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  • MIL-OSI Global: Frieze 2024: it’s an industry art fair you’re not supposed to like – but here’s why you might

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Lang, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Fine Art , University of Lincoln

    The average art lover isn’t supposed to like art fairs because they’re so corporate. When you pay £9 for a sandwich and your wifi is sponsored by a big bank, you can understand the reservations. They’re also too big and crowded. Even the VIPs are left queuing to get in.

    But the fair provides opportunities to see work from galleries from all over the world in London and there is plenty of good art on display. As Frieze describes itself “[it] is one of the world’s most influential contemporary art fairs, focusing only on contemporary art and living artists”. It is primarily for those in the art world, those who create, critique and those who collect, and a lot of money changes hands as the world’s galleries show the best they have. But it has also become a cultural day out.

    Apart from loads of great painting and the occasional noncommercial showpiece, Frieze goes out of its way to balance the corporate with more thoughtful displays. There’s a chance to see big-name artists, international galleries and work by new artists. The “Artist-to-Artist” section returned this year, containing work by emerging talents (selected by established artists). With so much on show, Frieze can be daunting. You can easily spend a whole day at the fair, but with so much on display there is truly something for everybody.

    At this year’s Frieze, international highlights included Proyectos Ultravioleta from Guatemala city, who showed miniature paintings by Rosa Elena Curruchich hung alongside larger works emblazoned with the text “me venden” (they’re selling me) by Edgar Calels. Calels also brought the smell of a forest into the booth by covering the floor with pine needles.

    Jhaveri Contemporary (Mumbai, India) presented work by the Bangladeshi duo Kamruzzaman Shadhin and Gidree Bawlee. The piece Kaal (Pala) consists of seven delightful jute figures – among the most enchanting figurative sculptures I have seen recently. Joydeb Roaja’s pen drawings of people, tanks, and people with tanks on their heads are as enigmatic and disturbing as they are engaging.

    Non-commercial art appeared in Jenkins Van Zyl’s Sweat Exchange at Edel Assanti (London). This video installation housed in what Van Zyl has called a sauna-cum-“sweat extraction brewery”, which features two doppelgangers, who alternate between self-care and abuse. Imagine the Pink Panther crossed with Jar Jar Binks as a drag queen and you’re nearly there.

    Then there was Patrick Goddard’s silver cast bees on the floor of Seventeen Gallery, and Lawrence Lek (winner of the Frieze artist award) who has produced Guanyin: Confessions of a Former Carebot – an interactive videogame installation about an AI created to service self-driving cars.

    Most of the works were are those hung on walls. Gallery booths have a small storage area in which they are able to keep paintings and prints, (but less able to store sculptural works). Collectors also favour paintings, prints and photographs to adorn their walls (or similarly put into storage) over artists’ films or video installations.

    What’s to complain about though when there is so much good painting on display?

    Highlights included Tom Anholt and Ryan Mosley at Josh Lilley Gallery (London); Carl Freedman Gallery (Margate), which showed great paintings by Ben Senior, Laura Footes and Vanessa Raw (as well as Lindsey Mendick’s ceramic sculptures) and Tanya Leighton Gallery (Berlin and LA), which had plenty of good painting on show, including works by Matthew Krishanu. Ingleby (Edinburgh) showed Andrew Cranston and Hayley Barker and Arcadia Missa (London) showed Lewis Hammond’s Schmetterling, an eerie blue interior with an unsettling blue-eyed figure, and Jesse Darling, whose Come on England (up the) takes a novel approach to wall-based work by leaning crowd-control barriers in the corner of the gallery booth.

    Counter Editions (Margate) presented a Tracey Emin solo show. You’re not supposed to like Emin, since she outed herself as a Tory sympathiser. Opposite is a Billy Childish solo show at Lehmann Maupin (London, Seoul, New York), where the artist paints live while wearing a beret next to a dirty stepladder for reaching the tops of the large canvases. You’re not supposed to like Billy Childish either because he is a Stuckist (stuck in the age of Van Gogh and Edvard Munch – his only two art heroes). Funnily enough, Charles Thomson, co-founder of Stuckism, derived the name from an insult by Emin, who told Childish, her ex-lover, that his art was “stuck, stuck, stuck”. Don’t tell anybody, but the Emin and Childish works were quite good.

    With an annual curated section, more solo shows and over 270 Galleries from more than 40 countries, if you love art in all its forms (and can afford it) you should experience Frieze London at least once. If you didn’t go this year, you really should spend a day there next. Despite what people say… you’re bound to find something you like.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

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

    – ref. Frieze 2024: it’s an industry art fair you’re not supposed to like – but here’s why you might – https://theconversation.com/frieze-2024-its-an-industry-art-fair-youre-not-supposed-to-like-but-heres-why-you-might-241293

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Announces Nearly $31.5M for 31 Bicycle, Pedestrian Projects Across Kansas – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that nearly $31.5 million will be awarded for 31 projects in communities across Kansas to create safer, more walkable and bike-friendly routes through the Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.

    “This investment is more than just improving infrastructure – it’s about strengthening the safety, accessibility, and mobility of our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I’m pleased the state can offer the support needed to help advance these projects.”

    The competitive grant program, administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and provided by the Federal Highway Administration, is currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School. The program also funds transportation projects of a historical nature and scenic and environmental projects, including Main Street beautification projects.

    Since 2019, under the Kelly administration’s bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, also known as IKE, KDOT has awarded more than $95 million for 122 TA projects, benefiting both urban and rural communities.

    Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said this year’s announcement marks the largest grant funding the state has awarded since the launch of the federal program.

    “By partnering with local communities, we can enhance our state’s transportation infrastructure while improving accessibility and fostering more connected neighborhoods,” Secretary Reed said.

    The program requires a 20 percent local match of the project cost. The non-federal required share will consist of $2.79 million in local matching funds and $5.15 million in KDOT state funding.

    The TA projects selected to receive an award are:

    Community Sponsor Project Title  Federal Award District
    City of Atchison Unity Street Pedestrian Improvements – 2nd Street to 6th Street  $814,479.20 1
    City of Atchison North 5th Street Safe Routes to School  $924,389.00 1
    City of Eudora Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Improvements  $781,676.00 1
    City of Holton Highway 75 Pedestrian/Non-Motorized Vehicle/Bicycle Safety Project  $2,115,513.00 1
    City of Lawrence 2025 Safe Routes to School  $1,096,000.00 1
    City of Lawrence Massachusetts St 14th St to 23rd St Multimodal Improvements  $2,376,000.00 1
    City of Leavenworth Downtown ADA Sidewalk Ramp Improvements  $629,750.00 1
    City of Topeka Traffic Calming, Crossing Improvements, & Bike Lanes Installation on 4th, 5th & Adams streets  $1,722,931.20 1
    City of Wamego Safe Routes to School Crossing Improvements  $239,872.00 1
    Central Kansas Conservancy Sunflower Santa Fe Trail – Canton KS  $649,485.60 2
    City of Concordia Concordia Sidewalks for School Construction Project  $1,032,931.00 2
    City of Council Grove Streetscape and Pedestrian Safety Project along Main Street  $1,880,000.00 2
    City of Herington Safe Routes to School Phase II Construction Project  $1,136,075.00 2
    City of Hillsboro Orchard Drive Hike/Bike Trail  $525,100.00 2
    City of Linn Pedestrian Safety Sidewalk Project  $1,407,957.00 2
    City of McPherson McPherson Ave A Trail Phase III  $849,913.60 2
    City of Phillipsburg Sidewalks and Crosswalk Project to School  $763,124.00 3
    USD 270-Plainville Safe Routes to School Implementation Project  $853,991.00 3
    City of Altamont Pedestrian Connections to School & Food Retail  $1,528,469.00 4
    City of Burlington 6th Street Prefabricated Pedestrian Bridge  $654,256.00 4
    City of Girard Pedestrian Transportation Facilities to Connect Vital Services to Residents  $633,277.00 4
    City of Iola US-54 Multimodal Project  $4,236,812.00 4
    City of Pittsburg Meadowlark Elementary School Safe Routes to School  $286,400.00 4
    City of Augusta Pedestrian bridge over the Whitewater River on Redbud Rail Trail  $560,000.00 5
    City of Great Bend Downtown Great Bend Sidewalk Repair and Accessibility Improvements  $800,000.00 5
    City of Greensburg Greensburg Connecting Sidewalks  $342,548.00 5
    City of Hutchinson Downtown Hutchinson Pedestrian Safety and Access Improvements  $908,800.00 5
    City of Larned Safe Routes to School Phase II  $850,400.00 5
    City of Sedgwick Commercial Avenue Pedestrian Access and Streetscape Improvements  $215,384.80 5
    City of South Hutchinson South Hutchinson Pedestrian Connectivity Project  $273,600.00 5
    City of Ulysses Kepley Middle School Crossing  $400,475.00 6
      31 Projects Total  $31,489,609.40  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cartwright Reintroduces Legislation to Close Controversial Tax Code Loophole

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Matt Cartwright (17th District of Pennsylvania)

    “I’m proud to reintroduce this legislation in Bill’s honor. The carried interest loophole is yet another way special interests have rigged the system to their advantage, at the expense of everyday taxpayers. Wealthy fund managers shouldn’t pay less taxes than hard working Americans,” said Congressman Cartwright.

    On Friday, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) reintroduced the Bill Pascrell Ending Tax Giveaway Act, legislation to close the controversial carried interest loophole.

    Carried interest is a form of compensation received by wealthy private equity and hedge fund executives that is taxed well below top wage income rates.

    The bill was originally introduced by the late U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (NJ-09), who represented New Jersey in Congress for more than 27 years before his death on Aug. 21st. Pascrell championed legislation to close the carried interest loophole for years, beginning in the 116th Congress. 

    “Bill was a revered public servant who made tax fairness his top priority and fought to ensure ultra-wealthy Americans benefiting from preferential tax treatments would finally pay their fair share,” said Congressman Cartwright. “I’m proud to reintroduce this legislation in Bill’s honor. The carried interest loophole is yet another way special interests have rigged the system to their advantage, at the expense of everyday taxpayers. Wealthy fund managers shouldn’t pay less taxes than hard working Americans.”

    Multiple organizations signed on to endorse Pascrell’s original legislation.  When it was introduced, the following comments were made:

    “Americans for Tax Fairness strongly endorses this legislation to ensure that private equity, real estate, and hedge fund executives pay the same top tax rate on their income that other working Americans pay on theirs. This egregious loophole has survived thanks to hefty campaign contributions and backroom deals. It’s time to close this loophole once and for all,” said David Kass, Executive Director of Americans for Tax Fairness.

    “There is absolutely no economic or moral justification for the continued existence of the carried interest loophole. Ultra-wealthy private equity and hedge fund managers do not need or deserve preferential tax treatment on income they earn from managing other people’s money. There is no shortage of people willing to work as hedge fund managers. If Congress needs to give a special tax incentive to get people to fill a need, they should have teachers or emergency room nurses pay half the tax rates that everyone else pays. Lawmakers need to show the American people that they have the guts to stand up to Wall Street and pass the Ending Wall Street Tax Giveaway Act to get rid of this egregious, pointless, and outrageous loophole once and for all,” said Morris Pearl, Chair of Patriotic Millionaires.

    “Private equity and hedge fund executives rig the tax code so they pay less than Black, white, and Brown working people,” said Porter McConnell, Take on Wall Street Campaign Director at Americans for Financial Reform. “Carried interest is the textbook example of Wall Street’s tax cheats. It’s time to pass the Ending Wall Street Tax Giveaway Act and close this outrageous loophole.”

    “For far too long, the carried interest loophole has allowed millionaire Wall Street hedge fund and private equity managers to pay lower tax rates than the working families who carry and continue to build the American economy. CWA is proud to support the Ending Wall Street Tax Giveaway Act, as it levels the playing field by closing that arcane tax loophole and forcing Wall Street to pay their fair share.” said Dan Mauer, Director of Government Affairs for the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Joly announces expulsion of Indian diplomats related to ongoing investigation on violent criminal activity linked to the Government of India

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Global Affairs Canada, today announced that six Indian diplomats and consular officials had received a notice of expulsion from Canada in relation to a targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.

    October 14, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Global Affairs Canada, today announced that six Indian diplomats and consular officials had received a notice of expulsion from Canada in relation to a targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.

    The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) gathered information that established linkages between the investigation and agents of the Government of India. In order to further the investigation and allow the RCMP to interview relevant individuals, India was asked to waive diplomatic and consular immunities and to cooperate in the investigation. Regrettably, as India did not agree and given the ongoing public safety concerns for Canadians, Canada served notices of expulsion to these individuals. Subsequent to those notices, India announced it would withdraw its officials.

    Canada and India have over 75 years of diplomatic relations. Our countries share important historic, business and people-to-people ties. Canada took this decision as its main interest remains the safety and security of all Canadians, defending our sovereignty and upholding the rule of law. Canada will continue to work diligently to do everything it can to keep Canadians safe now, and into the future. Dialogue with India continues through our High Commission in Delhi. 

    “Keeping Canadians safe is the fundamental job of the Canadian government. The decision to expel these individuals was made with great consideration and only after the RCMP gathered ample, clear and concrete evidence which identified six individuals as persons of interest in the Nijjar case. We continue to ask that the Indian government support the ongoing investigation in the Nijjar case, as it remains in both our countries’ interest to get to the bottom of this.”

    – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah says, the Narendra Modi government is committed to building a drug-free Bharat by protecting our youth from the scourge of drugs

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah says, the Narendra Modi government is committed to building a drug-free Bharat by protecting our youth from the scourge of drugs

    The hunt against drugs & narco trade will continue with no laxity

    Union Home Minister congratulates Delhi Police for the series of successful operations seizing drugs worth ₹13,000 crore, including the recent one with Gujarat Police recovering cocaine worth ₹5,000 crore

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 5:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah has said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the government is committed to building a drug-free Bharat by protecting our youth from the scourge of drugs. 

    In a post on X platform, Shri Amit Shah said that the hunt against drugs & narco trade will continue with no laxity. Shri Shah congratulated the Delhi Police for the series of successful operations seizing drugs worth ₹13,000 crore, including the recent one with Gujarat Police recovering cocaine worth ₹5,000 crore.

    In recent crackdown on drugs trade, Special Cell of Delhi Police and Gujarat Police, on 13th October 2024, recovered 518 kilogram cocaine during a search operation at a company based in Ankleshwar, Gujarat. The value of the seized cocaine in the international market is around Rs 5,000 crore.

    Earlier, on 01st October, 2024, Special Cell of Delhi Police raided a warehouse in Mahipalpur and seized a consignment of 562 kilogram cocaine and 40 kilogram hydroponic marijuana. During the investigation, on 10th October 2024, about 208 kilogram of additional cocaine was recovered from a shop in Ramesh Nagar, Delhi. During the investigation, it was found that the recovered drug belonged to a company based in Ankleshwar, Gujarat.

    In this case, a total of 1,289 kilogram of cocaine and 40 kilogram of hydroponic Thailand marijuana have been recovered so far, which is worth Rs 13,000 crore in international market.

    *****

    RK / VV / ASH / RR

     

    (Release ID: 2064744) Visitor Counter : 55

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Human Rights Committee Opens One Hundred and Forty-Second Session in Geneva

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Rights Committee today opened its one hundred and forty-second session, during which it will examine the reports of Ecuador, France, Greece, Iceland, Pakistan and Türkiye on their implementation of the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

    In opening remarks, Dimiter Chalev, Chief, Rule of Law, Equality and Non-Discrimination Branch, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Representative of the Secretary-General, said he was pleased that all the annual sessions of the treaty bodies could take place this year despite the current liquidity situation facing the United Nations, including the Committee’s one-week working group on communications.  This session was taking place amidst escalating human rights concerns in the context of widening inequalities throughout the world, war on various continents, and an unprecedented electoral year in which nearly half of the world’s population was called upon to vote.  The Committee’s work was essential in ensuring that the voices of the marginalised were heard, that violations were documented, and that States parties were reminded of their obligations under the Covenant. 

    With respect to developments specifically related to civil and political rights, several key reports were considered by the Human Rights Council during its most recent session that ended last Friday.  The High Commissioner’s report on terrorism and human rights focused on the increased use of administrative measures in counter-terrorism, and drew from the Committee’s recommendations to many States.  The Council was also presented with a study by the Office of the High Commissioner on the role of the rule of law and accountability, at the national and international levels, which emphasised the critical role of the rule of law and accountability in preventing human rights violations and abuses.  

    The High Commissioner also presented his report on racial justice and equality, in which he highlighted multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination experienced by Africans and people of African descent in various regions.  The Expert Mechanism to advance racial justice and equality in law enforcement presented its report on justice, accountability and redress for human rights violations committed by law enforcement officials against Africans and people of African descent.  It was noteworthy that these reports specifically referenced the work of the Committee, including its general comments and Views.  As these reports demonstrated, the work of the Committee provided a vital legal and moral framework that empowered mechanisms to hold States accountable for violations of civil and political rights.

    Mr. Chalev noted the increased collaboration between the Committee and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, demonstrated by the participation of a Committee member in this year’s Expert Mechanism seventeenth annual session.  

    The first report of the Secretary-General on the human rights implications of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in the administration of justice related to the Committee’s mandate.  The report had recently been issued and would be presented to the General Assembly at the current session.  For example, one of the recommendations was that in their reports to treaty bodies, States could provide information on the design, use and deployment of digital technology and artificial intelligence in their justice systems.  Such information would increase transparency and allow the Committee to provide oversight and guidance on the compatibility of such technology with the provisions of the Covenant.  Almost one month ago, the General Assembly adopted the Pact for the Future, described as a “groundbreaking pact . . . to transform global governance.”  While waiting to learn the precise implications of the Pact for the treaty bodies, the renewed commitment to human rights was welcomed.

    This marked the last session of four members whose terms would end at the end of the year and their service was deeply appreciated.  This session, the Committee would examine the implementation of the Covenant in six States parties, adopt one list of issues and six list of issues prior to reporting, and review several individual communications under the Optional Protocol.  Mr. Chalev wished the Committee a successful and productive session.

    The Committee adopted its agenda and programme of work for the session.

    Tania Abo Rocholl, Committee Chairperson, thanked Mr. Chalev for the opening statement and said the issues he had raised were key to the Covenant and the Committee took them very seriously.  The Committee wanted to thank the Office of the High Commissioner for the efforts made for the success of the Committee’s sessions.  Last year had been one of great challenges for the Office, and it was hoped they could work hand in hand towards the common goal of better human rights across the world. 

    Wafaa Bassim, Committee Expert and Chair of the working group on communications, presented the working group’s report for the one hundred and forty-second session.  The working group had considered 19 drafts relating to 297 communications, which was a record number of communications examined at one single session by any Committee.  The Working Group also considered communications raising new and complex issues such as the jurisdiction in situations of sub-contracted immigration detention facilities in another State, the assessment of special penitentiary regimes imposed on specific groups of sentenced individuals, birth registration, and intra-family rape of girls, among others.  The Committee also considered communications and covered issues relating to non-refoulement and deportation, freedom of religion, fair trial, and arbitrary detention, among others.  The Working Group was putting for consideration of the plenary seven drafts of inadmissibility, one simplified draft with a finding of violation, and 11 drafts proposing a violation of the provisions in the Covenant.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-second session is being held from 14 October to 7 November 2024.  All the 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 3 p.m. on Tuesday, 15 October, to begin its consideration of the sixth periodic report of Iceland (CCPR/C/ISL/6).

     

    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.

     

    CCPR24.020E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Civil Society Organizations Brief the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on the Situation of Women in Chile, Canada, Japan, Cuba and Benin

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women was this afternoon briefed by representatives of civil society organizations on the situation of women’s rights in Chile, Canada, Japan, Cuba and Benin, whose reports will be considered during the second and third weeks of the session.

    In relation to Chile, speakers raised concerns regarding gender-based violence, abortion, and the treatment of trans people.

    Those speaking on Canada raised topics including the treatment of indigenous women and girls, femicide, and harassment of migrant workers. 

    On Japan, speakers addressed the selective surname system, Japan’s military sexual slavery, and women’s pensions.

    Speakers for Cuba raised issues including legislation on femicide, women in poverty, and the treatment of lesbians. 

    In relation to Benin, speakers addressed human trafficking, attacks on lesbian, gay, bisexual, intersex, queer and transgender people, and discrimination of sex workers. 

    The National Rights Institute of Chile and the Children’s Rights Ombudsperson of Chile spoke on Chile, as did the following non-governmental organizations: Corporation of Opportunity and Jointly Action Opcion – OPCION; Federación Luterana Mundial; and CIMUNIDIS – Círculo Emancipados de Mujeres y Niñas con Discapacidad de Chile.

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Canada: Union of BC Indian Chiefs; South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario and Colour of Poverty – Colour of Change; Justice for Girls and Just Planet; Cecile Kazatchkine, on behalf of HIV Legal Network, Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic; Bout du monde; Amnesty International Canada; Aysha Khan, on behalf of International Human Rights Program (IHRP) at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, Global Human Rights Clinic (GHRC) at the University of Chicago Law School, and a coalition of almost 50 organizations; Development Alternatives with Women for a New Era (DAWN); International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War Canada (IPPNWC); and Amnesty International Canada. 

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Japan: Family Association of the Missing Persons Probably Related to the DPRK; Association to Preserve the Family Bond; People’s Alliance for Protection of Imperial Lineage by Paternal Male Succession to the Imperial Throne; Global Alliance for Anti-Discrimination (GAAD); JNNC (Japan NGO Network for CEDAW); JFBA (Japan Federation of Bar Associations); Be the Change Okinawa, and on behalf of Action Okinawa, Ginowan Churamizu Kai (Clean Water Protection Committee), AIPR, and ACSILs; Warriors Japan; Lawyers and DV Thrivers against Violence and Abuse Japan (LVAJ) and Safe Parents Japan (SPJ); Women’s Political Empowerment; Women’s Active Museum on War and Peace (WAM): and Development Alternatives with Women for a New Era (DAWN) and Pacific Network on Globalisation (PANG).

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Cuba: Red de Juristas por los Derechos Sexuales, Unión Nacional de Juristas de Cuba, Asociación Cubana de las Naciones Unidas, Museo Virtual de la Memoria contra la violencia basada en Género Iniciativa para la Investigación y la Incidencia; Cuido 60; Red de Mujeres Lesbianas y Bisexuales; CUBALEX; Justicia 11J; FMC; Prisoners Defenders; Mesa de Diálogo de la Juventud Cubana; and Observatorio de Género de Alas Tensas y Museo de la Disidencia en Cuba.

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Benin: Right here Right Now 2 and CFMPDH; Synergie Trans Bénin; Association Solidarité; Changement Social Bénin; and Plurielles.

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s eighty-ninth session is being held from 7 to 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 Tuesday, 15 October, to  consider the eighth periodic report of Chile (CEDAW/C/CHL/8).

    Opening Remarks by the Committee Chair

    ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, said this was the second opportunity during the session for non-governmental organizations to provide information on States parties that were having their reports reviewed during the second and third weeks of the session, namely Chile, Canada, Japan, Cuba and Benin.

    Statements by Non-Governmental Organizations 

    Chile

    Non-governmental organizations speaking on Chile said sexual violations had increased drastically between 2019 and 2023.  Protection measures continued to be deficient.  It was concerning that violence against girls and adolescents was increasing. As of June 2023, there were 42 pregnant women and 100 children living with their mothers in prison systems. There needed to be a cultural change in the community, whereby gender-based violence was no longer acceptable. There needed to be a comprehensive sexual education law to ensure rights for women and adolescents.  The abortion regime based on legal grounds was insufficient and there were barriers to accessing contraceptives in primary health care.  Warnings had been issued about six defective contraceptive pills with no steps taken to investigate or provide reparations to those affected.  In Chile, around 800,000 migrant women faced violence and hate speech, especially those with irregular migration status.  The humanitarian visa for migrants was not implemented well in practice. 

    Since 2019, there had been a Constitutional Legal Reform Act, establishing the State’s duty to fight gender equality.  The State’s anti-discrimination law had been in congress for five years and was in danger of being rejected.  Chile had yet to fulfil its obligation to repeal laws discriminating against married women or subordinating them to their husbands.  The comprehensive law on violence against women did not include protection measures for women in penitentiary institutions who had suffered violence.  Violence against trans-people had increased by 145 per cent, and trans-femicide was not recognised as a crime.  The State showed no willingness to address issues faced by trans-people.  Women and girls with disabilities in Chile experienced discrimination.  A report by the Office of the High Commissioner found that there were 163 suspicious deaths in short-stay mental health facilities.  There had been reports of electro-shock therapy on girls with disabilities. 

    Canada

    Speakers on Canada said there were genocidal consequences for indigenous women and girls in the country.  These violations were tied to colonial policies. In its 2015 inquiry, the Committee found that indigenous women and girls suffered from the worst socio-economic conditions, as well as systemic racism and violence, which manifested as pervasive poverty, lack of access to housing, high rates of child apprehension, and disproportionate criminalisation.  The Committee had found that sex discrimination in Canada’s Indian Act was a root of violence, marginalising women and their descendants, excluding them from their lands, cultures and communities, and disentitling them to full personhood.  The 2019 National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls issued 231 Calls for Justice.  To-date, only two were complete, and more than half had not been started. Colonialism and the legacy of Residential Schools continued to impact indigenous girls’ access to education. Racialised communities faced oppression in Canada, with Black femicide and forced sterilisations of Black and indigenous women erased due to data gaps and under-reporting. 

    Canada was failing to take serious action on gender-based violence.  Femicides were increasing, with a woman killed every 2.5 days.  But this was not taken into account in the national action plan. Survivors of gender-based violence needed stronger protections and support services.  Law enforcement and judicial officers must receive proper training on these violence dynamics.  Canada needed to ensure survivors were not criminalised for self-defence, and strengthen protections against coercive control and litigation abuse.  In Canada, women who used drugs and indigenous women were disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS and faced increased risk of violence and barriers to healthcare.  Migrant workers and migrant sex workers in Canada faced significant oppression due to restrictive work permits, increasing their vulnerability to workplace abuse, harassment and sexual violence. Canada must remove these restrictions, decriminalise these groups, and establish policies that ensured safe working conditions.

    Canada was also implicated in exploitative deep-sea mining, as Canadian companies sought financial gains through predatory partnerships with some Pacific Island States.  These companies must be investigated.  Pacific women and Canadian indigenous women deeply opposed these projects, as they threatened the ocean and marine life.  Canadian resource extraction projects had also increased violence in Ecuador against indigenous women, which would be exacerbated by a proposed free trade agreement.

    Japan

    Speakers on Japan raised issues including objecting to separate surnames after marriages, which could destroy family unity and have negative impacts on children.  The immediate adoption of a selective surname system for married couples was needed.  The ruling party’s promotion of expanding the use of maiden names did not address gender discrimination.  Half of single-mother households lived in relative poverty, as 70 per cent of them did not receive child support and were unable to escape poverty, due to the significant wage gap between men and women. 

    The issue of Japan’s military sexual slavery had been raised 30 years ago before the Committee in 1994. Measures taken by the State were not victim-centred, and therefore failed.  The Government of Japan was called on to recognise that the “comfort women” issue remained unresolved and to fully implement the previous Committee recommendations.  The Status of Forces Agreement between Japan and the United States should be revised to eliminate violence against women linked to United States’ military bases in Okinawa and elsewhere.  There had been seven cases of gender-based violence against women and girls by the United States’ military within the past 11 months.  Since 1954, over 210,000 crimes and accidents by the military had occurred.  There needed to be comprehensive actions taken to end the culture of impunity. Japan needed to accept that the “comfort women” system was one of sexual slavery, and that it had a legal responsibility to provide reparations to all victims. 

    The ratification of the Optional Protocol should be expedited, and there should be a comprehensive anti-discrimination law.  Japan was also urged to create a permanent gender equality committee, to monitor the implementation of the Convention’s concluding observations.  There was an urgent need for the establishment of an independent, national human rights institution in line with the Paris Principles. It was crucial to eliminate low wages and pensions for women due to the gender wage gap, non-regular employment, and unpaid work.  The Japanese Government was also urged to rescue all abductees from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.  The Committee was urged to recommend that Japan stop dumping radioactive wastewater in the Pacific Ocean and take immediate steps towards safely disposing the waste on land. 

    Cuba

    Those speaking on Cuba said Cuban women were calling for a robust legislative change of gender-based violence. The State needed to work to coordinate actors on gender issues.  The State should systematically assess the impact of legislation and public policies on gender equality.  The Committee was urged to pay special attention to the devastating impacts of the embargo which had a detrimental impact on women’s organizations. 

    There was a comprehensive law against gender-based violence, but the act of femicide should be defined.  The rate of femicide was occurring in Cuba more than 10 times that which was occurring in Spain.  Cuba had serious deficiencies in the reparation system of gender-based violence.  The legislation should be reformed to establish provisional payments which provided immediate support, particularly to women of African descent or those with low income.  The State should strengthen mechanisms for the prevention and punishment of gender-based violence, and redouble efforts to deconstruct gender stereotypes. 

    Poverty in Cuba today had the face of a woman, particularly that of an Afro-descendent, elderly woman.  Social rights had been cut by the State and women were further exposed to food insecurity and poverty.  The health care system lacked regulations to protect lesbians from phobic treatment.  There needed to be training and awareness raising for health professionals to provide care, free of stigma and phobia. 

    Benin

    Organizations speaking on Benin said women were economically and sexually exploited in Benin as part of human trafficking.  Legislation on this was vague.  Benin was a country of origin, transit and destination of women and children for human trafficking.  It was recommended that the definition of procuring be outlined in the Criminal Code. 

    In Benin, lesbian, gay, bisexual, intersex, queer and transgender people underwent verbal, physical and sexual attacks. Discrimination undergone by these women worsened their economic positioning.  No specific healthcare programme took these people into account, despite their vulnerability.  Lesbian women were not seen as key members of the population.  Religious beliefs and fear of side effects prohibited access to abortion, despite it being decriminalised in 2020.   It was recommended that Benin set up mobile clinics all over the country to facilitate access to sexual and reproductive services. Safe abortion should be accessible without the need for authorisation from a third party. 

    Sex workers continued to be discriminated against in Benin.  The only existing instruments were oppressive in nature.  The national health development plan excluded the healthcare of sex workers.  Today, some services did not cover the medicine for sexually transmitted diseases for sex workers.   If a sex worker underwent an act of violence, victims were required to submit a medical certificate which came at a cost that was prohibitive for these women. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said since there had been a reshuffle in the cabinet in Japan, what was the status of the Gender Ministry?  Who was heading it?  Was there a COVID-19 response plan that covered gender-based violence?  On Canada, was female genital mutilation still an issue?  What was the gravity of the occurrence of femicide? 

    Another Expert asked if the Japanese organizations had information around restricted access to abortion, including that permission was required from a spouse or partner?  Could information on the lack of sexual reproductive education for young people be provided?

    An Expert asked Cuba what services were available for persons deprived of liberty, which were not available to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons?  What were the rules related to internal migration in Cuba? 

    A Committee Expert asked Chile if the benefits of the Judicial Academy, which aimed to avoid bias and victimisation of women, were being reaped? 

    Another Expert asked Benin about the medical forms for victims of gender-based violence; were these free? What had the Government done to make birth registration free?  Was there a law on legal aid?  If so, what crimes or rights violations qualified for legal aid?  Was there a court to handle family disputes? 

    An Expert asked Cuba whether the labour law included issues of sexual harassment?

    Another Expert asked Canada how many recommendations by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission had been met?

    A Committee Expert asked Cuba about the situation of human rights defenders who were women?  In Chile, following the 2017 reform, was abortion still practiced illegally?  Could more information be provided about the extractive and mining industries and their impact on women and communities? 

    An Expert asked Cuba for information around issues pertaining to education? 

    A Committee Expert asked how challenging it was to be a female politician in Benin?

    Statements by the National Human Rights Institution of Chile and the Children’s Rights Ombudsman of Chile

    CONSUELO CONTRERAS LARGO, National Director, National Human Rights Institute of Chile, began by referring to gender-based violence.  According to figures from the National Service for Women and Gender Equity, in the last 10 years, there had been 423 femicides in Chile, with figures per year that fluctuated between 34 and 46 femicides.  In 2024, there were already 29 femicides.  In the last two years, there had been a sharp increase in attempted femicides.  In its 2018 and 2021 Annual Reports, the Institution indicated statistical difficulties in recognising violence that affected women in different contexts, since the State did not disaggregate the information into characterisation variables. Consequently, the treatment of violence against women was addressed in a uniform manner, which homogenised the situation of discrimination and violence, preventing the design of public policies capable of responding to different needs.  The State should implement disaggregation of data, particularly for rural women, women with disabilities, and other groups. 

    The Programme for the Comprehensive Prevention of Violence against Women had a budget which was 2.38 per cent of the budget of the ministerial portfolio, which was limited considering the magnitude of the task.  For the 2024 budget, the authorities announced a growth of 5.2 per cent, as part of their programmatic redesign.  The institution remained concerned at the main task defined in the programme.  The programme did not involve any kind of follow-up and it was not possible to discern if those who received the training continued to develop prevention activities. The programme also did not have a territorial focus without taking into account the different realities of women. It was concerning that the courts did not recognise the identity of trans-women in their sentences, according to current gender identity law. 

    The regulatory framework for violence against women had been bolstered.  On 4 March 2020, law no. 21,212 came into force, which redefined and expanded the concept of femicide in Chile.  On 9 May 2023, law 21,565 was published, which established a regime of protection and comprehensive reparation in favour of victims of femicide and their families; and on 14 June, law 21,675 came into force, which established measures to prevent, punish and eradicate violence against women, based on their gender.  There were other legal bodies that had been approved and had entered into force in the country.  Draft bills were moving slowly through the legislature.   Discussions were underway on the bill to reform conjugal partnership and the bill to combat discrimination.  In 2019, a bill was presented that sought to establish the mandatory nature of comprehensive sex education in schools.  This draft was rejected in October 2020 and archived, with no plans for it to be brough back into legislation. 

    As of August 2024, the National Human Rights Institution had registered 19 complaints for human trafficking. During a visit to border regions, the Institute was able to verify the low number of resources of the police units destined to combat trafficking in persons.  The Institute had established the duty of the executive branch to develop and implement a public policy to combat trafficking in persons.  It should also continuously and systematically monitor and evaluate the implementation of new legislation through data collection and analysis and research on internal and cross-border trafficking. 

    ANUAR QUESILLE VERA, Children’s Rights Ombudsperson of Chile, underscored that sexual violence against children and adolescents continued to be one of the most urgent and complex challenges facing the country.  Despite efforts and progress in other areas, the data showed that girls and adolescents continued to be the main victims of this problem.  Between January and June 2024, the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Chile reported a total of 25,352 victims entered into its registries for sexual crimes, of which 59.40 per cent were females under 18.  The State addressed sexual exploitation in a disconnected way, with gaps in areas of prevention, criminal prosecution, punishment and reparation for victims.  It was alarming that, despite the growing incidence of this phenomenon, the State had not prioritised this problem in a systemic manner, which reflected in the limitations faced by the different services and institutions.

    The fate of children in the care of the State was concerning.  There were also new challenges in relation to the security of digital environments. Online platforms and digital spaces had become fertile grounds for the perpetration of sexual violence and abuse. Comprehensive regulation that protected children and adolescents in these spaces was essential.  In view of these challenges, since the beginning of 2024, the Children’s Ombudsman’s Office had urged the Government to adhere to the Council of Europe’s Lanzarote Convention, which was seen as a key tool to protect children and adolescents against sexual exploitation and abuse. Unfortunately, no significant progress had been reported in this regard. 

    In terms of sexual and reproductive rights, the limited perspective on the progressive autonomy, ownership of rights, and agency of girls and adolescents continued to affect their access to the benefits of the law on abortion.    Adolescents were mostly seeking abortion due to being raped.  The Committee was called on to prioritise legislative strengthening and intersectoral coordination of State institutions, with a focus on increasing resources and adequate training to respond effectively to the challenges posed.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert asked if the Ombudsperson had any specific information on early marriage, which continued to be a problem?

    Another Expert asked if light could be shed on the issue of comprehensive sexual education in Chile? What were the obstacles?  What should the Committee look at to allow adolescents to access this information? 

    An Expert asked if there were any statistics on how many women who had suffered rape in Chile had then resorted to abortion, and how often was this denied? 

    A Committee Expert asked about the pension gap in Chile? 

    Another Committee Expert asked about the anti-discrimination bill which was presented to amend the Constitution in regard to multiple discrimination?  What were the social and political drivers which did not allow this bill to pass? 

    An Expert asked about global supply chains which were growing in importance in Chile, which was exporting agricultural products to neighbouring countries.  Had any gender-based violence been identified in the supply chains? 

    Responses by the National Human Rights Institution of Chile and the Children’s Rights Ombudsman of Chile

    In response, JUAN ENRIQUE PI, International Adviser, said the Anti-Discrimination Act did not reform the Constitution; the Constitution of 1980 still prevailed.  There seemed to be no movement to further prohibit discrimination. In 2020, there had been an attempt to bring about an act on comprehensive education, to prevent sexual violence against girls and boys.  However, this bill was rejected by a majority and had been shelved.  There was currently no bill in Chile to address sex education in schools.  There was no initiative under discussion. 

    ANUAR QUESILLE VERA, Children’s Rights Ombudsperson of Chile, said Chile had raised the age of marriage to 18.  However, one of the key problems being faced by the country had to do with informal unions in rural areas.  It was difficult to obtain figures on these. 

    JAVIERA SCHWEITZER GONZÁLEZ, International Affairs Coordinator, said when it came to the law on abortion, there was an information gap.  Almost 99 per cent of cases of young girls and adolescents undergoing abortion did have some support.  When it came to conscientious objection, this was of particular concern.  There was no protocol providing for a lack of equipment and there were no available teams. Civil society said the law enforced did not cover training and guidelines and the rights which should protect medical teams.  Furthermore, in the case of rape, few people went to health centres because of revictimisation.  Some headway had been made in comprehensive sex education, however, there were restrictions in terms of its effective implementation.  There had been a drop in the number of teenage pregnancies, but this was due to a use of contraceptives and not comprehensive sexual education. Teenagers had also identified a gap in comprehensive sexual education. 

     

    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.

     

    CEDAW24.027E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Two decades after decriminalisation, NZ’s sex workers still need protection from discrimination

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lynzi Armstrong, Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    It has been two decades since New Zealand decriminalised sex work. And while sex workers have workplace rights, they still worry about the risks of discrimination in everyday life.

    In my recent research, local sex workers explained the benefits of decriminalisation – and what still needs to change. Their experiences highlight that while much has changed for the better, stigma remains an issue. Further change is needed to better protect sex workers from it.

    New Zealand’s experience is relevant right now, as a number of governments elsewhere are reviewing their laws around sex work.

    Scotland, for example, is considering a proposal that would criminalise the purchase of sex – known as the Nordic model due to its initial adoption in some Nordic countries.

    Supporters argue this will help sex workers and extend gender equality. But evidence suggests the Nordic model actually harms sex workers: it impedes safety strategies, increases the risk of violence, limits access to justice, and enables discrimination.

    What is decriminalisation?

    The other options are decriminalisation and legalisation. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they are different. Legalisation of sex work (in Germany and the Netherlands, for example) means legalising an act that was previously against the law.

    For sex workers, this means restrictive government regulation and control, which may include mandatory registration with authorities, compulsory sexual health checks, and permission to work in specific areas only.

    Decriminalisation, on the other hand, means repealing laws that make an act or behaviour a crime, but not necessarily introducing restrictive regulations specific to the sex industry.

    That said, decriminalisation does not mean there is no regulation. Instead, regulations are comparable to other businesses. The focus is not on regulating sex workers, but providing them with rights.

    Under New Zealand’s Prostitution Reform Act (2003) it is an offence to induce or compel a person to do sex work. Sex workers have the right to refuse to see clients for any reason at any time. If a sex worker wishes to stop doing sex work, they can access unemployment benefits immediately (rather than having the normal stand down period ).

    Impacts of decriminalisation in New Zealand

    Research three years after the law came into force found a majority of participants felt they had more rights and were more able to refuse to see clients than before. Several participants felt police attitudes towards them had improved.

    Subsequent research found relationships between street-based sex workers and police had improved. Decriminalisation supported the safety strategies of these sex workers better.

    There have also been several high-profile cases where sex workers have exercised their legal rights. Brothel-based sex workers won sexual harassment cases against business owners, and convictions of rape against two clients who covertly removed condoms during their bookings.

    Among the 26 sex workers we interviewed in New Zealand, participants described feeling fortunate to work in the decriminalised context. They also felt working conditions for sex workers were better than in other countries.

    One participant said:

    I also feel that we shouldn’t have to say “oh we’re so lucky” but we are compared to other people in other countries.

    Another felt decriminalisation gave sex workers a “protective layer”.

    This meant, as one participant put it, “we have rights, full stop”.

    Participants appreciated sex work being defined as work and the rights that accompany this. Decriminalisation was considered both ideal and normalised. As another explained,

    it’s been decriminalised for a long time now, like it’s part of our reality.

    Room for improvement?

    While participants felt grateful to work in the decriminalised context, this doesn’t mean there weren’t issues.

    Decriminalisation in New Zealand doesn’t include legal protection from discrimination. Sex workers have little recourse if they are treated unfairly because of their job.

    The sex workers we spoke with believed the social stigma of sex work was gradually fading, and instances of discrimination described by participants were rare. But they still feared the consequences of discrimination (such as being denied accommodation or premises to work from if their work became known to a landlord).

    They supported further legal protection from discrimination. For one participant this meant,

    I could tell people my job without […] any fear of backlash, and that would be fantastic.

    Participants also wanted the protections of decriminalisation extended to temporary migrants. People who hold temporary visas face deportation if they are found to be working in the sex industry, making them vulnerable to exploitation.

    Falling behind

    After two decades of decriminalisation, New Zealand risks falling behind as more jurisdictions (such as Victoria and Queensland in Australia) adopt decriminalised frameworks that build in protection from discrimination.

    Such protections mean it is no longer legal to deny a person accommodation or a job based on their sex work experience, or deny them a bank loan or mortgage.

    To keep up, New Zealand needs to follow suit. The next step is therefore to strengthen and expand the rights sex workers have.

    Perhaps then, in another 20 years, the country will still be seen as one that put the human rights of sex workers first and showed the rest of the world what equality really looks like.

    Lynzi Armstrong received funding from the Royal Society of New Zealand Marsden Fund (2019-2024)

    – ref. Two decades after decriminalisation, NZ’s sex workers still need protection from discrimination – https://theconversation.com/two-decades-after-decriminalisation-nzs-sex-workers-still-need-protection-from-discrimination-240787

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Contempt for the Prespa Agreement shown towards 12 EU ambassadors and four representatives of European bodies – E-001967/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001967/2024
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)

    From the date when she was sworn in on 12 May 2024 until the present, President Gordana Siljanovska, as ‘President of Macedonia’, has been engaged in violating the Prespa Agreement. From the very first of her meetings in the city of Skopje with ambassadors of Member States (Czechia, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Poland, Hungary, Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, Slovakia, Germany, Croatia and Sweden) and representatives of European bodies [the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the OSCΕ and the European External Action Service (EEAS)], among others, she issued official communications that referred to the country as ‘Macedonia’.

    Five hundred incidents of this kind have been recorded; they are not merely violations, but constitute systematic ‘material breaches’, according to the international terminology[1]. It should be borne in mind that, pursuant to the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, for a bilateral treaty, when one party is in ‘material breach’ of the treaty the other party is entitled to request the suspension and termination of that treaty (Article 60(1)).

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Council aware of the contempt for the Prespa Agreement, the Member States and the European institutions shown by President Siljanovska, who is a head of state, and what is more, of a country that is a candidate for accession?
    • 2.How does it intend to formally express its displeasure?

    Submitted: 4.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.epitropiellinismou.gr/post/3080
    Last updated: 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Contempt for the Prespa Agreement shown towards 12 EU ambassadors and four representatives of European bodies – E-001966/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001966/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)

    From the date when she was sworn in on 12 May 2024 until the present, President Gordana Siljanovska, as ‘President of Macedonia’, has been engaged in violating the Prespa Agreement. From the very first of her meetings in the city of Skopje with ambassadors of Member States (Czechia, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Poland, Hungary, Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, Slovakia, Germany, Croatia and Sweden) and representatives of European bodies [the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the OSCΕ and the European External Action Service (EEAS)], among others, she issued official communications that referred to the country as ‘Macedonia’.

    Five hundred incidents of this kind have been recorded; they are not merely violations, but constitute systematic ‘material breaches’, according to the international terminology[1]. It should be borne in mind that, pursuant to the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, for a bilateral treaty, when one party is in ‘material breach’ of the treaty the other party is entitled to request the suspension and termination of that treaty (Article 60(1)).

    In view of this:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the contempt shown by President Siljanovska for the Prespa Agreement, the Member States and the European institutions, despite the fact that she is a head of state, and what is more, of a country that is a candidate for accession?
    • 2.How does it intend to formally express its displeasure?

    Submitted: 4.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.epitropiellinismou.gr/post/3080
    Last updated: 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with IPS probationers on Tuesday, 15 October 2024 in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with IPS probationers on Tuesday, 15 October 2024 in New Delhi

    The probationary officers will share their training experiences with the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation

    Young police officers have an important role in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047

    The probationary officers will also receive guidance from the Home Minister to deal with challenges related to the internal security of the country

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 4:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with the Indian Police Service (IPS) probationers of 76 RR (2023 Batch) in New Delhi on Tuesday, 15 October 2024. During the interaction, the probationary officers will share their training experiences with the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation.

    Young police officers have an important role to play in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047. During the meeting, the probationary officers will also receive guidance from the Home Minister to deal with challenges related to the internal security of the country.

    In the Indian Police Service 2023 batch, a total of 188 officer trainees including 54 women officers have completed the Basic Course Training Phase-1. After two weeks of training with various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Central Police Organisations (CPOs) in Delhi, the IPS trainee officers will undergo 29 weeks of district practical training in their respective cadres.

    ***

    RK/VV/ASH/PS

    (Release ID: 2064671) Visitor Counter : 58

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley Announce $37 Million in Federal Funds for Oregon to Replace Unsafe Drinking Water Infrastructure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 14, 2024
    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $37 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace lead and copper water pipes across Oregon that have been known to cause serious health issues.
    “The science is clear – there is no safe level of lead in drinking water,” Wyden said. “I am very grateful to see more than $37 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law ensure that Oregonians always have access to clean drinking water in our schools, homes, and places of work. This funding proves that investing in infrastructure means investing in the health and wellbeing of Oregonians for generations to come.”
    “Oregonians in every corner of the state should be able to turn on their tap without fear of lead contamination in their drinking water,” Merkley said. “These federal funds will allow for the replacement of lead pipes around the state and improve our water infrastructure systems—a top concern I hear about in the town halls I hold in every county in Oregon. I’ll continue to do all I can ensure every community in Oregon and across the U.S. has reliable access to safe, clean drinking water.”
    The federal investment is through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, and is intended to help replace all lead water pipes from Oregon’s water supply within the next 10 years.
    Wyden and Merkley have long been champions for more resources to address aging water infrastructure. In May, Wyden and Merkley announced $5.5 million to replace aging water delivery infrastructure in communities across Oregon. In addition, the senators have supported water pollution monitoring and wastewater upgrade projects for communities and tribes across Oregon. As chair of the Energy and Natural Resources’ Subcommittee on Water and Power, Wyden helped lead a coordinated set of hearings last year on drinking water issues to identify the federal and state jurisdictional areas that prevent addressing aging water infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, State Highway 1, Marton

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash that has blocked State Highway 1 at Marton.

    The crash involves an empty bus and a truck, and was reported about 8.50am. The road is blocked at the rail overbridge between Wings Line and Calico Line.

    Diversions are in place and motorists should expect delays.

    The Serious Crash Unit is attending.

    Information will be released proactively when we are in a position to do so.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash at Waterloo Corner

    Source: South Australia Police

    Major Crash officers are investigating a fatal crash at Waterloo Corner earlier this morning.

    Just after 12.15am on Tuesday 15 October, emergency services were called to the intersection of Port Wakefield Highway and McEvoy Road at Waterloo Corner after reports a concrete truck and a sedan collided.

    The driver of the white Lexus sedan, a 19-year-old woman from Buckland Park, sadly died at the scene.

    The driver of the truck was taken to hospital where he is being treated for minor injuries.  He is assisting police with their investigations.

    The intersection was closed for about five hours whilst Major Crash officers examined the scene, but the road has since reopened.

    The woman’s death is the 69th live lost on South Australian roads this year.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Lower Light

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating a serious crash at Lower Light earlier this morning.

    Just before 2.30am on Tuesday 15 October, police and emergency services were called to the intersection of Port Wakefield Highway and Richardson Road at Lower Light after reports a truck collided with a pedestrian.

    The pedestrian, a 29-year-old woman from Osborne, was taken to hospital where she is being treated for critical injuries.

    The driver of the truck, a 38-year-old man from Unley Park, was uninjured and was taken to hospital for mandatory testing.  The man is assisting police with their investigation.

    Port Wakefield Highway is currently closed for southbound traffic from Richardson Road and diversions are in place. Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

    Police are asking if anyone witnessed the collision or may have dashcam footage of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why FEMA’s disaster relief gets political − especially when hurricane season and election season collide

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jennifer Selin, Associate Professor of Law, Arizona State University

    President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the effects of Hurricane Milton on Oct. 10, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

    Rumors and lies about government responses to natural disasters are not new. Politics, misinformation and blame-shifting have long surrounded government response efforts.

    When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston in 2017, for example, rumors and misinformation both originated from and were spread by government, news and individual user accounts on social media. And after Hurricane Sandy in 2012, rumors about the storm were so widespread that even CNN’s live coverage of the event was inaccurate.

    Those rumors don’t usually come from former presidents. Yet in the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton, former President Donald Trump spread falsehoods about the federal government’s response to the disaster. Misinformation on the topic became so widespread that the Federal Emergency Management Agency, known as FEMA, set up a webpage to debunk the rumors spawned by Trump.

    President Joe Biden responded angrily, calling the falsehoods that Trump and his followers spread “reckless, irresponsible” and “disturbing.” He also suggested Trump’s claims undermined the rescue and recovery work being done by local, state and federal authorities.

    Disaster relief often becomes political because so many people are affected – and because there is a lot of media coverage surrounding hurricanes, floods and other major weather events. Additionally, relief requires a lot of money and coordination by high-profile elected officials.

    The rhetoric around federal emergency management is made only more complicated because most people do not know that much about the federal law that governs disaster relief. Indeed, even state and local officials find navigating the details of the law and accompanying regulations difficult.

    And finally, the law’s design and the timing of hurricane season can lead to politicization. Elected officials – politicians – are always involved in coordinating government response efforts, adding a layer of politics to disaster relief. The fact that hurricane and election seasons coincide only heightens the politics of such relief.

    Former President Donald Trump saying falsely that the Biden administration “stole a billion dollars” meant for disaster relief and used it to help immigrants.

    Explaining government responses to natural disasters

    The Disaster Relief Act of 1974, as amended and now known as the Stafford Act, is the law that governs how the federal government responds to natural disasters and other emergencies.

    But the act does not guarantee federal assistance to the communities affected by hurricanes or other natural disasters.

    Instead, the governor of an affected state or the chief executive of an affected tribal government must ask the president for a disaster declaration. The request can be made before or after a storm hits but must show that the disaster is of such a severity and magnitude that the state, local or tribal governments cannot respond on their own.

    Responding to such requests, Biden issued declarations covering eight states before and after Helene. He also issued a declaration for the Seminole Tribe and the state of Florida in response to Milton.

    After the president issues a declaration, the federal government can begin to assist state, local and tribal governments. This includes coordinating all disaster relief assistance – from evacuations to recovery – provided by federal agencies, private organizations such as the Red Cross, and state and local governments.

    Federal assistance can be financial or logistical. It covers everything from help repairing roads and restoring utility services to providing assistance and services, such as temporary housing, legal services and crisis counseling, to the people who have been affected by the disaster.

    The number of federal agencies and employees involved in disaster relief is astounding. For example, thousands of federal personnel from FEMA, the Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Protection Agency and the departments of Defense, Energy, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Transportation are helping respond to Helene and Milton.

    Several state and local officials also play key roles after a disaster declaration. Each state’s governor or tribe’s chief executive serves as the leading official for coordination of state and federal efforts. That person also designates an officer to serve as a liaison between the federal government and the state or tribe. And in each affected community, a local elected official leads the response on the ground. This is usually a city or town’s mayor.

    Federalism in action

    Implementation of the Stafford Act requires cooperative, healthy relationships between the president, federal agencies and state, local and tribal governments.

    When done well, government disaster response is a prime example of what’s called “federalism” in action. Federalism involves the sharing of power between the national and state governments. The framers of the United States Constitution created this system of shared power so that the national government could solve coordination and capacity problems among the states, and the state governments could respond to the nuances of local circumstances.

    In response to state government requests in the wake of Hurricane Helene, for example, Biden directed federal efforts to help those most affected. The federal government’s response has so far included working with over 450 state and local officials to ensure that those affected by the hurricane have everything from housing assistance to financial support for medical and funeral expenses.

    Politics in the mix

    The very things that the framers designed the federalist constitutional system to do, however, can create opportunities for political manipulation. The Stafford Act creates a system of emergency management that is highly decentralized and responsive to local needs.

    But that decentralization also means that, because of their different perspectives, the officials involved in disaster response prioritize different things, which can lead to conflict.

    For example, various officials involved in the response to Hurricane Helene have advocated for federal resources such as money and personnel to go toward restoring utilities, law enforcement, fire, health, communications and transportation services. How can the national government possibly choose between all of these necessary services?

    Everything is made more complicated because, as studies have shown, on average, the officials in charge of making such decisions – elected officials and their appointees – have less experience in government than the career civil servants who work on a daily basis with the people affected by natural disasters.

    As a result, the Stafford Act’s decision to place elected officials and their appointees in charge of emergency management could reduce the quality of government response.

    Members of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue task force search a flood-damaged area in Asheville, N.C., in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on Oct. 4, 2024.
    Mario Tama/Getty Images

    Debating size and role of government

    Elected officials’ different political leanings add another wrinkle. Debates over disaster response often reflect larger political debates such as those over the size and role of government.

    The history of the Stafford Act provides an illustrative example. Traditionally, disaster relief was the responsibility of state and local government. But a series of natural disasters, including the Alaska earthquake in 1964 and hurricanes Betsy in 1965 and Camille in 1969, were so large in scale that the federal government had to step in and help.

    In the aftermath of Camille, accusations of racial discrimination in the relief process and partisan squabbling over who was to blame for the ineffectiveness of the government’s response to the disaster mounted. Media and congressional attention on government mismanagement of the relief effort created a window for the expansion of the federal government’s role in the process and ultimately led to the passage of the first version of the Stafford Act.

    Fast-forward 35 years and many of the same issues – racial discrimination, government mismanagement and politicization of relief – arose in 2005 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Media and congressional attention led to legislation that amended the Stafford Act and restructured FEMA and how the federal government responds to state and tribal requests for assistance.

    Trump’s lies are from the same playbook – false claims about money being diverted to migrants and that relief efforts are being used only to help areas where Democrats live.

    Yet the devastation left by Helene and Milton do raise questions about local and federal coordination in preparation for and response to natural disasters and has led to calls for Congress to pass reforms to improve equity, efficiency and effectiveness in government responses to natural disasters. Whether this reform is possible in such a contentious political climate remains an open question.

    Jennifer L. Selin has received funding and/or support for her research on the executive branch from the Administrative Conference of the United States. The views in this piece are those of the author and do not represent the position of the Administrative Conference or the federal government.

    – ref. Why FEMA’s disaster relief gets political − especially when hurricane season and election season collide – https://theconversation.com/why-femas-disaster-relief-gets-political-especially-when-hurricane-season-and-election-season-collide-241092

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina

    Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina
    mseets

    An unprecedented response to damage caused by Hurricane Helene continues in Western North Carolina. State, federal and local response workers are working around the clock to surge assistance into the region.

    Law enforcement is working to ensure the safety of responders amid reports of threats and misinformation. FEMA officials remain in communities and will resume door-to-door operations to help people impacted by these storms recover as quickly as possible following reports of threats on the ground. Governor Roy Cooper has directed the Department of Public Safety to work with local law enforcement to identify specific threats and rumors and coordinate with FEMA and other partners to ensure the safety and security of all involved as this recovery effort continues.

    “State, federal and local response workers, including FEMA, are working around the clock to bring assistance to western North Carolina,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “We know that significant misinformation online contributes to threats against response workers on the ground, and the safety of responders must be a priority. At my direction, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety is helping partners like FEMA to coordinate with law enforcement to ensure their safety and security as they continue their important work.”

    North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

    Approximately 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen are working in Western North Carolina. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, the task force led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities are working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to people in Western North Carolina.

    National Guard and military personnel are operating 11 aviation assets and more than 1,200 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through this website.

    FEMA Assistance

    More than $96 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western North Carolina disaster survivors and more than 160,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Approximately 4,600 households are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance.

    1,000+ FEMA staff are in the state to help with the Western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.

    The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

    North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

    Help from Other States

    More than 1,500 responders from 38 state and local agencies have performed 135 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.

    Beware of Misinformation

    North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout Western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.

    Shelters

    A total of 13 shelters are open in Western North Carolina supporting over 560 people.

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Power Outages

    Across Western North Carolina, approximately 19,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with hundreds of roads closed. Many of these roads are primary routes connecting the region.

    NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for those traveling in the region. North Carolinians can visit DriveNC.Gov for the latest roadway conditions. NCDOT currently has approximately 2,100 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on approximately 6,700 damaged road sites.

    Fatalities

    Ninety-five storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911.

    Volunteers and Donations

    Due to dangerous road conditions and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is difficult. Consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    • If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate. Donations will help to support local nonprofits working on the ground.
    • For information on volunteer opportunities, please visit nc.gov/volunteernc

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    ###

    Oct 14, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moncton — Missing 43-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Codiac Regional RCMP is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 43-year-old man from Moncton, N.B.

    Ronald John Carr was last seen on October 13, 2024, at approximately 3:30 p.m., on MacBeath Avenue in Moncton. He was reported missing to police the same day. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate him, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police are concerned for his wellbeing.

    Ronald John Carr is described as being approximately 5 feet, 10 inches (178 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 231 pounds (105 kilograms). He has brown eyes and is bald. He was last seen wearing black shorts. He has tattoos on his neck and arms.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Codiac Regional RCMP at 506-857-2400.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Justice visits New River Gorge National Park & Preserve to celebrate continued growth and investment

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    LANSING, WV — Gov. Jim Justice visited New River Gorge National Park & Preserve to celebrate continued growth and investment. Additionally, Gov. Justice announced that this year’s Bridge Day attendance is expected to reach record numbers.

    As West Virginia’s largest single-day festival, Bridge Day attracts thousands to the New River Gorge Bridge each third Saturday in October for thrilling base-jumping, rappelling, and various festivities.

    To accommodate the growing visitation numbers of Bridge Day and the New River Gorge National Park, Gov. Justice cut the ribbon on an expanded parking facility for the Endless Wall Trail. This new parking lot will enhance safety and accessibility for visitors, allowing for a smoother experience as they explore one of the park’s most popular hiking destinations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police acknowledge IPCA findings following Kaeo operation

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police acknowledge the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority into the use of force during a Police operation in Kaeo.

    In the early hours of 12 January 2023, Police attended a Kaeo property to locate a man who had warrants for his arrest.

    Armed Offenders Squad members attended the address given there was information the man wanted to arrest was in possession of a firearm.

    During the operation, Police staff encountered a male occupant of the address who continued to yell abuse despite being told he would be arrested for obstruction.

    This male refused to comply with Police instructions and was ultimately pulled from the house, taken to the ground, and was arrested.

    In its findings the IPCA found the officer used reasonable and proportionate force to pull the man out of the house and to restrain him.

    An independent investigation was unable to determine what caused the man’s head injury and there was no evidence of excessive force. 

    The IPCA also found the Police policy on head injuries had not been followed in this instance.

    Northland District Commander Superintendent Matt Srhoj says: “Alongside the Authority’s independent investigation, Police also carried out an investigation into the complaint.

    “Our investigation’s findings were reviewed by the IPCA, to which they were in agreeance.”

    Police acknowledge that a medical practitioner should have been called to assess Mr X’s head injury, as required in policy.

    “As a result, we have worked to address this finding and implemented a process to prevent this from happening again,” Superintendent Srhoj says.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Statement by President Joe  Biden Marking One Year Since the Killing of Wadee  Alfayoumi

    Source: The White House

    On October 14th, one year ago today, six-year-old Wadee Alfayoumi, a bright and cheerful American Muslim boy of Palestinian descent, was brutally killed in his family’s home in Plainfield, Illinois. The attacker also repeatedly stabbed and seriously wounded Wadee’s mother, Hanan Shaheen, resulting in murder, attempted murder, and hate crime charges in Illinois. After this heinous attack, Jill and I spoke with their family, as did Vice President Harris. We joined Americans from across the country in expressing our horror and offering our condolences and prayers.

    One year later, we continue to think about them. We are grateful for Hanan’s recovery and her powerful voice for peace. But we know the hole in their heart that remains without their beloved son. Days like this are hard because it brings it all back. We keep them in our hearts.

    On this day, let us all take steps that honor Wadee’s memory and reaffirm together that there is no place for hate in America, including hatred of Palestinians, Arabs, and Muslims. We can all reject hatred and expose misinformation and disinformation that is cynically aimed at turning us against one another. We can all reach across divides of background and belief to create greater understanding and unity in our country. No one in this country should be subjected to violence or hateful and dehumanizing rhetoric simply because of who they are. No one of any background in this country should be made to feel unsafe in America.  

    Today, we also reaffirm our commitment to mobilize government to counter hate in all its forms. In May 2021, I signed into law the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, which includes the Khalid Jabara and Heather Heyer NO HATE Act, to enhance hate crime data collection and provide community-centered solutions to assist hate crime victims and their communities. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has elevated hate crimes and criminal civil rights violations to its highest-level national threat priority, which has increased the resources for hate crimes prevention and investigations and made hate crimes a focus for all of the Bureau’s field offices. My Administration will continue to spare no effort in countering hate in all its forms.

    Together, we must work to end acts of senseless violence and stand united in support of all of our fellow Americans, no matter their race, ethnicity, or creed. May we summon the courage and the strength to do so. 

    May God bless Wadee Alfayoumi and his family.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Takes New Actions to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab  Hate

    Source: The White House

    Over the past year, the Biden-Harris Administration has continued to take action to fight hatred and violence against Muslim and Arab communities. Members of these communities, including Palestinian Americans, have been murdered or wounded in hate-fueled attacks; shot and subjected to other assaults as they simply walked down streets; bullied at schools, including by having their religious head coverings ripped off; and denied jobs, harassed, or demoted at work merely because of their faith or ethnicity.

    President Biden and Vice President Harris are leading efforts to bring about much-needed change and have repeatedly condemned such violence, discrimination, and bias. These efforts are part of a larger Administration initiative to counter hate in all its forms, to keep every community safe, to promote equal justice, and to afford all Americans a fair shot at success. For generations, Muslim and Arab Americans have contributed to the enrichment and prosperity of our nation through their public, military, and community service, in addition to many other invaluable contributions. And like all Americans, they are entitled to the promise and opportunities of our great nation.

    Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is highlighting some actions taken as part of its forthcoming National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Hatred Against Arabs in the United States, including important steps to address daily concerns regarding safety and discrimination, as well as issues related to travel. The Administration will continue to lead a whole-of-government and a whole-of society effort to counter hate.

    Completed executive branch actions that are part of the forthcoming Strategy include:

    Improving Safety and Security

    • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) have completed an unclassified assessment on violent threats facing Muslim and Arab communities in the United States. The assessment will be published this week, and is the first of what will be an annual assessment by these agencies regarding threats facing these communities.
    • Since 2021, DOJ has awarded over $100 million in grants to law enforcement and prosecution agencies, community-based organizations, and civil rights groups to address hate crimes through outreach, investigations, prosecutions, community awareness and preparedness, reporting, hotlines, and victim services. This figure includes nearly $30 million in grants announced last month.
    • DOJ continues to support law enforcement agencies’ transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). Beginning in January 2021, NIBRS became the national standard for law enforcement crime data reporting in the United States and the transition to NIBRS represented a significant improvement in how reported crime is measured and estimated by the federal government. Since 2015, DOJ’s Bureau of Justice Assistance and the FBI have provided more than $150 million to law enforcement agencies and state Uniform Crime Programs to support their transitions to NIBRS.
    • The DOJ Civil Rights Division continues to prosecute Islamophobic and other hate crimes, including hate crimes directed at students on campus. Last week, a New Jersey man pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime for breaking into the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, during the Eid-al-Fitr holiday and damaging and destroying religious artifacts because of the Islamic faith of those associated with the facility.
    • DOJ’s United Against Hate initiative, led by all 94 United States Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs), combats unlawful acts of hate by teaching community members how to identify, report, and help prevent hate crimes and by building trust between law enforcement and communities. To date, at least 45 USAOs have engaged directly with Muslim communities.
    • Attorney General Garand directed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and all 94 USAOs across the country to work with local law enforcement and community leaders to protect communities from hate-fueled violence in the last year and recently reaffirmed DOJ’s commitment to combat the disturbing rise in the volume and frequency of threats against Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian as well as Jewish communities here in the United States. DOJ created a webpage aimed at raising awareness of resources for addressing these threats, and it will continue to publicize its efforts.
    • During the September 2024 Protecting Places of Worship Week of Action, the DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships and White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships hosted workshops to encourage partnerships to take collective action against hate-based violence, including Islamophobic violence and hate crimes against Arabs. This emphasis included promotion of a guide to applying for Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding.
    • DHS has announced that it will distribute $210 million in Nonprofit Security Grant Program funds as the second tranche of additional funding the Biden-Harris Administration secured to protect faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations against targeted attacks. This funding opportunity will be made available in late October.

    Tackling Discrimination and Bias

    • The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has published the Workplace Rights Federal Toolkit, a compilation of resources for employees of the federal government regarding their workplace rights, including information about their rights to nondiscrimination and religious accommodation.
    • The Department of Labor sent a letter to American Job Centers and other public workforce entities reminding them about their legal obligations to enforce prohibitions on discrimination based on actual or perceived religion, shared ancestry, or ethnic characteristics — including Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and related forms of discrimination – in federally funded activities and programs. The letter also included a fact sheet with examples of these forms of discrimination in the workforce development system.
    • DOJ issued a fact sheet titled Confronting Discrimination Based on Religion in Schools: A Resource for Students and Families, which discusses scenarios involving students’ rights to pray and wear religious attire in schools.
    • ED’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a Fact Sheet on Harassment based on Race, Color, or National Origin on School Campuses, reminding schools of their federal civil rights obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) to take prompt and effective action to respond to harassment that creates a hostile environment. ED OCR continues to investigate and resolve claims of shared ancestry discrimination under Title VI at schools. For example, ED OCR recently entered into a resolution agreement with the Ann Arbor Public Schools in Michigan to address concerns about a hostile environment for students based on shared Muslim/Arab Palestinian ancestry.
    • The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued a letter to the over 200 federally-funded Fair Housing Initiatives Programs and Fair Housing Assistance Programs on how to identify and counter Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and related forms of bias and discrimination in housing. Also, HUD created a webpage on protections against housing discrimination on the basis of religion, shared ancestry, or ethnic characteristics, which include the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
    • The Department of Transportation (DOT) provided a number of resources related to travelers’ rights and opportunities to file a complaint when there may be an instance of discrimination by airlines or recipients of federal funding, including discrimination on the basis of religion or national origin. The Passengers’ Right to Fly Free from Discrimination is a guide designed to explain DOT’s role in protecting aviation passengers from unlawful discrimination. Similarly, the Guidance for Airline Personnel on Non-discrimination in Air Travel assists airline personnel in understanding their legal obligations not to discriminate against passengers. For example, this guidance notes that it is impermissible to remove a passenger from a flight simply because he is holding a book that appears to be a Quran.
    • DOJ sent a letter to state, county, and municipal officials reminding them of the obligation of public officials to comply with the land use provisions of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) and to inform them about documents issued by DOJ that may be of assistance to them in applying this federal civil rights law. RLUIPA is a federal law that protects people and religious institutions from discriminatory and overly burdensome land use regulations. For example, DOJ recently filed a complaint and consent decree in United States v. Hendricks County, settling allegations that Hendricks County violated RLUIPA and the Fair Housing Act by twice unlawfully denying zoning approval to an Islamic educational organization that sought to develop a religious seminary, school, and housing on land in Hendricks County.
    • Some Americans, including many Muslims and Arabs, have documented how financial institutions use de-risking, a practice to terminate or restrict business relationships indiscriminately with broad categories of clients rather than analyzing and managing the risks of clients in a targeted manner. To help address de-risking, the U.S. Treasury Department has published its National De-Risking Strategy. The Treasury Department also has issued a proposed rule to improve the effectiveness of how banks manage potential risks associated with anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism in a risk-based manner, while avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches that can lead to financial institutions declining to provide financial services to entire categories of customers.

    Addressing Issues Related to Travel

    • On January 20, 2021, President Biden rescinded the previous administration’s discriminatory Muslim Ban, which included many Arab countries and was inconsistent with our nation’s foundation of religious freedom for all. At President Biden’s direction, the U.S. Department of State conducted a review of visa applications and has taken various corrective actions to process applications that were impacted by the prior travel ban, including reconsidering previously denied applications and implementing a one-time fee credit for certain applicants.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pennington shop deliberately damaged

    Source: South Australia Police

    Detectives are investigating after damage was caused to a gift shop and then deliberately set alight.

    Just before 5am on Tuesday 15 October, a member of the public reported a shop on fire on Addison Road at Pennington.

    MFS crews attended and extinguished the flames believed to be caused by accelerant used on a mattress at the front of the business premises.

    It appears that a vehicle may have been driven into the front of the shop prior to the building being set alight, causing significant damage to the building structure.

    Crime Scene officers will be attending to examine the scene this morning.

    If anyone saw any suspicious activity in the area or has information that may assist are asked to contact Crime Stoppers.  You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Five people rescued in three separate incidents on Mt Taranaki

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are reminding anyone planning an adventure outdoors to plan for the worst, after a busy weekend rescuing five people on Mount Taranaki.

    The first call for help came about 4am on Saturday, when Police were notified of three people stuck on the mountain at an altitude of 2300 metres.

    “Time was of the essence to reach them as the temperature was in the negatives with wind gusts of 40-50kmh,” Sergeant Wade Callander said.

    Taranaki Rescue Helicopter assisted the Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue team in reaching the trio.

    One person had hypothermia and all three were assisted in walking to a nearby lodge, where Taranaki Search and Rescue was waiting to transport the party down the mountain to get medical attention.

    About 12pm, while that rescue was unfolding, Police were alerted to a personal locator beacon activation near the summit of the mountain.

    “We established one person had taken a 250-metre-long fall, resulting in a leg injury.”

    With teams from Taranaki Search and Rescue and Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue still involved in the first incident, teams from Whanganui/National Park Search and Rescue and the Ruapehu Alpine Cliff Rescue were called to assist with the second.

    The Ruapehu Alpine Cliff Rescue team was able to extract the person, who was flown by helicopter to a nearby lodge.

    The Taranaki Rescue Helicopter then transported the person to hospital for treatment for their leg injury.

    “As the Taranaki Alpine Cliff Rescue team were coming down the mountain from the second incident, they came across another member of the public in distress. They were underprepared for their intended route, and the team helped them walk down the mountain,” Sergeant Callander said.

    “Although we are pleased to have pleased to have provided a fast and swift response to help these five people get back home and safe, these incidents are a reminder to the public that the mountain is a dangerous place.”

    Climbing on Mount Taranaki requires experience, knowledge, and properly fitted and correct equipment.

    “Even the most experienced people can get caught up in situations where they need assistance.”

    Any day trip has the potential to turn into an overnight situation and those wanting to go on an alpine climb need to consider if they have the right equipment to keep them safe if something happens, Sergeant Callander says.

    To ensure your safety, make sure to consider the following precautions:

    • Choose the right trip for you – Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
    • Understand the weather – It can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.
    • Pack warm clothes and extra food – Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.
    • Share your plans and take ways to get help – Telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.
    • Take care of yourself and each other – Eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.

    Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.

    If you have purchased a beacon, make sure you register it at beacons.org.nz.

    For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to Know Before You Go – AdventureSmart – NZ Search & Rescue Council | AdventureSmart

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Justice debuts Heritage Highway as newest route of West Virginia’s Mountain Rides Program

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    GHENT, WV — Gov. Justice held a celebration today to debut Heritage Highway, the newest route of the West Virginia Mountain Rides program. 

    Heritage Highway, a scenic loop that leads travelers throughout the southern region of the state, marks the fifth route of the West Virginia Mountain Rides program, a collaborative partnership between the West Virginia Department of Transportation and the West Virginia Department of Tourism to designate and promote the Mountain State’s most scenic country roads. 

    “Southern West Virginia holds a very special place in my heart, and I’m excited that our newest Mountain Ride route will give folks an opportunity to see its beauty firsthand,” Gov. Justice said. “Right now is the perfect time to get out and hit our country roads because the fall views are unlike any other. There’s nothing quite like taking the scenic route, and West Virginia has some of the most beautiful ones around.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, SH1, Waiouru

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 1 is blocked by a serious crash involving a vehicle and a truck.

    At least one person has critical injuries.

    The crash was reported about 11.05am, and happened south of Waiouru, between Hassett Drive and Waiaruhe Road.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

    Traffic management is being arranged, but motorists are advised to expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Death – Lajamanu

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are investigating an alleged domestic violence stabbing death that occurred yesterday in Lajamanu.

    Around 6:20pm, police received a report of a seriously injured 42-year-old woman at the local clinic with a large crowd gathered. Police attended the location and the woman was declared deceased a short time later.

    It is believed she was stabbed with an edged weapon.

    The 46-year-old male partner of the woman was arrested nearby after being allegedly assaulted by unknown community members. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries and remains in custody.

    Two crime scenes have been declared, and Major Crime detectives have taken over the investigation.

    The 46-year-old is expected to be charged in relation to the death later this evening.

    Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police is urged to contact 131 444 or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 14.10.2024 deposit auction of JSC “KAVKAZ.RF” will be held (2)

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n73939

    Category24-7, MIL-AXIS, Moscow, Moskov Stotsk Exchange, Russians Savings, Russian Federation, Russians Language, Russian economy

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    Parameters
    Date of the deposit auction 10/14/2024
    Placement currency RUB
    Maximum amount of funds placed (in placement currency) 381,464,000.00
    Placement period, days 34
    Date of deposit 10/15/2024
    Refund date 11/18/2024
    Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum 20.50
    Conditions of imprisonment, urgent or special Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in placement currency) 381,464,000.00
    Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1
    Auction form, open or closed Open
    Basis of the Agreement General Agreement
     
    Schedule (Moscow time)
    Preliminary applications from 10:30 to 10:40
    Applications in competition mode from 10:40 to 10:45
    Setting a cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid until 10:55
       
    Additional terms  

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: On 14.10.2024, the deposit auction of UK FRT LLC will take place

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n73943

    Category24-7, MIL-AXIS, Moscow, Moskov Stotsk Exchange, Russians Savings, Russian Federation, Russians Language, Russian economy

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    Archives

    Archives Privations of the Police Proudly would trust WordPress

    Parameters
    Date of the deposit auction 10/14/2024
    Placement currency RUB
    Maximum amount of funds placed (in placement currency) 415,000,000.00
    Placement period, days 15
    Date of deposit 10/14/2024
    Refund date 10/29/2024
    Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum 19.00
    Conditions of imprisonment, urgent or special Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in placement currency) 415,000,000.00
    Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1
    Auction form, open or closed Open
    Basis of the Agreement General Agreement
     
    Schedule (Moscow time)
    Preliminary applications from 12:30 to 12:40
    Applications in competition mode from 12:40 to 12:45
    Setting a cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid until 12:55
       
    Additional terms  

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh interacts with students from J&K on Bharat Darshan tour;

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh interacts with students from J&K on Bharat Darshan tour;

    He advises them to imbibe new technologies and learn about new StartUp avenues for better future

    Posted On: 13 OCT 2024 6:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (I/C) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today hosted a luncheon interaction with students from Jammu & Kashmir. These children are in Delhi under Bharat Darshan programme of Government of India, which is being conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

    Dr Jitendra Singh was impressed with their inquisitiveness, observation skills, IQ level and advised them to imbibe new technologies, learn about new StartUp avenues and get acquainted with new developments in different segments of society, especially science and technology, biochemistry, artificial intelligence and space technology. He urged students to use their smartphones to attain information and knowledge.

    He spoke about different schemes of the Government of India, including Pradhanmantri Vishwakarma Yojana, which would help them in acquiring and enhancing the skill of their forefathers.

    The Minister informed them about women-run self help groups in J&K who are working on doubling apple yield and increasing the shelf life of these. He also informed about the Purple Revolution benefitting the youth of J&K who not only grow lavender but also distil perfume and oil out of it thereby earning handsomely.

    Dr Jitendra Singh asked children to request their teachers to reach them with new perspectives and incorporate new ideas in their teachings. He also requested J&K Police officers, part of the troupe, to organise such workshops for the teachers that would be beneficial for the students.

    There were around 70 students along with seven officials of the J&K Police. Around half of them are from the families of those who were killed in action. These students first went to Bengaluru where they visited among others Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, Bengaluru. The tour began on October 09, 2024. They are travelling by air and will fly back tomorrow.

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     NKR/DK

    (Release ID: 2064529) Visitor Counter : 54

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –