined Communities at its Third Anniversary

    The Justice Department and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced today that Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (Fairway) has agreed to pay $8 million and a $1.9 million civil money penalty to resolve allegations that it engaged in a pattern or practice of lending discrimination by redlining predominantly Black neighborhoods in and around Birmingham, Alabama.

    Redlining is an illegal practice by which lenders avoid providing credit services to individuals living in communities of color because of the race, color, or national origin of residents in those communities.

    With this settlement, the Justice Department’s Combating Redlining Initiative surpassed $150 million in relief for communities of color nationwide that have experienced lending discrimination. This settlement marks the Justice Department’s 15th redlining settlement in three years. Under the Combating Redlining Initiative, the Department has secured a historic amount of relief that is expected to generate over $1 billion in investment in communities of color in places such as Houston; Memphis; Los Angeles; Philadelphia; and Birmingham.

    “This settlement, and the over $150 million in relief the Justice Department has secured for communities across the country through our Combating Redlining Initiative, will help to ensure that future generations of Americans inherit a legacy of home ownership that they too often have been denied,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This case is a reminder that redlining is not a relic of the past, and the Justice Department will continue to work urgently to combat lending discrimination wherever it arises and to secure relief for the communities harmed by it.”

    The Justice Department and CFPB allege that Fairway illegally redlined Black neighborhoods in Birmingham, including through its marketing and sales actions, and discouraged residents of those neighborhoods from applying for mortgage loans. The settlement announced today requires Fairway to provide $7 million for a loan subsidy program to offer affordable home purchase, refinance, and home improvement loans in Birmingham’s majority-Black neighborhoods, invest an additional $1 million in programs to support that loan subsidy fund, and pay a $1.9 million civil penalty to the CFPB’s victims relief fund.

    This case is the third redlining enforcement action brought jointly by the Justice Department and the CFPB under the initiative, highlighting the strong partnership between the agencies to root out and address lending discrimination.

    “Birmingham lies at the heart of our nation’s civil rights struggle but is also a community that bears the legacy of discriminatory redlining and other exclusionary policies,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This settlement will provide Birmingham’s Black neighborhoods with the access to credit they have long been denied and increase opportunities for homeownership and generational wealth. This settlement makes clear our intent to uproot modern-day redlining in every corner of the country, including in the deep South. With more than $150 million in total relief secured in three short years, our Combating Redlining Initiative is generating real economic opportunity for communities of color while sending a strong message to mortgage lenders, no matter their business model, that discriminatory lending will not be tolerated in America.”

    “The settlement reached with Fairway Mortgage is a win for communities of color here in Birmingham that have historically been denied access to vital economic resources,” said U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama. “Our office is committed to ensuring that these communities have equal access to housing and credit resources.”

    “The CFPB and Justice Department are holding Fairway accountable for redlining Black neighborhoods,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra. “Fairway’s unlawful redlining discouraged families from seeking loans for homes in Birmingham’s Black neighborhoods.”

    Fairway is a non-depository mortgage company headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin. In 2022, Fairway was the nation’s fifth-largest lender by origination volume and ninth-largest by application volume. Fairway operates in the Birmingham area under the trade name MortgageBanc.

    The complaint describes how Fairway redlined majority-Black neighborhoods in the Birmingham Metropolitan Statistical Area (Birmingham MSA). During the period covered by the complaint, the Birmingham MSA included six counties in north central Alabama with a combined population of about 1.1 million. While Fairway claimed to serve the entire metropolitan area, it concentrated all its retail loan offices in majority-white areas, directed less than 3% of its direct mail advertising to consumers in majority-Black areas, and for years discouraged homeownership in majority-Black areas by generating loan applications at a rate far below its peer institutions.

    The Justice Department and CFPB allege that Fairway violated the Fair Housing Act, Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and Consumer Financial Protection Act. Specifically, the government alleges problematic conduct by Fairway including:

    • Failing to address known signs of discrimination: Fairway’s own data showed that, since at least 2017, it was failing to serve majority-Black neighborhoods in the Birmingham area, but before October 2022, it took no meaningful actions to address redlining risk. Between 2018 and 2022, only 3.7% of Fairway’s applications were for properties in majority-Black areas, compared to 12.2% for Fairway’s peer lenders. In other words, Fairway’s peer lenders generated applications for properties in majority-Black areas at over three times the rate of Fairway. This disparity was even higher in neighborhoods with 80% or more Black residents, where Fairway made loans at less than one-eighth of the rate of its peer lenders. Despite these figures, Fairway failed to adopt any written plan for marketing or growth to address the concern.
    • Redlining Black neighborhoods: From 2015 through 2022, Fairway operated three retail loan offices and three loan production desks within real estate offices in the Birmingham MSA, all of which were in majority-white areas. Fairway also relied on referrals from real estate professionals and its loan officers’ personal contacts to generate applications, and the vast majority of Fairway’s referral sources and referred consumers were located in majority-white areas. Fairway predominantly directed its marketing to majority-white areas and failed to train or incentivize its existing loan officers to better serve majority-Black areas. By taking these actions, Fairway discriminated against, and unlawfully discouraged mortgage loan applications for properties in, majority-Black neighborhoods.

    The proposed consent order, which awaits approval by the Federal District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, would require Fairway to:

    • Provide $7 million for a loan subsidy program: The order would require Fairway to offer home purchase, refinance, and home improvement loans on a more affordable basis than otherwise available in majority-Black neighborhoods in the Birmingham MSA. The program may provide lower interest rates, down payment assistance, closing cost assistance, or payment of initial mortgage insurance premiums.
    • Invest at least $1 million in redlined neighborhoods: Fairway would be required to open or acquire a new loan production office or full-service retail office in a majority-Black neighborhood in the Birmingham MSA. The company must also spend at least $500,000 on advertising and outreach, at least $250,000 on consumer financial education, and at least $250,000 on partnerships with one or more community-based or governmental organizations to serve the affected neighborhoods.
    • Pay a $1.9 million penalty: The proposed order imposes a $1.9 million civil penalty against Fairway, which would be paid into the CFPB’s Civil Penalty Fund, also referred to as the victims’ relief fund.

    Information about the Justice Department’s fair lending enforcement work can be found at www.justice.gov/fairhousing. Individuals may report lending discrimination by calling the Justice Department’s housing discrimination tip line at 1-833-591-0291 or submitting a report online.

    Consumers can submit complaints about financial products and services by visiting the CFPB’s website or by calling (855) 411-CFPB (2372).

    Employees who believe their company has violated federal consumer financial protection laws are encouraged to send information about what they know to whistleblower@cfpb.gov. To learn more about reporting potential industry misconduct, visit the CFPB’s website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Announces More than $17M Investment for Energy Grid Resiliency – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that 11 Kansas communities have secured more than $17 million for energy grid resilience. This investment combines nearly $12 million in federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s 40101(d) Grid Resilience Grant Program and more than $5.8 million in matching funds from the Kansas Infrastructure Hub and Build Kansas Fund.

    “By leveraging federal funds to supplement our state and local investments, we are strengthening opportunities for economic growth across Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The 40101(d) Grid Resiliency program ensures our communities have the resources to build, operate, or maintain critical infrastructure.”

    “The survival and economic development of our rural communities are dependent on a solid infrastructure,” said Representative Troy Waymaster, chair of the Build Kansas Fund Advisory Committee. “The awards made through the Build Kansas Fund Advisory Committee, and ultimately approved by the U.S. Department of Energy, ensure that these communities will continue to thrive. I am glad these eleven Kansas projects were selected for this program.”

    The 11 Kansas projects receiving grid resiliency funding are:

    • City of Garden City – Underground Conductor and Transformer Replacement
      • Build Kansas Funding – $302,590
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $626,048
      • Total Project – $928,638
    • City of Pratt – Substation Hardening
      • Build Kansas Funding – $1,034,551
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $2,140,449
      • Total Project – $3,175,000
    • Victory Electric – South Dodge City Grid Resiliency
      • Build Kansas Funding – $715,395
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $1,480,129
      • Total Project – $2,195,524
    • Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative – Resiliency Enhancements to Strategically Transfer Optimized Reliable Energy
      • Build Kansas Funding – $200,403
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $414,627
      • Total Project – $615,030
    • Ark Valley Electric Cooperative – System Resiliency Project
      • Build Kansas Funding – $235,421
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $487,079
      • Total Project – $722,500
    • Holton Electric – Transformer and Feeder Circuit Improvements
      • Build Kansas Funding – $796,360
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $1,647,640
      • Total Project – $2,444,000
    • City of Blue Mound – Substation, Electric Line & Pole Replacement
      • Build Kansas Funding – $175,603
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $270,071
      • Total Project – $445,674
    • City of Anthony– Circuit Reconstruction
      • Build Kansas Funding – $131,161
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $271,369
      • Total Project – $402,530
    • Pioneer Electric Cooperative – Grid Resiliency, Vulnerability, and Innovation Initiative
      • Build Kansas Funding – $1,575,449
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $3,259,551
      • Total Project – $4,835,000
    • City of Horton – Substation Upgrade
      • Build Kansas Funding – $529,494
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $1,095,506
      • Total Project – $1,625,000
    • City of Attica – Rebuild High-Voltage Feeder Line
      • Build Kansas Funding – $143,371
      • Federal Funding Awarded – $296,629
      • Total Project – $440,000

    “The importance of grid resiliency cannot be overstated,” said Rick Pemberton, energy division director for the Kansas Corporation Commission. “Safe and reliable power infrastructure is vital to our rural economy.”

    “Rural Kansas communities do not always have the funding needed to meet the match requirements of large federal grants,” said Matthew Volz, P.E., executive director of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub. “Having the Build Kansas Fund available can make all the difference in whether or not they can apply for these lucrative federal funding opportunities.”

    In addition to these awards, in recent months, the Build Kansas Fund has been used to leverage federal grant awards in the cities of Ozawkie, Manhattan, Russell, Concordia, Dodge City, Topeka, Nortonville, Ellsworth, Edgerton, Hutchinson, Independence; Coffey and Morton County; Southwest Kansas Groundwater Management District; and the Salina Airport Authority. The combined total investment by the Build Kansas Fund in all projects is just over $28.5 million, which has resulted in federal grant awards of more than $44 million.

    The Kansas Infrastructure Hub connects multiple state agencies and serves as a resource center for Kansas communities to identify best practices for maximizing BIL funding opportunities. The Build Kansas Fund provides state matching dollars for projects throughout Kansas that successfully apply for federal grants under BIL. In 2023, the Kansas Legislature and Governor Kelly approved $200 million for the Build Kansas Fund to provide state-matching dollars to Kansas entities and projects to meet federal-local match requirements.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 7375, Expression of Interest Sensibility Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 7375 would modify the terms under which the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) collects a nonrefundable fee for submitting an expression of interest (EOI), which is an informal nomination to request certain federal land be included in a competitive oil and gas lease sale. 

    Under current law, EOIs are not automatically placed for sale when received nor does an EOI guarantee those lands will be offered at auction. The parcels must first be reviewed for availability and environmental concerns prior to being placed for sale. Public Law 117-169 established a $5 per acre fee to cover BLM’s cost of processing EOIs, which the agency collects at the time of submission. Those fees are recorded in the federal budget as offsetting receipts, that is, as reductions in direct spending.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Black Sturgeon Falls — Update – Lynn Lake RCMP investigating homicide

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 4, 2024, the 16-year-old male from Black Sturgeon Falls, also known as Marcel Colomb First Nation, was charged with 2nd Degree Murder and remanded into custody for a court appearance scheduled for today in Thompson Provincial Court.

    Lynn Lake RCMP, along with RCMP Major Crime Services, continue to investigate.

    On October 4, 2024, at approximately 1:55 am, Lynn Lake RCMP received a report of an assault in progress involving two teens outside a residence located in Black Sturgeon Falls.

    Officers attended and located a 16-year-old male, who was pronounced deceased, outside the residence.

    A 16-year-old male was arrested and remains in police custody.

    Lynn Lake RCMP, along with RCMP Major Crime Services and RCMP Forensic Identification Services, continue to investigate.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Praise Chile’s Laws on Violence against Women, Ask about Measures to Prevent Trafficking of Children and Sexual Abuse of Girls

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today considered the eighth periodic report of Chile, with Committee Experts praising the State’s laws on violence against women and femicide, and raising questions about measures to prevent trafficking of children and sexual abuse of girls.

    One Committee Expert said Chile had impressive laws on violence against women and femicide.  What was the reparation regime for femicide?

    A Committee Expert said trafficking remained a problem in Chile.  There were around 20,000 illegal adoptions; the stealing of children was reportedly a lucrative business for criminal groups.  What measures were in place to support women and children who were at risk of trafficking?

    Another Expert said the Committee was concerned by the high rates of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse of teenage girls.  What was being done to prevent early pregnancies, sexual abuse of girls, and delays in processing of abortion requests?

    Introducing the report, Antonia Orellana Guarello, Minister of Women and Gender Equity of Chile and head of the delegation, said an emblematic advance in the fight against violence in Chile was the enactment this June of the comprehensive law against gender violence. In the last two years, law reform had established a comprehensive protection and reparation regime for victims of femicide. National violence against women programmes had been redesigned to offer care to a wider range of victims.

    Ms. Orellana Guarello said the Government had developed the National Action Plan against Trafficking in Persons 2023-2026, focusing on prevention, protection of victims, prosecution of crimes, intersectoral coordination, and international cooperation.  This plan had made it possible to double the State’s capacity to care for adult victims.

    The delegation added that the State had a new procedure for assessing international adoptions and was supporting investigations into kidnapping of children. One individual who had been kidnapped had been identified and reunited with their family.  The State party was working to establish a genetic database to help reunite families and victims.

    Chile had seen a downward trend in teenage pregnancies since 2016, the delegation noted, influenced by the free distribution of contraception.  The State party was developing legislation that decriminalised abortion.  Around 70 per cent of girls under 14 who requested abortions did so on the grounds of rape.  An early referrals programme had been developed to speed up their access to abortions.

    In closing remarks, Ms. Orellana Guarello said Chile was committed to implementing the rights of women in all their diversity.  The State party would work to collect disaggregated data on women, achieve gender parity at all levels, increase access to abortion, promote the rights of older women and reform the pension system, and improve the situation of women deprived of liberty.

    Ana Peláez Narváez, Committee Chair, in concluding remarks, said that the dialogue had helped the Committee to better understand the situation of women and girls in the State party.  It would develop recommendations based on the dialogue to strengthen the implementation of the Convention for the benefit of all women and girls in Chile.

    The delegation of Chile consisted of representatives from the Supreme Court; Ministry of Justice and Human Rights; National Migration Service; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Women and Gender Equity; Ministry of the Interior and Public Security; Public Prosecutor’s Office; Gendarmerie; Public Criminal Defender’s Office; Cabinet of the Minister of Social Development and Family; and the Permanent Mission of Chile to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    The Committee will issue the concluding observations on the report of Chile at the end of its eighty-ninth session on 25 October.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 16 October to consider the tenth periodic report of Canada (CEDAW/C/CAN/10).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the eighth periodic report of Chile (CEDAW/C/CHL/8).

    Presentation of Report

    ANTONIA ORELLANA GUARELLO, Minister of Women and Gender Equity of Chile and head of the delegation, said that since the last dialogue, Chile had experienced social protests, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the emergence of “anti-rights” groups.  Despite these challenges, the State had made progress in institutional, legal and administrative mechanisms to ensure the rights of women.  The National Equality Plan, updated in 2023, was the roadmap for equality policies in Chile. Minority groups had participated in the construction and monitoring of the plan.  In 2023 and 2024, six billion pesos were allocated to projects that directly benefited the diversity of women in different State institutions.

    An emblematic advance in the fight against violence was the enactment this June of the comprehensive law against gender violence, which established measures to punish and eradicate gender-based violence.  It created a judicial supervision mechanism, recognised children and adolescents as victims, and established an integrated data system on cases of gender violence. In the last two years, law reform had improved procedural guarantees and protected the rights of victims of sexual crimes; advanced the prevention, investigation and punishment of workplace sexual harassment; and established a comprehensive protection and reparation regime for victims of femicide, including a pension for sons and daughters, which until August 2024 has benefited 126 children and adolescents. National violence against women programmes had been redesigned to offer care to a wider range of victims.  The budget allocated to the prevention of violence against women had been increased by 22 per cent between 2021 and 2024.

    In 2022, a law prohibiting child marriage was enacted.  Thanks to this law, in the last two years there were no marriages with spouses under 18 years of age.  The Government had also developed the National Action Plan against Trafficking in Persons 2023-2026, focusing on prevention, protection of victims, prosecution of crimes, intersectoral coordination, and international cooperation. This plan had made it possible to double the State’s capacity to care for adult victims.  As of May 2024, humanitarian visas were issued to 21 women victims.  Progress had also been made with respect to the payment of child support through the creation of the National Registry of Alimony Debtors and the effective payment law. This had allowed the payment of more than 333 million United States dollars for alimony, benefiting more than 50,000 families as of May 2024.

    Chile was processing the bill that modified the Labour Code to promote equal pay between men and women, seeking to address the persistent gender wage gap, which stood at 23.3 per cent.  The Buenos Aires Commitment recognised the right to care and be cared for.  The Government had introduced a bill to establish a national policy on care to guarantee access to care in conditions of dignity.  Resources for care systems would be increased by 40 per cent by 2025, with the goal of serving 75,000 people with severe dependency.

    The More Women Scientists Programme had provided posts to women in science, technology, engineering and maths programmes at the university level.  The number of women selected for such programmes had since increased by 16.8 per cent.  The Government had implemented an inspection manual for the voluntary interruption of pregnancy law, which gave tools to local authorities for the supervision of health facilities.  It had also reduced the prices of oral, vaginal and long-acting contraception.

    The percentage of women participating in politics had increased in recent decades.  Chile was ranked sixth worldwide in high-level representation of women, with 58.3 per cent of members of the Cabinet of Ministers being women.  The Government was also promoting projects such as gender quotas in the elections of regional governors and councillors.  In the last two years, spaces had been created for women to participate in the evaluation and transformation of public policy, such as the Citizen Dialogues for the Care System, which had 12,614 participants, of which 80.4 per cent were women.  Dialogues were also held for rural women and for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community, on sexual and reproductive rights and pension reform.

    In the last two years, 119 indigenous language and culture educators were recruited.  The Good Living Plan promoted the participation of Mapuche and rural women in political and social decisions through territorial dialogues.  The Government had also doubled the quota for hiring people with disabilities in companies and public institutions with 100 or more workers.  The National Policy on Migration and Foreigners provided comprehensive care for foreign women victims of domestic and gender-based violence.  Since 2023, the gender identity accompaniment programme had been implemented, serving more than 2,500 transgender and gender non-conforming children and adolescents.  This year, the Protocol for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders was approved, reaffirming the commitment of the State to protect women human rights defenders.  The Protocol on the Treatment of Pregnant Women in Detention sought to guarantee respect for and exercise of these women’s rights.  From 2022 to May of this year, a total of 321 pregnant women had benefited from this law.

    The Committee’s recommendations would allow the State to make progress in complying with its international commitments and to guarantee respect for human rights.

    LORETO CARVAJAL, Senator of the Republic, said she was a member of a group of parliamentarians that promoted the creation of the Commission on Women and Gender Equity, a space to debate policies against discrimination and violence against women. The law on labour conciliation enshrined the right to remote work for all workers who had children under 14 years of age in their care.  Another law prohibited sexual and workplace violence and harassment at work.  The National Congress had also established its first breastfeeding room, and the Senate had installed 24 kits with menstrual hygiene products in its bathrooms.  The Work-Life Balance Protocol supported women with family and care responsibilities. 

    Chile also faced several challenges.  The revision of the civil partnership regime was still pending, as was a bill to strengthen the anti-discrimination law.  It was essential that resources were appropriately allocated to initiatives that addressed gender-based violence and promoted women’s economic empowerment.  There also needed to be increased cooperation between the legislative branch, the executive and civil society.  The delegation would faithfully reflect on both the State’s progress and the challenges remaining regarding the implementation of the Convention.

    ANDREA MUÑOZ SÁNCHEZ, Minister of the Supreme Court of Chile, said Chile’s understanding of the need to increase women’s access to justice had improved over the reporting period, and legal instruments and rulings reflected this.  The Supreme Court of Justice had a technical secretariat on gender equality and a gender equality policy.  There had been rulings regarding cases of violence against women that dealt with abandonment and recognition of non-typical cases of violence, including the use of legitimate use of self-defence by women.  There had also been rulings on the rights of women deprived of liberty and rulings recognising non-binary gender, and alternatives to detention had been issued for pregnant women.  The judiciary had also implemented many measures to eradicate sexual harassment in the workplace.

    Statement by the National Human Rights Institute

    CONSUELO CONTRERAS LARGO, National Director, National Human Rights Institute of Chile, said Chile’s statistics on violence against women were not disaggregated based on ethnicity, location, age, disability, sexual orientation and migrant status; this needed to be done.  It was worrying that amendments to the conjugal partnership law and the anti-discrimination law had not progressed.  The gap in representation between men and women continued to be wide, especially in mayoral offices and in the Senate, where women made up only 17 per cent and 24 per cent of representatives, respectively.  There was no gender quota in municipal elections, and for parliamentary elections, the quota would be in force only until 2029. 

    Difficulties in reporting violence and accessing care for minority women were concerning. There was a low number of personnel responsible for investigating trafficking in persons in the investigative police.  It was also worrying that only 15 universities offered training in gender violence, women’s rights, and gender perspective, and there was no discussion in Congress about comprehensive sex education in the school curriculum. 

    Gaps in wages and employability of men and women remained, while unemployment rates continued to be higher in women than in men.  The Institute was also concerned about barriers that hindered the provision of access to voluntary termination of pregnancy, including training and conscientious objection, and about the situation of pregnant women and women with children in prisons and the lack of progress on the bill prohibiting pretrial detention for such women.  The Institute was concerned about the lack of cultural relevance of policies for the prevention of violence against indigenous women.

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    MARION BETHEL, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Chile, said that the Committee welcomed the efforts by the State party to disseminate the Convention and the ratification of the Optional Protocol in 2020.  Capacity-building efforts had reached over 46,000 public servants.  Had the State party established a permanent accountability mechanism regarding the Convention?  Was the Convention promoted in rural areas and had it been translated into indigenous languages? 

    The recent reform of the Constitution was a unique opportunity to advance gender equality and incorporate comprehensive protections for women’s rights.  However, this process had faced challenges.  What steps had been taken to anchor women’s rights in the Constitution? The Committee was concerned about discrimination targeting indigenous women and women of African descent.  What steps had been taken to amend the law on discrimination in line with the Convention?  How many cases had been tried under the law and what reparation had been provided to minority women?  What steps had been taken to address the law’s inadequacies?

    The availability of legal assistance for minority women remained insufficient.  How was the State party addressing this?  What training was being provided on gender equality and support for women for members of the judiciary?  Did training provided for the police and prison service improve access to justice for indigenous women, and how was gender mainstreaming being incorporated in the judiciary?

    Ms. Bethel welcomed that the Convention had been invoked in court rulings.  The State party needed to collect disaggregated data to inform public policy on gender.  What had been the impact of the work of the Intersectoral Working Group on the Rights of Indigenous Women?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile was committed to addressing gaps in monitoring the implementation of the Convention. The State party was making use of the “SEMORE” system, which collected data on the implementation of human rights treaties.  A mechanism had opened that allowed civil society to monitor the implementation of the Convention and a gender budgeting system would soon be implemented.

    More than 33,000 public servants had received training on gender equality.  The State was collaborating with the local office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to strengthen training on the Convention for public officials.  Between 2022 and 2024, around 7,500 members of the judiciary took courses on gender issues and more than 900 members of the investigative police had also received such training.  From this year, all criminal and family judges were required to undergo mandatory training on violence against women, and prosecutors also underwent training on the Convention.

    The judiciary provided defence for all individuals.  There were specialised defenders for indigenous women and intercultural communicators who supported these women.  A bill to reform the Anti-Discrimination Act addressed shortcomings in the legislation and the need to compensate victims; this bill had been rejected, but work was underway to reform it so that it could be passed.

    The Government was working to establish institutions, roadmaps and training programmes to promote the rights of indigenous women.  The judiciary had a handbook of good practices related to gender, and a repository of judgements related to gender had been published.  More than 11,000 judgements had referenced the Convention, including 8,000 judgements by family courts.

    The Sub-Commission on Gender Statistics had established a standard on statistics on gender identity.  Upcoming surveys on gender-based violence would cover rural areas.  The new national census would include questions on gender identity, ethnicity and other characteristics.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert congratulated the State party on the creation of the Ministry for Women and Gender Equity. What percentage of the national budget had been devoted to gender institutions in the last three years? How did the State party ensure compliance by public officials with the Convention?  What was the mandate of the National Service for Women and Gender Equity? How was the Women’s Ministry empowered to influence other ministries, institutions and the media?

    The fourth national action plan on equality between men and women was commendable.  What budget had been attached to the plan and what achievements had it made?  Were issues concerning disadvantaged women integrated into national priorities? What measures were in place to monitor the implementation of the plan?

    MARION BETHEL, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Chile, commended the State party for its use of temporary special measures in promoting the representation of women in political bodies.  There was an absence of temporary special measures to promote the rights of disadvantaged women in other areas, however.  What groups of women had been targeted by temporary special measures and what steps had been taken to guarantee women’s rights in the economic recovery plan?  How were temporary special measures being used to address gender stereotypes and promote women’s access to employment?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the National Service for Women and Gender Equity promoted gender equality and women’s empowerment in various areas.  The budget for the Service had been increased in recent years, and its programme to combat violence had been strengthened.  Its activities reached more than 150,000 women, preventing violence and promoting women’s political participation.

    Almost 46,000 members of the police service had received training on human rights and gender, including over 500 directors of the police force.  The share of women applying for posts within the police had increased to 40 per cent. 

    The Women’s Ministry had participated in drafting the post-pandemic economic recovery plan in 2022, incorporating gender perspectives into the plan.  The rate of female integration in the workforce had increased by two per cent since the implementation of the plan.  Subsidies were provided to employed women to access childcare, and structures providing care for the elderly had been strengthened to alleviate women’s care burden.  The childcare system had been reformed to increase access for marginalised women.

    The labour inclusion law had helped to double the number of women with disabilities who had access to the labour market.  There was currently a record number of women in construction in Chile.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    MARION BETHEL, Committee Expert and Rapporteur for Chile, said there was a lack of temporary special measures for indigenous women, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex women, and other disadvantaged women.  Was the State party working to create these?

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chair, asked how the State party ensured access to justice for vulnerable women.  Could indigenous women use their own languages in court?  What measures were in place to protect girls in the justice system?  How did the State ensure access to its national surveys for indigenous women, girls and women with disabilities? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the Government was drafting a law on access to justice for gender-based crimes.  The judiciary had training programmes on gender and sexual diversity and there had been an inclusion protocol developed for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community.

    The Government was working to ensure access to social programmes for marginalised groups of the population. Community care centres had been set up in rural areas to support the care burden for indigenous peoples. Information on sexual and reproductive rights was being provided to indigenous women in different indigenous languages and in Braille.  The national census was made available in the main three indigenous languages.  A law had been passed to recognise Chilean people of African descent, and the Ministry of Women had a body working to promote the rights of women of African descent.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert welcomed that Chile’s domestic legislation needed to be interpreted in line with the international human rights treaties ratified by Chile, and commended the State party’s efforts to address historical wrongs against women.  How was the State party advancing space exploration led by women and addressing the threats posed to women by autonomous weapons systems?  How would the State party incorporate women peacebuilders within its national action plan on women, peace and security?

    Technology-assisted violence disproportionately affected women.  How was the State party addressing algorithmic biases against women in artificial intelligence models?  The State had impressive laws on violence against women and femicide.  What was the reparation regime for femicide?  How did the State party monitor the implementation of the law on workplace harassment and prevent reprisals against women who reported it?  The State party needed to immediately promulgate the law on consent for sexual relations.  Was the monitoring mechanism for discrimination against HIV-positive people still in place?  Did the media law prohibit gender stereotyping? 

    Trafficking remained a problem in Chile. There were around 20,000 illegal adoptions; the stealing of children was reportedly a lucrative business for criminal groups.  Children in child protection centres were at risk of trafficking.  What reparations had been provided for victims of illegal adoptions?  What measures were in place to support women and children who were at risk of trafficking?

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chair, congratulated the State party on implementing the ruling of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights regarding reparation for the forced sterilisation of a woman.  Was forced sterilisation of women with disabilities common?  When would the State party criminalise this practice? How was the State party ensuring protection for girls who were wards of the State from institutional violence?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said women were included in Chile’s armed forces.  The Commission of Peace and Understanding between the State and the Mapuche people, which included Mapuche women, was striving to achieve peace and an end to conflict with the Mapuche.  Chile had had a feminist foreign policy since 2022, and a gender lens was incorporated into foreign aid activities.  Chile was focusing on including women in international peace negotiations, such as negotiations with Colombia.  The State party had included a gender dimension in the regulation of autonomous weapons and in disarmament efforts.

    There were differing opinions on the effectiveness of establishing a law on consent for sexual relations; negotiation on this act was ongoing.  Laws had been implemented that increased penalties for obstetric violence and the non-consensual dissemination of pornographic material.  The new comprehensive law on violence against women addressed obstetric violence.  Courts were providing compensation for moral harm caused by obstetric violence and failed sterilisation procedures requested by women.

    Chile was promoting the inclusion of women in science, technology, engineering and maths careers and there had been an increase in women taking up these careers.  The State party had passed a law that promoted the inclusion of women in the mining sector.

    The State had a new procedure for assessing international adoptions and was supporting investigations into the kidnapping of children.  One individual who had been kidnapped had been identified and reunited with their family. The State party was working to establish a genetic database to help reunite families and victims.

    Chile had not received complaints related to the forced sterilisation of persons with disabilities.  It had recently adopted a law that required free, prior and informed consent for sterilisation procedures.  The State party had created a special body monitoring girls, boys and adolescents who were wards of the State.  Protection measures were implemented as a last resort.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert commended the State party’s commitment to female diplomacy and representation in all decision-making arena.  Would the State party implement quotas for 50 per cent representation of women at all levels of government?  The Expert welcomed the definition of “political violence” against women in the State’s legislation.  Was there a system for implementing this legislation?  What measures were in place to promote gender parity in the private sector? Was there a system to assess the environmental and gender impacts of foreign policies?

    Another Committee Expert welcomed efforts to address statelessness, including the implementation of the Statelessness Convention and the granting of Chilean nationality to all people born on Chilean territory.  Many children were born on migratory routes in Chile, increasing their risk of statelessness.  How was the State party working to register the births of migrant children?  Could it provide statistics in this regard?  How was the State party promoting access to refugee status determination procedures?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile’s feminist foreign policy included measures promoting the representation of women in the foreign service.  Around 24 per cent of Chile’s ambassadors were female, up from around 12 per cent in 2022.  The State was approaching gender parity in its diplomatic corps.  All Chile’s trade agreements had specific chapters on women. Chile had won a prize from the World Trade Organization for promoting gender equality through trade.

    There had been a rise in female participation in the Congress.  Quotas had been established for electoral lists.  Women were currently heading 13 different ministries, including ministries typically led by men.  Quotas were also being implemented in the regional elections that were currently underway.  A tool had been developed to support women wishing to run for election.  The Government had recognised political violence as a form of discrimination.  The Electoral Service was developing clear standards on this form of violence.

    Currently, all children born on migratory routes had access to Chilean nationality.  The State project on statelessness had allowed for the provision of nationality to around 100 children.  The law on immigration respected the best interests of the child. A draft law had been developed to provide nationality to children who did not have identity documents.  The State party worked to prevent refoulement of migrants.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert commended the educational reforms implemented by the State party.  What strategy did the State party have to prevent the dissemination of gender stereotypes in education?  What redress systems were in place for victims of discrimination within education? What monitoring was in place to ensure that the language policy empowered and did not stigmatise indigenous children?  What temporary special measures were in place to promote access to education for minority girls? 

    Had the State party developed disability-friendly learning environments and promoted inclusive education?  What was the rate of return for girls who left the education system early?  How did the State party’s science, technology, engineering and maths education programme address structural barriers to women accessing careers in this field?  The reproductive health education programme started in the second education cycle and was not compulsory.  Would the State party make the programme compulsory, continuing and age appropriate?

    Another Committee Expert commended the State party’s gender parity initiative, the law to reduce the maximum weekly working hours, and the law to implement International Labour Organization Convention 190.  The gender pay gap persisted in the State party.  What measures would the State party take to address the gap, particularly in higher paying positions?  The labour participation rate for women was 48.1 per cent in 2021.  What measures were in place to increase the rate and eliminate horizontal and vertical discrimination against women in the workplace? How was the State party promoting women’s participation in the digital economy, and the employment of marginalised women?  How were self-employed women and domestic workers supported to access State benefits? What efforts had been made to promote the equal sharing of household responsibilities between men and women? Could data on this be provided?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile had developed a draft bill on schooling that addressed discrimination within the educational community.  The bill was currently being assessed by Congress.  National days on non-sexist education had been held; over 450,000 children and parents had participated.  The admission system for higher education had been amended to support women’s access.  Textbooks had been updated to remove gender stereotypes.  The Government was also working to discourage violence in educational settings.  There were seven possible programmes for sex education, and schools could choose which programme they provided.  The State party planned to develop a bill that would improve the quality of sex education.  Educational institutions were being provided with guidance to implement inclusive education for children with disabilities.

    Between 2022 and 2024, women’s wages had increased by six per cent, and employment rates for women had returned to pre-pandemic levels.  The gender wage gap had decreased from 25 per cent in 2022 to 23 per cent in 2023. Most trade unions had greater participation of women than men.  Regulations had been implemented that allowed for shorter working hours for workers with children.  The number of days that parents could have off when their children were sick had been increased from 15 to 30.  Chile’s legislation established the joint responsibility of parents in caring for their children.  A programme had been developed to provide care for children in rural areas during holiday periods to allow their mothers to continue working.  This programme was now being expanded.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert said learners with auditory disabilities had complained that digital education portals were not accessible for them.  Had the State addressed this issue?  Each of the seven possible sexual health education programmes needed to be compliant with the Convention.  How many educational institutions had been fined for discrimination against girls?

    Another Committee Expert commended the State party’s initiative to decriminalise abortion on all grounds. The Committee was concerned by the high rates of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse of teenage girls.  What was being done to prevent early pregnancies, sexual abuse of girls, and delays in processing of abortion requests?  Around 42 per cent of obstetric practitioners were conscientious objectors to abortion.  In rural areas, there were no alternatives if local doctors were conscientious objectors.  How was the State party addressing this?  Many women had experienced obstetric violence.  What support was the State party providing to ensure access to reparation for such violence?

    One Committee Expert commended the State’s pension and labour law reform.  Women’s unpaid working hours exceeded those of men by a large margin. Almost half of households were headed by women, many of which were impoverished.  There was a pay gap regarding pension payments for retirees. How was the State party preventing the widening of the gender wage gap and working to reduce the representation of women in the informal sector?  How would the State party correct the gender inequalities in the pension system and compensate women for unpaid care work?  Over 40 per cent of companies did not have women on their boards; how was this being addressed?

    What measures were in place to promote women and girls’ access to cultural and sporting activities, and to address discrimination against women in sports?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile had seen a downward trend in teenage pregnancies since 2016, influenced by the free distribution of contraception.  To prevent the underground use of misoprostol, the State party was developing legislation that decriminalised abortion.  Under 10 per cent of health providers had conscientious objectors to abortions.  The State party supported the referral of persons seeking abortions to alternative abortion providers in cases of conscientious objection.  Conscientious objectors were required to provide abortions if there was a risk to the life of the mother.  Chile had amended legislation to require healthcare institutions to provide patients with information on their abortion rights in various languages.  Around 70 per cent of girls under 14 who requested abortions did so on the grounds of rape.  An early referrals programme had been developed to speed up their access to abortions.  Most family court cases concerning abortions for minors who had been raped were decided within two days.

    Coverage of the pension system had reached 80 per cent, increasing greatly in recent years.  The State party was implementing reforms to close the gender pension gap.  It had drafted a law towards this aim that was currently in its second reading.  A national survey was being carried out that assessed the distribution of domestic work responsibilities.  It would inform future support policies.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert asked if the State party had considered mechanisms to prevent backstreet abortions.  What support did the State provide to girls who underwent abortions?

    Another Committee Expert asked if girls aged 16 and over could access abortions in cases of rape.

    One Committee Expert asked about measures to support women entrepreneurs’ access to loans and credit.

    A Committee Expert asked about steps that had been taken to develop an action plan on rural women and girls that addressed their access to services and land.  Chile was the only country in Latin America that did not recognise indigenous peoples in its Constitution.  Would the State party establish a ministry of indigenous affairs, as the Committee had previously recommended? What measures were in place to guarantee the right to tenure and ownership of land for indigenous women? Women of African descent were not visible in the State party due to a lack of data. Not all women of African descent were recognised by the State party in its legislation; how would this be addressed?

    Another Committee Expert commended reforms that raised the minimum age of marriage to 18 without exception.  De facto early unions were still being carried out in Chile.  What measures were in place to identify such unions and to support their dissolution, particularly in rural areas?  How was the State party promoting access to adoption for same-sex couples?  What was the status of efforts to amend the marital regime and to educate the population in this regard?  How effectively were temporary protective measures implemented to protect women and children in cases of family violence?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Chile planned to collect more data on people of African descent through its 2025 census. The Ministry of Women and Equity had implemented measures to support access to land tenure for indigenous peoples. There had yet to be progress on the draft law establishing a ministry of indigenous affairs; the Government would devote further efforts toward this aim.

    A national roundtable had been set up to support rural and indigenous women.  The roundtable had developed a programme to support access to water for these women.  There was also a programme supporting the development of rural and indigenous women as leaders.

    Amendments to the adoption law had been discussed for over 10 years.  The Government was working to establish a law that allowed for the adoption of children by same-sex couples.  Custody of children was not granted to violent parents.  Recent legislative reform defined children who experienced domestic violence as victims.  The State party was working to reform the marital property regime to increase women’s access to property in cases of divorce.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    A Committee Expert said extractive industry activities had affected access to water in rural areas.  Would the State party strengthen environmental regulations to ensure that agribusiness activities did not negatively affect rural and indigenous women?  What steps had been taken to hold persons responsible for human rights violations occurring in the context of the 2019 protests?

    Another Committee Expert noted that a case had been brought before the Supreme Court in 2021 by two women regarding the shutting down of a power plant in Huasco.  What measures were in place to protect women in Huasco from pollution from power plants?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said a plan was being developed to gradually close power plants in Huasco and to provide reparations to persons who had been affected by pollution from these plants.  A draft bill had been put forward to address the loss of rural ecosystems caused by the activities of extractive industries.  A climate change adaption plan was also in place.

    Around 50 complaints had been brought against civil servants related to their actions in response to the 2019 protests, some of which had led to prosecutions.  Five of these cases involved female victims. 

    Concluding Remarks

    ANTONIA ORELLANA GUARELLO, Minister of Women and Gender Equity of Chile and head of the delegation, said the dialogue had been constructive.  The Committee’s inputs had been and would continue to be vital for the State party.  Chile was committed to implementing the rights of women in all their diversity. The State party had made progress but acknowledged that gaps remained.  The Committee’s recommendations would help the State party to move forward.  Chile would work to collect disaggregated data on women, achieve gender parity at all levels, increase access to abortion, promote the rights of older women and reform the pension system, and improve the situation of women deprived of liberty.

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chair, said that the dialogue had helped the Committee to better understand the situation of women and girls in Chile.  It would develop recommendations based on the dialogue to strengthen the implementation of the Convention for the benefit of all women and girls in Chile.

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CEDAW24.028E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Artwork featuring materials from nature on display at the Atrium Gallery at One Capitol Hill through Jan. 22

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Providence, RI� The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) announced today that works by three Charlestown-based artists Robin Spears Jr., Narragansett Indian Tribe citizen, his cousin, River Spears, Narragansett member, and Mikala Jackson, Kutzudika’a Paiute, Paiute Shoshone member, are currently on display in the Atrium Gallery at One Capitol Hill. The exhibition, Indigenous Innovations, features traditional artwork utilizing natural materials from the eastern woodland and coastal landscape.

    The Opening Reception — and an opportunity to meet the artists � will be on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., in the Atrium Gallery, first floor of the state’s Administration Building, One Capitol Hill, Providence. The reception is free and open to the public.

    Official Bios (provided by the artists)

    Robin Spears Jr. is a hunter, fisherman and gatherer. He uses these gifts of the earth to create. He grew up in a family of stone masons and has spent more than 35 years doing the art of stonework. Lieutenant Spears is an Environmental Police Officer for the Narragansett Tribe, caring for the land and its resources. He especially enjoys working with antler, cedar, turtle shells, bone, stone, wampum and other natural materials to create dance sticks, fans, pipes, rattles and other pieces of art. He is inspired by nature, his family, and his Narragansett culture.

    River Sokenun Spears, Robin’s cousin, a Narragansett Tribal citizen, is a self-taught wampum jewelry artist and flint knapper. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, he gathers resources from the land to create traditional Indigenous weapons, projectile points, and jewelry that honor his heritage. Influenced by his Uncle Craig Spears Sr. and skilled craftsman Alan Hazard, River sculpts wampum into intricate pieces that tell stories of his people and culture. His passion for preserving tradition extends to flint snapping, where the crafts arrow points from flint, chert, obsidian, glass, dacite, and quartz. Currently, he is an apprentice under Spears Jr. through RISCA’s Folk Art Fellowship Program.

    Mikala Jackson is an indigenous 28-year-old self-taught artist. A descendent of Kutzudika’a Paiute from Mono Lake, California, as well as Paiute Shoshone from Fort McDermitt, Nevada. Her most significant inspirations come from her family and culture. Being an indigenous woman during this present time has encouraged her to explore her own identity and aims to encourage others to do the same. In 2022, she was invited to participate in the side-by-side art exhibit of Warwick center for the arts and was awarded third place. Today she continues working on her craft and often attends art markets where she sells her artwork and more.

    All the artists reside in Charlestown.

    Exhibit Details

    What: Indigenous Innovations showcases the artwork of Robin Spears Jr. and two emerging artists. When: On display until Jan. 22; open to the public, weekdays 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Where: First floor of the state’s Administration Building, One Capitol Hill, Providence. Opening Reception and Meet the Artist: Wednesday, Oct. 30, 5 p.m.-7 p.m., Atrium Gallery, One Capitol Hill, Providence. Free and open to the public.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon, Yemen, Statelessness & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (15 Oct 2024) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    -Lebanon
    -Lebanon/Humanitarian
    -Occupied Palestinian Territory
    -Yemen
    -Ukraine
    -Statelessness
    -Women/Social protection
    -International Day of Rural Women
    -Briefings Tomorrow

    LEBANON
    The United Nations notes with concern the continued strikes across the Blue Line by Hizbullah and the Israel Defense Forces. Launches
    In this regard, the airstrike on Aitou in North Lebanon which resulted in at least 23 fatalities, according to Lebanese authorities, is deeply concerning. The Secretary-General strongly condemns the civilian loss of lives.
    The UN remains deeply concerned at the impact on civilians on both sides of the Blue Line but particularly in Lebanon. All actors must uphold obligations under international law, including International Humanitarian Law, and to protect civilians.
    The UN also notes that clashes continue in southern Lebanon, where the Israel Defense Forces has conducted ground operations since 1 October.
    In recent days the UN underscored our alarm about UNIFIL peacekeepers coming under fire, with at least five peacekeepers injured, and UN premises being impacted on at least 20 occasions since 1 October. The Secretary-General reiterates that UNIFIL personnel and its premises must never be targeted. Attacks against peacekeepers are in breach of international law, including international humanitarian law. They may constitute a war crime.
    As the President of the Security Council stated on behalf of all 15 Council members yesterday, “all parties [are] to respect the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel and premises”.
    The UN notes that the Council “… recalled that UN peacekeepers and UN premises must never be the target of an attack.”
    The UN appreciates the stated support of the Council for the work of our brave peacekeepers who remain in position, in support of efforts to create space for a diplomatic solution to this crisis and support a return to a cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).
    The UN reiterates its calls for an immediate ceasefire, noting this is the only way to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers as well as to protect the populations of Lebanon and Israel from further suffering.

    LEBANON/HUMANITARIAN
    This crisis has a huge impact on civilians on both sides, in Lebanon and in Israel.
    In Lebanon, today, a 12-truck convoy carrying vital aid arrived in the villages of Marjeyoun [Marji-yun] and Klayaa in the south of the country.
    The inter-agency mission – supported by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the World Food Programme, the UN Refugee Agency, UNICEF and the UN Population Fund – delivered bottled water, family hygiene kits, blankets, pillows and mattresses, among other essential items.
    The UN and partners continue to support the tens of thousands of men, women and children impacted by the ongoing crisis across Lebanon.
    WFP provides ready-to-eat food and cash to some 200,000 people on a daily basis, while UNICEF and UNHCR continue to support primary health care services and provide water, hygiene kits, mattresses, blankets and other basic items.
    OCHA reports that ongoing hostilities continue to displace people. The national authorities in Lebanon report that 1.2 million people have been affected or displaced.
    As of October 13th, the International Organization for Migration has identified more than 740,000 people displaced by the escalation of hostilities within the country.
    Of these people, more than 188,000 are staying in about 1,000 government shelters.
    UNHCR is working with the Lebanese authorities to upgrade the shelters with weatherproofing and rehabilitation of water and sanitation facilities, as well as assessing more sites to host displaced people.
    Together with their partners, UNHCR continues to support people in Syria who have fled Lebanon at five border crossings by providing water, food, blankets and mattresses.
    The UN reiterates that all civilians, both in Lebanon, Israel and elsewhere, must be always protected whether they leave or stay. And aid must be allowed to reach civilians wherever they are, safely and without impediment.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=15%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCHZtzOb6Qc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon, Yemen, Statelessness & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (15 Oct 2024) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    -Lebanon
    -Lebanon/Humanitarian
    -Occupied Palestinian Territory
    -Yemen
    -Ukraine
    -Statelessness
    -Women/Social protection
    -International Day of Rural Women
    -Briefings Tomorrow

    LEBANON
    The United Nations notes with concern the continued strikes across the Blue Line by Hizbullah and the Israel Defense Forces. Launches
    In this regard, the airstrike on Aitou in North Lebanon which resulted in at least 23 fatalities, according to Lebanese authorities, is deeply concerning. The Secretary-General strongly condemns the civilian loss of lives.
    The UN remains deeply concerned at the impact on civilians on both sides of the Blue Line but particularly in Lebanon. All actors must uphold obligations under international law, including International Humanitarian Law, and to protect civilians.
    The UN also notes that clashes continue in southern Lebanon, where the Israel Defense Forces has conducted ground operations since 1 October.
    In recent days the UN underscored our alarm about UNIFIL peacekeepers coming under fire, with at least five peacekeepers injured, and UN premises being impacted on at least 20 occasions since 1 October. The Secretary-General reiterates that UNIFIL personnel and its premises must never be targeted. Attacks against peacekeepers are in breach of international law, including international humanitarian law. They may constitute a war crime.
    As the President of the Security Council stated on behalf of all 15 Council members yesterday, “all parties [are] to respect the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel and premises”.
    The UN notes that the Council “… recalled that UN peacekeepers and UN premises must never be the target of an attack.”
    The UN appreciates the stated support of the Council for the work of our brave peacekeepers who remain in position, in support of efforts to create space for a diplomatic solution to this crisis and support a return to a cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).
    The UN reiterates its calls for an immediate ceasefire, noting this is the only way to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers as well as to protect the populations of Lebanon and Israel from further suffering.

    LEBANON/HUMANITARIAN
    This crisis has a huge impact on civilians on both sides, in Lebanon and in Israel.
    In Lebanon, today, a 12-truck convoy carrying vital aid arrived in the villages of Marjeyoun [Marji-yun] and Klayaa in the south of the country.
    The inter-agency mission – supported by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the World Food Programme, the UN Refugee Agency, UNICEF and the UN Population Fund – delivered bottled water, family hygiene kits, blankets, pillows and mattresses, among other essential items.
    The UN and partners continue to support the tens of thousands of men, women and children impacted by the ongoing crisis across Lebanon.
    WFP provides ready-to-eat food and cash to some 200,000 people on a daily basis, while UNICEF and UNHCR continue to support primary health care services and provide water, hygiene kits, mattresses, blankets and other basic items.
    OCHA reports that ongoing hostilities continue to displace people. The national authorities in Lebanon report that 1.2 million people have been affected or displaced.
    As of October 13th, the International Organization for Migration has identified more than 740,000 people displaced by the escalation of hostilities within the country.
    Of these people, more than 188,000 are staying in about 1,000 government shelters.
    UNHCR is working with the Lebanese authorities to upgrade the shelters with weatherproofing and rehabilitation of water and sanitation facilities, as well as assessing more sites to host displaced people.
    Together with their partners, UNHCR continues to support people in Syria who have fled Lebanon at five border crossings by providing water, food, blankets and mattresses.
    The UN reiterates that all civilians, both in Lebanon, Israel and elsewhere, must be always protected whether they leave or stay. And aid must be allowed to reach civilians wherever they are, safely and without impediment.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=15%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCHZtzOb6Qc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pangnirtung  — Pangnirtung man charged with attempt murder

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Pangnirtung, Nunavut
    Date: 2024-10-15
    File: 2024-1516846

    Pangnirtung RCMP investigating an attempt murder that sent victim to Ottawa for medical treatment.

    On October 14, 2024, at approximately 4:30 a.m, the Pangnirtung RCMP responded to a complaint that a male was being treated at the local health center with serious injuries sustained during a weapon attack. Upon arriving to the health center, local RCMP members began applying first aid to the male victim and continued to provide aid until health professionals arrived.

    The victim, a 23-year-old male, sustained multiple laceration on his body and was being treated by local health center staff. Upon further investigation, the Pangnirtung RCMP learned that the incident occurred outside by the 700 block. A suspect was later identified and taken into custody without incident.

    The Pangnirtung has charged, 23-year old male, Gregory Atagoyuk with:

    – One count of Attempt Murder, Section 239(1)(b) C.C
    – Carry a weapon for the purpose of committing an offence, Section 88 C.C

    “The Pangnirtung RCMP would like to thank local residence for their co-operation, and encourage any witnesses who may have photographs or videos of the incident, to contact the local police station at 867-473-0123”, said acting detachment commander Cst. Adam O’Reilly.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prince Albert — Prince Albert RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 38-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 10, 2024, Prince Albert RCMP received a report of a missing 38-year-old man, Sylvester Bird.

    Sylvester was last seen on October 3, 2024 at a residence on Lincoln Park Road, southwest of Prince Albert.

    Sylvester is described as approximately 5’11” tall. He has brown eyes and short black hair. He also goes by the name Sly.

    Since Sylvester was reported missing, Prince Albert RCMP have been checking places he is known to visit and following up on information received. Officers are now asking members of the public to report information on Sylvester’s whereabouts.

    If you have seen Sylvester or know where he is, contact Prince Albert RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or http://www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ebb and Flow First Nation — Ste. Rose du Lac RCMP looking for missing man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 13, 2024, at 10:30 pm, Ste. Rose du Lac RCMP received a report of a missing 35-year-old male from the Ebb & Flow First Nation.

    Joseph Sean Flett, 35, last made contact via social media earlier in the day.

    Flett is described as being 6’1″, 160 lbs with long black hair and brown eyes.

    His family is concerned with his wellbeing.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the Ste. Rose du Lac RCMP at 204-447-3082, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 or a secure tip online at http://www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Businessman Sentenced for Tax Evasion

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Defendant Diverted Income from His Clothing Business and Dealt in Cash to Evade Taxes

    A California man was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for evading more than $1 million of individual and corporate income taxes owed to the IRS and California Franchise Tax Board.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Haim Jerry Kohen owned and operated a business that bought and sold bulk quantities of used clothing. Between 2005 and 2017, Kohen evaded his taxes by, among other things, filing false individual and corporate income tax returns with federal and state taxing authorities on which he underreported income.

    He also attempted to conceal this income from the IRS by diverting it from his business to himself and by dealing in cash. Kohen collected cash payments owed to his business from a significant customer and kept the cash for himself instead of depositing it into his business’ bank account. Kohen did not report the diverted cash on either the corporate tax returns or on his individual income tax returns. Kohen continued this conduct even after he became aware that he was under criminal investigation by the IRS.

    Additionally, in November 2013, that same customer owed Kohen’s business over $648,000. Kohen and the customer executed a promissory note where the customer agreed to repay the debt to Kohen personally, and not to his business. Kohen received payments pursuant to the note in cash and did not report them on any tax return. Over the years, Kohen also loaned money to people and did not report the interest payments he received on his personal returns.

    Kohen also did not report rental income from two properties he owned in Beverly Hills and Tarzana, California. Kohen bought the Beverly Hills property in 2011 and soon thereafter deeded it to close family members. However, Kohen continued to collect the rental income for the property and exercised ownership and control over it. He also did not report the rental income he received from the Tarzana property.

    In total, Kohen caused a tax loss to the IRS and State of California of $1,471,323.

    In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld, Jr. ordered Kohen to serve one year of supervised release, pay a fine of $95,000 and to pay $1,471,323 in restitution.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation’s International Tax and Financial Crimes group investigated the case.

    Senior Litigation Counsel Mark F. Daly and Trial Attorneys Sara E. Henderson and John C. Gerardi of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ranee Katzenstein for the Central District of California prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: RM of East St Paul — Update – Selkirk RCMP investigating after body found in the Red River

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Selkirk RCMP are requesting public assistance in identifying the body pulled from the Red River on September 21, 2024.

    A composite sketch of the male has been completed and Selkirk RCMP are asking anyone who can help identify this person to call 204-482-1222, call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 or secure tip online at http://www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

    Selkirk RCMP continue to investigate.

    On September 21, 2024, at approximately 1:00 pm, Selkirk RCMP responded to a report of a body floating in the Red River near the 3900 block of Henderson Highway, in the RM of East St Paul.

    The autopsy has confirmed that the cause of death is not criminal in nature however identification of the deceased is pending.

    Selkirk RCMP continue to investigate.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Businessman Sentenced for Tax Evasion

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Defendant Diverted Income from His Clothing Business and Dealt in Cash to Evade Taxes

    A California man was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for evading more than $1 million of individual and corporate income taxes owed to the IRS and California Franchise Tax Board.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Haim Jerry Kohen owned and operated a business that bought and sold bulk quantities of used clothing. Between 2005 and 2017, Kohen evaded his taxes by, among other things, filing false individual and corporate income tax returns with federal and state taxing authorities on which he underreported income.

    He also attempted to conceal this income from the IRS by diverting it from his business to himself and by dealing in cash. Kohen collected cash payments owed to his business from a significant customer and kept the cash for himself instead of depositing it into his business’ bank account. Kohen did not report the diverted cash on either the corporate tax returns or on his individual income tax returns. Kohen continued this conduct even after he became aware that he was under criminal investigation by the IRS.

    Additionally, in November 2013, that same customer owed Kohen’s business over $648,000. Kohen and the customer executed a promissory note where the customer agreed to repay the debt to Kohen personally, and not to his business. Kohen received payments pursuant to the note in cash and did not report them on any tax return. Over the years, Kohen also loaned money to people and did not report the interest payments he received on his personal returns.

    Kohen also did not report rental income from two properties he owned in Beverly Hills and Tarzana, California. Kohen bought the Beverly Hills property in 2011 and soon thereafter deeded it to close family members. However, Kohen continued to collect the rental income for the property and exercised ownership and control over it. He also did not report the rental income he received from the Tarzana property.

    In total, Kohen caused a tax loss to the IRS and State of California of $1,471,323.

    In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld, Jr. ordered Kohen to serve one year of supervised release, pay a fine of $95,000 and to pay $1,471,323 in restitution.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation’s International Tax and Financial Crimes group investigated the case.

    Senior Litigation Counsel Mark F. Daly and Trial Attorneys Sara E. Henderson and John C. Gerardi of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ranee Katzenstein for the Central District of California prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to leave tonight for an official visit to Mexico and USA from 17th to 26th October 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to leave tonight for an official visit to Mexico and USA from 17th to 26th October 2024

    Union Finance Minister to attend Annual Meetings of the IMF-World Bank

    FM will also take part in  G20 Finance Ministers & Central Bank Governors meetings besides bilateral meetings with many countries and organisations

    Smt. Sitharaman will engage in multilateral discussions on multiple fora and also showcase India’s attractiveness as an investment destination

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 5:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman will embark on a visit to Mexico and USA on an official visit beginning 16th October, 2024.

    During the official leg of her maiden visit to Mexico from 17th to 20th October 2024, the Union Finance Minister will lead an Indian delegation of officials from the Ministry of Finance, underscoring a positive trajectory of growing bilateral economic and trade relations between the two countries.

    Beginning her visit in Guadalajara, Union Finance Minister Smt. Sitharaman will chair the Tech Leaders Roundtable that will bring together global technology leaders, including the major Indian IT giants present in Guadalajara. Later, Smt. Sitharaman will also visit the TCS headquarters in Guadalajara — a significant contributor to the Mexican IT ecosystem and known as the ‘Silicon Valley’ of Mexico with a significant presence of major global IT and tech companies. 

    Smt. Sitharaman will also hold a bilateral meeting with her counterpart H.E. Mr. Rogelio Ramirez de la O, Minister of Finance and Public Credit of Mexico. Besides, the Union Finance Minister will also hold discussions with several members of the Mexican Parliament to strengthen parliamentary cooperation and foster economic development.

    In Mexico City, Smt. Sitharaman will deliver a keynote address at the India-Mexico Trade and Investment Summit with participation from key industry captains from both the countries. Separately, Smt. Sitharaman will also engage with leading business figures and industry representatives from Mexico. These meetings with leading business leaders and investors are aimed at highlighting India’s policy priorities, and deliberate on measures to facilitate foreign investment by showcasing India’s attractiveness as an investment destination.

    In the last leg of her maiden visit to Mexico, the Union Finance Minister will participate in a community event, being hosted by the Indian diaspora.

    During the official leg of her visit to the USA from 20th to 26th Oct. 2024, Smt. Sitharaman will participate in the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, the 4th G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governor (FMCBG) Meetings, besides the G20 Joint Meeting of FMCBGs, Environment Ministers, and Foreign Ministers; and G7 – Africa Ministerial Roundtable.

    In the course of her two-city visit to New York City and Washington D.C., the Union Finance Minister will participate in the Pension Funds Roundtable at New York Stock Exchange; interact with students and faculty at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and also at the Columbia University; and the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable (GSDR) and take part in discussions organised by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) respectively.

    The Union Finance Minister will take part in bilateral meetings with several countries, including United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Germany, besides holding one-on-one meetings with heads of World Bank (WB), Asian Development Bank (ADB), European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and CEOs of banking and financial institutions.

    In a high-level event, the Union Finance Minister will participate in a World Bank Group discussion ‘From Idea to Implementation: New Financial Solutions to Accelerate Development’.

    The Union Finance Minister will also share her thoughts during a discussion on Bretton Woods Institutions (BWI) with other panelists, Mr. Lawrence H. Summers; Mr. Carlos Cuerpo, Minister of Economy, Trade and Business, Spain; and Ms. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Egypt. The event is organised by the Centre for Global Development (CGD).

    ****

    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2065036) Visitor Counter : 100

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah interacts with the IPS Probationers of 2023 Batch (76 RR) in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah interacts with the IPS Probationers of 2023 Batch (76 RR) in New Delhi

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat in 2047 would be a terror-free and drug-free country, having internal security, and will ensure protection of human rights and rights of citizens

    Security agencies have established their complete dominance by reducing violence in the three hotspots of J&K, LWE affected areas and the Northeast

    All officers should eliminate anti-national activities with a ruthless approach

    Timely justice, sufficient evidence for conviction and use of technology incorporated in the three criminal laws

    Safety of citizens is the basis of national security

    Young police officers should focus on the safety of citizens and protection of their rights

    Protecting the rights of the poor, children and women are of prime importance

    When people remember your good works even after you leave the district is the biggest medal

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 8:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah interacted with the probationers of the 2023 batch (76 RR) of the Indian Police Service (IPS) in New Delhi today. During the interaction, trainee IPS officers shared their experiences related to training with the Union Home Minister. Many dignitaries including Union Home Secretary, Director, Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Director, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) were present on the occasion.

    During the interaction, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat in 2047 would be a terror-free and drug-free country, having internal security, and will ensure protection of human rights and rights of citizens. Shri Amit Shah said that the trainee IPS officers should contemplate and reflect on the time at which they have become IPS officers. He said that the trainee officers should contemplate because the batch that will emerge as IPS officers this time will have a bigger responsibility than the previous 75 batches. Shri Shah added that the trainee officers should reflect because it is completely up to them and the batches coming after them whether our country will change the scale and enter the next generation of policing or not.

    Shri Amit Shah said that as the Home Minister of the country, he can definitely say that now no one has the courage to insult our borders and our army. He said that we have done a lot to provide tight security to our borders and the rest is being done. Shri Shah added that earlier Jammu & Kashmir, North East and Left Wing Extremism affected areas were the three sores, but now we have succeeded in reducing violence by 70% in these three places. He said that today Indian agencies have complete dominance in these three hotspots. Shri Shah said that now the culture of making both demands and aspiration for change through democratic process has reached the bottom, due to which the big protests that were seen earlier have now ended.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that now the time has come that the police system should come forward to protect the fundamental rights of our citizens, the police system should be alert to minimize the crimes happening within the borders of the country and the time has come that we should be able to give justice to the citizen in the shortest possible time.

    Shri Amit Shah said that today through Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS), 99% of the police stations of the country have become online, online data has been generated and radical changes have been made in many provisions through three new laws. In the new laws, emphasis has been laid on timely justice, increasing the proofs of conviction and maximum use of technology. Because we have made scientific evidences mandatory, the prosecution need not produce multiple witnesses, and now guilt can be proved on the basis of scientific evidences.

    The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the judicial process has been made time-bound in the new laws. In 5 years, the new laws will be fully implemented in every police station across the country, including installation of technology, development of software and training. After that, the process of justice will be completed within 3 years after the FIR is registered. Shri Shah said that the new laws have incorporated the latest technology and these laws have been made keeping in mind the changes that will take place in technology in the coming 100 years. Giving the example of e-summons, he said that provisions have been made in it to incorporate the technology of the coming 100 years. Provision has been made for the Director of Prosecution and Forensic Science Lab (FSL) has been made compulsory. No one can favour anyone because even if an officer compromises on his duties, due to the scientific evidences, he will not be able to do anything in front of the court. The FSL report will go directly to the court and a copy of it will also come from the police.

    Shri Amit Shah said that we have also secured the rights of citizens in the three new laws. The number of people in police custody will have to be declared online. Chargesheet will have to be filed within 90 days and videography of search and seizure will have to be done. Along with the fingerprint data on National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS), data on terrorism and narcotics has been generated separately. National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) is also managing all the CCTNS data in a different way. The work of creating a data bank at the national level has been done with a lot of data. He said that now the Home Ministry team is also working to simplify your work by building software using artificial intelligence which will help in analysis.

    The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the security of the nation does not mean only the security of the border. The nation is made of its citizens. The security of the citizen is the basis of the security of the nation. He said that when he talks about security, it is not limited to the security of life and property, but the security of the rights given to the citizens by our Constitution also comes under it. The Constitution has given equal rights to the poorest of the poor as are enjoyed even by the Prime Minister of the country, and police officers have a lot of responsibility to protect their rights.

    Shri Amit Shah said that after 75 years, the time has come for us to focus on our core work. Now is the time to protect the rights of citizens and make efforts to prevent atrocities against them. The Union Home Minister said that protecting the rights of the poor, children and women are of prime importance.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah told the probationers that there is no work that cannot be improved and there is no work that is less important. If they keep this in mind, they will be away from many disappointments in life. He said that the biggest medal for any police officer posted as SP in his youth will be that he is remembered by the people of his district for his good work for many years to come. Shri Shah said that all the young officers will have to work with a ruthless approach to eliminate anti-national activities. While doing police work, the security of the nation should always be in our mind and our eyes should always be open to ensure the security of the nation.

    ***

    RK/VV/ASH/PR

    (Release ID: 2065130) Visitor Counter : 19

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police investigating youth offending in Christchurch

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Canterbury Metro Area Commander Superintendent Lane Todd:

    Police are investigating after there were several serious incidents involving youth offenders in Christchurch overnight.

    The first incident occurred not long before 6pm outside a gym in Wigram, where a vehicle was stolen. Shortly after four young people threatened to take another person’s vehicle outside a store in Hornby.

    Just before 10pm, a 17-year-old man stepped off a bus on Mackworth Street in Woolston and a vehicle described as a Toyota Aqua attempted to drive at him. One of the offenders then got out of the vehicle and confronted the victim and attempted to take his phone.

    Around 45 minutes later on Skyhawk Road in Wigram, a group of young people has threatened a member of the public before taking off with their cell phone and dog. They then tried to drive their vehicle toward the victim. The dog has since been located.

    Following this serious incident, there was a burglary at a vape shop on Stanmore Road at about 4:36am where the offenders have smashed their way into the store, however, they fled as Police arrived and drove off in such a dangerous manner that Police were unable to initiate a pursuit.

    Early enquiries lead Police to believe that all of these incidents are linked however work to fully establish this is ongoing. We now have a number of officers working to identify and locate the people involved.

    This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and we will ensure they are held accountable for their dangerous and reckless actions which has left a number of victims extremely shaken. We will be ensuring they receive Victim Support alongside ongoing police support.

    We have our Scene of Crime Officers carrying out forensic examinations at the relevant scenes and of vehicles of interest that have been located.

    Anyone with information which they think may be of assistance to the Police investigation, please update us online now  or call 105.

    Please use the reference number P060294419.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces appointment of new Chief Justice of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Mary J. L. Gleason, a judge of the Federal Court of Appeal and a judge of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada, as the new Chief Justice of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada.

    Chief Justice Gleason replaces the Honourable B. Richard Bell, who retired effective October 30, 2023.

    Quote

    “The Honourable Mary J. L. Gleason is a highly respected member of Canada’s legal community. As she takes on her new role as Chief Justice of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada, I wish her continued success. I know she brings a wealth of experience to the position and will continue to serve Canadians well.”

    Quick Facts

    • Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial services in the superior courts of Canada.
    • Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of Cabinet and the recommendation of the Prime Minister.

    Biographical Note

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: La Ronge — La Ronge investigating fatal collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 12, 2024 at approximately 1:30 a.m., La Ronge RCMP received a report of a single vehicle rollover on Highway #165, approximately 15 minutes south of Hall Lake, SK.

    Officers responded along with local EMS. A passenger in the vehicle was transported to hospital by EMS where he was later declared deceased. He has been identified as a 15-year-old male from the La Ronge area. His family has been notified.

    The driver of the vehicle reported no physical injuries to police.

    As a result of continued investigation, an adult male from the La Ronge area was arrested and is charged with:

    • one count, operation while impaired (drug) of motor vehicle causing death, Section 320.14(3), Criminal Code;
    • one count, operation while impaired (alcohol) of motor vehicle causing death, Section 320.14(3), Criminal Code; and
    • one count, dangerous operation of motor vehicle causing death, Section 320.13(3), Criminal Code.

    The adult male appeared in court in La Ronge on October 15, 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fargo, ND Man Indicted for Possession of Firearms and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon and by a Drug User or Addict, and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Fargo – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that on October 15, 2024, Amire J. Logan, made his initial appearance and was arraigned in federal court. The United States District Court for the District of North Dakota unsealed an Indictment revealing that a federal grand jury indicted Logan on two counts of Possession of Firearms and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, two counts of Possession of Firearms and Ammunition by a Drug User or Addict, and one count of Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number, arising from a June 24, 2024 incident in Fargo, and a September 24, 2024 incident in West Fargo.

    The Indictment in this case is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    This case is being investigated by the Fargo Police Department, the West Fargo Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jacob T. Rodenbiker.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Repeat Sex Trafficker Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Traffic Four Women Using Violence and Threats

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Defendant began recruiting women upon release from state prison for sex trafficking

    BOSTON – A Stoughton man, previously convicted of multiple counts of sex trafficking, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to sex trafficking multiple adult women.

    Marvin Pompilus, 39, pleaded guilty to four counts of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. Pompilus was previously arrested and charged in in November 2023, and indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2024. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Jan. 23, 2025.

    In February 2018, Pompilus was convicted in Suffolk Superior Court of multiple counts of trafficking a person for sexual servitude and deriving support for prostitution. He was sentenced to six years in state prison and was released in October 2021.

    “Marvin Pompilus targeted and brutalized his victims, and this was promptly after he was released from jail following his conviction on similar state charges,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “These crimes are a violation of human dignity and human rights. Our office, along with our federal, state and local partners, are dedicating substantial resources to both protecting victims of trafficking and holding defendants accountable by prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law. This is especially true for repeat offenders like Mr. Pompilus.”

    “This defendant callously picked up right where he left off when he was released from state prison, believing that he could profit by peddling drugs and misery to people suffering with substance abuse issues,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The defendant specifically targeted victims who were struggling with addiction to opioids and cocaine, coerced them into sex trafficking and cruelly exploited them because of their vulnerability. The Justice Department will continue to investigate and prosecute human traffickers who exploit for their own personal gain the most vulnerable members of society, such as those experiencing substance abuse disorders.”

    “Marvin Pompilus admitted today that after being released from state prison for sex trafficking, he started doing it again, targeting and exploiting four vulnerable women using violence and threats to force them to engage in commercial sex. What he did is unconscionable, and the harm he’s inflicted on these women is immeasurable,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division. “The FBI will do everything in its power to protect trafficking victims from further harm and see the predators who so viciously abuse them brought to justice.”

    Following his release from state custody in October  2021, Pompilus conspired to exploit and recruit multiple women into the commercial sex trade, using a combination of physical violence, sexual violence, threats of violence, verbal abuse and withholding of controlled substances from drug dependent victims to coerce and/or force them to engage in commercial sex acts. He then collected all of the proceeds.  Pompilus required his victims to check in with him, forbade them from interacting with other men, and precluded them from obtaining drugs from anyone other than him. If one of the victims attempted to keep any of the proceeds from commercial sex or attempted to refuse to see a sex buyer, Pompilus would become physically violent, at times striking the victim in the face and kicking them. Pompilus would also engage in other forms of abuse as well such as using degrading names toward his victims, spitting on them, and throwing drinks on them, as well as isolating them from others.

    If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

    The charge of conspiracy to sex traffic by force, fraud, or coercion provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least two years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Levy; AAG Clarke; and FBI SAC Cohen made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Boston and Randolph Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley, Chief of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Tokash of the Justice Department’s Human Trafficking Protection Unit are prosecuting the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iqaluit — Update: Air India Flight 127, emergency landing to Iqaluit, Nunavut

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Iqaluit, Nunavut
    Date: 2024-10-15

    The investigation into the emergency landing of Air India flight 127, to Iqaluit, Nunavut is now being handled by the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region’s Federal Arctic Unit. Assistance will be provided by the Nunavut RCMP Criminal Operations Unit and the Northwest Regions National Security Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Issues Consumer Alert Reminding California Workers of Their Rights

    Source: US State of California

    No-poach, non-compete, and others anti-competitive agreements that restrict employee mobility are generally unlawful in California 

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued a consumer alert with information and resources for workers about unlawful restraints on employee mobility, including no-poach agreements, non-compete agreements, and Training Reimbursement Agreement Provisions (TRAPS). These agreements, along with other provisions in employment contracts that limit workers’ ability to move to competitors, can stifle job mobility and suppress wages and advancement, often in violation of California law.

    “Employees deserve the freedom to seek better opportunities and better wages by finding new employment within their industry. Agreements that restrict employee mobility such as non-compete agreements, no-poach agreements, and TRAPs undermine this freedom,” said Attorney General Bonta. “I urge all Californians to be aware of the unlawful nature of anticompetitive contracts and their potential impacts on career advancement and wage growth. If you believe you are being affected by this type of agreement, report it to my office at oag.ca.gov/report.”

    Non-Competes

    Understanding Non-Compete Agreements

    Non-compete agreements are between an employer and an employee and generally found within an employment contract. These agreements typically prevent employees from working for competitors or starting their own businesses within a certain time frame or geographic area, with limited statutory exceptions. These agreements can significantly impact workers by:

    • Limiting Employment Opportunities: By restricting the types of jobs or companies workers can join, non-compete agreements can hinder workers’ ability to find new employment within their field or industry.
    • Suppressing Wages and Career Growth: Workers may face stagnated wages and limited career progression due to reduced competition and fewer job offers.
    • Deterring Job Mobility: The fear of legal repercussions or financial penalties may prevent workers from seeking better opportunities or moving to a different company.

    Non-compete provisions in employment contracts have generally been void in California for decades. As of January 1, 2024, it is also illegal under California law for an employer to enter into or attempt to enforce such void agreements (see below).

    Recognizing Non-Compete Agreements

    Signs that you may be affected include:

    • Explicit Contractual Clauses: Review your employment contract carefully for any clauses that outline restrictions on working for competitors, starting a similar business, or otherwise limiting your future employment options.
    • Restrictions on Future Employment: If your employer has specifically mentioned or enforced restrictions on your ability to work for certain types of businesses or within particular geographic areas after leaving or you are asked to sign an agreement that limits your future employment options. 

    No Poach Agreements

    Understanding No-Poach Agreements

    No-poach agreements are arrangements made between companies to refrain from hiring each other’s employees. Such agreements can violate California law. These agreements can negatively impact workers by: 

    • Limiting job opportunities and career growth.
    • Restricting wage increases and competitive job offers.
    • Creating a stagnant labor market where workers are less likely to find better employment conditions.

    Such agreements can be illegal under California antitrust laws, which are designed to ensure fair competition and protect workers’ rights.

    Recognizing No-Poach Agreements

    While these agreements might not always be overtly stated, signs that you may be affected include:

    • Being discouraged from applying for jobs at competing companies.
    • Statements from a prospective employer that they cannot hire from your current employer.
    • Policies at your current employer that restrict hiring from certain competitors.

    Training Reimbursement Agreement Provisions (TRAPs)

    Understanding Employer-Driven Debt Products 

    TRAPs are agreements between an employer and employee where an employer provides necessary training to a worker, but requires the worker to reimburse the employer for training costs if the worker leaves their job before a certain date, sometimes even if the worker is fired or laid off. Similar employer-driven debt provisions require departing workers to reimburse the cost of employer-supplied equipment or supplies. These types of arrangements are often unlawful. Like non-competes and no-poach agreements, employer-driven debt products like TRAPs can:

    • Limit job opportunities and career growth. 
    • Restrict wage increases and competitive job offers.
    • Create a stagnant labor market where workers are less likely to find better employment conditions.

    Last year, Attorney General Bonta issued a legal alert to remind all employers of the state-law restrictions on employer-driven debt.

    Recognizing TRAPs

    Explicit Contractual Clauses: Review your employment contract carefully for any clauses that detail an obligation to pay your employer for required training, equipment, supplies or the like if you leave employment before a particular timeframe or under certain conditions.   

    New California Laws

    California’s Senate Bill 699: Non-Compete Agreements Are Illegal 

    Effective January 1, 2024, Senate Bill (SB) 699 makes it generally illegal for employers to enter into noncompete agreements with California employees. This applies to agreements signed both within and outside California. Employers who enter into or attempt to enforce void agreements will be committing a civil violation.

    The new law extends its protection to workers even where the contract was signed or the employment was maintained outside of California. If a former employer tries to enforce a noncompete agreement in California, SB 699 can be used to challenge such enforcement.

    Additionally, employees can now seek damages, injunctive relief, and reasonable attorneys’ fees if their employers try to enforce unlawful non-compete agreements. 

    California’s Assembly Bill 1076: Existing Non-Compete Agreements Are Void

    Assembly Bill (AB) 1076 codifies that any existing noncompete agreements in employment are void, unless they satisfy an explicit statutory exception.

    Employers were required to notify current and certain former employees, whose contracts include unenforceable noncompete clauses, that these agreements are void, by February 14, 2024. Failure to have done so constitutes an act of unfair competition.

    Resources for Workers 

    If you believe you are being affected by an unlawful restriction upon your job mobility, you can take the following steps:

    1. Report to Authorities: File a complaint with the California Department of Justice at oag.ca.gov/report. 
    2. Seek Legal Advice: To find a free or low-cost legal aid office near where you live, visit LawHelpCA.org. If you do not qualify for legal aid, you may also obtain a referral to a certified lawyer referral service by contacting the California State Bar.

    Attorney General Bonta is dedicated to upholding workers’ rights and combating unfair labor practices. In 2024, Attorney General Bonta took action by defending wages and overtime owed in the West Coast Drywall Lawsuit; he also secured a settlement with Amalfi Stone & Masonry Company, Inc., resolving allegations of unfair competition and payroll tax, and labor violations. In 2023, Attorney General Bonta took action to protect workers by launching a historic investigation into gender discrimination in the National Football League, joining 17 attorneys general in supporting the Federal Trade Commission’s proposed rule limiting non-compete agreements, launching a legal fight for in-home-healthcare workers, and fighting for the rights of transportation workers and immigrant children.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces appointment of new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of British Columbia

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Ronald A. Skolrood, a judge of the Court of Appeal for British Columbia, as the new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of British Columbia.

    Chief Justice Skolrood replaces the Honourable Christopher E. Hinkson, who retired effective May 7, 2024.

    Quote

    “I wish the Honourable Ronald A. Skolrood every success as he takes on his new role as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of British Columbia. He is a respected member of the legal community and has extensive experience in many areas of law. I am confident he will be a great asset to the people of British Columbia.”

    Quick Facts

    • Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial services in the superior courts of Canada.
    • Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of Cabinet and the recommendation of the Prime Minister.

    Biographical Note

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Biographical Notes – Shereen Miller

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Ms. Shereen Miller is a human rights lawyer by training, with more than 20 years of experience in various executive roles with the Government of Canada.

    Prior to her appointment as Commissioner of the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, Ms. Miller served as Senior Assistant Deputy Minister of Service Innovation at Shared Services Canada.

    From 2019 to 2023, she was Senior Assistant Deputy Minister of Next Generation Human Resources and Pay at Shared Services Canada. From 2017 to 2019, Ms. Miller was Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada’s Deputy Chair of Refugee Protection; and, from 2013 to 2017, was Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s Assistant Deputy Minister of Small Business, Tourism and Market Place Services.

    Ms. Miller has extensive expertise shaping strategic policy, conceptualizing, guiding and directing key programs, working with financial institutions and overseeing operations in both service delivery and regulatory bodies. She led the creation of the Build in Canada Innovation Program and the Innovative Solutions Canada Program.

    Her extensive experience includes driving initiatives that empower businesses to grow by providing the capital and tools they need. During her time at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), she implemented game-changing endeavors such as the Venture Capital Action Plan and the Accelerated Growth Service. She has also managed regulatory functions and was responsible for the Office of Consumer Affairs while at ISED.

    In addition, Ms. Miller led the creation and launch of the Canadian Innovation Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace. Her leadership experience includes process and organizational change, digital transformation, executive team management, and strategic partnership building.

    Ms. Miller holds a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University, a Master of Arts in Criminology from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Juris Doctor from Osgoode Hall Law School. She is a long-standing advocate for human rights, diversity, and inclusion.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: WTO 2024 SPS Transparency Champions Course concludes in Geneva

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO 2024 SPS Transparency Champions Course concludes in Geneva

    Participants were trained on the importance of transparency in the SPS Agreement, with particular attention to notifications of health and safety regulations. They also gained hands-on experience of the ePing SPS&TBT Platform designed to facilitate this process.
    The course’s programme included sessions dedicated to supporting participants in developing action plans to improve SPS transparency frameworks in their respective governments. Participants further benefited from the expert guidance and contributions of SPS practitioners from Brazil and Uganda, and from various organizations, including Codex Alimentarius, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), and the Advisory Centre on WTO Law (ACWL).
    In his remarks at the opening session of the course, Edwini Kessie, Director of the WTO Agriculture and Commodities Division, underscored the critical role of transparency in international trade.
    “Non-tariff measures like SPS regulations are a double-edged sword. While they play a vital role in safeguarding public health and safety, they can sometimes be misused as disguised restrictions to trade. Therefore, being ‘transparent’ about these measures is critical to facilitating trade, and ensuring a stable, predictable business environment, which, in turn, encourages investment,” said Edwini Kessie​. He further emphasised the significance of tools like ePing in streamlining notifications and fostering coordination on SPS regulations.
    Upon completion of the course, Sakshee Pipliyal, from India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority, highlighted the engaging format of the course, which combined theoretical insights with real-world examples: “The course offered an in-depth exploration of the SPS Agreement and its transparency provisions, significantly enhancing my understanding of both the legal framework and practical implementation.”
    For Sonam Dorji N, from Bhutan’s Ministry of Health, the training was an eye-opener: “The course expanded my capability to understand how to manage SPS related issues and communicate effectively with the traders and private industries, which is important for exporting agricultural products.”​
    Jabulani Njabulo Mkhonta, from Eswatini’s Ministry of Agriculture, stressed the broader economic benefits of SPS transparency among his key takeaways: “Being transparent on SPS measures benefits the country by boosting participation in global trade.” He also noted that the interactive and practical aspects of the programme were particularly enriching, allowing participants to network and share experiences across diverse sectors.
    After the training programme, participants are expected to implement the action plans developed during the course to strengthen transparency in their SPS frameworks. A follow-up session, scheduled for 2025, will provide them with the opportunity to report on their progress and share lessons learned.
    The WTO members and observers represented at the training course included: Angola, Bangladesh, Barbados, Bhutan, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Eswatini, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Russian Federation, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Türkiye, and Zambia.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Enterprise Bancorp, Inc. Announces Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOWELL, Mass., Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enterprise Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ:EBTC)

    On October 15, 2024, the Board of Directors of Enterprise Bancorp, Inc. declared a quarterly dividend of $0.24 per share to be paid on December 2, 2024, to shareholders of record as of November 11, 2024.

    Enterprise Bancorp, Inc. is a Massachusetts corporation that conducts substantially all its operations through Enterprise Bank and Trust Company, commonly referred to as Enterprise Bank. Enterprise Bank is principally engaged in the business of attracting deposits from the general public and investing in commercial loans and investment securities. Through Enterprise Bank and its subsidiaries, the Company offers a range of commercial, residential and consumer loan products, deposit products and cash management services, electronic and digital banking options, as well as wealth management, and trust services. The Company’s headquarters and Enterprise Bank’s main office are located at 222 Merrimack Street in Lowell, Massachusetts. The Company’s primary market area is the Northern Middlesex, Northern Essex, and Northern Worcester counties of Massachusetts and the Southern Hillsborough and Southern Rockingham counties in New Hampshire. Enterprise Bank has 27 full-service branches located in the Massachusetts communities of Acton, Andover, Billerica (2), Chelmsford (2), Dracut, Fitchburg, Lawrence, Leominster, Lexington, Lowell (2), Methuen, North Andover, Tewksbury (2), Tyngsborough and Westford and in the New Hampshire communities of Derry, Hudson, Londonderry, Nashua (2), Pelham, Salem and Windham.

    Contact Info: Joseph R. Lussier, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (978) 656-5578

    The MIL Network –