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  • MIL-OSI USA: “The Character of the Country is on the Line” Warnock Calls for GOP to Protect 16 Million Americans Who Risk Losing Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    “The Character of the Country is on the Line” Warnock Calls for GOP to Protect 16 Million Americans Who Risk Losing Health Care

    Watch the full floor speech  HERE
     Senator Reverend Warnock: “Your health care is about to go up. Your hospital might close because they’re cutting these clean energy tax cuts, your utility bills are about to go up. And so I have a question tonight, who voted for that?”
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) went to the floor of the United States Senate to call on his GOP colleagues to reject the GOP tax bill that will kick over 16 million Americans off their health care. Full video is available  HERE.
    “And in some ways, this is the same bill eight years later, just worse,” said Senator Reverend Warnock, comparing this moment to the 2017 tax bill. “Like most horror movies, the sequel tends to be worse. We were here eight years ago. Washington politicians were trying their best to gut the Affordable Care Act. Remember that? They were trying to gut Obamacare out of political motives. Millions of Americans were spared. But tonight is the sequel to that horror movie. They are back to their own political tricks, trying to dismantle the ACA again, with this legislation. It’s the same fight, just worse this time.”
    “If they enact these deep cuts to Medicaid, as they are positioned not to extend these tax credits, they are raising the cost of health care for all of us,” continued Senator Reverend Warnock. “Even if you are on private insurance, you are not safe. Your health care is about to go up. Your hospital might close because they’re cutting these clean energy tax cuts, your utility bills are about to go up. And so I have a question tonight, who voted for that?…Who voted for everybody’s health care premiums to go up and their hospitals to be closed? Here’s what I know. Folks back in Georgia didn’t vote for that. They voted for me, and they voted for Donald Trump, but they didn’t vote for that.”
    “This is symptomatic of the ways in which the people’s voices have been squeezed out of their democracy,” continued Senator Reverend Warnock. “This is not just a health care fight, it is that. It is not just a fight for food security, for SNAP, it is that. But in a real sense, it is a fight for our democracy. Whose voice gets to be heard in this chamber? That’s what this is about—the character of the country.”
    Now, let me be clear, I’m all for tax cuts. I believe working families deserve a tax cut, and I certainly don’t want to see them face a tax hike this year,” continued Senator Reverend Warnock. “That’s why I want to nearly double the child tax credit. I believe in tax cuts for hard-working families, for middle-class people, for working-class families. But instead of doing that, instead of helping working-class families who are struggling now against a 10% tax on everything, rising costs, we’re now burdening our children by adding $3 trillion to the debt. We’re taking away health care from kids and then burdening them with the debt.
    “When the people hear about what’s in this Big Ugly Bill, they don’t like it…” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The American people do not want to rob our children of food and health care, and then burn them with trillions in debt to give billionaires and wealthy corporations another tax cut….And so if the people do not want this bill, if they are trying to pass it. Here’s the question you got to ask yourselves at home, you have to ask yourselves, well, who are they working for? Who are they fighting for? Who do they think matters? Do you think they are working for you?”
    The Senator’s speech comes a day after he held a vigil with a multi-faith coalition of clergy to pray that GOP lawmakers have the courage to stand up for their constituents and vote against the GOP tax bill. The Senator was arrested in 2017, before he was elected to the Senate, along with a coalition of multi-faith leaders, while protesting the GOP tax bill during the first Trump Administration. 
    A full and unofficial transcript is availabe below. Watch the full speech  HERE.
    Madam President, I rise tonight in a moral moment in our nation. As we debate this bill, so much is on the line. The health care of over 16 million Americans, 750,000 of them Georgians, is on the line. Food for hungry children in a wealthy nation where one in five children are already food insecure—they don’t know where the next meal is coming from—their livelihood, their welfare, is on the line. The well-being of seniors in nursing homes and the disabled who rely on Medicaid and those who care for them is on the line. The state of rural hospitals in Georgia, in Alaska, in Louisiana, in little towns all over this nation that are right now barely hanging on is on the line, and the scraps that they are throwing them while cutting them will not save them.
    My friends on the other side of the aisle know it. They know that these scraps that they’re throwing at rural hospitals will not save them. And so in a very real sense, lives are on the line.
    We are in a moral moment because something else is on the line. I submit that the character of the country is on the line.
    In a real sense, the question tonight is, who are we? Not who we tell ourselves we are, but who are we really? What and who do we care about? What kind of nation are we? What kind of people do we want to be? Who matters and who doesn’t? What do we think is dispensable?
    In no place is the answer to that question clearer than in a nation’s budget. I submit that a budget is not just a fiscal document, a budget is a moral document. Show me your budget, and I’ll show you who you think matters and who doesn’t.
    If this awful budget were an EKG, it would suggest that our nation has a heart problem and is in need of moral certainty.
    And so I’m clear tonight. I understand the nature of what we are engaged in. This is a political process, it is, but it is also a moral exercise, not only for the nation, but for each of us, individually, and especially for the mere 100 of us out of a nation of 300 million who get to vote, perhaps in a matter of hours.
    We have the rare privilege of standing up for the people who have entrusted with us the covenant of centering their families. It’s a real privilege for the people of your state to say that since we can’t all go to Washington, we’re going to trust you in rules of power to be thinking about our children, to be thinking about our parents as they deal with the blessings and the burdens of growing old.
    So the question for me tonight is, how will we show up in this moment?
    That’s why yesterday, I gathered in the Russell Rotunda with a multi-faith coalition of clergy to pray that lawmakers might have the courage to stand up to their party, stand up to the special interests and protect seniors in nursing homes and pregnant mothers on Medicaid and children who risk going to school hungry every single day in this country. One in five children in the wealthiest nation on the planet already food insecure, and with these SNAP cuts, this body is about to make it worse.
    And so, surrounded by clergy of many faith traditions, yesterday, I prayed that we would have the courage, prayed that we would have the grace to stand as voices for the voiceless. And as I stood there, I could not help but feel a sense of deja vu. This is not the first time I’ve been in our nation’s Capitol speaking out against these policies that betray hard-working families. It was eight years ago, almost to the day in 2017 when Washington Republicans were trying to pass a tax bill that favored wealthy Americans over working families, that I came to this building, not as a senator, but as a pastor. I had no idea that eight years later I would be serving in this body. I had no notion that I would even run for the Senate. I came as a citizen, standing with a multi-faith coalition. We were praying for our nation’s leaders. We were gathered in the rotunda of the Russell building, and as we were singing and praying, the Capitol Police said, “I’m sorry, pastors, you can’t sing and pray in the rotunda. If you do not disperse, we will have to arrest you.”
    And let me say that the Capitol Police did not mishandle us that day. They were first-rate professionals. They said that if you don’t disperse, we will have to arrest you. What they didn’t understand is that I had already been arrested. My conscience had been arrested, my heart and my imagination, my moral imagination, had been arrested by this idea that we as a country are better than this.
    I come from a tradition where you don’t just pray with your lips, you pray with your legs, put your body in the struggle for other struggling bodies. So here I am tonight, eight years later, having transformed my agitation into legislation, I was arrested that day, but I have transformed my protest into public policy.
    Eight years ago, I was on the outside. Tonight, I’m on the inside, but it’s the same fight. Some of us fight on the inside, some of us fight on the outside. Some of us get to serve in the Senate or in the House. Others are just watching at home tonight, but be really clear that we are in the same fight—whether we are on the streets or in the suites, same fight.
    And in some ways, this is the same bill eight years later, just worse. Like most horror movies, the sequel tends to be worse. We were here eight years ago. Washington politicians were trying their best to gut the Affordable Care Act. Remember that? They were trying to gut Obamacare out of political motives. Millions of Americans were spared. But tonight is the sequel to that horror movie. They are back to their own political tricks, trying to dismantle the ACA again, with this legislation. It’s the same fight, just worse this time.
    Instead of extending tax credits that would lower health insurance costs for the middle class, my friends on the other side are giving billionaires and the richest of the rich a tax cut. They are working real hard tonight to help billionaires, because God knows that they are having a hard time, apparently.
    What that means is that 1.2 million Georgians and nearly 20 million Americans are going to see their health care premiums rise. That’s what’s at stake tonight.
    If they enact these deep cuts to Medicaid, as they are positioned not to extend these tax credits, they are raising the cost of health care for all of us. Even if you are on private insurance, you are not safe. Your health care is about to go up. Your hospital might close because they’re cutting these clean energy tax cuts, your utility bills are about to go up. And so I have a question tonight, who voted for that?
    Some of us are Democrats, some of us are Republicans, some of us are independent. Some voted for one party, some voted for the other party. I get it, but who voted for that? Who voted for everybody’s health care premiums to go up and their hospitals to be closed?
    Here’s what I know. Folks back in Georgia didn’t vote for that. They voted for me, and they voted for Donald Trump, but they didn’t vote for that.
    Ordinary folks don’t want this. There’s ordinary, everyday people who who barely pay attention to politics. They don’t want this. Even a Fox News poll, and you won’t often hear me say that, but even a Fox News poll from this month found that Americans don’t support this Big Ugly Bill.
    This is symptomatic of the ways in which the people’s voices have been squeezed out of their democracy. This is not just a health care fight, it is that. It is not just a fight for food security, for SNAP, it is that. But in a real sense, it is a fight for our democracy. Whose voice gets to be heard in this chamber? That’s what this is about—the character of the country.
    Ordinary Americans don’t want to do this to our children. That’s why they need to know that 71% of all Medicaid enrollees in Georgia are children. 71%. Taking away health care from kids to pay for tax cuts for billionaires.
    Now, let me be clear, I’m all for tax cuts. I believe working families deserve a tax cut, and I certainly don’t want to see them face a tax hike this year. That’s why I want to nearly double the child tax credit. I believe in tax cuts for hard-working families, for middle class people, for working-class families.
    But instead of doing that, instead of helping working class families who are struggling now against a 10% tax on everything, rising costs, we’re now burdening our children by adding $3 trillion to the debt. We’re taking away health care from kids and then burdening them with the debt. We are engaged in Robin Hood in reverse, this body, of stealing from the poor in order to give to the rich. This massive transfer of wealth from the bottom to the to the top. This is socialism for the rich.
    When the people hear about it, guess what? They don’t like it, Democrats and Republicans and Independents. When the people hear about what’s in this Big Ugly Bill, they don’t like it. That’s why the folks on the other side are trying their best to fast-track it. That’s why they’re trying to pass it and they haven’t even finished writing it—twisting themselves in knots, making their members walk the plank under the threat of a primary to pass this Big Ugly Bill.
    The American people do not want to rob our children of food and health care, and then burn them with trillions in debt to give billionaires and wealthy corporations another tax cut. The people do not want this bill.
    And so if the people do not want this bill, if they are trying to pass it. Here’s the question you got to ask yourselves at home, you have to ask yourselves, well, who are they working for? Who are they fighting for? Who do they think matters? Do you think they are working for you?
    This is a moral moment and a budget is a moral document. We have been summoned to this moment, people of faith and people of moral courage who claim no particular faith at all. Maybe because I was here yesterday and eight years ago for a similar fight with faith leaders. Maybe because I’m a preacher, and it’s Sunday, and I’ve been here instead of church, I have especially been thinking about those of us who are people of faith. People whose lives are informed by scripture, people of the book. And maybe those of us who have different politics but read from the same book ought to spend some time together reading the book, because I do sometimes wonder, and I say this with all humility, none of us owns the truth. But if I’m honest, there are days when I have to ask people of my faith tradition as a Christian, are we reading the same book?
    The book I know says, I was hungry and you fed me. I was sick, I was in prison, and you visited me. I was a stranger, and you welcomed me. In as much as you’ve done it to the least of these, you’ve done it also unto me. The book that I love says, learn to do good, seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow, speak out for those who cannot. Speak for the rights of the destitute. Speak out. Judge righteously. Defend the rights of the poor and the needy. My book says whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord and will be repaid in full. The prophet Amos condemns those who buy the poor for silver and the needy for a pair of sandals. They sell the poor out and working class people for cheap.
    For those of us who have a vote in this moment, my colleagues, who are swinging on a moral dilemma, I hear the prophet Micah say he has already told you what is good. What does the Lord require that you do justice, love, kindness, walk humbly with your God.
    May God be with our nation and grant us grace, wisdom and courage for this moment.
    Madam President, I yield the floor.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Convicted supplier of fake tobacco in Portsmouth has been ordered to pay

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Two members of staff from Fratton Food Store in Portsmouth have been convicted for their roles in supplying counterfeit and smuggled tobacco products.

     

    Following the previous sentencing, Portsmouth City Council Trading Standards carried out a financial investigation into the two store owners, Mr. Salar Karim Karam and Mr. Ali Kader Ismi to find out how much financial gain had been made from the illegal activities, leading to final conviction.

    On Wednesday 11 June 2025, at Portsmouth Crown Court, Mr Salar Karim Karam was handed a Proceeds of Crime Act ‘Confiscation Order’ totalling £27,260.20 for contributing to the supply of over 45,000 counterfeit cigarettes from Fratton Food Store in Portsmouth. Karam has 3 months to pay this order or face 12 months in prison. Portsmouth City Council’s Trading Standards service brought this action and were subsequently awarded £5,248.28 in costs. The financial enquiries into Mr Ali Kader Ismil are ongoing.

    Cllr Lee Hunt, Portsmouth City Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure, and Sport, said:

    “Portsmouth City Council will use the full weight of the law to pursue criminal trading. We have a highly motivated and skilled Trading Standards team constantly investigating premises and individuals who break the law; we will catch them just as we have been able to bring these individuals to justice.  Those selling counterfeit items and tobacco products will be caught and risk severe penalties.”

    The Council’s trading standards team helps to protect residents from unscrupulous traders and ensure that businesses comply with the law. The team works with trained tobacco detection dogs to sniff out illegal tobacco at premises across the city, often based on information provided by members of the public or other businesses.

    If you know or suspect businesses in Portsmouth are supplying illicit tobacco, you can report it at trading.standards@portsmouthcc.gov.uk. For more information search ‘trading standards’ at portsmouth.gov.uk

    The Council’s wellbeing service provides free support to help Portsmouth residents to stop smoking. Visit www.wellbeingportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9229 4001 to find out more.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets Minister of State at UK Department for Business and Trade Douglas Alexander  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-06-27
    President Lai confers decoration on former Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Chairman Ohashi Mitsuo
    On the morning of June 27, President Lai Ching-te conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon upon former Chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Ohashi Mitsuo in recognition of his firm convictions and tireless efforts in promoting Taiwan-Japan exchanges. In remarks, President Lai stated that Chairman Ohashi cares for Taiwan like a family member, and expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan continue to deepen their partnership, bring about the early signing of an economic partnership agreement (EPA), and jointly build secure and stable non-red supply chains as we boost the resilience and competitiveness of our economies and jointly safeguard the values of freedom and democracy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Every meeting I have with Chairman Ohashi, with whom I have worked side by side for many years, is warm and friendly. I recall that when we met last year, Chairman Ohashi said that he often thinks about what Japan can do for Taiwan and what Taiwan can do for Japan, and that it is that mutual concern that makes us so close. This was a truly moving statement illustrating the relationship between Taiwan and Japan. Chairman Ohashi has also said numerous times that our bilateral relations may very well be the best in the entire world, and that in fact they may serve as a model to other countries. Indeed, Chairman Ohashi is himself an exemplary model for friendly relations between Taiwan and Japan. His spirit of always working tirelessly to promote Taiwan-Japan exchanges is truly admirable. Assuming the position of chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association in 2011, he served during the terms of former Presidents Ma Ying-jeou and Tsai Ing-wen, continuously making positive contributions to Taiwan-Japan relations. Over these past 14 years, Taiwan and Japan have signed over 50 major agreements, spanning the economy and trade, fisheries, and taxes, among other areas. In 2017, the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association and the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association underwent name changes, strengthening the essence and significance of Taiwan-Japan relations. These great achievements were all made possible thanks to the firm convictions and tireless efforts of Chairman Ohashi. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I am delighted to confer upon Chairman Ohashi the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon to express our deepest thanks for his outstanding contributions. Chairman Ohashi is not just a good friend of Taiwan, but someone who cares for Taiwan like a family member. When a major earthquake struck in 2016, he personally went to Tainan to assess the situation and meet with the city government. This outpouring of friendship and support across borders was deeply moving. As we look to the future, I hope that Taiwan and Japan can continue to deepen our partnership. In addition to bringing about the early signing of an EPA, I also hope that we can expand collaboration in key areas such as semiconductors, energy, and AI, continue building secure and stable non-red supply chains, and boost the resilience and competitiveness of our economies as well as peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. As Chairman Ohashi has said, the close bilateral relationship between Taiwan and Japan is one the world can be proud of. I would like to thank him once again for his contributions to deepening Taiwan-Japan ties. Taiwan will continue to forge ahead side by side with Japan, jointly safeguarding the values of freedom and democracy and mutually advancing prosperous development. I wish Chairman Ohashi good health, happiness, peace, and success in his future endeavors, and invite him to return to Taiwan often to visit old friends. Chairman Ohashi then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his kind words. He stated that the Taiwan-Japan relationship is not only worthy of praise; it can also serve as a superb model in the world for bilateral relations that is worthy of study by other countries. He added that this is the result of the collective efforts of President Lai as well as many other individuals. Chairman Ohashi said that the current international situation is rather severe, with wars and conflicts occurring between many neighboring countries. He said that there is a growing trend of nuclear weapon proliferation, emphasizing that use of such weapons would cause significant harm between nations. He also pointed out that some countries even use nuclear weapons as a threat, leading to instability and impacting the global situation. Chairman Ohashi said that neither Taiwan nor Japan possesses nuclear weapons, which is something to be proud of. That is why, he said, we can declare that a world without nuclear weapons is a peaceful world. He also mentioned that during his tenure as chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, he consistently upheld this principle in his work. Chairman Ohashi said that the mission of the World Federalist Movement (WFM) is to promote world peace. He said that the WFM has branches in countries worldwide, with the WFM of Japan being one of the most prominent, and that it also aspires to achieve the goal of world peace. Having served as chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association for 14 years, he said, he is now stepping down from this role and will serve as the chairman of the WFM of Japan, aiming to promote peace in countries around the world. Chairman Ohashi said that both Taiwan and Japan can take pride in our friendly bilateral relationship, emphasizing that if the good relationship between Japan and Taiwan could be offered as an example to countries around the world, there would be no more wars. He expressed his sincere hope that under President Lai’s leadership, Taiwan and Japan can work together to jointly promote world peace. Also in attendance at the ceremony was Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

    Details
    2025-06-25
    President Lai meets Japan’s former Economic Security Minister Kobayashi Takayuki
    On the afternoon of June 25, President Lai Ching-te met with Kobayashi Takayuki, Japan’s former economic security minister and a current member of the House of Representatives. In remarks, President Lai expressed hope to combine the strengths of the democratic community to build resilient, reliable non-red supply chains, and ensure a resilient global economy and sustainable development. He also expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan can bring about the early signing of an economic partnership agreement (EPA), and that Japan will continue supporting Taiwan’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), enhancing our own bilateral partnership, as doing so would create win-win situations and further contribute to regional economic security and stability. The following is a translation of President Lai’s remarks: I welcome Representative Kobayashi back to Taiwan for another visit after seven years. During his last visit, he was with a delegation from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Youth Division, and we met at the Executive Yuan. I am very happy to see him again today. Representative Kobayashi has long paid close attention to matters involving economic security, technological innovation, and aerospace policy. He also made a stunning debut in last year’s LDP presidential election, showing that he is truly a rising star and an influential figure in the political sphere. With this visit, Representative Kobayashi is demonstrating support for Taiwan with concrete action, which is very meaningful. Taiwan and Japan are both part of the first island chain’s key line of defense. We thank the many Japanese prime ministers, including former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as current Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, for the many times they have highlighted the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait at important international venues, and for expressing opposition to the use of force or coercion to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. I hope that Taiwan and Japan can engage in more cooperation and exchanges to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region in all aspects. In particular, China in recent years has been actively expanding its red supply chains, which threaten the global free trade system and advanced technology markets. Taiwan hopes to combine the strengths of the democratic community to build resilient, reliable non-red supply chains. In the semiconductor industry, for example, Taiwan has excellent advanced manufacturing capabilities, while Japan plays an important role in materials, equipment, and key technologies. I am confident that, given the experience that Taiwan and Japan have in cooperating, we can build an industrial supply chain composed of democratic nations to ensure a resilient global economy and sustainable development. I hope that Taiwan and Japan can bring about the early signing of an EPA in order to deepen our bilateral trade and investment exchanges and cooperation. I also hope that Japan will continue supporting Taiwan’s bid to join the CPTPP, enhancing our own bilateral partnership, as doing so would create win-win situations and further contribute to regional economic security and stability. Taiwan and Japan are democratic partners that share the values of freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights. I firmly believe that so long as we work together, we can certainly address the challenges posed by authoritarianism, and bring prosperity and development to the Indo-Pacific region. In closing, I welcome Representative Kobayashi once again. I am certain that this visit will help enhance Taiwan-Japan exchanges and deepen our friendship. Representative Kobayashi then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for taking the time to meet with him, and noting that this was his second visit to Taiwan following a trip seven years prior, when he came with his good friend from college and then-Director of the LDP Youth Division Suzuki Keisuke, now Japan’s minister of justice. Representative Kobayashi mentioned a Japanese kanji that he is very fond of – 絆 (kizuna) – which means “deep ties of friendship.” He emphasized that a key purpose of this visit to Taiwan was to reiterate the deep ties of friendship between Taiwan and Japan. In addition to deep historical ties, he said, Taiwan and Japan also enjoy a like-minded partnership in terms of economic, personnel, and friendship-oriented exchanges. He went on to say that at the strategic level, Taiwan and Japan also have deep ties of friendship, and that for Japan, it is strategically important that Taiwan not be isolated under any circumstances. Representative Kobayashi emphasized that cooperation between Taiwan and Japan, and even cooperation among Taiwan, Japan, and the United States, are more important now than ever, and that another important focus of this visit is the non-red supply chains referred to earlier by President Lai. He said that as Japan’s first economic security minister and the person currently in charge of the LDP’s policy on economic security, he is acutely aware of the important impact of economic security on national interests, and therefore looks forward to further exchanging views regarding Taiwan’s concrete steps to build non-red supply chains. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Deputy Representative Takaba Yo.

    Details
    2025-06-16
    President Lai meets delegation led by Representative Bera, co-chair of US Congressional Taiwan Caucus
    On the morning of June 16, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Representative Ami Bera, co-chair of the US Congressional Taiwan Caucus. In remarks, President Lai thanked the representatives in Congress for actively voicing support for Taiwan and proposing numerous Taiwan-friendly initiatives to strengthen Taiwan-US ties, helping expand Taiwan’s international space and continuing to place focus on peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The president said that we will continue to strengthen bilateral investment and industrial cooperation and create a more comprehensive environment for economic and trade exchanges to jointly enhance economic and developmental resilience. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet with the delegation and welcome Congressman Bera back to the Presidential Office. Last January, he visited after the presidential election, demonstrating the steadfast backing of the US Congress for democratic Taiwan. This time, as head of a delegation of new members of the House Armed Services Committee and the Foreign Affairs Committee, he is continuing to foster US congressional support for Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a sincere welcome to Congressman Bera and all our esteemed guests. Over the years, staunch bipartisan US congressional backing of Taiwan has been a key force for steadily advancing our bilateral relations. I thank the representatives in Congress for actively voicing support for Taiwan and proposing numerous Taiwan-friendly initiatives, thereby strengthening Taiwan-US ties, helping expand Taiwan’s international space, and continuing to place focus on peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. I want to emphasize that Taiwan has an unwavering determination to safeguard peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Over the past year, the government and private sector have been working together to enhance Taiwan’s whole-of-society defense resilience and accelerate reform of national defense. The government is also prioritizing special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds three percent of GDP this year. I hope that Taiwan-US security cooperation will evolve beyond military procurement to a partnership that encompasses joint research and development and joint production, further strengthening cooperation and exchange in the defense industry. Regarding industrial exchanges, last month, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) and Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) each visited Texas to see firsthand Taiwan-US collaboration in AI and semiconductors. And the delegation led by Executive Yuan Secretary-General Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) sent by Taiwan to this year’s SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC, was again the largest of those attending. All of this demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to working alongside the US to create mutual prosperity. In the future, we will continue to strengthen bilateral investment and industrial cooperation. And I hope that the legislation addressing the issue of Taiwan-US double taxation will become law this year. I want to thank Congressman Bera for co-leading a joint letter last November signed by over 100 members of Congress calling for such legislation. I believe that by creating a more comprehensive environment for economic and trade exchanges, Taiwan and the US can enhance economic and developmental resilience. In closing, I thank you all for making the long journey here to advance Taiwan-US relations. Let us continue working together to promote the prosperous development of this important partnership. Congressman Bera then delivered remarks, saying that on behalf of the delegation, it is an honor for him to be here once again, it being last January that he and Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart visited and congratulated President Lai on his election victory, noting that theirs was the first congressional delegation to do so. Congressman Bera said that this is an important time, not just for the US and Taiwan relationship, but for all relationships around the world. When we look at conflicts in Europe and in the Middle East, he said, it is incumbent upon democracies to hold the peace in Asia. He emphasized that is why it is important for them to bring a delegation of members of the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Armed Services Committee, adding that he believes for all of them it is their first trip to Taiwan.  Congressman Bera said that while this is a delegation of Democratic members of Congress, in a bipartisan way all of Congress continues to support the people of Taiwan. As such, in this visit he brings support from his co-chairs on the Taiwan caucus, Congressman Díaz-Balart and Congressman Andy Barr. He also took a moment to recognize the passing of Congressman Gerald Connolly, who was a longtime friend of Taiwan and one of their co-chairs on the caucus. Congressman Bera mentioned that there is always a special bond between himself and President Lai because they are both doctors, and as doctors, their profession is about healing, keeping the peace, and making sure everybody has a bright, prosperous future. In closing, he highlighted that it is in that spirit that their delegation visits with the president. The delegation also included members of the US Congress Gabe Amo, Wesley Bell, Julie Johnson, Sarah McBride, and Johnny Olszewski.

    Details
    2025-06-13
    President Lai meets delegation led by French National Assembly Taiwan Friendship Group Chair Marie-Noëlle Battistel
    On the morning of June 12, President Lai Ching-te met a delegation led by Marie-Noëlle Battistel, chair of the French National Assembly’s Taiwan Friendship Group. In remarks, President Lai thanked the National Assembly for its long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation and for upholding security in the Taiwan Strait, helping make France the first major country in the world to enact legislation to uphold freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. The president also said that exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and France are becoming more frequent, and that he hopes this visit by the Taiwan Friendship Group will inject new momentum into Taiwan-France relations and help build closer partnerships in the economy, trade, energy, and digital security.  A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, I would like to welcome Chair Battistel, who is once again leading a visiting delegation. Last year, Chair Battistel co-led a delegation to attend the inauguration ceremony for myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. This is her fourth visit, and first as chair of the Taiwan Friendship Group, which makes it especially meaningful. This delegation’s visit demonstrates strong support for Taiwan, and on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to express my sincerest welcome and thanks. France is a pioneer in promoting free and democratic values. These are values that Taiwan cherishes and is working hard to defend. I want to express gratitude to the French Parliament for their long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation, and for upholding security in the Taiwan Strait. The French Parliament’s two chambers have continued to strongly support Taiwan, with the passage of a resolution supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organizations in 2021, as well as the passage of the seven-year Military Programming Law in 2023. This has made France the first major country in the world to enact legislation to uphold freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. Through it all, the Taiwan Friendship Group has played a key role, and I want to thank all of our distinguished guests for their efforts. Over the past few years, Taiwan and France have continued to deepen cooperation in areas including the economy, technology, culture, and sports. At the Choose France summit held in Paris last month, Taiwanese and French enterprises also announced they will launch cooperation in the semiconductor and satellite fields. The VivaTech startup exhibition, now being held in France, also has many Taiwanese vendors participating. Exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and France, whether official or people-to-people, are becoming more and more frequent. I hope that this visit by the Taiwan Friendship Group will inject new momentum into Taiwan-France relations, building closer partnerships in the economy, trade, energy, and digital security.  To address current geopolitical and economic challenges, Taiwan will continue to join forces with France and other like-minded countries to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and contribute our concerted efforts to global prosperity and development. Once again, I want to welcome our visitors to Taiwan. I hope to continue our joint efforts to create a more prosperous future for both Taiwan and France.   Chair Battistel then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for extending this invitation. Last year on May 20, she said, she and her delegation attended the presidential inauguration ceremony, so she was delighted to visit Taiwan once again with the French National Assembly’s Taiwan Friendship Group and bear witness to their friendship with Taiwan. Chair Battistel noted that this visit has given them an opportunity to strengthen Taiwan-France relations in areas including the economy, culture, the humanities, and diplomacy, and conduct exchanges with numerous heads of government agencies and research institutes. It has also been an opportunity, she said, to witness the importance of exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan in areas including energy, semiconductors, youth, and culture, and the impact created by important issues of mutual concern, including AI and disinformation, on the security of many countries. Chair Battistel praised Taiwan for its youth development efforts, and said that under the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative, 30 Taiwanese young people have embarked on a visit to France, with itineraries including the United Nations Ocean Conference and the VivaTech exhibition, as well as the city of Toulouse, which is strategically important for the aerospace industry. Members of the group are also conducting exchanges at the French National Assembly, she said.  Chair Battistel stated that the Taiwan-France partnership is growing closer, and that she hopes to continue to strengthen bilateral exchanges and cooperation, as supporting peace for Taiwan supports peace around the world.  The delegation also included Taiwan Friendship Group Vice Chair Éric Martineau, as well as National Assembly Committee on Foreign Affairs Vice Chair Laetitia Saint-Paul and Deputies Marie-José Allemand and Claudia Rouaux. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by French Office in Taipei Deputy Director Cléa Le Cardeur.

    Details
    2025-06-05
    President Lai hosts state banquet for President Bernardo Arévalo of Republic of Guatemala  
    At noon on June 5, President Lai Ching-te hosted a state banquet at the Presidential Office for President Bernardo Arévalo of the Republic of Guatemala and his wife. In his remarks, President Lai noted that Taiwan and Guatemala have both undergone an arduous democratization process, and therefore, in face of the continuous expansion of authoritarian influence, must join hands in brotherhood and come together in solidarity to safeguard our hard-earned freedom and democracy. President Lai also expressed hope that both countries will work together and continue to deepen various exchanges and cooperation, taking a friendship that has lasted over 90 years to new heights. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Once again, I would like to offer a warm welcome to President Arévalo and First Lady Lucrecia Peinado, who are leading this delegation to Taiwan. President Arévalo’s previous visit to Taiwan was 31 years ago. Back then, Taiwan did not have direct presidential elections, and the nation was continuing to make progress toward democratization. Today, 31 years later, Taiwan has conducted direct presidential elections eight times, with three transfers of power between political parties. On this visit, I am sure that President Arévalo will gain a deep appreciation for Taiwan’s free and democratic atmosphere.  Taiwan and Guatemala have both undergone an arduous democratization process. A little over 200 years ago, the people of Guatemala took a stand against colonial oppression, seeking national dignity and the freedom of its people. Eighty-one years ago, President Arévalo’s father, Juan José Arévalo, became Guatemala’s first democratically elected president, establishing an important foundation for subsequent democratic development.  Our two peoples have democracy in their blood. Both know the value of freedom and democracy and are willing to take a stand for those values. Therefore, in face of the continuous expansion of authoritarian influence, our two countries must join hands in brotherhood to respond to threats and challenges, and come together in solidarity to safeguard our hard-earned freedom and democracy. I hope that both countries will work together to continue to deepen various exchanges and cooperation, taking a friendship that has lasted over 90 years to new heights. I hope that on this visit, in addition to gaining a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s political, economic, and social development, President Arévalo can also reacquaint himself with the democratic vitality and cultural diversity of Taiwan by sampling various gourmet delicacies and once again experiencing the beauty of our scenery and warmth of our people. Guatemala is a very beautiful country. In the future, I hope to have a chance to personally experience that beauty, explore Mayan civilization, and savor local Guatemalan coffee. In closing, I wish the visiting delegation a smooth and successful trip, and beautiful, unforgettable memories. May President Arévalo enjoy the best of health, and may the diplomatic friendship between our two countries endure. President Arévalo then delivered remarks, stating that at different times and by different means, the people of Taiwan and Guatemala have relentlessly sought to defend freedom and democracy. We share the same expectations, he said, and are walking the right path amid today’s complex international circumstances.  President Arévalo stated that Taiwan and Guatemala are true democratic nations, where the government’s goal is to serve all the people. He noted that this is far from easy under current circumstances, as many authoritarian regimes use their long-term hold on power to safeguard the interests of select groups and neglect the wellbeing of the population as a whole. President Arévalo said that last week Guatemala commemorated the 40th anniversary of its constitution, which was enacted in 1985 and is Guatemala’s ultimate guide, setting the foundation for democracy and clearly outlining the path ahead. He said that over the past 40 years, Guatemala has continued to follow the democratic blueprint established by the constitution and end the civil war so that the nation could make the transition to real democracy. Although more than a few ambitious people have attempted to destroy that process from within, he noted, the people of Guatemala have never given up the pursuit of democracy as an ideal. President Arévalo stated that our two sides’ coming together here is due to such shared values as freedom and democracy as well as the idea of serving all the people. He underlined that the governments of both countries will continue to work hard and provide mutual support to smooth out each other’s path of democracy, freedom, and justice. President Arévalo emphasized that the government of Guatemala will always be Taiwan’s ally, and that he firmly believes Taiwan is Guatemala’s most reliable partner on the path of democracy and economic prosperity and development. The president said he hopes this visit will be the first step towards setting a new course for the governments and peoples of both countries. Also in attendance at the banquet were Guatemala Minister of Foreign Affairs Carlos Ramiro Martínez, Minister of the Economy Gabriela García, and Guatemala Ambassador Luis Raúl Estévez López.  

    Details
    2025-05-20
    President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
    In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces appointments to four committees under Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Government today (June 30) announced the appointments to the four committees under the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board (HKMPDB). The appointments will be effective from tomorrow (July 1), for a term of three years.

    The HKMPDB will be established tomorrow as a high-level advisory body to assist the Government in formulating policies and long-term development strategies. In a press release issued on June 13, the Government announced the appointment and terms of reference of the HKMPDB, and the setting up of four committees under the HKMPDB to focus on specific areas of work, namely the Port Development Committee, the Maritime Services Development Committee, the Promotion and External Relations Committee and the Manpower Development Committee.————
    Dr Moses Cheng Mo-chi————
    Mr Mohamed Butt
    Mr Ivor Chow
    Mr Horace Lo Wai-man
    Ms Ma Xiaoli
    Mr Simon Wong Kwong-yeung
    Mr Yim Kong
    Professor Zou Ying-ying————
    Hong Kong Container Terminal Operators Association
    Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association
    Hong Kong Shippers’ Council
    Guangdong and Hong Kong Feeder Association————
    Permanent Secretary for Transport and Logistics
    Commissioner for Maritime and Port Development
    Representative from Marine Department
    Representative from Invest Hong Kong————
    Ms Sabrina Chao Sih-ming————
    Mr Feng Xiongya
    Dr David Fong
    Mr Bjorn Hojgaard
    Mr Timothy Lee Kwok-lam
    Mr Clarence Leung Ka-fai
    Mr Brad Wang
    Mr Paul Yeung Wai-keung————
    Hong Kong Shipowners Association
    Hong Kong Chamber of Shipping————
    Commissioner for Maritime and Port Development
    Representative from Marine Department
    Representative from Invest Hong Kong————
    Mr Angad Banga————
    Mr Ryan Ip Man-ki
    Mr Wilson Kwong Wing-tsuen
    Mr Edward Liu Yang
    Ms Tabitha Logan————
    Hong Kong Container Terminal Operators Association
    Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association
    Hong Kong Shipowners Association
    Hong Kong Maritime Museum————
    Commissioner for Maritime and Port Development
    Representative from Hong Kong Trade Development Council
    Representative from Marine Department
    Representative from Invest Hong Kong————
    Mr Wellington Koo Tse-hau————
    Mr Cheung Tai-kee
    Mr Lothair Lam Ming-fung
    Mr Kenneth Lam Sze-ken
    Mr Joseph Li
    Dr Venus Lun Yuen-ha
    Dr Billy Mak Sui-choi
    Mr Alan Tung Lieh-sing
    Ms Cherry Xu Qili
    Professor Yip Tsz-leung
    Mr Chris Zhao Peng————
    Hong Kong Shipowners Association
    Hong Kong Seamen’s Union
    Institute of Seatransport
    Hong Kong Federation of Insurers
    The Law Society of Hong Kong————
    Commissioner for Maritime and Port Development
    Representative from Vocational Training Council
    Representative from Marine Department

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR Government civil servants attend thematic seminar on Hong Kong National Security Law in Beijing (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Today (June 30) marks the fifth anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law. Thirty-three senior civil servants of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government who are participating in a national studies programme organised by the Civil Service College (CSC) and Peking University in Beijing attended a thematic seminar to gain an in-depth understanding of the constitutional responsibility of the HKSAR to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, and that civil servants must fulfil their role as guardians of national security. The seminar was delivered by Deputy Director of the Hong Kong Basic Law Committee and the Macao Basic Law Committee of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress and Deputy Director of the Legislative Affairs Commission of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Mr Zhang Yong. 

         The participants gained a lot from taking the opportunity to raise questions to Mr Zhang and attending the seminar which deepened their awareness of safeguarding national security proactively. 

         The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung, said the Government had been stepping up efforts on all fronts to cultivate a sense of national identity, awareness of national security and patriotism among civil servants at all levels. In particular, the national studies programmes for middle and senior-level civil servants enable civil servants to gain an accurate understanding of the constitutional order of the HKSAR, national security and the latest policy objectives of the country through lectures in Mainland institutions and site visits.

         Since the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the enactment of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, the CSC has incorporated training on safeguarding national security into a series of programmes, including induction training for new recruits, Mainland programmes for middle and senior-level officers, thematic talks and e-learning. In addition to enhancing civil servants’ understanding of national security legal provisions, the CSC’s programmes also enable civil servants to understand the concept of a holistic approach to national security, to grasp the national security situation as well as the risks and challenges facing the country, and to raise civil servants’ awareness of safeguarding national security of their own accord and fulfilling their responsibility in national security.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ensuring high-quality development with high-level security: Hong Kong National Security Law heralds fifth anniversary

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Ensuring high-quality development with high-level security: Hong Kong National Security Law heralds fifth anniversary 
    The spokesman said, “National security is a top priority as it forms the basis for a country’s existence and development. After reunification, Hong Kong had long been ‘undefended’ in terms of safeguarding national security. Anti-China elements and external forces continuously challenged the bottom line of the principle of ‘one country, two systems’, and even attempted to seize the power of governance. Unprecedented crises have been brought to Hong Kong by the ‘anti-national education’ incident in 2012, the illegal ‘Occupy Central’ movement in 2014, the Mong Kok riot in 2016, the ‘black-clad violence’ and Hong Kong version of the ‘colour revolution’ which lasted for more than ten months since June 2019, severely damaging Hong Kong’s societal, economic and business environment and caused the public to live in fear.”
     
          “The Central Authorities acted decisively at a critical moment for Hong Kong. On May 28, 2020, the National People’s Congress (NPC) made a relevant decision on the basis of which, the NPC Standing Committee enacted, on June 30, 2020, the HKNSL which was then listed under Annex III to the Basic Law for local promulgation and implementation in the HKSAR. The HKNSL has addressed the shortcomings and plugged the loopholes in the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security of the HKSAR, playing the role of a stabilising force that immediately stopped violence and curbed disorder. The implementation of HKNSL was a ‘watershed moment’ in Hong Kong’s transition from chaos to order, as stability and safety of the city have been restored by the law.”
     
          “Thereafter, with the concerted efforts of the HKSAR Government, the Legislative Council and all sectors of the community, the HKSAR fulfilled its constitutional duty last year by completing the legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law. The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) took effect upon gazettal on March 23, 2024, improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms of the HKSAR for safeguarding national security. The HKNSL and the SNSO are compatible and complementary, building a strong line of defence to safeguard national security in Hong Kong.”
     
    The spokesman emphasised, “The implementation of the HKNSL over the past five years has proven the law to be a ‘guardian’ in upholding the principle of ‘one country, two systems’ and in safeguarding the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. It is an important and timely piece of legislation with profound historical significance. The HKNSL and other laws in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR firmly adhere to the principle of the rule of law while protecting the rights and freedoms in accordance with the law. At present, the business environment has continuously improved. Hong Kong ranks first as the world’s freest economy and third among global financial centres, and has returned to the top three in the world in terms of competitiveness, demonstrating that Hong Kong is moving full steam ahead along the path of ‘advancing from stability to prosperity’.”
     
          “The laws for safeguarding national security in the HKSAR protect human rights. The principles of respecting and protecting human rights, as clearly and comprehensively set out, are embodied in the provisions of the HKNSL and the SNSO as well as in the manner in which they are implemented. Both Article 4 of the HKNSL and section 2 of the SNSO clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR, and that the rights and freedoms, including the freedoms of speech, of the press, of publication, of association, of assembly, of procession and of demonstration, that Hong Kong residents enjoy under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law. The various provisions of the laws for safeguarding national security in the HKSAR are in line with international standards, striking a reasonable balance between safeguarding national security and protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.”
     
          “In fact, the HKSAR has a solid, resilient foundation of the rule of law that is well-recognised by the international community. The law enforcement agencies of the HKSAR have been strictly taking law enforcement actions based on evidence and in accordance with the law. The Department of Justice of the HKSAR, by virtue of Article 63 of the Basic Law, controls criminal prosecutions, free from any interference. Independent prosecutorial decisions for each case are made in a rigorous and objective manner, strictly based on evidence and applicable laws and are in accordance with the Prosecution Code. Articles 2, 19 and 85 of the Basic Law specifically provide that the HKSAR enjoys independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication, and the courts of the HKSAR shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference. Cases will never be handled any differently owing to the occupation, political stance or background of the persons involved. In addition, Article 5 of the HKNSL and section 2 of the SNSO clearly stipulate that the principle of the rule of law shall be adhered to in preventing, suppressing and imposing punishment for offences endangering national security, including the principles of conviction and punishment only by the application of the law, the presumption of innocence, the prohibition of double jeopardy, and the right to defend oneself and other rights in judicial proceedings that a criminal suspect, defendant and other parties in judicial proceedings are entitled to under the law.”
     
          “It is each and every sovereign state’s inherent right to enact laws safeguarding national security, and it is also an international practice. The HKNSL and the SNSO clearly define the elements and penalties of the related offences endangering national security, precisely targeting an extremely small minority of people and organisations committing in acts and activities that endanger national security, while protecting the lives and property of the general public. Law abiding persons will not engage in acts and activities that endanger national security and will not unwittingly violate the law, and therefore have no reason to be concerned. As a matter of fact, since the promulgation and implementation of the HKNSL, stability has been quickly restored in society. With the SNSO in effect, the rights and freedoms of the HKSAR residents and of other persons in Hong Kong are even better protected while the economy of Hong Kong is picking up.”
     
    The spokesman reiterated, “Safeguarding national security is an ongoing and endless commitment. As mentioned in the ‘White Paper on China’s National Security in the New Era’ published by the Central Authorities on May 12, 2025, external forces have meddled more in China’s affairs, with an attempt to blockade, suppress and contain China through the so-called ‘Hong Kong issues’. Today, as geopolitical risks continue to escalate, the HKSAR Government will strive steadfastly to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, and improve the relevant legal system and enforcement mechanisms under the robust protection of the HKNSL and the SNSO, so as to address the evolving national security risks and challenges more effectively. We will also ramp up our efforts in publicity and education to arouse public awareness in safeguarding national security, thereby forming a societal shield to fend off external intervention, ensuring high-quality development with high-level security, continuously composing a new chapter in the practice of ‘one country, two systems’.”
     
    Issued at HKT 10:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: NRRP steering committee meeting held at Palazzo Chigi to verify milestones and targets for eighth instalment

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    A steering committee meeting for the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) was held at Palazzo Chigi today, called and chaired by the Minister for European Affairs, the NRRP and Cohesion Policy, Tommaso Foti. The purpose of the meeting, attended by the Ministers and Undersecretaries in charge as well as by representatives from ANCI [National Association of Italian Municipalities], UPI [Union of Italian Provinces] and the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces, was to verify progress of the 40 objectives linked to the payment request for the eighth instalment of Italy’s NRRP, worth EUR 12.8 billion. 

    Following a detailed review, the steering committee acknowledged the implementation status of the 12 milestones and 28 targets required for the eighth instalment, which include reforms and investments that are strategic for the nation’s growth, involving 13 administrations.

    The most significant measures include: digitalisation of the Guardia di Finanza [Italian Finance Police], with innovative IT systems to fight economic crime; more than 1,000 language and methodology courses for school teachers; the launch of projects to update school curricula in over 8,000 schools and guide students towards STEM skills; completion of culture and tourism enhancement projects by supporting approximately 2,000 small and medium-sized enterprises; redevelopment of around 50 historical parks and gardens.

    Regarding the eighth instalment, implementation of measures was also verified linked to: 1,400km of rail infrastructure being equipped with the European Rail Traffic Management System; coverage of an advanced and integrated monitoring and forecasting system to identify hydrogeological risks for 90% of the surface area in southern regions; marine habitat protection and coastal observation work; improving the energy efficiency of public housing; with regard to universities, funding 5,000 research projects of national interest, hiring approximately 2,300 new researchers, allocating more than 550 research grants, and providing financing for research projects on rare and severely debilitating diseases. 

    Among the strategic reforms that have been carried out, the reduction in payment delays by central and local government authorities, regional authorities, autonomous provinces and national health service bodies is particularly significant.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: NRRP steering committee meeting held at Palazzo Chigi to verify milestones and targets for eighth instalment

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    A steering committee meeting for the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) was held at Palazzo Chigi today, called and chaired by the Minister for European Affairs, the NRRP and Cohesion Policy, Tommaso Foti. The purpose of the meeting, attended by the Ministers and Undersecretaries in charge as well as by representatives from ANCI [National Association of Italian Municipalities], UPI [Union of Italian Provinces] and the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces, was to verify progress of the 40 objectives linked to the payment request for the eighth instalment of Italy’s NRRP, worth EUR 12.8 billion. 

    Following a detailed review, the steering committee acknowledged the implementation status of the 12 milestones and 28 targets required for the eighth instalment, which include reforms and investments that are strategic for the nation’s growth, involving 13 administrations.

    The most significant measures include: digitalisation of the Guardia di Finanza [Italian Finance Police], with innovative IT systems to fight economic crime; more than 1,000 language and methodology courses for school teachers; the launch of projects to update school curricula in over 8,000 schools and guide students towards STEM skills; completion of culture and tourism enhancement projects by supporting approximately 2,000 small and medium-sized enterprises; redevelopment of around 50 historical parks and gardens.

    Regarding the eighth instalment, implementation of measures was also verified linked to: 1,400km of rail infrastructure being equipped with the European Rail Traffic Management System; coverage of an advanced and integrated monitoring and forecasting system to identify hydrogeological risks for 90% of the surface area in southern regions; marine habitat protection and coastal observation work; improving the energy efficiency of public housing; with regard to universities, funding 5,000 research projects of national interest, hiring approximately 2,300 new researchers, allocating more than 550 research grants, and providing financing for research projects on rare and severely debilitating diseases. 

    Among the strategic reforms that have been carried out, the reduction in payment delays by central and local government authorities, regional authorities, autonomous provinces and national health service bodies is particularly significant.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: London gang members’ sentences increased for gun offences

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    London gang members’ sentences increased for gun offences

    Two members of a London gang have had their sentences increased following a referral by the Solicitor General.    

    Two men in a South London-based gang have had their sentences increased after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP referred the case to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.   

    The court heard details of the ‘WoolyO’ gang operating in Woolwich, South London. The gang were involved in a long running feud with another London gang which was played out through social media posts and videos, violence and drill music published online.  

    Essex Police’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) and by the Metropolitan Police Trident Crime Command launched investigations into the WoolyO gang after three men agreed to meet WoolyO members in Aveley, Essex, to purchase some phones on the evening of Monday 20 November 2023.  

    However, the men were robbed of £4,000 cash and one victim was struck by one of the gang members holding a handgun, causing the loaded magazine to fall to the ground. When officers arrived at the scene, the suspects had gone but the same magazine was found.  

    The following morning, officers carrying out further enquiries returned to the scene where they located gang member Bryan Aidoo (19). He was found to be in possession of a zombie knife and arrested.  

    A mobile phone seized from Aidoo contained a high volume of criminal material referencing gang violence.  This included a video, featuring a fellow associate of the gang, Roqeeb Ladeaga (23),  where bullets were assigned to named individuals from other London gangs.  

    Messages were found celebrating the shooting of a rival gang member, discussing how to retrieve the handgun magazine lost at the robbery, and pressurising the victim of the robbery to withdraw his support for the prosecution. Footage showed the group handling firearms and referring to its criminal use. 

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    This was a ruthless gang who boasted about their criminal activities online, while using dangerous weapons to terrorise and threaten our communities.   

    I would like to commend the police for their comprehensive investigations and I welcome the Court of Appeal’s decision to increase Roqeeb Ladeaga and Bryan Aidoo sentences.” 

    Detective Inspector Yoni Adler, Serious and Organised Crime Unit, said: “In upholding the law, justice must be served – especially when firearms are involved. 

    We must demand accountability from those who threaten the safety of our communities. This hearing was not to debate the facts of the case. Those have been established in a court of law previously.  

    Instead, the appeal court has upheld the view that the original sentence was unduly lenient and therefore, the consequence of the defendants’ actions deserved a more fitting sentence, one that greater reflects the seriousness of the crime. 

    We have worked with the Crown Prosecution Service so that together we gain the public’s trust and confidence in our abilities to solve serious crimes and suitably sentence perpetrators, to ensure the integrity of our justice procedures. 

    Today, when the safety of our country’s streets is threatened by those armed with firearms, this new result ensures that justice is not only done—but is seen to be done.” 

    On 28 March 2025 at Basildon Crown Court, Roqeeb Ladeaga was sentenced for four years and six months imprisonment for conspiracy to possess a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, and Bryan Aidoo for four years for conspiracy to possess a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and six months concurrent for possession of a bladed article.  

    On 20 June 2025, Ladeaga’s sentence was increased to five years and Aidoo’s sentence was increased to five years and   nine months concurrent for the bladed article charge.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: At Cannes, decency and dress codes clash with fashion’s red carpet revolution

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Elizabeth Castaldo Lundén, Research Fellow at the School of Cinematic Arts, University of Southern California

    Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson appear on the red carpet prior to the screening of ‘Die, My Love’ at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2025. Kristy Sparow/Getty Images

    Ahead of the Cannes Film Festival, the spotlight moved from movie stars and directors to the festival’s fashion rules.

    Cannes reminded guests to follow the standard black-tie dress code for evening events at the Grand Theatre Lumière – “long dresses and tuxedos” – while highlighting acceptable alternatives, such as cocktail dresses and pantsuits for women, and a black or navy suit with a tie for men.

    The real stir, however, came from two additions to the formal guidelines: a ban on nudity “for decency reasons” and a restriction on oversize garments.

    The new rules caught many stylists and stars by surprise, with some decrying the move as a regressive attempt to police clothing.

    It’s hard not to wonder whether this is part of some broader conservative cultural shift around the world.

    But I study the cultural and economic forces behind fashion and media, and I think a lot of the criticism of Cannes is unfounded. To me, the festival isn’t changing its identity. It’s reasserting it.

    Red carpet control

    Concerns about indecency on the red carpet have appeared before – most notably during the first televised Academy Awards in 1953.

    In 1952, the National Association of Radio and Television Broadcasters adopted a censorship code in response to concerns about television’s influence on young audiences. Among its rules for “decency and decorum” were guidelines against revealing clothing, suggestive movements or camera angles that emphasized body parts – all to avoid causing “embarrassment” to the viewers.

    Actress Inger Stevens at the 39th Academy Awards in 1967, a year before she was reprimanded for her skimpy attire.
    Bettmann/Getty Images

    To ensure that no actress would break the decency dress code, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences hired acclaimed costume designer Edith Head as a fashion consultant for the show in 1953.

    In my book “Fashion on the Red Carpet,” I explain how Head equipped backstage staff with kits to deal with any sartorial emergencies that might arise. That same year, the balcony cameras at the Pantages Theatre accidentally peeked down into the actresses’ cleavage as they walked to the stage. From then on, a supply of tulle – a type of versatile fabric that can easily cover revealing openings that expose too much skin – was kept backstage.

    The 1960s posed new challenges. Youth fashion trends clashed with traditional dress codes and television censorship. In 1968, after actress Inger Stevens appeared on the red carpet wearing a mini skirt, the Academy sent a letter reminding attendees of the black-tie – preferably floor-length – dress code. When Barbra Streisand’s Scaasi outfit accidentally turned see-through under the lighting in 1969, Head again warned against “freaky, far-out, unusual fashion” ahead of the 1970 ceremony.

    However, in the 1970s, the Oscars eliminated Head’s fashion consultant position. Despite maintaining its black-tie dress code, the absence of a fashion consultant opened the door to some provocative attire, ranging from Cher’s see-through, sheer outfits, to Edy Williams’ provocative, barely-there getups.

    Once the fashion consultant position was eliminated for the Oscars, many attendees – like actress Edy Williams – tried to stand out from the crowd with provocative attire.
    Fotos International/Getty Images

    Old rules in a new era

    Racy red carpet appearances have since become a hallmark of awards shows, particularly in the digital age.

    Extravagance and shock are a way for celebrities and brands to stand out amid a glut of social media content, especially as brands increasingly pay a fortune to turn celebrities into walking billboards.

    And in an era when red carpet looks are carefully curated ahead of time through partnerships with fashion brands, many celebrities expressed frustration about being unable to sport the outfits they had planned to wear at Cannes.

    Stylist Rose Forde lamented the restrictions, saying, “You should be able to express yourself as an artist, with your style however you feel,” while actress Chloë Sevigny described the code as “an old-fashioned archaic rule.”

    But I still can’t see the Cannes rules as part of any sort of broader conservative backlash.

    Whether at the Oscars or the MTV Video Music Awards, backlash over celebrities baring too much skin has gone on for decades. Cannes hasn’t been spared from controversy, either: There was Michelle Morgan’s bikini in 1946, La Cicciolina’s topless look in 1988, Madonna’s Jean Paul Gaultier lingerie in 1991, Leila Depina’s barely-there pearl outfit in 2023 and Bella Hadid’s sheer pantyhose dress in 2024, to name just a few.

    Cape Verdean model Leila Depina arrives for the screening of the film ‘Asteroid City’ during the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.
    Christophe Simon/AFP via Getty Images

    The festival has routinely reminded guests of its dress code, regardless of the cultural zeitgeist.

    The “decency” rule, for example, is actually required by French law. Article 222-32 of the French Criminal Code classifies showing private parts in public as a sexual offense, and can lead to a year in prison and a fine. While the legal definition hinges on intent and setting, the festival, as a public event, technically has to operate within that framework.

    Compared to white-tie events like the Nobel Prize ceremony or a state banquet, Cannes’ black-tie requirement is relatively flexible. It allows for cocktail-length dresses and even accommodates pants and flat sandals for women.

    Meanwhile, the worry about voluminous clothes points to a practical issue: the movement of bodies in tight spaces.

    Unlike the Met Gala – where the fashion spectacle is the focus, and its red carpet is a stage for photo-ops – Cannes is a film festival. The red carpet is the main path thousands of people use to enter the theater.

    A dramatic gown – like the one worn at the Met Gala by Cardi B in 2024 – could block others and cause delays. While a photo-op may be the primary goal for celebrities and the brands they promote, the festival has a screening schedule to stick to, and attendees must be able to easily access the venue and their seats.

    Red carpet rules are fluid. Sometimes they adapt to cultural shifts. Sometimes they resist them. And sometimes, they’re there to make sure you can fit in your seat in the movie theater.

    Elizabeth Castaldo Lundén received funding from Fulbright (2023-2024)

    – ref. At Cannes, decency and dress codes clash with fashion’s red carpet revolution – https://theconversation.com/at-cannes-decency-and-dress-codes-clash-with-fashions-red-carpet-revolution-256948

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Work requirements are better at blocking benefits for low-income people than they are at helping those folks find jobs

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Anne Whitesell, Assistant Professor of Political Science, Miami University

    Meeting work requirements to get government benefits can lead to burdensome paperwork. JackF/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    Republican lawmakers have been battling over a bill that includes massive tax and spending cuts. Much of their disagreement has been over provisions intended to reduce the cost of Medicaid.

    The popular health insurance program, which is funded by both the federal and state governments, covers about 78.5 million low-income and disabled people – more than 1 in 5 Americans.

    On May 22, 2025, the House of Representatives narrowly approved the tax, spending and immigration bill. The legislation, which passed without any support from Democrats, is designed to reduce federal Medicaid spending by requiring anyone enrolled in the program who appears to be able to get a job to either satisfy work requirements or lose their coverage. It’s still unclear, however, whether Senate Republicans would support that provision.

    Although there are few precedents for such a mandate for Medicaid, other safety net programs have been enforcing similar rules for nearly three decades. I’m a political scientist who has extensively studied the work requirements of another safety net program: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

    As I explain in my book, “Living Off the Government? Race, Gender, and the Politics of Welfare,” work requirements place extra burdens on low-income families but do little to lift them out of poverty.

    Work requirements for TANF

    TANF gives families with very low incomes some cash they can spend on housing, food, clothing or whatever they need most. The Clinton administration launched it as a replacement for a similar program, Aid to Families with Dependent Children, in 1996. At the time, both political parties were eager to end a welfare system they believed was riddled with abuse. A big goal with TANF was ending the dependence of people getting cash benefits on the government by moving them from welfare to work.

    Many people were removed from the welfare rolls, but not because work requirements led to economic prosperity. Instead, they had trouble navigating the bureaucratic demands.

    TANF is administered by the states. They can set many rules of their own, but they must comply with an important federal requirement: Adult recipients have to work or engage in an authorized alternative activity for at least 30 hours per week. The number of weekly hours is only 20 if the recipient is caring for a child under the age of 6.

    The dozen activities or so that can count toward this quota range from participating in job training programs to engaging in community service.

    Some adults enrolled in TANF are exempt from work requirements, depending on their state’s own policies. The most common exemptions are for people who are ill, have a disability or are over age 60.

    To qualify for TANF, families must have dependent children; in some states pregnant women also qualify. Income limits are set by the state and range from US$307 a month for a family of three in Alabama to $2,935 a month for a family of three in Minnesota.

    Adult TANF recipients face a federal five-year lifetime limit on benefits. States can adopt shorter time limits; Arizona’s is 12 months.

    An administrative burden

    Complying with these work requirements generally means proving that you’re working or making the case that you should be exempt from this mandate. This places what’s known as an “administrative burden” on the people who get cash assistance. It often requires lots of documentation and time. If you have an unpredictable work schedule, inconsistent access to child care or obligations to care for an older relative, this paperwork is hard to deal with.

    What counts as work, how many hours must be completed and who is exempt from these requirements often comes down to a caseworker’s discretion. Social science research shows that this discretion is not equally applied and is often informed by stereotypes.

    The number of people getting cash assistance has fallen sharply since TANF replaced Aid to Families with Dependent Children. In some states caseloads have dropped by more than 50% despite significant population growth.

    Some of this decline happened because recipients got jobs that paid them too much to qualify. The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan office that provides economic research to Congress, attributes, at least in part, an increase in employment among less-educated single mothers in the 1990s to work requirements.

    Not everyone who stopped getting cash benefits through TANF wound up employed, however. Other recipients who did not meet requirements fell into deep poverty.

    Regardless of why people leave the program, when fewer low-income Americans get TANF benefits, the government spends less money on cash assistance. Federal funding has remained flat at $16.5 billion since 1996. Taking inflation into account, the program receives half as much funding as when it was created. In addition, states have used the flexibility granted them to direct most of their TANF funds to priorities other than cash benefits, such as pre-K education.

    Many Americans who get help paying for groceries through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are also subject to work requirements. People the government calls “able-bodied adults without dependents” can only receive SNAP benefits for three months within a three-year period if they are not employed.

    A failed experiment in Arkansas

    Lawmakers in Congress and in statehouses have debated whether to add work requirements for Medicaid before. More than a dozen states have applied for waivers that would let them give it a try.

    When Arkansas instituted Medicaid work requirements in 2018, during the first Trump administration, it was largely seen as a failure. Some 18,000 people lost their health care coverage, but employment rates did not increase.

    After a court order stopped the policy in 2019, most people regained their coverage.

    Georgia is currently the only state with Medicaid work requirements in effect, after implementing a waiver in July 2023. The program has experienced technical difficulties and has had trouble verifying work activities.

    Other states, including Idaho, Indiana and Kentucky, are already asking the federal government to let them enforce Medicaid work requirements.

    Then-Gov. Asa Hutchinson speaks during a news conference in 2017, in Little Rock, Arkansas, calling for Medicaid work requirements.
    AP Photo/Andrew DeMillo

    What this may mean for Medicaid

    The multitrillion-dollar bill the House passed 215-214 would introduce Medicaid work requirements nationwide by late 2026 for childless adults age 19 to 64, with some exemptions.

    But most people covered by Medicaid in that age range are already working, and those who are not would likely be eligible for work requirement waivers. An analysis by KFF – a nonprofit that informs the public about health issues – shows that in 2023, 44% of Medicaid recipients were working full time and another 20% were working part time. In 2023, that was more than 16 million Americans.

    About 20% of the American adults under 65 who are covered by Medicaid are not working due to illness or disability, or because of caregiving responsibilities, according to KFF. This includes both people caring for young children and those taking care of relatives with an illness or disability. In my own research, I read testimony from families seeking work exemptions because caregiving, including for children with disabilities, was a full-time job.

    The rest of the adults under 65 with Medicaid coverage are not working because they are in school, are retired, cannot find work or have some other reason. It’s approximately 3.9 million Americans. Depending on what counts as “work,” they may be meeting any requirements that could be added to the program.

    The Congressional Budget Office estimates that introducing Medicaid work requirements would save around $300 billion over a decade. Given past experience with work requirements, it is unlikely those savings would come from Americans finding jobs.

    My research suggests it’s more likely that the government would trim spending by taking away the health insurance of people eligible for Medicaid coverage who get tangled up in red tape.

    This article was updated on May 22, 2025, with details about the House of Representatives’ passage of the budget bill.

    Anne Whitesell is a 2024-2025 PRRI Public Fellow.

    – ref. Work requirements are better at blocking benefits for low-income people than they are at helping those folks find jobs – https://theconversation.com/work-requirements-are-better-at-blocking-benefits-for-low-income-people-than-they-are-at-helping-those-folks-find-jobs-256839

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Smartphones are once again setting the agenda for justice as the Latino community documents ICE actions

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Allissa V. Richardson, Associate Professor of Journalism, USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism

    Smartphone witnessing helped spur the anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. AP Photo/Ethan Swope

    It has been five years since May 25, 2020, when George Floyd gasped for air beneath the knee of a Minneapolis police officer at the corner of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue. Five years since 17-year-old Darnella Frazier stood outside Cup Foods, raised her phone and bore witness to nine minutes and 29 seconds that would galvanize a global movement against racial injustice.

    Frazier’s video didn’t just show what happened. It insisted the world stop and see.

    Today, that legacy continues in the hands of a different community, facing different threats but wielding the same tools. Across the United States, Latino organizers are raising their phones, not to go viral but to go on record. They livestream Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, film family separations and document protests outside detention centers. Their footage is not merely content. It is evidence, warning – and resistance.

    Here in Los Angeles where I teach journalism, for example, several images have seared themselves into public memory. One viral video shows a shackled father stepping into a white, unmarked van as his daughter sobs behind the camera, pleading with him not to sign any official documents. He turns, gestures for her to calm down, and blows her a kiss. In another video, filmed across town, Los Angeles Police Department officers on horseback charge into crowds of peaceful protesters, swinging wooden batons with chilling precision.

    In Spokane, Washington, residents form a spontaneous human chain around their neighbors mid-raid, their bodies and cameras erecting a barricade of defiance. In San Diego, a video shows white allies yelling “Shame!” as they chase a car full of National Guard troops from their neighborhood.

    The impact of smartphone witnessing has been immediate and unmistakable – visceral at street level, seismic in statehouses. On the ground, the videos helped inspire a “No Kings” movement, which organized protests in all 50 states on June 14, 2025.

    Lawmakers are intensifying their focus on immigration policy as well. As the Trump administration escalates enforcement, Democratic-led states are expanding laws that limit cooperation with federal agents. On June 12, the House Oversight Committee questioned Democratic governors about these measures, with Republican lawmakers citing public safety concerns. The hearing underscored deep divisions between federal and state approaches to immigration enforcement.

    The legacy of Black witnessing

    What’s unfolding now is not new – it is newly visible. As my research shows, Latino organizers are drawing from a playbook that was sharpened in 2020 and rooted in a much older lineage of Black media survival strategies that were forged under extreme oppression.

    In my 2020 book “Bearing Witness While Black: African Americans, Smartphones and the New Protest Journalism,” I document how Black Americans have used media – slave narratives, pamphlets, newspapers, radio and now smartphones – to fight for justice. From Frederick Douglass to Ida B. Wells to Darnella Frazier, Black witnesses have long used journalism as a tool for survival and transformation.

    Latino mobile journalists are building on that blueprint in 2025, filming state power in moments of overreach, archiving injustice in real time, and expanding the impact of this radical tradition.

    Their work also echoes the spatial tactics of Black resistance. Just as enslaved Black people once mapped escape routes during slavery and Jim Crow, Latino communities today are engaging in digital cartography to chart ICE-free zones, mutual aid hubs and sanctuary spaces. The People Over Papers map channels the logic of the Black maroons – communities of self-liberated Africans who escaped plantations to track patrols, share intelligence and build networks of survival. Now, the hideouts are digital. The maps are crowdsourced. The danger remains.

    Likewise, the Stop ICE Raids Alerts Network revives a civil rights-era tactic. In the 1960s, organizers used wide area telephone service lines and radio to circulate safety updates. Black DJs cloaked dispatches in traffic and weather reports – “congestion on the south side” signaled police blockades; “storm warnings” meant violence ahead. Today, the medium is WhatsApp. The signal is encrypted. But the message – protect each other – has not changed.

    Layered across both systems is the DNA of the “Negro Motorist Green Book,” the guide that once helped Black travelers navigate Jim Crow America by identifying safe towns, gas stations and lodging. People Over Papers and Stop ICE Raids are digital descendants of that legacy. Where the Green Book used printed pages, today’s tools use digital pins. But the mission remains: survival through shared knowledge, protection through mapped resistance.

    The People Over Papers map is a crowdsourced collection of reports of ICE activity across the U.S.
    Screenshot by The Conversation U.S.

    Dangerous necessity

    Five years after George Floyd’s death, the power of visual evidence remains undeniable. Black witnessing laid the groundwork. In 2025, that tradition continues through the lens of Latino mobile journalists, who draw clear parallels between their own community’s experiences and those of Black Americans. Their footage exposes powerful echoes: ICE raids and overpolicing, border cages and city jails, a door kicked in at dawn and a knee on a neck.

    Like Black Americans before them, Latino communities are using smartphones to protect, to document and to respond. In cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles and El Paso, whispers of “ICE is in the neighborhood” now flash across Telegram, WhatsApp and Instagram. For undocumented families, pressing record can mean risking retaliation or arrest. But many keep filming – because what goes unrecorded can be erased.

    What they capture are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader, shared struggle against state violence. And as long as the cameras keep rolling, the stories keep surfacing – illuminated by the glow of smartphone screens that refuse to look away.

    Allissa V. Richardson receives funding from the Ford Foundation and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.

    – ref. Smartphones are once again setting the agenda for justice as the Latino community documents ICE actions – https://theconversation.com/smartphones-are-once-again-setting-the-agenda-for-justice-as-the-latino-community-documents-ice-actions-258980

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: The sleeper Supreme Court decision that could have profound impacts on the Trump administration agenda – and restore faith in the high court

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ray Brescia, Associate Dean for Research and Intellectual Life, Albany Law School

    The Trump administration has tried to punish or suppress speech and opposition to administration policies. Baac3nes/Getty Images

    The American public’s trust in the Supreme Court has fallen precipitously over the past decade. Many across the political spectrum see the court as too political.

    This view is only strengthened when Americans see most of the justices of the court dividing along ideological lines on decisions related to some of the most hot-button issues the court handles. Those include reproductive rights, voting rights, corporate power, environmental protection, student loan policy, worker rights and LGBTQ+ rights.

    But there is one recent decision where the court was unanimous in its ruling, perhaps because its holding should not be controversial: National Rifle Association v. Vullo. In that 2024 case, the court said that it’s a clear violation of the First Amendment’s free speech provisions for government to force people to speak and act in ways that are aligned with its policies.

    The second Trump administration has tried to wield executive branch power in ways that appear to punish or suppress speech and opposition to administration policy priorities. Many of those attempts have been legally challenged and will likely make their way to the Supreme Court.

    The somewhat under-the-radar – yet incredibly important – decision in National Rifle Association v. Vullo is likely to figure prominently in Supreme Court rulings in a slew of those cases in the coming months and years, including those involving law firms, universities and the Public Broadcasting Service.

    That’s because, in my view as a legal scholar, they are all First Amendment cases.

    Will the Supreme Court continue to protect free speech rights, as it did unanimously in 2024?
    Geoff Livingston/Getty Images

    Why the NRA sued a New York state official

    In May 2024, in an opinion written by reliably liberal Sonia Sotomayor, a unanimous court ruled that the efforts of New York state government officials to punish companies doing business with the NRA constituted clear violations of the First Amendment.

    Following its own precedent from the 1960s, Bantam Books v. Sullivan, the court found that government officials “cannot attempt to coerce private parties in order to punish or suppress views that the government disfavors.”

    Many of the current targets of the Trump administration’s actions have claimed similar suppression of their First Amendment rights by the government. They have fought back, filing lawsuits that often cite the National Rifle Association v. Vullo decision in their efforts.

    To date, the most egregious examples of actions that violate the principles announced by the court – the executive orders against law firms – have largely been halted in the lower courts, with those decisions often citing what’s now known as the Vullo decision.

    While these cases may still be working their way through the lower courts, it is likely that the Supreme Court will ultimately consider legal challenges to the Trump administration’s efforts in a range of areas.

    These would include the executive orders against law firms, attempts to cut government grants and research funding from universities, potential moves to strip nonprofits of their tax-exempt status, and regulatory actions punishing media companies for what the White House believes to be unfavorable coverage.

    The court could also hear disputes over the government terminating contracts with a family of companies that provides satellite and communications support to the U.S. government generally and the military in particular.

    Despite the variety of organizations and government actions involved in these lawsuits, they all can be seen as struggles over free speech and expression, like Vullo.

    Whether it is private law firms, multinational corporations, universities or members of the media, all have one thing in common: They have all been targeted by the Trump administration for the same reason – they are engaged in actions or speech that is disfavored by President Donald Trump.

    Protecting speech, regardless of politics

    U.S. Supreme Court Justice Robert Jackson, front, took leave to help prosecute war criminals at the Nuremberg trials at the end of World War II.
    Bettman/Getty Images

    The NRA, an often-controversial gun-rights advocacy organization, was the plaintiff in the Vullo decision.

    But just because the groups that have been targeted by the Trump administration are across the political divide from the NRA does not mean the outcome in decisions relying on the court’s opinion will be different. In fact, these groups can rely on the same arguments advanced by the NRA, and are, I believe, likely to win.

    Vullo isn’t the only decision on which the court can rely when considering challenges to the Trump administration’s efforts targeting these groups.

    In 1943, Supreme Court Justice Robert Jackson wrote the majority opinion in West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette, where the court found that students who refused to salute the American flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance at school could not be expelled.

    Jackson’s opinion is a forceful rejection of government attempts to control what people say: “If there is any fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion or force citizens to confess by word or act their faith therein.”

    In the wake of World War II, Jackson took a leave from the court and served as a prosecutor in the Nuremberg trials of Nazi leaders. Prosecuting them for their atrocities, Jackson saw how the Nuremberg defendants wielded government authority to punish enemies who resisted their rise and later opposed their rule.

    If some of the cases testing the state’s power to force fidelity to the executive branch reach the Supreme Court, the cases could offer the justices the opportunity to, once again, speak with one voice as they did in NRA v. Vullo, to demonstrate it can be evenhanded and will not play politics with the First Amendment.

    This story has been updated with the correct year for the Supreme Court’s decision in West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette.

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

    – ref. The sleeper Supreme Court decision that could have profound impacts on the Trump administration agenda – and restore faith in the high court – https://theconversation.com/the-sleeper-supreme-court-decision-that-could-have-profound-impacts-on-the-trump-administration-agenda-and-restore-faith-in-the-high-court-258216

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: People you may not know attended an ACT public school

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    In brief

    • Over the years, many well-known people have attended a Canberra public school.
    • Some attended for a short time, for university or alongside training at the Australian Institute of Sport.
    • This article lists some of these people.

    It’s no secret Canberra is a great place to live. It’s also, unsurprisingly, a great place to go to school.

    We’ve pulled together a list of well-known people who have attended an ACT public school or university.

    From actors to authors and artists to activists, plenty of impressive Aussies were educated right here in Canberra.

    Some may have stayed only a while. Some came just for uni or a sporting scholarship. Regardless, we’re happy to claim them.

    While this is not an exhaustive list, you’re bound to discover something new as you scroll.

    SCREEN AND STAGE

    Alan Alder – Ballet dancer and teacher

    Canberra High School

    Wil Anderson – Comedian and TV presenter

    University of Canberra

    Imogen Bailey – Model, actress, singer

    Melrose High School, Phillip College (now Canberra College)

    Jon Casimir – TV producer and executive

    Hawker College

    Jackie Chan – Actor

    Dickson College

    Ronny Chieng – Comedian

    Australian National University

    Gary Eck – Comedian and TV presenter

    Latham Primary School, Belconnen High School, Hawker College

    Tim Ferguson – Comedian and TV presenter

    School Without Walls (now closed), Narrabundah College

    Leon Ford – Director and screenwriter

    Telopea Park School, Narrabundah College

    Hannah Gadsby – Comedian

    Australian National University

    Richard Glover – Writer and radio presenter

    Australian National University

    Alister Grierson – Director and screenwriter

    Australian National University

    Liv Hewson – Actor and playwright

    Alfred Deakin High School, Canberra College

    Matthew Le Nevez – Actor

    Telopea Park School

    Paul McDermott – Comedian and TV presenter

    Dickson College, Australian National University

    Rhys Muldoon – Actor

    Scullin Primary School (closed, now Southern Cross Early Childhood School), Belconnen High School, Hawker College

    Alex O’Loughlin – Actor

    Macquarie Primary School

    Felicity Packard – Screenwriter and academic

    Lyneham High School, University of Canberra, Australian National University

    Rachel Perkins – Director, producer and screenwriter

    Melrose Primary School (now closed)

    Tanzeal Rahim – Director and writer

    University of Canberra

    Helen Razer – Radio presenter and writer

    Weston Creek High School (closed, now part of Mount Stromlo High School), Narrabundah College

    Richard Roxburgh – Actor

    Australian National University

    Ben Snow – Visual Effects, Writer, Director

    Narrabundah College, University of Canberra

    James Wan – Director

    Lake Tuggeranong College

    Mia Wasikowska – Actor

    Cook Primary School (now closed), Ainslie Primary School, Canberra High School

    Kirsty Webeck – Comedian

    Mt Stromlo High School, Narrabundah College, University of Canberra

    Sara Zwangobani – Actor

    Cook Primary School (now closed), Hawker College

    BOOKS AND NEWS

    Bettina Arndt – Journalist

    Australian National University

    Cynthia Banham – Journalist and academic

    Australian National University

    Rosemary Church – International news anchor

    University of Canberra

    Morris Gleitzman – Author

    Canberra College of Advanced Education (now the University of Canberra)

    Irma Gold – Author and podcaster

    University of Canberra

    Stan Grant – Journalist and author

    Australian National University

    Emma Grey – Author

    Garran Primary School, University of Canberra, Australian National University, Canberra Institute of Technology

    Marion Halligan – Author

    Australian National University. Marian also taught English at Canberra High School.

    Sonya Heaney – Author

    Melrose High School, University of Canberra

    Jack Heath – Author

    Lyneham High School, Narrabundah College

    Ingrid Jonach – Author

    University of Canberra

    Emma Macdonald – Journalist

    North Ainslie Primary School, University of Canberra

    Andrew Marlton aka First Dog on the Moon – Cartoonist

    Yarralumla Primary School

    Karen Middleton – Journalist

    Belconnen High School, Hawker College

    Garth Nix – Author

    Turner Primary School, Lyneham High School, Dickson College

    Dan O’Malley – Author

    Garran Primary School

    Sarah Oakes – Editor and Journalist

    University of Canberra

    Debra Oswald – Screenwriter and author

    Australian National University

    Stephanie Owen Reeder – Author

    University of Canberra

    Jamila Rizvi – Author and journalist

    Lyneham High School, Hawker College

    Brendan Shanahan – Author and journalist

    Narrabundah College, Australian National University

    Kimberley Starr – Author

    Garran Primary School

    Gabrielle Tozer – Author and Journalist

    University of Canberra

    Karen Viggers – Author and vet

    Australian National University

    Sam Vincent – Author and journalist

    University of Canberra

    Amanda Whitley – HerCanberra founder

    University of Canberra

    SPORTS

    Suzy Batkovic – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Darren Beadman – Jockey

    Garran Primary School, Lyneham High School

    Michael Bevan – Cricketer

    Stirling College (became part of Canberra College)

    Abby Bishop – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Justin Blumfield – AFL player

    Melrose High School

    Andrew Bogut – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Edwina Bone – Hockey player

    University of Canberra

    Caroline Buchanan – BMX and mountain bike rider

    Duffy Primary School, Lanyon High School, Erindale College

    Liz Cambage – Basketballer

    UC SSC Lake Ginninderra (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Bradley Clyde – Rugby league player

    Hawker College

    Matthew Dellavedova – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Brennon Dowrick – Gymnast

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra), University of Canberra

    Danté Exum – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Linley Frame – Swimmer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    George Gregan – Rugby union player

    University of Canberra

    Aaron Hamill – AFL player

    Fadden Primary School, Melrose High School, Phillip College (became part of Canberra College)

    Lincoln Hall – Mountain climber

    Telopea Park School, Australian National University

    Shane Heal – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    James Hird – AFL player

    Ainslie Primary School

    Andrew Illie – Tennis player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Joe Ingles – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Lauren Jackson – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Stephen Larkham – Rugby Union player and coach

    Australian National University

    Scott Miller – Swimmer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Patty Mills – Basketballer

    Lanyon High School, UC SSC Lake Ginninderra

    Joanne Morgan – Netballer and coach

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Cameron Myers – Athlete

    UC SSC Lake Ginninderra

    Lucas Neill – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Rennae Stubbs – Tennis player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Petria Thomas – Swimmer and Commonwealth Games Chef de Mission

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra), University of Canberra

    Marianna Tolo – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Emily Van Egmond – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Mark Viduka – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Todd Woodbridge – Tennis player and commentator

    Lyneham High School, Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Ned Zelic – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    MUSIC

    Peter Blakeley – Singer and songwriter

    Hughes Primary School

    Peter Casey – Musical director

    Cook Primary School (now closed)

    Matt Cooper, Matt Parkitny, Alex Pearson, Joel Tyrrell, Trenton Woodley – Hands Like Houses band members

    Melba High School and Copland College (amalgamated to become Melba Copland Secondary School) and Canberra High School between them

    Martin Craft – Sidewinder band member

    Narrabundah College

    Cameron Emerson-Elliott, Toby Martin – Youth Group band members

    Narrabundah College

    Frank Gambale – Guitarist

    Canberra High School

    Peter Garrett – Midnight Oil band member and former politician

    Australian National University

    Adam Hyde, Reuben Styles – Peking Duk band members

    Lyneham High School and Dickson College between them

    Hayley Jensen – Singer and songwriter

    Australian National University, University of Canberra

    Steven Kilbey – The Church band member

    Lyneham High School

    Lisa Moore – Pianist

    Telopea Park School

    Tim Omaji aka Timomatic – Singer, songwriter and dancer

    Narrabundah College

    Tim Rogers – Musician, You Am I band member

    Australian National University

    Sally Whitwell – Classical pianist and composer

    Australian National University

    AND STILL MORE

    Jess Cochrane – Artist

    Mt Stromlo High School

    Stefania Ferrario – Activist and model

    Telopea Park School, Narrabundah College

    Rosalie Gascoigne – Artist

    Australian National University

    Bob Hawke – Former Prime Minister of Australia

    Australian National University

    Tziporah Malkah (formerly Kate Fischer) – Model and actress

    Narrabundah College

    Sam Mostyn – Current Governor General of Australia

    South Curtin Primary School (became Curtin Primary School), Woden Valley High School (became part of Alfred Deakin High School), Narrabundah College

    Hetti Perkins – Art curator, writer and activist

    Melrose Primary School (now closed)

    Patricia Piccinini – Artist

    Narrabundah College

    Sam Prince – Zambreros founder, entrepreneur and doctor

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Kevin Rudd – former Prime Minister of Australia

    Australian National University

    Gough Whitlam – Former Prime Minister of Australia

    Telopea Park School

    A COUPLE OF NOTABLE MENTIONS FROM OVER THE BORDER

    David Campese – Rugby Union player and commentator

    Queanbeyan High School

    Mark Webber – Formula One driver and commentator

    Isabella Street Primary School, Karabar High School

    ENROL YOUR CHILD IN AN ACT SCHOOL

    Today, more than 50,000 students are enrolled across the ACT’s 92 public schools.

    To find a school or enrol your child, visit the ACT Education website.

    To apply for university in Canberra, you’ll typically apply through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) or directly to the university.

    Read more like this

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: INTERPOL releases new information on globalization of scam centres

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    • Victims have been trafficked into criminality from more than 60 countries around the world
    • West Africa is emerging as a potential regional hub for online scam centres

    LYON, France: Human trafficking-fueled scam centres have expanded their global footprint, according to a new crime trend update released by INTERPOL.

    As of March 2025, victims from 66 countries were trafficked into online scam centres, with no continent left untouched.

    Seventy-four percent of human trafficking victims were brought to centres in the original ‘hub’ region of Southeast Asia, according to analysis of the crime trend using data from relevant INTERPOL Notices issued in the past five years.

    However, online scam centres have increasingly been observed in other regions, including the Middle East, West Africa – which could be developing into a new regional hub – and Central America.

    While approximately 90 percent of human trafficking facilitators were from Asia, 11 per cent were from South America or Africa.

    Eighty per cent of facilitators were men, and 61 per cent were aged between 20 and 39 years old.

    Global crisis

    Initially concentrated in a handful of Southeast Asian countries, the centres are estimated to have drawn in hundreds of thousands of human trafficking victims, typically through false job ads, detaining them in compounds and forcing them to carry out online social engineering scams.

    While not every person committing fraud in a scam centre is a victim of human trafficking, those held against their will are often subject to extortion through debt bondage, as well as beatings, sexual exploitation, torture and rape.

    Online scams engineered by the centres target a second set of globally-dispersed victims, who often suffer debilitating financial and emotional damage.

    Since 2023, INTERPOL has documented how this double-edged crime trend has evolved from a regional threat in Southeast Asia to a global crisis, issuing an Orange Notice to signal its serious and imminent threat to public safety.

    In 2024, a global operation coordinated by INTERPOL uncovered dozens of cases in which trafficking victims were deceived and coerced into committing fraud, with national police officers raiding an industrial-scale scam centre in the Philippines.

    In the same year, an INTERPOL operation saw police dismantle a scam centre in Namibia, where 88 youths were forced to conduct scams.

    Growing use of AI

    The INTERPOL update also highlights how emerging technologies and convergence with other major crime areas could transform human trafficking-fueled scam centres as the crime trend continues to evolve.

    The use of artificial intelligence has been observed in a growing number of scamming cases.

    AI has been used to develop convincing fake job ads that attract human trafficking victims as well as generate online photos or profiles through ‘deepfake’ technology for sextortion and romance scams, among other social engineering schemes.

    Moreover, reports analysed by INTERPOL show that the same routes used to traffic victims to scam centres can be used to traffic drugs, firearms and protected wildlife species.

    The areas where scam centres have emerged in Southeast Asia are also key hubs for the trafficking of endangered species such as tigers or pangolins, making criminal diversification likely.

    Cyril Gout, Acting Executive Director of Police Services at INTERPOL, said:

    “The reach of online scam centres spans the globe and represents a dynamic and persistent global challenge.”

    “Tackling this rapidly globalizing threat requires a coordinated international response. We must increase the exchange of information between law enforcement in the growing number of countries affected and strengthen partnerships with NGOs that help victims and technology companies whose platforms are being exploited.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Lord-Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale: 30 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Press release

    Appointment of Lord-Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale: 30 June 2025

    The King has been pleased to appoint Mr John Jeffrey JP, DL as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale.

    The King has been pleased to appoint Mr John Jeffrey JP, DL as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale, to succeed Richard Scott, The Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry KT, KBE, CVO, DL, FSA, FRSE following his retirement on 4th July 2025.

    Background

    Mr Jeffrey was educated at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh and then at Newcastle University where he graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Agriculture. He is a fellow of the Royal Agricultural Society, a Justice of the Peace, and Deputy Lieutenant of the County of Roxburghshire. Mr Jeffrey runs his own farm estates business and has played Rugby nationally and internationally including on the Scotland Men’s national team and for the British Lions. John was a founding member and Vice-Chair of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation which works to find a cure for MND. He has held a number of Board and Governance roles including the Moredun Foundation for Animal Health & Welfare, Border Union Agricultural Society and the British Lions Trust. John is also the former Chairman of Scottish Rugby and vice-chair of World Rugby.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth Armed Forces Week 2025 proves to be a huge success.

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Visitors and residents turned up in their thousands to show respect to our Service Personnel past and present in a week-long celebration in Plymouth which culminated in the spectacular Armed Forces Day – in association with international defence company Babcock International Group (Babcock), on Saturday 28 June. For a city with a proud military history, this was a real opportunity to come together and celebrate.

    On Monday 23 June, the week opened with an official ceremonial raising of the Armed Forces flag outside Plymouth Guildhall, which was attended by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Kathy Watkin and Captain Iain Ritchie representing the Naval Base Commander, alongside other military and civic leaders.

    The sun shone for the participants and spectators of the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, hosted by the Royal Navy, sponsored by AECOM and Defence Recovery. The city welcomed over 150 Service Personnel in recovery and medically discharged veterans, who took part in the swim, bike and row events with an international team from the Netherlands, taking full advantage of the newly refurbished art-deco Tinside Lido and the view over Plymouth Hoe.

    The Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge, sponsored by AECOM took place for the second year, with 150 children from military families, representing 24 local primary schools, competing on the Hoe. Thank you to our sponsors and delivery partners South West Highways, Plymouth Active Leisure and Samworth Brothers Cornwall for their support.

    Congratulations to all participants who took part in the Strength of Spirit Games. Plympton St. Maurice Primary were the overall winning team at The Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge.

    Darren Carlile, Head of National Security UK&I AECOM, said: “The Strength of Spirit Games and Junior Rowing Competition brought together exceptional individuals, each demonstrating remarkable resilience, determination and character. From the enthusiasm of the junior participants to the inspiring strength of veterans, it was great to see such memorable moments. Congratulations to all who took part.”

    Plymouth Armed Forces Day took place on Saturday with a full day’s programme incorporating, displays, parades, demonstrations, and entertainment culminating in an evening concert. It was a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions of the Armed Forces both past and present.

    Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Libraries, Events, Cemeteries and Crematoria, Councillor Sally Haydon, said: “The week-long Armed Forces celebration in Plymouth is not only an opportunity to see inspirational athletes and enjoy a family-fun day of thrilling demonstrations, interactive displays and entertainment, but also a hugely important week to show our support to the Armed Forces community and to thank them for the great work they do”.

    Visitors from far and wide came to explore the military villages and enjoyed tackling some of the hands-on challenges and climbing on-board the vehicles and equipment, including the Royal Marines Raiding Craft and the Army’s weapon displays. There were dynamic displays from the Royal Navy including the battlefield ambulance and dive tank whilst, the RAF recruitment team chatted to visitors about career opportunities and the Cadets were running desk-top simulators for visitors to try.

    John Gane, Site Managing Director at Babcock’s Devonport facility, said: “Hosting this military showcase annually in Plymouth provides an excellent opportunity for the community to learn more about the critical role that our Armed Forces play in keeping our country safe – something Babcock is proud to support. This year’s events attracted more visitors than ever before, and we were pleased to welcome so many visitors to our busy stand on Armed Forces Day.”

    One of the many highlights included the Merlin Mk4 helicopter which commanded a steady flow of visitors throughout the day chatting to the air crew and engineers.

    The Emergency Services had an array of displays and equipment to explore, including the Fire Service, Police, Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Plymouth, RNLI and Coastguard Search and Rescue. They all had teams on-hand to offer advice and explain how and when they use their emergency equipment.

    The Veterans Village, supported by the Royal British Legion Devon County, saw a continuous stream of visitors to the 100+ charities and organisations offering information, support and advice, for both serving military personnel and veterans. For the car enthusiast there were plenty of vintage military vehicles to admire, plus a display from City West Country and Ocean BMW Motorbikes.

    Families loved the arena programme with the Parade of Standards, led by the City of Plymouth Pipe Band and thrilling demonstrations from Team Endeavours Punishers Wheelchair Rugby, plus REORG Ju Jitsu who were new to the event and wowed the crowds with their exciting demonstration.  There were Cadet parades and bands and live music, including the Theatre Royal’s Plymouth’s Armed Forces Choir.

    Congratulations to Pennycross Primary School for breaking the fastest time world record at the Junior Field Gun tournament, which ran throughout the day. They were presented the silver trophy by Vice Admiral, Andrew Burns, Fleet Commander of the Royal Navy, and they also won the points cup!

    ​

    The day finished with a lively free evening concert, sponsored by C&G Catering, which included a line-up of brilliant performances where the crowds danced and sang a-long to, with the stunning backdrop of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

    Thank you to our Armed Forces Day sponsors and delivery partners, Babcock International, Royal British Legion Devon County, C&G Catering, Foster for Plymouth, South West Highways, Plymouth CityBus, and Ivor Dewdney Pasties for their support.

    To watch the video from Armed Forces Day, and for more information, visit: plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk. For further information about Babcock International, visit: babcockinternational.com

    For more information about other events taking place in the city, visit: visitplymouth.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Artek at 100%! Polytech took part in the anniversary of the children’s center

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The International Children’s Center “Artek” celebrates its centenary this year. Over its century-long history, the camp has become a real forge of talents. It unites children from different regions of Russia and countries and opens up new horizons for them.

    Artek hosted the technology festival “From Dream to Progress”, dedicated to the development of the latest technologies in various sectors of the country – construction, agriculture, space industry, medicine. The event was attended by representatives of the Russian ministries, universities, as well as various companies such as VKontakte, Russian Railways, Sberbank.

    Polytech is one of Artek’s key partners. Every year, the university holds specialized shifts at the International Children’s Center aimed at developing engineering thinking, modern skills, and scientific and technical creativity, helping talented children find their way.

    The University organized several interactive platforms for the participants of the anniversary shift. One of them was called “Programming Microorganisms”. There, schoolchildren learned how genetic engineering changes medicine, agro-industry and food technologies. Under the guidance of IBSiB students Alena Babich and Matvey Mokan, the children immersed themselves in the world of genetic code, tried to create and edit DNA on models.

    At the site “Electronics for Space and Telecommunication Systems of the “Smart Environment”” the participants got acquainted with the latest systems of space and ground communications, got the opportunity to work with a real nanosatellite. As part of teams, they processed data received from spacecraft and ground sources of radio signals. Engineer of the Institute of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications Alexandra Kuznetsova and assistant of the institute Sergey Melnikov spoke about promising professions in the field of space technologies.

    At the “Smart City Unmanned Systems” site, schoolchildren equipped models of unmanned vehicles with the necessary equipment. They studied the operating principles of sensors and probes, understood the logic of placing devices on unmanned vehicles, and gained an understanding of the technologies of the “smart city” of the future. The master class was conducted by Georgy Vasilyanov, senior lecturer at the Institute of Scientific and Technical Sciences, and Vladimir Voronov, engineer at the Institute of Scientific and Technical Sciences. The site continued a long-standing tradition. Every year, Polytechnic University holds a specialized shift in Artek dedicated to the technologies of the “smart city” and autonomous transport.

    For us, cooperation with Artek is an opportunity to spark children’s interest in science and innovation today. We see how the children who have attended our shifts return home with new knowledge and a desire to change the world for the better. During specialized shifts, we strive to inspire participants by showing them the connection between school knowledge, university education and the professions of the future. Through the interaction of science and industry, we demonstrate how innovations make life better, and high-quality education opens the way to the profession of your dreams, – noted Artem Egupov, Director of the Center for Work with Applicants at SPbPU.

    On Artek’s birthday, Polytech prepared interactive platforms demonstrating key areas of technological development. Not only the participants of the Artek shift, but also children from all over Crimea invited to this event were able to get acquainted with the advanced developments of the university.

    The festival’s guests of honor were Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Sergey Kravtsov, who viewed the exhibits. Dmitry Chernyshenko especially noted the interactive platforms of SPbPU, emphasizing that they attract the largest number of participants and serve as a striking example of an effective combination of educational methods with modern technologies.

    The Artek anniversary ended with a celebration in which more than 4,000 children took part. The main event was the musical “100 Years of the Childhood Road” – a colorful show that told about the centuries-old history of the camp, from the first days to the present day.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inspiring Ruth is national dementia award winner

    Source: City of Coventry

    Our adult social care services are celebrating after three colleagues and partners were recognised in the National Dementia Care Awards for 2025, held last week in London

    The colleagues are all a part of the Coventry Dementia Partnership Hub (CDPH).

    Ruth Chauhan won her category of “Inspirational person with dementia” for her work at CDPH.

    Ruth is a key member of the CDHP, and as a person living with a dementia, she really does show that you can live well with dementia.

    As well as delivering services through Amba Care Solutions, a company set up by Ruth and her husband Jay, she also dedicates her time to the hub, running two very successful sessions.

    On a Monday, she runs Meaningful Moments whereby for people with dementia and at the same time a session for carers.

    Her target group is people from the Asian communities, to try and make our services more accessible to a wide range of people.

    Ruth is also a member of the CDPH ‘Culturally Inclusive’ group where the aim is to reach out to underserved communities, she volunteers her time and expertise whenever it is needed.

    Ruth has also provided dementia training to some of our partners including the Police, Fire Service and Lions Club of Coventry Godiva.

    Ruth said: “It was an honour just to be nominated – thanks April Ross. I couldn’t quite believe it when they announced my name as the winner. This award is for everyone who overcomes the difficulties that come with a cognitive impairment.

    “If I can inspire just one person to believe that by embracing a ‘new normal’ you can overcome anything and make a difference, then all the challenges I face every day are worth it.”

    Terri Hallinan, who is the manager of a residential care home for people with Dementia (Eric Williams House) was shortlisted for the Registered Manager in Dementia Care award, Terri was nominated for her excellent leadership skills and dedication to enhancing the lives of people with dementia under her care. The nomination highlighted Terri’s commitment to creating a culturally inclusive environment. Terri said: “It was such a joy to be shortlisted and to attend a night filled with celebration and inspiration. Being surrounded by so many passionate people reminded me just how powerful kindness, dedication, and teamwork can be in making a real difference every day.

    Shashi Prasad (Lions Club for Coventry Godiva) was also shortlisted for the Diversity and Dementia award, which recognised Shashi’s role as chair of the Culturally Inclusive sub-group which sits under the Coventry Dementia Partnership Hub (CDPH) work.

    Shashi’s role is integral to raising awareness of dementia in global majority communities, seeking to break down stigmas around dementia. This group’s work was publicised in a worldwide Common Age report. Shashi has worked with the Council to create dementia awareness videos in different languages as part of raising awareness.

    Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “This is wonderful news. Coventry really does have many amazing people working in care or as carers or engaging with care services. There is so much love and joy in the services I witness every day, which proves you can live to your potential, whatever your circumstances. Congratulations to Ruth, Terri and Shashi.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City to take a stand against anti-social behaviour

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    ASB Awareness Week 2025, which begins today (Monday 30 June, 2025), aims to encourage communities to make a stand against ASB and highlight the actions that can be taken by those experiencing it.

    Organised by Resolve, the UK’s leading ASB and community safety organisation, the week features a series of events all across the UK, involving councils, police, housing associations, charities, community groups and sports clubs.

    The council and its partners, including West Midlands Police and the Wolverhampton ASB Team, will be carrying out community engagement activities, patrols, while School Intervention Prevention Officers and Violence Reduction Partnership will be working with local schools to educate pupils about the issue of ASB.

    The council is also urging members of the public not to suffer in silence if they experience ASB. Incidents can be reported to the Wolverhampton ASB Team on 01902 556789, by email via asbu@wolverhamptonhomes.org.uk or at Report anti-social behaviour, or to the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “We know that anti-social behaviour can cause a great deal of distress, and that’s why we’re committed to working with the public and other organisations across Wolverhampton to investigate and resolve issues as soon as possible.

    “Statistics show that 56% of victims and witnesses don’t report ASB, but nobody should suffer in silence. So, our message is clear – if you see something, make sure you report it.

    “We also have a range of events taking place in Wolverhampton to support ASB Awareness Week and I encourage residents to take part and help make it clear that ASB has no place in Wolverhampton.”

    As well as patrols and engagement activities there will be information pop-ups at Bilston Indoor Market today (Monday) from 10am to 2pm, Warstones Library tomorrow (Tuesday) from 2pm to 5pm, the Avion Centre in Whitmore Reans on Wednesday from 11am to 2pm, the Civic Centre on Friday from noon to 1pm and Wolverhampton bus station on Friday from 2.30pm to 4pm.

    Meanwhile, Resolve is hosting a series of webinars throughout the week as part of its summit, beginning with one to officially launch ASB Awareness Week today at noon. For more details, visit Resolve Summit 2025. 
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Here’s how First Nations landholders can share the benefits of the NSW energy transition

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Heidi Norman, Professor of Australian and Aboriginal history, Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture, Convenor: Indigenous Land & Justice Research Group, UNSW Sydney

    Hay Local Aboriginal Land Council staff and members with researchers and actuaries from Finity Consulting. UNSW Indigenous Land and Justice Research Group

    The shift to clean, renewable sources of energy presents a rare opportunity for First Nations people, not only as energy users but as landholders.

    We wanted to explore the potential for First Nations land in the energy transition across New South Wales. The transition is well underway, but the pace must accelerate to meet state targets for 2030 and beyond.

    Our new report found the state’s 121 Aboriginal Land Councils have an opportunity to partner with renewable developers and build solar, wind or transmission lines on their own land.

    Such projects can offer jobs during construction and a smaller number of ongoing positions, as well as annual payments. This is why farmers and other landholders often look to renewable projects as a reliable source of income.

    To date, the 447 square kilometres of the state owned by Aboriginal Land Councils has not been actively used in the energy transition. As a result, First Nations involvement in the transition has been limited and the renewables boom has not flowed to these communities.

    Making this opportunity a reality will require collaboration with governments, electricity networks and industry, as well as policy support.

    The role of land councils

    In NSW, land councils have been operating since 1983, the year the state government passed laws recognising Aboriginal land rights. About a third of Australia’s First Nations people live in NSW.

    Each land council is governed by Aboriginal members, and they are located in most country towns and across Sydney.

    Land councils have a statutory responsibility “to improve, protect and foster the best interests of all Aboriginal persons within the Council’s area and other persons who are members of the Council”. These councils manage their land to protect culture and heritage.

    Generating wealth through the development of Aboriginal land is a key objective of Aboriginal land rights in NSW.

    Aboriginal goals in the energy transition

    Following analysis of the land potentially available to renewable energy projects, our research moved on to exploring what Aboriginal land councils want from the energy transition.

    We ran workshops with three land councils: Tibooburra in the far northwest, Hay in the southwest and Brewarrina in the northwest of the state. Each had expressed interest in renewable developments and concern around exposure to extreme weather events.

    In these workshops, land council members told us about their priorities for energy.

    Reliable energy was a major concern for Tibooburra, far from the main electricity grid.

    For Brewarrina on the Barwon River, energy security in the face of heatwaves and floods was front of mind. High energy bills in housing ill-equipped for extreme weather was another big issue.

    Members of Hay land council told us they wanted ownership and equity share in renewable energy projects. Their goal was to create opportunities to live, work and care for Country.

    The Hay Local Aboriginal Land Council (brown) is found in the South-West Renewable Energy Zone, while Tibooburra (green) and Brewarrina (orange) land councils are more remote.
    Norman, H., et al. (2025) APPI Policy Insights Paper, CC BY-NC-SA

    Renewable energy, First Nations land

    Aboriginal land councils own and manage about 450 square km of land in NSW. Resolving outstanding land claims would further expand the estate.

    Our analysis reveals current land holdings could host up to 11 gigawatts of solar or 1.6 gigawatts of onshore wind energy projects.

    But several barriers stand in the way. There are long delays in the processing of Aboriginal land claims and the return of vacant Crown Land. This limits options for land councils to contribute to renewable energy development.

    Realising opportunities in the energy transition

    Our case studies demonstrate the potential for Aboriginal land to support the state government’s renewable energy efforts. This can also bring economic and social benefits to Aboriginal communities. But the opportunities will vary from place to place.

    In areas at the edge of the grid, such as Tibooburra and Brewarrina, Aboriginal land could help meet regional energy demand through small to mid-scale wind and solar projects, microgrids and batteries.

    Hay Local Aboriginal Land Council, on the other hand, is in the South-West Renewable Energy Zone. This is an area where new renewable energy projects, storage facilities and high-voltage transmission lines are already being constructed. Land under claim here holds huge economic potential for both mid-scale renewable energy (solar installations feeding into the local electricity network) and large-scale renewable energy projects.

    Unlocking the power of renewable energy zones (NSW EnergyCo)

    How can authorities support land councils?

    At present, local Aboriginal Land Councils need expertise and resources to turn this opportunity into reality.

    Our report identified four broad areas for policy reform:

    1. Build capacity for land councils to manage clean energy opportunities and risks on their landholdings. This could include establishing a dedicated government team to support interested land councils, and funding land councils to engage expertise and develop renewable energy projects.

    2. Enable collaboration between electricity network distributors and land councils to set up microgrids. One case study, Tibooburra Local Aboriginal Land Council had land suitable for a microgrid and battery to support the energy provider. But early-stage support is needed to develop such projects.

    3. Pilot programs to develop mid- and large-scale renewable energy projects on land council holdings. A partnership between lands councils and planning authorities could demonstrate a model for arranging approval processes. Programs by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency have proven successful in the past. We recommend funding these organisations to run a program for land council-developer partnerships in large-scale renewables.

    4. Strengthen recognition of Aboriginal rights to unlock the renewable energy potential of Aboriginal land. This could include expediting land claims and land transfers and providing incentives for cooperation between land councils and Traditional Owners.

    The next five years will be crucial for NSW’s renewable energy transition. Getting the foundations right now could empower Aboriginal landholders and their regional communities to get the most out of this once-in-a-generation opportunity.

    Heidi Norman receives funding from the Australian Research Council, Australian Public Policy Institute, Boundless and the NSW Government.

    Saori Miyake receives funding from Australian Public Policy Institute and Boundless for this project.

    Sarah Niklas receives funding from the Australian Public Policy Institute and Boundless for this project.

    Therese Apolonio receives funding from Australian Public Policy Institute, Boundless and the NSW Government.

    – ref. Here’s how First Nations landholders can share the benefits of the NSW energy transition – https://theconversation.com/heres-how-first-nations-landholders-can-share-the-benefits-of-the-nsw-energy-transition-259702

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • New York mayoral candidate Mamdani defends campaign despite Democratic unease

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani defended his democratic socialism on Sunday and argued that his focus on economic issues should serve as a model for the party, even though some top Democrats have been reluctant to embrace him.

    In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Mamdani said his agenda of raising taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers and on corporations to pay for ambitious policies such as free buses, a $30 minimum hourly wage and a rent freeze was not only realistic but tailored to meet the needs of the city’s working residents.

    “It’s the wealthiest city in the wealthiest country in the history of the world, and yet one in four New Yorkers are living in poverty, and the rest are seemingly trapped in a state of anxiety,” he told NBC’s Kristen Welker.

    Mamdani’s stunning victory over former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo in Tuesday’s primary election has some party figures worried that his democratic socialism could feed Republican attacks on Democrats as too far left ahead of next year’s midterm elections. Business leaders have also expressed concern about his policies.

    Democrats have struggled to find a coherent message after their resounding loss in the November elections that saw President Donald Trump return to the White House and his Republicans win control of both chambers of Congress. A Reuters/Ipsos poll earlier this month showed that a majority of American Democrats believed their party needs new leadership and to be more focused on economic issues.

    Earlier on Sunday, Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who represents part of the city, told ABC’s “This Week” that he wasn’t ready to endorse Mamdani yet, saying that he needed to hear more about Mamdani’s vision.

    Other prominent New York Democrats, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have also thus far declined to endorse Mamdani.

    Trump, himself a native New Yorker, told Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo” that if Mamdani wins the mayoral race, “he’d better do the right thing” or Trump would withhold federal funds from the city.

    “He’s a communist. I think it’s very bad for New York,” Trump said.

    Asked about Trump’s claim that he is a communist, Mamdani told NBC it was not true and accused the president of attempting to distract from the fact that “I’m fighting for the very working people that he ran a campaign to empower that he has since then betrayed.”

    He also voiced no concern that Jeffries and other Democrats have not yet endorsed his candidacy.

    “I think that people are catching up to this election,” he said. “What we’re showing is that by putting working people first, by returning to the roots of the Democratic Party, we actually have a path out of this moment where we’re facing authoritarianism in Washington, D.C.”

    Mamdani’s criticism of Israel’s war in Gaza has set him apart from many mainstream Democrats and prompted allegations of antisemitism, which he has fiercely denied. Earlier this month, during an appearance on the political podcast The Bulwark, Mamdani declined to condemn the pro-Palestinian phrase “globalize the intifada,” which some Jews view as antisemitic and a call to violence.

    Jeffries told ABC that Mamdani needed to “clarify his position” on the phrase to reassure Jewish New Yorkers.

    Pressed again on Sunday, Mamdani said it was “not language that I use” but again did not condemn it. He said he did not want to determine for others what words are permissible or impermissible, arguing that Trump has done that by targeting pro-Palestinian activists for their speech.

    “We have to root out that bigotry, and ultimately we do that through the actions,” he said.

    Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, elected as a Democrat, is running as an independent in November’s election after Trump’s Justice Department dropped corruption charges against him, fueling accusations of a quid pro quo that he has denied. The Republican nominee is Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, and lawyer Jim Walden is also running as an independent.

    Cuomo has not yet decided whether to remain in the race as an independent.

    (Reuters)

  • New York mayoral candidate Mamdani defends campaign despite Democratic unease

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani defended his democratic socialism on Sunday and argued that his focus on economic issues should serve as a model for the party, even though some top Democrats have been reluctant to embrace him.

    In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Mamdani said his agenda of raising taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers and on corporations to pay for ambitious policies such as free buses, a $30 minimum hourly wage and a rent freeze was not only realistic but tailored to meet the needs of the city’s working residents.

    “It’s the wealthiest city in the wealthiest country in the history of the world, and yet one in four New Yorkers are living in poverty, and the rest are seemingly trapped in a state of anxiety,” he told NBC’s Kristen Welker.

    Mamdani’s stunning victory over former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo in Tuesday’s primary election has some party figures worried that his democratic socialism could feed Republican attacks on Democrats as too far left ahead of next year’s midterm elections. Business leaders have also expressed concern about his policies.

    Democrats have struggled to find a coherent message after their resounding loss in the November elections that saw President Donald Trump return to the White House and his Republicans win control of both chambers of Congress. A Reuters/Ipsos poll earlier this month showed that a majority of American Democrats believed their party needs new leadership and to be more focused on economic issues.

    Earlier on Sunday, Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who represents part of the city, told ABC’s “This Week” that he wasn’t ready to endorse Mamdani yet, saying that he needed to hear more about Mamdani’s vision.

    Other prominent New York Democrats, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have also thus far declined to endorse Mamdani.

    Trump, himself a native New Yorker, told Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo” that if Mamdani wins the mayoral race, “he’d better do the right thing” or Trump would withhold federal funds from the city.

    “He’s a communist. I think it’s very bad for New York,” Trump said.

    Asked about Trump’s claim that he is a communist, Mamdani told NBC it was not true and accused the president of attempting to distract from the fact that “I’m fighting for the very working people that he ran a campaign to empower that he has since then betrayed.”

    He also voiced no concern that Jeffries and other Democrats have not yet endorsed his candidacy.

    “I think that people are catching up to this election,” he said. “What we’re showing is that by putting working people first, by returning to the roots of the Democratic Party, we actually have a path out of this moment where we’re facing authoritarianism in Washington, D.C.”

    Mamdani’s criticism of Israel’s war in Gaza has set him apart from many mainstream Democrats and prompted allegations of antisemitism, which he has fiercely denied. Earlier this month, during an appearance on the political podcast The Bulwark, Mamdani declined to condemn the pro-Palestinian phrase “globalize the intifada,” which some Jews view as antisemitic and a call to violence.

    Jeffries told ABC that Mamdani needed to “clarify his position” on the phrase to reassure Jewish New Yorkers.

    Pressed again on Sunday, Mamdani said it was “not language that I use” but again did not condemn it. He said he did not want to determine for others what words are permissible or impermissible, arguing that Trump has done that by targeting pro-Palestinian activists for their speech.

    “We have to root out that bigotry, and ultimately we do that through the actions,” he said.

    Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, elected as a Democrat, is running as an independent in November’s election after Trump’s Justice Department dropped corruption charges against him, fueling accusations of a quid pro quo that he has denied. The Republican nominee is Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, and lawyer Jim Walden is also running as an independent.

    Cuomo has not yet decided whether to remain in the race as an independent.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 5th anniversary of NSL heralded

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Today marks the fifth anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL).

     

    In a statement, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said the HKNSL’s implementation over the past five years has shown the law to be a “guardian” in upholding the principle of “one country, two systems” and in safeguarding the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.

     

    It added the HKNSL is an important and timely piece of legislation with profound historical significance.

     

    The statement stressed that the HKNSL has enabled Hong Kong to make a major transition from chaos to order and has laid a solid legal foundation for safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

     

    National security, it said, forms the basis for a country’s existence and development; however, after reunification, Hong Kong had long been “undefended” with regard to national security, with anti-China elements and external forces continuously challenging the principle of “one country, two systems”, and even attempting to seize the power of governance.

     

    The Hong Kong SAR Government iterated that unprecedented crises were brought to Hong Kong by the “anti-national education” incident in 2012; the illegal “Occupy Central” movement in 2014; and the Mongkok riot in 2016; as well as the “black-clad violence” and Hong Kong’s version of a “colour revolution”, which lasted for more than 10 months from June 2019, severely damaging Hong Kong’s societal, economic and business environment and causing the public to live in fear.

     

    The central authorities acted decisively at a critical moment for Hong Kong, the statement added. The National People’s Congress (NPC) made a decision on May 28, 2020, on the basis of which the NPC Standing Committee enacted the HKNSL on June 30, 2020. The law was then listed under Annex III to the Basic Law for local promulgation and implementation in the Hong Kong SAR.

     

    The statement outlined that the HKNSL addressed shortcomings and plugged loopholes in the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security in Hong Kong, playing the role of a stabilising force that immediately stopped violence and curbed disorder. It said the HKNSL’s implementation was a “watershed moment” in Hong Kong’s transition from chaos to order, as stability and safety in the city have been restored by the law.

     

    It added that thanks to the concerted efforts of the Hong Kong SAR Government, the Legislative Council and all sectors of the community, the Hong Kong SAR fulfilled its constitutional duty last year by completing the legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law.

     

    The Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised that the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), which took effect on March 23, 2024, improved the city’s legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security.

     

    It said the HKNSL and the SNSO are compatible and complementary, building a strong line of defence to safeguard national security in Hong Kong.

     

    The Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised Hong Kong’s laws safeguarding national security firmly adhere to the principle of the rule of law, while protecting rights and freedoms in accordance with the law.

     

    The business environment, it said, has continuously improved. Hong Kong is the world’s freest economy, ranks third among global financial centres, and recently returned to the global top three economies in the world in terms of competitiveness, demonstrating that it is advancing at full steam “from stability to prosperity”.

     

    The statement continued that Hong Kong’s laws safeguarding national security also protect human rights, with respect and protections for human rights being embodied both in the provisions of the HKNSL and the SNSO and in their implementation.

     

    Both HKNSL Article 4 and SNSO Section 2 stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected and that the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social & Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong shall be protected in accordance with the law. These include the rights to freedom of speech, of the press, of publication, of association, of assembly, of procession and of demonstration.

     

    The Hong Kong SAR Government said that the laws’ various provisions are in line with international standards, striking a reasonable balance between safeguarding national security and protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.

     

    It added that the Hong Kong SAR has a solid, resilient foundation of rule of law that is well-recognised by the international community, and that the city’s law enforcement agencies take actions based on evidence and in accordance with the law.

     

    It also outlined that the Department of Justice, by virtue of Basic Law Article 63, controls criminal prosecutions, free from any interference, while independent prosecutorial decisions for each case are made in a rigorous and objective manner, based on evidence and applicable laws and in accordance with the Prosecution Code.

     

    Articles 2, 19 and 85 of the Basic Law specifically provide that the Hong Kong SAR enjoys independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication, and that the courts of the Hong Kong SAR shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference.

     

    The statement stressed that cases will never be handled any differently owing to the occupation, political stance or background of the persons involved.

     

    In addition, HKNSL Article 5 and SNSO Section 2 stipulate that the principles of the rule of law shall be adhered to in preventing, suppressing and imposing punishment for offences endangering national security. These include the principles of conviction and punishment only by the application of the law, the presumption of innocence, the prohibition of double jeopardy, the right of accused persons to defend themselves, and other rights in judicial proceedings that criminal suspects, defendants and other parties in judicial proceedings are entitled to under the law.

     

    The statement highlighted that governments have an inherent right to enact laws safeguarding national security, and that this is established international practice.

     

    It added that the HKNSL and the SNSO clearly define the elements of offences and related penalties, and precisely target an extremely small minority of people and organisations who commit acts that endanger national security, while protecting the lives and property of the general public. It stressed that law-abiding persons will not engage in acts that endanger national security and will not unwittingly violate the law, and therefore have no reason to be concerned.

     

    Since the promulgation and implementation of the HKNSL, the statement highlighted, stability has been quickly restored in society. With the SNSO in effect, it said, the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong SAR residents and of other persons in Hong Kong are even better protected, while the economy of Hong Kong is picking up.

     

    The Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that safeguarding national security is an ongoing and endless commitment.

     

    Citing the “White Paper on China’s National Security in the New Era”, published by the central authorities on May 12, it said external forces have been meddling more and more in China’s affairs, and have attempted to blockade, suppress and contain China through so-called “Hong Kong issues”.

     

    As geopolitical risks continue to escalate, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it will strive steadfastly to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, and to improve its legal system and enforcement mechanisms under the robust protection of the HKNSL and the SNSO, so as to address evolving national security risks and challenges more effectively.

     

    The Hong Kong SAR Government will also ramp up its efforts in publicity and education, so as to raise public awareness around safeguarding national security, thereby forming a societal shield to fend off external intervention. It said this will ensure high-quality development with high-level security, contributing to a new chapter in the practice of “one country, two systems”.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • The words added in Preamble during emergency have been added as Nasoor; a sacrilege to the spirit of Sanatana-VP

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    lign=”center”>What a travesty of justice ! First, we change something which is not changeable, alterable and then change it during Emergency-VP
    Preamble, the soul of the Constitution should have been respected rather than tweaked, altered, and decimated, asserts VP
    Except Bharat, no other constitution’s preamble has undergone change-VP
    A very serious work which cannot be altered, has been casually, farcically, and with no sense of propriety, changed-VP
    Dr. B.R. Ambedkar lives in our hearts, he dominates our mind and touches our soul-VP

    The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that, “Preamble of any constitution is its soul. The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is unique. Except Bharat, [no other] Constitution’s  Preamble has undergone change and why?  Preamble is not changeable. Preamble is not alterable. Preamble is the basis on which the constitution has grown. Preamble is the seed of the Constitution. It is Soul of the constitution but this Preamble for Bharat was changed by 42nd Constitutional Amendment act of 1976, adding words Socialist, Secular and integrity”.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1938876252103799111

    Speaking at an event at the Vice-President’s Enclave today, marking the presentation of the first copy of the copy,  ‘Ambedkar’s Messages’ compiled by Shri D. S. Veeraiah, author and former MLC karnataka, Shri Dhankhar emphasised, “During the Emergency, the darkest period of Indian democracy, when people were behind the bars, Fundamental Rights were suspended. In the name of those — we the people — who were enslaved,  we just go for what? Just a flourish of words? It is to be deprecated beyond words. In Kesavananda Bharati, as I reflected — vs State of Kerala, 1973, a 13-judge bench — the judges focused and deeply reflected on the Preamble of the Constitution. The celebrated judge, Justice H.R. Khanna, I quote: The Preamble serves as a guide to the interpretation of the Constitution and indicates the source from which the Constitution derives its authority — namely, the people of India.”

    “We must reflect. Dr. Ambedkar did painstaking work. He would have surely focused on it. The founding fathers thought it befittingly wise to give us that Preamble. No country’s Preamble has undergone change — except Bharat. But devastatingly, this change was effected for Bharat at a time when people were virtually enslaved. We the people, the ultimate fountain of power — the best of them were languishing in jails. They were denied access to the judicial system. I am referring to the 22 months of draconian Emergency that was proclaimed on 25th June 1975. So, what a travesty of justice ! First, we change something which is not changeable, alterable — something that emanates from We the People — and then, you change it during Emergency. When We the People were bleeding — in heart, in soul — they were in darkness”, he added.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1938879085385785752

    “We are changing the soul of the Constitution. We are, as a matter of fact, by this flash of words, added during the darkest period of Emergency — the darkest period for the Constitution of the country. And in the process, if you deeply reflect, we are giving wings to existential challenges. These words have been added as Nasoor (festering wound). These words will create upheaval. Addition of these words in the Preamble during the Emergency signal  betrayal of the mindset of the framers of the Constitution. It is nothing but belittling the civilizational wealth and knowledge of this country for thousands of years. It is sacrilege to the spirit of Sanatana”, he further underlined.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1938881671484649672

    Highlighting the Contemporary relevance of Ambedkar’s messages, Shri Dhankhar stated, “ Dr. B.R. Ambedkar lives in our hearts. He dominates our mind and touches our soul….Ambedkar’s messages bear huge contemporaneous relevance for us. His messages need to permeate down the line, up to the family level. The children must come to know about these messages. As someone associated with Parliament by virtue of being Vice-President of the country and Chairman of Rajya Sabha — the Upper House, the House of Elders, the Council of States — I am therefore immensely satisfied to receive ‘Ambedkar’s Messages’ that must be honoured and respected, first and foremost by Parliamentarians and legislators all over the country, then by the policymakers…..We must reflect why our temples of democracy are sacrileged? Why our temples of democracy are ravaged by disruption?”

    He further stated, “Justice Sikri, another celebrated judge in that judgment, says — I quote: “The Preamble of our Constitution is of extreme importance, and the Constitution should be read and interpreted in the light of the grand and noble vision expressed in the Preamble.” The grand and noble vision was trampled. So was Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s spirit. Thus, unhesitatingly, the Preamble — crafted by the genius of Dr. Ambedkar and approved by the Constituent Assembly, the soul of the Constitution — should have been respected rather than tweaked, altered, and decimated. The change also, friends, militates against our civilizational ethos of thousands of years, where Sanatan philosophy — its spirit and essence — dominated the discourse.”

    Speaking further on the issue, he said, “ Friends, Judiciary is an important pillar of our democracy. I belong to that system, gave better part of my life. Let me  make this audience aware and through you the entire nation what judiciary felt about preamble of the Indian Constitution. There have been,  so far, two benches of the Supreme Court in higher formations, an 11-judge bench in IC Golaknath versus State of Punjab, and another one, 13-judge combination in Kesavanand Bharati. In Golaknath, the issue came up about preamble, and Justice Hidayatullah, reflecting on the situation, stated explicitly, I quote, “The Preamble to our constitution contains in a nutshell its ideals and aspirations. It is not a mere flourish of words, but embodies the objectives which the Constitution seeks to achieve.”

    “Justice Hegde and Justice Mukherjee I quote, in the same judgment, “The preamble of the Constitution, like the soul of the Constitution, is unalterable. As it embodies the fundamental values and the philosophy on which the Constitution is based.” It is nothing  less than an earthquake for a building whose foundations are sought to be changed from the top floor. Justice Shelat and Justice Grover. what they reflected on preamble, I quote, “The preamble to constitution is not mere preface or introduction. It is a part of the constitution and is a key to open the mind of the makers, indicating the general purposes for which the people ordained the constitution.” A very  serious work which cannot be altered, has been casually, farcically,  and with no sense of propriety, changed.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1938886235260624975

    Recalling wise words of Dr B. R. Ambedkar, Shri Dhankhar stated, “ Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was a visionary. He was a statesman. We should never see Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as a politician.  Never see him. If you go through his journey, you will find it can’t be relieved ordinarily. It takes extraordinary human effort, spinal strength to negotiate that journey, the kind of suffering he underwent. Can you ever imagine Dr. B.R. Ambedkar being given Bharat Ratna posthumously? It was my great good fortune to be a member of Parliament in 1989 and a Minister when this one of the greatest sons of soil was conferred posthumously Bharat Ratna but my heart wept. Why so late? Why posthumously? And therefore I quote with deep concern, beseeching everyone in the country to search their souls and think for the nation. He said—–I do not want that our loyalty as Indians should in the slightest way affected by our competitive loyalty, whether that loyalty arises out of our religion, out of our culture or out of our language. I want all people to be Indian first, Indian last and nothing else but Indians…….It was his last address in the Constituent Assembly, 25th November 1949 — a day before the Constitution was signed by the Members of the Constituent Assembly. And what he said — amazing. I would urge everyone in the country to put it in a frame and read it every day. He says — he’s expressing his pain: I quote:

    “What perturbs me greatly is the fact that not only India has once before lost her independence, but she lost it by the infidelity and treachery of some of her own people. Will history repeat itself?”

    He goes on to say — I quote: “It is this thought which fills me with anxiety. This anxiety is deepened by the realization of the fact that in addition to our old enemies in the form of castes and creeds, we are going to have many political parties with diverse and opposing political creeds. Will Indians place the country above their creed? Or will they place creed above the country….. I quote,  “I do not know, but this much is certain that if the parties place creed above country, our independence will be put in jeopardy a second time and probably be lost forever. This eventuality we must all regularly guard against. We must be determined to defend our independence with the last drop of our blood.”

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Consultation on Guidance for the Australian Clearing and Settlement Facility Resolution Regime

    Source: Airservices Australia

    The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has today released a consultation paper on proposed guidance for the Australian Clearing and Settlement (CS) Facility Resolution Regime.

    In September 2024, the Australian Parliament passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Financial Market Infrastructure and Other Measures) Act 2024. This amended the Corporations Act 2001 to provide the RBA with crisis resolution powers with respect to domestically incorporated clearing and settlement (CS) facilities. These powers enable the RBA to manage or respond to a threat posed to the continuity of critical CS facility services or the stability of the financial system in Australia arising in relation to a domestic CS facility licensee.

    The RBA has developed draft guidance to provide transparency about when and how the RBA would generally expect to use these resolution powers. It aims to assist CS facilities, their users, market operators and other stakeholders to understand the RBA’s general approach to resolution and the potential effects on them if the RBA decides to use a resolution power.

    The RBA is inviting submissions on this consultation from interested parties by 11 August 2025. Following the consultation, the RBA will publish the finalised guidance.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ōtāhuhu homicide: Man in custody

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police is speaking with a man in connection with a homicide investigation underway in Ōtāhuhu.

    Enquiries began after a callout to Beatty Street at about 8.30pm on Sunday night, to reports of a person being seriously injured.

    A man was transported to hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.

    Detective Inspector Karen Bright, of Counties Manukau CIB, says the investigation team took a man into custody this afternoon.

    “We are currently speaking to the 31-year-old as part of our enquiries,” she says.

    “This is positive progress in our investigation and at this point we are not seeking anyone else.”

    Police anticipate confirmation of charging decisions tomorrow morning.

    “Other aspects of our enquiry will continue, with a scene examination and a post-mortem examination to be carried out,” Detective Inspector Bright says.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New criminal offences for coward punches

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is introducing specific coward punch offences to ensure perpetrators receive tougher sentences, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
    “A ‘coward punch’ gets its name for obvious reasons. These attacks affect everyday Kiwis and are often committed by cowardly attackers, who strike when the victim is distracted. 
    “We know how dangerous they are. People can be killed or suffer lifelong brain injuries, yet perpetrators often receive lenient and insufficient sentences.
    “This fulfils a commitment in the National/New Zealand First coalition agreement, to introduce legislation to create an offence for anyone who injures or kills someone with a coward punch.
    “Specific offences will ensure the consequence reflects the gravity of the crime.
    “It builds on our plan to restore law and order, which we know is working, and will help reduce the number of victims of violent crime.”
    The charges and penalties are:

    An assault offence for one punch attacks which cause grievous bodily harm with associated maximum penalties of:

    Eight years imprisonment when the offender intended to cause injury or acted with reckless disregard for safety,
    Fifteen years imprisonment when the offender intended to cause grievous bodily harm.

    A culpable homicide offence for a one punch attack which results in death with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

    Both new offences will be added to the Three Strikes Regime. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Consultation on Guidance for the Australian Clearing and Settlement Facility Resolution Regime

    Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

    The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has today released a consultation paper on proposed guidance for the Australian Clearing and Settlement (CS) Facility Resolution Regime.

    In September 2024, the Australian Parliament passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Financial Market Infrastructure and Other Measures) Act 2024. This amended the Corporations Act 2001 to provide the RBA with crisis resolution powers with respect to domestically incorporated clearing and settlement (CS) facilities. These powers enable the RBA to manage or respond to a threat posed to the continuity of critical CS facility services or the stability of the financial system in Australia arising in relation to a domestic CS facility licensee.

    The RBA has developed draft guidance to provide transparency about when and how the RBA would generally expect to use these resolution powers. It aims to assist CS facilities, their users, market operators and other stakeholders to understand the RBA’s general approach to resolution and the potential effects on them if the RBA decides to use a resolution power.

    The RBA is inviting submissions on this consultation from interested parties by 11 August 2025. Following the consultation, the RBA will publish the finalised guidance.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: North-West woman charged with drug trafficking

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    North-West woman charged with drug trafficking

    Monday, 30 June 2025 – 3:45 pm.

    A 36-year-old woman from Tasmania’s North-West has been charged with drug trafficking after her arrest near Ulverstone.
    Police allege the woman had 140 grams of methamphetamine (ice) in the vehicle she was driving.
    The quantity of drugs seized is equivalent to about 1400 ‘street deals’.
    The drugs were found during a search of the vehicle by officers from the Northern Drugs and Firearms Unit, after police had intercepted the car on the Bass Highway, near Ulverstone, last Friday.
    The woman has been charged with one count each of trafficking in a controlled drug, possess a controlled drug, and unlicensed driving and has been bailed to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court on October 6.

    MIL OSI News –