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Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Security: Recidivist drug trafficker from Portsmouth sentenced to 10 years in prison for fentanyl distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NORFOLK, Va. – A Portsmouth man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl.

    According to court documents, from Feb. 24, 2023, to May 22, 2023, Chesapeake Police (CPD) conducted five controlled purchases of cocaine and fentanyl from Karleak Ali, 53. On May 25, 2023, CPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) searched Ali’s residence and vehicle and recovered 33 grams of fentanyl, 87 grams of cocaine, a digital scale, packaging material, a sifter, two firearms, ammunition, and approximately $6,000.

    Ali has previous felony drug convictions in Norfolk Circuit Court, including distribution of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and conspiracy to distribute cocaine. In July 2007, Ali was convicted in the Eastern District of Virginia of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen. The Chesapeake Police Department assisted in the investigation of this case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin M. Comstock prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-4.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Bend Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SOUTH BEND – Earl Mines, 37 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distribution of fentanyl, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Mines was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, in July 2024, Mines sold nearly 100 grams of a substance containing fentanyl. This occurred while Mines was on federal supervised release following his conviction for possessing with intent to distribute heroin, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and for possessing a stolen firearm.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, including the DEA North Central Laboratory, with assistance from the Indiana State Police.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey.

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Honduras: The presidential candidates have a unique opportunity to commit to human rights

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International encourages the presidential candidates to ensure that their political agendas in the lead-up to the general election on 30 November include a focus on human rights.

    This year, the electoral process in Honduras coincides with the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Honduras, in which UN member states will analyse, in November, Honduras’ performance in the field of human rights.

    The election campaign is, therefore, a unique opportunity for the candidates, recently confirmed by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal on April 8th, to take a stance on the country’s main and historic human rights shortcomings, and incorporate them into their respective agendas.

    “Progress on human rights in Honduras over the past four years has been very timid. In fact, the Honduran Government has broken many of its commitments to the country’s population in terms of human rights. Examples include failings in the fight against impunity, guaranteeing security, protection of human rights defenders and journalists, and sexual and reproductive rights. Honduras’ fourth UPR cycle can be a crucial moment to initiate a change in the direction of the country, if the presidential candidates take advantage of it as an opportunity”, said Ana Piquer, Americas Director at Amnesty International.

    Progress on human rights in Honduras over the past four years has been very timid. In fact, the Honduran Government has broken many of its commitments to the country’s population in terms of human rights. Examples include failings in the fight against impunity, guaranteeing security, protection of human rights defenders and journalists, and sexual and reproductive rights. Honduras’ fourth UPR cycle can be a crucial moment to initiate a change in the direction of the country, if the presidential candidates take advantage of it as an opportunity”

    Ana Piquer, Americas Director at Amnesty International

    Amnesty International has submitted a report to the UN ahead of the UPR. The document evaluates the implementation to date of the recommendations made by other States to Honduras in its previous UPR, in 2021, and raises concerns about the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, and other human rights issues related to the environment, women’s rights, discrimination and health. It also sets out proposals for recommendations. Below, we highlight some of them.

    Use of force

    In 2022, the Honduran Government declared a state of emergency, which has remained in force ever since, justifying it as necessary to combat insecurity and organized crime. This measure has, for example, enabled the National Police and the Military Police to carry out searches and detentions without judicial authorizations in 226 of the country’s 298 municipalities.

    Amnesty International shares the concern of local organizations and the media that have documented multiple human rights violations in the context of implementation of the state of emergency, allegedly perpetrated by the National Police, the Anti-Gang Police (DIPAMPCO) and the Military Police, such as arbitrary detentions, excessive use of force, torture, enforced disappearances and violations of the right to a fair trial. By October 2024, the National Human Rights Commissioner had received more than 700 complaints against the police and security forces since the beginning of the state of emergency and has since called for an end to that measure.

    We urge the presidential candidates to commit to ending the prolonged state of emergency, devising a comprehensive and sustainable security policy, and ensuring prompt, impartial, independent and effective investigations into all cases of unnecessary and excessive use of force, to be conducted by independent bodies different from those of the alleged perpetrators.

    Human rights defenders and journalists

    Honduras is the country with the highest number of land and environmental defenders killed per capita in the world, according to the latest Global Witness report. The vast majority of attacks, which mainly occur in the context of legal disputes related to mining projects, insecurity of land tenure and violations of the rights of Indigenous Peoples, go unpunished. There are also concerns about the high level of criminalization of human rights defenders, for example, based on the crime of usurpation, as a result of Decree 93-2021, which amended the criminal code.

    This situation is exacerbated by the weakness and ineffectiveness of the national mechanism for the protection of human rights defenders and journalists, which international and national organizations have repeatedly warned about.

    Therefore, we ask the candidates to make a serious commitment to effectively protect human rights defenders and journalists, who play an essential role in defending the rule of law. To that end, we urge them to ensure that sufficient resources are assigned to the effective protection of human rights defenders and journalists, and to guarantee thorough, prompt, impartial and independent investigations into all attacks against them. We also call on them to refrain from misusing the justice system to intimidate, harass and discredit human rights defenders, and to promote Honduras’ accession to the Escazú Regional Agreement, the first Latin American and Caribbean treaty to include provisions on the protection of environmental defenders.

    Sexual and reproductive rights

    Abortion is still prohibited in Honduras under all circumstances. In 2023, the government legalized the use and sale of the emergency contraceptive pill. However, access to the pill is hampered due to limited availability at public health facilities. Moreover, despite high levels of childhood and adolescent pregnancies, in 2023 the president vetoed the Pregnancy Prevention Act, aimed at providing comprehensive sex education.

    We urge the candidates to commit to decriminalizing abortion in all circumstances and ensuring access to abortion in law and in practice for women, girls and all persons who can become pregnant.

    “Amnesty International calls on the presidential candidates in Honduras’ upcoming general elections to demonstrate their express, clear and firm commitment to defending human rights. We also ask them to take all necessary measures to ensure that human rights violations are not committed during the electoral process”, added Ana Piquer.

    Amnesty International calls on the presidential candidates in Honduras’ upcoming general elections to demonstrate their express, clear and firm commitment to defending human rights. We also ask them to take all necessary measures to ensure that human rights violations are not committed during the electoral process”

    Ana Piquer, Americas Director at Amnesty International

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee against Torture Commend Monaco’s Ratification of International Human Rights Treaties, Ask about Efforts to Revise Torture Laws and the Transfer of Prisoners to France

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee against Torture today concluded its consideration of the seventh periodic report of Monaco under the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, with Committee Experts praising Monaco’s ratification of United Nations and European human rights treaties, while raising questions about efforts to bring legislation on torture in line with the Convention and the transfer of prisoners to France.

    Abderrazak Rouwane, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, congratulated Monaco on having ratified a significant number of United Nations and Council of Europe human rights instruments. Why had the State party decided not to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture?

    Mr. Rouwane asked about measures the State party had taken to harmonise national legislation on torture with the Convention.  The Committee was concerned about the statute of limitations on torture crimes, the lack of specific provisions in the Criminal Code imposing an absolute prohibition of torture, and the lack of clear mechanisms protecting subordinates from being forced to carry out unlawful orders.

    Erdogan Iscan, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, said some inmates in Monaco continued to be transferred to French prisons, and the State 

    party lacked oversight of places of deprivation of liberty in France.  Would a formal legal procedure for recording prisoners’ consent to transfers be created?  Which State was responsible for ensuring legal safeguards for these prisoners?

    Introducing the report, Samuel Vuelta Simon, Secretary of State for Justice of Monaco, Director of Judicial Services and head of the delegation, said Monaco ensured that its legal framework was fully in line with its international commitments and that its texts were regularly adapted to better meet the requirements of the fight against torture and inhuman treatment.

    Mr. Vuelta Simon said the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure allowed for severe punishment for any act resembling torture or inhuman treatment.  Also, a legislative proposal currently being prepared would ensure that the crime of torture was imprescriptible and would also ensure the unenforceability of any hierarchical order invoked to justify it.

    The delegation said the Convention against Torture had been rendered executory by a sovereign ordinance.  It took precedence over domestic legislation. The State party was also considering domestic legislation that would define torture in line with the Convention.

    The delegation said an impact study on the Optional Protocol to the Convention had been carried out, and the State party was not closing the door on ratification.  However, it attached greater importance to the main international human rights instruments.  There was only one detention facility in Monaco, which was already reviewed by international monitoring mechanisms.

    The delegation also said that Monaco’s territory was only two square kilometres.  Its small size made it necessary to turn to France for assistance in managing prisoners.  Transfer requests to French prisons were made by detainees who were French citizens. The State party would consider formalising this procedure.  French authorities cooperated with transfer procedures and guaranteed detainees’ rights. There was no transfer of citizens of Monaco to foreign prisons.

    In closing remarks, Claude Heller, Committee Chair, said that the dialogue had been fruitful and frank.  The Committee would develop concluding observations based on the dialogue, which would aid the State in the implementation of the Convention.

    In his concluding remarks, Mr. Vuelta Simon said that Monaco was a small State that tried to do things properly, on the same level as larger countries.  Some issues had been raised in the dialogue that the State party could make rapid progress on to promote the well-being of human beings, including detainees.  Monaco hoped to demonstrate this progress in its next review with the Committee.

    The delegation of Monaco consisted of representatives from the Directorate of Public Safety; Department of External Relations and Cooperation; Directorate of Legal Affairs; Directorate of Judicial Services; and the Permanent Mission of Monaco to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    The Committee will issue concluding observations on the report of Monaco at the end of its eighty-second session on 2 May.  Those, and other documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, will be available on the session’s webpage.  Summaries of the public meetings of the Committee can be found here, and webcasts of the public meetings can be found here.

    The Committee will next meet in public on Thursday, 10 April at 3 p.m. to continue its examination of the fifth periodic report of Mauritius (CAT/C/MUS/5).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the seventh periodic report of Monaco (CAT/C/MCO/7).

    Presentation of Report

    SAMUEL VUELTA SIMON, Secretary of State for Justice, Director of Judicial Services of Mexico and head of the delegation, said human dignity was an absolute value that the Principality of Monaco was committed to protecting with determination. Monaco was committed to constantly improving its mechanisms for preventing and protecting against torture and inhuman treatment.  Since the submission of its first report in 1994, Monaco had continued its efforts to strengthen its legal and institutional framework, which had led to significant progress, both in terms of legislation and the implementation of concrete measures to guarantee ever more effective protection against all forms of violence.

    Monaco ensured that the legal framework was fully in line with its international commitments and that its texts were regularly adapted to better meet the requirements of the fight against torture and inhuman treatment.  The Constitution explicitly guaranteed respect for human dignity and prohibited any cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.  This absolute prohibition was reinforced by several provisions of the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, which allowed for severe punishment for any act resembling torture or inhuman treatment. 

    The Principality had begun an in-depth study to incorporate into its domestic law a definition of torture that was fully in line with article one of the Convention. A legislative proposal currently being prepared would ensure that the crime of torture was imprescriptible.  It would also ensure the unenforceability of any hierarchical order invoked to justify it, and the absolute inadmissibility of evidence obtained under duress.  These measures would complement an already strict legal arsenal which severely punished acts of violence, especially when committed by a public official.

    Monaco also attached particular importance to supporting and providing reparation to victims. In 2023, it adopted an unprecedented compensation scheme for victims of serious crimes, including domestic violence and misdemeanours and crimes against minors, guaranteeing rapid and effective compensation to victims when the perpetrators were insolvent.  Courts had an obligation to inform victims of this possibility.

    In recent years, significant improvements had been made to Monaco’s prison to provide a more suitable living environment for inmates.  The renovation of the cells had made it possible to bring in more natural light, while a new exercise yard and an activity room had been set up.  A body scanner had recently been introduced to limit the use of body searches.  The visiting regime had been significantly improved, allowing inmates to benefit from three 90-minute visits per week, in addition to two daily 45-minute visits.

    The incarceration of minors remained an exceptional measure in Monaco.  Recent reforms had strengthened the juvenile justice system to promote the reintegration and well-being of young people in conflict with the law.  Anyone in police custody had the immediate right to information and the assistance of a lawyer, permanent judicial supervision, and audio-visual recording of interrogations, thus ensuring the transparency of proceedings.  Since 2022, the right to the assistance of a lawyer had been strengthened in the event of an extension of police custody. 

    The Monegasque Institute for the Training of the Judicial Professions, in collaboration with other specialised institutions, provided regular training to public security forces on international standards for the respect of fundamental rights. The public security forces were thus regularly made aware of good practices, particularly regarding the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty.

    Monaco ensured that respect for fundamental rights within its prison system was monitored. The Office of the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights, Freedoms and Mediation played a key role in this system by providing detainees with direct access to report any allegations of ill-treatment.  Since the last review, a new right had been introduced allowing detainees to call the Office of the High Commissioner directly once a day, including when they were in a disciplinary cell.

    Monaco reaffirmed its total commitment to the fight against torture and inhuman or degrading treatment.  While there was still room for improvement, the legislative, judicial and institutional advances put in place in recent years had made it possible to considerably strengthen the prevention, control and punishment of abuses.  Monaco would continue its efforts with determination to ensure that respect for human dignity was never compromised.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    ABDERRAZAK ROUWANE, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, expressed regret regarding the absence of civil society participants in the dialogue.  Why were they absent?  What measures had the State party taken to harmonise national legislation on torture with the Convention?  The Committee had called on the State party to do so in each of its last six reviews. Could the delegation give some examples of court cases that had referenced the Convention or other United Nations human rights treaties?  The Committee was concerned about the statute of limitations on torture crimes, the lack of specific provisions in the Criminal Code imposing an absolute prohibition of torture, and the lack of clear mechanisms protecting subordinates from being forced to carry out unlawful orders.

    What measures had been taken to ensure that detainees enjoyed all basic legal rights from the outset of deprivation of liberty?  The Committee had called on the State party to amend legislation that allowed police officers to prevent detainees from contacting a family member if such communication was considered detrimental to investigations.  Had this been done?  Did victims benefit from legal aid in cases involving allegations of torture or ill-treatment?

    What steps had been taken to promote the accreditation of the Office of the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights, Freedoms and Mediation under the Paris Principles?  The Office did not have a specific mandate to protect against human rights violations, including torture and ill-treatment, and it did not have the competence to conduct investigations, publish studies or formulate opinions on draft legislation on its own initiative.  Could the delegation comment on this?  Why had the State party decided not to ratify the Optional Protocol and set up a national preventive mechanism against torture?

    The Committee congratulated Monaco on having ratified a significant number of human rights instruments within the framework of the United Nations system and the Council of Europe.  Would it ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and the Convention for the Protection of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families?

    The Committee noted positive amendments to the law on the status of the judiciary to strengthen the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, which had enabled the Council to take up disciplinary matters on its own.  However, the Council’s role in appointing judges had not been increased and its activity report was not made public.  The Director of Judicial Services, part of the executive, chaired the High Council and could appoint and suspend judges and magistrates directly.  The Prosecutor General and the magistrates of the Public Prosecutor’s Office were also under the direct authority of the Director. Was this not interference by the executive in the affairs of justice?  How would the State party ensure the full independence of the judiciary, including in matters related to appointment and disciplinary measures?

    Could the State party provide updated data on extraditions, asylum applications, and the number of appeals against asylum decisions?  The Committee noted that refugees enjoyed the rights provided for in the 1951 Convention on the Status of Refugees.  However, there was a lack of clarity regarding the asylum process and safeguards offered, and uncertainty surrounding the procedure for cooperation between the State party and the French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons.  Would the State party implement a mechanism to follow up on asylum seekers’ cases with the Office?  What measures were in place to domesticate an asylum assessment procedure?  Could the State party provide information on extradition cases and requests made for mutual legal assistance related to international cases involving torture?

    A large number of foreigners living in neighbouring countries were working informally in Monaco and were at risk of trafficking.  How was the State party combatting trafficking in persons, raising awareness of the issue, and training the judiciary on it?  What measures were in place to strengthen the identification of trafficking victims?  What tools were available to public officials to guide the identification of child victims of trafficking?

    The Committee had previously called for the strengthening of training for the judiciary and prison officials on the Convention and the revised Istanbul Protocol of 2022.  What measures would the State party take to train officials who were in contact with persons deprived of liberty on the absolute prohibition of torture?  Were there any monitoring mechanisms in places of deprivation of liberty?

    ERDOGAN ISCAN, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, commended the recent progress by the State presented in the opening statement.  The Committee noted that the remand prison of Monaco had recently been extended, its facilities upgraded, and the visit regime improved.  However, there were limits to the extent to which the prison could be expanded due to its location, and the prison reportedly remained unsuitable for prolonged detention due to its limited natural light and lack of space for activities.  What further steps would be taken to improve prison conditions?

    Some inmates continued to be transferred to French prisons, and the State party lacked oversight of places of deprivation of liberty in France.  There was no formalised legal procedure for recording prisoners’ consent and requests regarding transfers.  Would one be created?  How many Monegasque prisoners were currently serving sentences in French prisons? Which State was responsible for ensuring legal safeguards for these prisoners?  Did they have access to lawyers and could they maintain social connections in Monaco?  How would the State party ensure this right?  Which State conducted investigations in cases of complaints by these prisoners?  Had the State party considered expanding the capacity of its prison system to allow inmates to remain in Monaco?

    Did current legislation prohibit corporal punishment in all settings, including homes and educational institutions? Were awareness raising campaigns or training programmes on corporal punishment for parents and childcare professionals planned?  Minors under age 13 could not be detained but could be held in police custody for up to 24 hours in criminal cases.  Could the delegation provide data on minors in police custody?  Would the State party consider revising legislation to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to at least 14 years of age?

    Had the State party made progress in adopting legislation that provided full redress to victims of torture? Would it consider scaling up its support to the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, and had it updated legislation to ensure that statements obtained through torture were made null and void?

    The Committee noted with satisfaction measures taken by the State party to prevent and combat violence against women, including revision of the Criminal Code and awareness raising campaigns. What protection measures were in place for foreign women who were victims of violence, and what resources were devoted to programmes and measures to combat violence against women?

    Reportedly, conditions in closed psychiatric units in the Princess Grace Hospital were good, but improvements were needed regarding prolonged hospitalisation and treatment of minors and detainees requiring psychiatric care.  Was the State party addressing this?

    Another Committee Expert asked whether the Convention was directly applicable in Monaco.  How were potential conflicts between the Convention and domestic legislation resolved?

    One Committee Expert asked how many prisoners were serving in Monaco.  What happened to prisoners who did not consent to being transferred to French prisons?  Could the delegation clarify whether consent was needed to conduct transfers?

    A Committee Expert said domestic law on trafficking was sound, but the State party needed to strengthen the training of law enforcement officials, social workers, medical staff and the public on identifying victims of trafficking.

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the Director of Judicial Services was also the Secretary of State for Justice, which, as a member of the judiciary, was not part of the executive branch of Government but fell under the authority of the Prince.  The judiciary was guaranteed security of tenure and independence.  The Secretary of State for Justice gave generalised guidance to the judiciary that was consistent with State policies, but prosecutors were free to speak independently in carrying out their work.

    Monaco’s territory was only two square kilometres.  Its small size made it necessary to turn to France for assistance for managing prisoners. There were only six prosecutors and 22 jurists who worked with legislators to develop legal texts.  Some 39,000 people lived in Monaco but only 9,000 had citizenship.

    The Supreme Council of the Judiciary was made up of two elected judges and five judges appointed by the Council itself.  Both the Secretary of State for Justice and the Supreme Council could take up cases of discipline of judges.  The Supreme Council selected candidates for judicial posts and had a special budget guaranteeing its independence.  Training was provided to newly appointed judges and prosecutors through French institutions; approximately two-thirds of judges had been seconded from France.  A draft law had been developed that would create a reserve pool of judges to strengthen the domestic availability of judges.

    Monaco had a dualist system.  The Prince signed and ratified international treaties, with authorisation by the National Council.  Sovereign ordinances were used to allow for international treaties to be directly invoked before national courts.  There were cases in which the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the European Convention of Human Rights had been invoked. The Constitution had the highest status in the domestic legal order, followed by international treaties, which took precedence over domestic legislation.

    The Constitution expressly prohibited torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.  Acts of torture committed in offences of sexual aggression, terrorism and abduction were considered to be aggravated crimes. Monaco’s judicial services had limited capacity, but aimed to establish a stand-alone offence of torture in line with article one of the Convention through a draft law that was currently before the legislature.  Serious crimes committed against minors had a statute of limitations of 30 years, which started when the victim reached the age of majority.  Monaco’s law imposed an absolute prohibition of torture; it was impossible to justify acts of torture in any circumstances.  Hierarchical superiors were held accountable for illegal orders to carry out acts of torture, as were agents who carried out such orders.  Subordinates who refused to obey illegal orders were not disciplined or considered to have committed a crime.

    There was one case of trafficking against a minor in which the court had referenced the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime in its ruling.  The scope of the criminalisation of trafficking had been broadened to address domestic trafficking cases that did not involve organised crime.  Trafficking that endangered victims’ lives, trafficking of minors, and trafficking by public officials or members of organised criminal groups were considered aggravating circumstances.

    Police custody was always recorded and was subject to court oversight; examining magistrates could end police custody at any point.  All persons in police custody were informed of the reasons of their detention and their rights, including the right to access a lawyer from the beginning of custody. All persons who earned less than 20,000 euros per year were entitled to free legal aid.  Detainees could request a medical examination at any point.  The State party intended to regulate the grounds under which the Prosecutor General could restrict detainees’ right to contact a relative.  Hearings were filmed and could be conducted in the presence of a legal counsel. Criminal investigative officers needed to record the time of detention and other details relating to the detention, including reasons for refusals of detainees’ rights.

    Minors under 13 could not be placed in police custody unless they committed an offence that carried a five-year prison sentence.  Hearings of minors needed to be conducted with a lawyer present.  Police custody of minors was typically 12 hours but could be extended to 24 hours in criminal cases with the permission of a judge.

    Legislation on the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights and Mediation had been revised to bring the institution in line with the Paris Principles.  The law allowed the High Commissioner to carry out surveys and provide recommendations related to combatting discrimination, protecting human rights, and implementing international conventions.  It also strengthened the High Commissioner’s investigative powers and gave the body powers to defend the rights of the child. Steps had been taken to promote registration of the institution by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions.  Since 2022, detainees were able to contact the High Commissioner directly by telephone, in addition to through written communications.  Monaco had installed a body scanning machine in its prison after detainees’ complaints to the High Commissioner regarding body searches.

    Civil society in Monaco was very active. As there had been no demonstrated cases of torture in the State for almost a century, there were no non-governmental organizations working on the issue.  The High Commissioner’s mandate had recently been expanded and it was now recruiting staff to address its new functions.  In future, the High Commissioner could be able to participate in reviews by the Committee.

    Ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance was not a priority for the State.  The State party tried to align its legislation with international instruments before ratifying them, which caused delays in ratification.  There were no cases of enforced disappearance in Monaco. 

    An impact study on the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture had been carried out.  There was only one detention facility in Monaco, which was already reviewed by international monitoring mechanisms. There had been no complaints regarding ill-treatment or poor conditions.  Ratifying the Optional Protocol was not a top priority for the Government but could be done in future.  Monaco made voluntary contributions to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, but did not envisage providing contributions to the Voluntary Fund for the Victims of Torture.

    Refugees fell under ordinary law for entry and stay in Monaco.  They received 10-year residence permits.  The State currently hosted 23 refugees.  Monaco respected the principle of non-refoulement.  Asylum seekers whose claims were rejected were not immediately removed, unless they posed a threat to public safety.  The Government called on the relevant French authority to assess asylum claims.  Refusals of asylum claims were always explained and could be appealed before the relevant court.  The overseas diplomatic presence of Monaco in countries of origin for asylum seekers was limited.

    When the Ukraine conflict began in 2022, Monaco established a system providing temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens who had lived in Monaco prior to the establishment of the system. Currently, around 50 Ukrainians held the temporary protection permit, which allowed them to access health, education and other social services.  Many holders of this permit had since gained residency permits.

    The State party had not received any requests for mutual legal assistance or handled any international cases involving torture.  It had received one extradition request, which Monaco’s court of appeal rejected due to concerns about human rights protections.

    In 2020, two people were transferred to French prisons, while one person was transferred in 2023 and another in 2024; there were two requests in 2025 that were being assessed.  Transfer requests to France were typically made by French citizens.  All requests for prison transfers were made in writing by the detainees themselves. The State party would consider formalising this procedure.  There were no difficulties in transfers to France; French authorities cooperated with transfer procedures and guaranteed detainees’ rights.  Requests for transfers to other countries were considered based on respect for detainees’ rights.

    The national human rights institution received and investigated written complaints from detainees.  There was also an internal oversight body within the police force that could be called on by the judiciary to investigate police officers accused of human rights violations.  Complaints made to the Prosecutor-General triggered judicial proceedings.  Legal assistance was available for persons who filed for civil damages.  A compensation mechanism had been set up for victims of serious offences who could not be compensated by the perpetrator. Compensation covered damages and court costs.  State compensation could also be provided to persons who were placed in pre-trial detention before being released or acquitted.

    The State party had adopted a law on school bullying and harassment, and the Criminal Code prohibited and punished corporal punishment, including in school and family settings.  Teaching staff and other school staff underwent annual training on identifying and addressing harassment of children. Schools needed to implement awareness raising initiatives to combat harassment and bullying.

    Incarceration and pre-trial detention of children were last resort measures.  Judges could determine alternatives to prosecution of minor offenders, including provisional releases, reparation for victims, community service, and training within social health institutions.  Judges could also order minors to be placed in the Foyer d’Enfance, from which they were free to come and go.  In 2020, five minors were charged, of whom none were detained; in 2021, seven minors were charged and only one was placed in pre-trial detention for one month and 20 days; and in 2022, out of the 15 minors who were charged, only two were placed in pre-trial detention.

    The age of criminal responsibility in Monaco was 13 years.  None of the 15 minor offenders in 2022 were aged 13.  The State party would consider raising the age threshold and revising the legal status of minors in the country.

    Considerable progress had been made since 2020 in improving the detention facility.  The State had installed cells with better access to natural light, a games room, a new exercise yard, and air conditioning and heating facilities within cells.  Exercise and folding laundry were no longer mandatory, televisions did not need to be switched off at certain times, and the State no longer imposed solitary confinement on detainees.

    Women and child victims of violence were supported by the Directorate for Social Assistance.  A protocol for care of victims of domestic violence had been established.  Health care professionals were trained in caring for victims and managing perpetrators when they accompanied them.  Victims were provided with shelter in emergencies when they could not stay with friends or family.  They were entitled to medical care, psychological assistance, and legal advice.

    The employment service verified working conditions for migrant workers and the labour inspectorate carried out numerous checks to ensure that workers’ rights were being respected.  Officials held interviews with applicants for residence and work permits to detect risks of trafficking.  To date, 96 public officials had received training on identifying and treating victims of trafficking.

    Members of the judiciary were obliged to attend at least five days of training per year either locally or in France, which addressed human rights and international and European norms.  The State sought to ensure that the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights were incorporated in domestic legislation as soon as possible.

    Training of police officers lasted 10 months.  It stressed the rights of apprehended persons, including the right to be protected from violence, inhumane and degrading treatment.  All police officers had to abide by the code of professional ethnics and respect the dignity of persons.  They were trained on ethical means of restraint, bodily searches, the use of reasonable force, and the prohibition of torture.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    ABDERRAZAK ROUWANE, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the Committee welcomed that there were no cases of torture in Monaco, but this could not be used as an excuse for not ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention.  Crimes needed to be legislated for regardless of their prevalence. A national preventive mechanism would be mandated to investigate all places of deprivation of liberty, including the psychiatric hospital and airports.  It would be fantastic if a European country could ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families.  Many of the 63,000 workers in Monaco were migrant workers who needed legal protection.

    Could detainees from Monaco be transferred to French prisons?  When there were criminal prosecutions of perpetrators, were alleged victims entitled to legal assistance?  Did the State party intend to provide the Supreme Council of the Judiciary with further independence?

    ERDOGAN ISCAN, Committee Vice-Chair and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the dialogue had been constructive. Even if there was limited scope for implementing the Optional Protocol, ratification would set a positive example for other States.  Some 42 of the 46 members of the Council of Europe had ratified the Optional Protocol. Did the State party plan to remove its reservation to article 30 of the Convention.  Member States needed to continue to support the treaty body system in a sustainable manner.  What was Monaco’s position on this?

    Another Committee Expert asked whether Monaco had adopted measures addressing trade in equipment used to inflict pain and suffering.

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the State party was not closing the door on ratifying the Optional Protocol; it was still considering the option.  However, it attached greater importance to the main international human rights instruments.  Impact assessment studies on these instruments took time due to the State’s limited resources.

    There were around 60,000 cross-border workers travelling from France or Italy to Monaco every day.  They were entitled to the rights embodied by Monaco’s labour laws.

    The Convention against Torture had been rendered executory by a sovereign ordinance.  It took precedence over domestic legislation.  The State party was also considering domestic legislation that would define torture in line with the Convention.

    Legal aid lasted from the beginning to the end of legal proceedings.

    There was no transfer of Monaco citizens to foreign prisons.  Transfers were only for foreign detainees who had requested a transfer back to their country of origin; such transfers were essentially humanitarian.

    The Supreme Council of the Judiciary promoted the independence of the judiciary.  It drew mostly on the French model.  The Secretary of State for Justice was responsible for appointing and promoting judges, but the Supreme Council approved appointments and promotions and could take up disciplinary cases on its own initiative.

    Concluding Remarks

    CLAUDE HELLER, Committee Chair, said that the dialogue had been fruitful and frank.  The Committee would develop concluding observations based on the dialogue, which would aid the State in the implementation of the Convention. The Committee did not judge States based on their size; it treated them all equally.

    SAMUEL VUELTA SIMON, Secretary of State for Justice of Monaco, Director of Judicial Services and head of the delegation, thanked the Committee for the dialogue.  Monaco was a small State that tried to do things properly, on the same level as larger countries, though staff numbers made this difficult.  The State tried to respond as best it could to its realities.  Monaco welcomed the Committee’s advice and relevant questions. Some issues had been raised that the State party could make rapid progress on to promote the well-being of human beings, including detainees.  Monaco hoped to demonstrate this progress in its next review with the Committee.

    ___________

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

     

    CAT25.002E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: In Dialogue with Niger, Experts of the Committee on Migrant Workers Commend the State on Legislation Protecting Migrants, Raise Issues Concerning Bilateral Agreements and the Migration Centre in Agadez

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on Migrant Workers today concluded its consideration of the second periodic report of Niger under the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, with Committee Experts welcoming the State’s legislation focused on the protection of migrants, while raising issues concerning bilateral agreements with other countries and the migration centre in Agadez. 

    Khaled Cheikhna Babacar, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur,

    welcomed that the Niger had ratified the 10 key International Labour Organization Conventions, 2018 legislation that included principles of social protection for migrants, and bilateral agreements that had been reached with neighbouring countries on migrant workers.

    Myriam Poussi, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said most of the bilateral agreements the Niger had reportedly formed with countries in the region were seemingly not applied.  Could the delegation comment on this?  Were the agreements with Türkiye and Morocco referred to in the report in effect?  The State party had yet to set up a committee to follow-up on the implementation of the agreement with Algeria.  What benefits were migrant workers provided with through the agreement with Tunisia?

    A Committee Expert said the reform of the law on illegal smuggling of migrants addressed the outsourcing of processing of migrants by the European Union to the migration centre in Agadez, which had led to increased trafficking in the region.  How was the State party addressing this situation?  Did the withdrawal of the Niger from the Economic Community of West African States impact the organization’s agreement on freedom of movement?

    Alio Daouda, Minister of Justice and Human Rights of the Niger, Keeper of the Seals and head of the delegation, said the legislation of the Niger guaranteed migrant workers access to social protection, including health and education.  Migrant workers had access to the competent administrative and judicial bodies in the event of violations of their rights and had access to free legal assistance and redress mechanisms.  The major obstacle to the realisation of human rights of migrant workers in the Niger remained terrorism, which had a profound negative impact on the realisation of human rights.   

    The delegation said the Niger had suspended bilateral agreements with Saudi Arabia, Libya and Algeria, as these countries had violated these agreements, repatriating many migrants from the Niger. Every time the Niger formed a labour agreement, it set up a body to monitor the implementation of the agreement and protect workers’ rights.  The State party had conducted activities to ensure that private recruitment agencies were aware of their responsibilities to protect migrant workers.  Portions of migrant workers’ salaries could not be withheld by these agencies.

    The delegation said the humanitarian centre at Agadez hosted asylum seekers and refugees.  The State party was assessing asylum requests.  Transit centres managed by the International Organization for Migration were also in place that hosted migrants and processed their repatriation. Algeria expatriated about 500 foreign migrants to Agadez every month, forcing them to walk about 15 kilometres through the desert to reach the transit centres.  The Niger was calling on Algeria to change the way it expelled people, which violated the rights of these migrants. 

    In concluding remarks, Sabrina Gahar, Committee Expert and Co-Rapporteur, said the Niger’s report showed that the State was committed to protecting the rights of migrant workers and their families.  However, there was still a lot to do to guarantee that the rights of migrant workers and members of their families were fully respected and protected.

    In his closing remarks, Mr. Daouda expressed gratitude for the attention given to the report and the efforts of the Niger to guarantee the basic rights of migrants and their families.  The State acknowledged the remaining challenges, but would tackle them with conviction and would step up efforts to meet the provisions under the Convention. 

    The delegation of Niger was made up of representatives of the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights; Department of Political, Administrative, Legal and Diplomatic Affairs; National Agency for the Fight against Trafficking in Persons; Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Employment; Ministry of the Interior, Public Security and Territorial Administration; and the Permanent Mission of Niger to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    The Committee on Migrant Workers’ fortieth session is being held from 7 to 17 April.  All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 3 p.m. this afternoon, Wednesday, 9 April, to consider the combined initial and second periodic report of Jamaica (CMW/C/JAM/1-2).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the second periodic report of the Niger (CMW/C/NER/2).

    Presentation of the Report

    ALIO DAOUDA, Minister of Justice and Human Rights of the Niger, Keeper of the Seals and head of the delegation, expressed sincere regret that the Convention currently had only 60 States parties, 34 of which were from the African continent.  No country among the main destinations of migrants had ratified it.  By acting together, in a spirit of universal solidarity, States could ensure a future for migrant workers based on the values of dignity, fairness and mutual respect.

    The events of 26 July 2023 had led to the coming to power of the Defence and Security Forces of the Niger.  This seizure of power, which immediately received popular support, was motivated by the rejection of security models and bad governance.  Following this change of regime, the State experienced unprecedented, illegal sanctions, decided by the Economic Community of West African States and the West African Economic and Monetary Union, materialised by the closure of borders, the cessation of the supply of foodstuffs and medicines, and the blocking of access to savings in banks. 

    These sanctions were guided by Western powers using regional and international organizations as tools for geopolitical domination.  They had deprived millions of innocent inhabitants, nationals and foreigners alike, of food, healthcare, medicine, education, freedom of movement, access to their savings, access to electricity, dignity and well-being, in the face of the deafening, complicit silence of international organizations.  The world needed to denounce this situation and work for an international order based on dignity and mutual respect.

    The National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland, upon its accession to power in July 2023, reaffirmed its commitment to respect human rights as defined by the treaties and conventions to which the country had freely subscribed.  The Niger, well-known for its hospitality as a country of transit and origin of migratory flows, attached particular importance to the protection of the rights of migrant workers and members of their families.

    In the context of the security situation, which had been marked by the recurrence of attacks by armed terrorist groups supported by foreign powers, the Niger had adopted ordinance no. 2023-02 of 28 July 2023 on the organization of public authorities during the transition period, and the 2025 Constitution, which guaranteed human rights as enshrined in international instruments.  The revised Labour Code had been developed to better protect migrant workers’ rights, while the revised Penal Code, which was in the process of being adopted, prohibited all forms of discrimination and harassment, including discrimination based on national origin.

    The legislation of the Niger guaranteed migrant workers access to social protection, including health and education. Migrant workers had access to the competent administrative and judicial bodies in the event of violations of their rights and had access to free legal assistance and redress mechanisms.  In addition, institutions had been set up to combat trafficking in persons and to manage migratory flows, particularly in transit regions such as Agadez.  The Niger was working closely with the International Organization for Migration to provide humanitarian assistance and build local capacity.  It was working to develop initiatives to provide accurate information to migrants, facilitating their access to legal identity documents and promoting ethical recruitment practices.

    Despite measures taken to combat migrant smuggling, criminal networks continued to exploit vulnerable migrants, especially women and children.  This situation was worsened by neighbouring countries that pushed back hundreds of migrants from the Niger and other countries to the territory of the Niger, despite the signing of several bilateral and regional agreements.  In 2022, 18,728 migrants were pushed back to the Niger.  In addition, conflicts in neighbouring countries and humanitarian crises were increasing the migratory pressure on the Niger, further complicating the implementation of migration policies.  In this context, revisions to the national employment and migration policies were being developed.  All these challenges required national, regional and international efforts to ensure that the rights of migrant workers were protected in an effective and sustainable manner.

    The major obstacle to the realisation of human rights of migrant workers in the Niger remained terrorism, which had a profound negative impact on the realisation of human rights.  Attacks in the border regions had led to massive displacement of populations, creating a humanitarian crisis that affected all rights.  These barbaric acts, which intended to sow fear and divide, would never succeed in shaking the State’s unity and resilience.

    The Niger was committed to honouring its international obligations and to working actively with the Committee to ensure the effective implementation of the Convention.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said that the Niger had a border of over 7,000 kilometres and was affected by violence from Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria.  There were numerous migrants travelling through the Niger to Europe; many refugees were stranded in the desert and internally displaced persons were exploited by gangs and needed support.

    Mr. Babacar welcomed that the Niger had ratified the 10 key International Labour Organization Conventions.  Would it ratify conventions addressing migrant workers, domestic workers, workplace harassment and labour inspection?  Were there complaint mechanisms in place that workers in the informal sector, including domestic workers, could access? The Expert welcomed that the Labour Code was being revised; this was a good opportunity to address its shortcomings. Would the State party develop specific legislation to protect domestic workers?  Would the national action plan on migration be revised to include measures to promote the registration of the children of migrants?

    Mr. Babacar welcomed 2018 legislation that included principles of social protection for migrants, and bilateral agreements that had been reached with neighbouring countries on migrant workers.  What measures were included in these agreements that protected migrant workers’ rights, including the right to join trade unions?  The Niger permitted the activities of private recruitment agencies, which had abusive recruitment practices such as charging workers 20 per cent of their salaries. What would the Niger do to combat these practices?

    MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the State party’s report did not sufficiently describe the situation of migrant workers and provided incomplete information on activities being undertaken by the State.  Could the delegation provide more information about progress in reforming the Labour Code? What provisions of the Convention would be addressed in the Code?  How would the State party promote its implementation?  What had been achieved by the national action plan on migration? What activities had been organised in the last five years to promote and protect the rights of all migrant workers and members of their families?

    Could the delegation provide more information on the practice of wahaya? Were there plans to prosecute the perpetrators of this practice, which could be tantamount to a form of sexual slavery?  Female migrant workers could be victims of this practice.

    Most of the bilateral agreements the Niger had reportedly formed with countries in the region were seemingly not applied.  Could the delegation comment on this?  Were the agreements with Türkiye and Morocco referred to in the report in effect?  The State party had yet to set up a committee to follow-up on the implementation of the agreement with Algeria.  What benefits were migrant workers provided with through the agreement with Tunisia?

    What services did the Office for Returned Migrants provide and how many people had it helped?  What information was provided to the Niger diaspora and in what form?  How did the State register and support returnees to reintegrate into society, and promote the repatriation of funds by migrant workers to the Niger?  Had the State party established a joint committee on illegal smuggling and trafficking? What was the committee’s composition and mandate?

    Another Committee Expert asked whether returning Niger migrant workers were able to receive pensions.  Were civil servants informed about their obligations under the Convention?  What civil society organizations in the State party were dealing with the rights of migrant workers?  What dispute mechanisms were available for migrant workers?  Did the State party have information on detained migrant workers?  What legal support did the State party provide for migrant workers abroad?

    One Committee Expert asked how civil society organizations had contributed to the State party’s report.  Why had the State party not yet accepted articles 76 and 77 of the Convention, despite having expressed a desire to do so in 2022?

    A Committee Expert said the reform of the law on illegal smuggling of migrants addressed the outsourcing of processing of migrants by the European Union to the migration centre in Agadez, which had led to increased trafficking in the region.  How was the State party addressing this situation?  Did the withdrawal of the Niger from the Economic Community of West African States impact the organization’s agreement on freedom of movement?

    Another Committee Expert said migrants in the region were victims of deportation, incommunicado detention and other human rights violations, and many perished in the Sahara Desert.  How did the State party address these issues and protect migrants from refoulement? Why was there a comparatively low rate of migration from the Niger to Europe and the Americas?

    A Committee Expert asked whether the national mechanism for following up on treaty body recommendations cooperated with civil society organizations on issues related to migration.  What support did the Labour Ministry provide to migrants?  Why was the National Human Rights Commission dissolved in 2023?  Did the Commission deal with cases or issue recommendations related to migrant workers? When would a new national human rights institution be set up, what would its mandate be, and what resources would it have?  Many migrants being held in migration centres in the Niger were struggling to return to their countries of origin.  How was the State party supporting them?  Had courts referred to the provisions of the Convention, and had this had an impact on law or public policy on migration in the State party?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the Niger provided advice to migrants abroad so they were aware of their rights.  However, it had limited resources and could not devote additional resources to supporting this policy.

    The 2015 law on illegal smuggling included a provision criminalising the illegal crossing of borders that ran counter to the Palermo Protocol.  The Niger had thus repealed the law to bring it in line with the Protocol.  Migrants were made more vulnerable to traffickers under the law.  The State remained a member of the Economic Community of West African States and its agreement on freedom of movement.  Some countries and terrorist groups attacked territory of the Niger; the State party had implemented legal and policy measures to repel these attacks.

    The Niger had an inter-ministerial committee for developing State party reports that included members of civil society in the process.  The Niger continued to support civil society.

    Foreign workers in the Niger could join trade unions but needed to live in the country for three years to hold management positions in trade unions. Domestic workers and workers in the informal sector could submit complaints to trade unions.  The Labour Code included provisions enshrining the principle of non-discrimination and access to education and trade unions for migrant workers.

    The Niger had suspended bilateral agreements with Saudi Arabia, Libya and Algeria, as these countries had violated these agreements, repatriating many migrants from the Niger.  Every time the Niger formed a labour agreement, it set up a body to monitor the implementation of the agreement and protect workers’ rights.  The State party had conducted activities to ensure that private recruitment agencies were aware of their responsibilities to protect migrant workers.  Portions of migrant workers’ salaries could not be withheld by these agencies.

    The Niger had ratified 41 International Labour Organization Conventions and two protocols.  It had implemented activities to protect domestic workers and disseminate the International Labour Organization Convention on domestic workers, with support from United Nations agencies.  The Niger had not yet ratified International Labour Organization Convention 190 on violence in the workplace but was working to do so, and conducting training on preventing such violence.

    The State party had ratified conventions on labour inspection and administration.  There were 10 labour inspectorates established in major towns.  Labour inspections were conducted regularly in the formal and informal sectors.  The Government had bolstered the capacities of inspectors through training, which stressed the importance of protecting migrant workers.  The revised Labour Code was still a draft.  The State party had identified deficiencies in the Code that it sought to review to align the Code with the Convention.

    The national migration policy included numerous measures to protect and support migrants and refugees and manage migration flows.  There was a law on the status of migrant workers that allowed migrants to be registered in the civil registry.  The births of the children of migrants were recorded.  A 2023 review on the implementation of the policy found progress had been made in police officers’ and civil society’s knowledge of migrants’ rights, thanks to training on this subject from the State. This training was being revised to address the impact of climate change on migrants.

    The humanitarian centre at Agadez hosted asylum seekers and refugees.  The State party was assessing asylum requests. Transit centres managed by the International Organization for Migration were also in place that hosted migrants and processed their repatriation.  Algeria expatriated about 500 foreign migrants to Agadez every month, forcing them to walk about 15 kilometres through the desert to reach the transit centres.  The Niger was calling on Algeria to change the way it expelled people, which violated the rights of these migrants.  There were some migrants who were forced to stay at transit centres for one year due to difficulties in identifying their countries of origin and repatriating them. The Niger could not afford to pay for repatriation flights for migrants.

    An inter-ministerial committee and a technical committee on repatriation of Niger nationals abroad were set up in 2024.  The former committee was tasked with managing returns and taking people to their towns of origin, while the latter conducted studies on repatriation and assisted reintegration activities.  Officials went to host countries to organise repatriation operations, which were paid for by the Niger.

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, asked if the labour inspectors held a specific status, ensuring they had enough resources to perform their tasks impartially?  The Niger had a national action plan to combat child labour, with support from the International Labour Organization.  Had an assessment of the plan taken place? What actions had been taken in terms of planning after 2018?  The Niger had rolled out awareness raising campaigns for the labour market, which concluded in 2022; what actions had been undertaken since then?  Were there any possibilities for remedies or appeals against expulsions or deportations? 

    A Committee Expert commended the Niger for taking an inclusive approach to drafting the report; what was the consultation process followed during the preparation of the report?  Had external partners been consulted?  What was the role of civil society in the preparation of the report? Regarding multilateral agreements with several countries, what measures had been taken for children and women on the move from the Niger?  Had the Niger been able to pinpoint barriers in integrating the migration policy?  Could information be provided about the protection of the statistical data of migrants? 

    Could more details be provided about the specific causes of insecurity which had caused children to be displaced in the five regions? What measures had been taken to protect the rights of displaced children?  Was there a response plan to support internally displaced persons, including children?  What initiatives had been taken to ensure displaced children could have access to education?  What psycho-social support was available to these children?  Was there a mechanism to follow up on the number of children who were displaced? 

    MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the delegation had mentioned a tripartite memorandum between the Niger, the International Organization for Migration and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which had provided assistance to hundreds of unaccompanied children.  How many children had received this assistance?  Could details of the beneficiaries of assistance be provided? Had the resettlement of these children in third countries taken place?  Which countries did this occur in?  How many children were affected by this settlement? 

    What had been the outcome of the strategy to strengthen systems along the migration route?  What was the timeline to ensure that the new protection strategy was finalised?  What was the hosting capacity of the six holistic centres, created to deal with gender-based violence?  How did they operate?  Did they fall under the management of a specific State body? What was the training provided to the individuals running these centres?  What assistance was provided to those living in these centres? 

    Another Committee Expert said the Niger faced security threats, including terrorism which could impact the services provided to migrant workers.  What measures had been taken in terms of training the military, border guards, the judiciary and other officials implementing the rights of migrant workers to respond to terrorism situations which involved migrants, in line with international best practices? 

    A Committee Expert said the Niger faced issues due to sanctions from European countries.  Did these countries take steps to support migrant workers from the Niger to improve their rights?  What types of consular services could the Niger provide for these workers? 

    Another Expert asked if the diaspora still had five of the 100 seats in the National Assembly reserved?  This was a very high figure.  Was the migration rate still 3.8 per cent?  What instruments governed the Niger now that the Constitution was suspended? Could the State elaborate on the situation of the national human rights body?  What was the true situation of statelessness in the country?  Was there legislation and data collection? 

    A Committee Expert asked if refugee children were actually refugees, or if there were migrants amongst them?  There were 237 unaccompanied children who were refugees and over 1,000 had been separated from their families in 2024.  What support was provided to these children?  Were they housed in the same camps as other migrants? What steps were taken to avoid situations of statelessness?  What was the State party doing to assist migrants returning to the Niger?  How was their reintegration being assisted and what support was being given?   

    The report from the High Commissioner found that there were migrants who were not from the Economic Community of West African States area, who had been subject to refoulment from Algeria, Syria, Egypt and Yemen.  These migrants were often denied access to the Niger, which was discriminatory and ran counter to international law.  The report stated these people were returned 500 kilometres northeast of the capital and could not submit a request for asylum.  Could the delegation comment on this?  What was the fate of these migrants?  What was being done to provide them with the international protection they were entitled to? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    Regarding people received from Syria and Yemen, the delegation said the State had its own problems when it came to managing domestic security and needed to allocate resources to its own people.  The situation in the Niger was complicated. The report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights referred to one spontaneous refoulment relating to a specific population.  There were a number of resettlement programmes dedicated to these individuals. The Niger had never claimed that the fight against terrorism was a grounds to human rights not being respected. Why did the Committee not question those who financed terrorism, like the French, who wanted to steal the Niger’s resources?  These questions were disturbing.  Soldiers of the Niger did not violate the laws; they were trained on human rights issues. There were specific units within the army who dealt with criminal proceedings. 

    There were no financial resources provided to civil society to prepare and submit reports in the Niger.  Civil society was involved in the design of the reports; they participated on the same footing as all partners and made proposals.  Mobilising resources to civil society was a challenge, but they were involved in discussions.  In many countries of the subregion, the wahaya, or “fifth wives” practice existed, but the Niger had addressed this issue and sanctioned its practice. 

    The Niger had had security agencies run by foreigners who wanted to take part in the destabilisation of the regime.  Weapons of war had been found in the warehouses, under the control of France, to attack the Niger.  Therefore, there was no choice but to prohibit this profession to foreigners.  The State would not hesitate to take additional measures to protect its national security.
    Displaced children were sometimes displaced due to terrorism from Nigeria.  The Niger faced a problem in this regard.  There were a few countries whose populations had been refouled to the Niger. The Niger needed to focus on the resettlement of its own people in its own borders and could not always assist those returned to other countries.

    The term wahaya did not actually refer to a “fifth wife”; there was no marriage involved.  This referred to a woman who had been bought, given or exchanged.  It was defined as a form of slavery.  Civil society organizations were fully involved in all stages of the report, including data collection.  The 2023 ordinance superseded the Constitution and equated to the new Constitution.  This ordinance was for Government powers during the transition.  The ordinance was repealed last month after the new Charter was adopted.  The same rights in the Constitution were enshrined in this new State Charter, meaning there was no Constitutional vacuum. 

    The Special Rapporteur on the rights of migrants had spent eight days in the Niger, during which he found that the 2015 ordinance ran counter to the Convention.  Banning migration meant migrants had to change their itineraries and take more dangerous roads, resulting in hundreds of deaths.  There were modules held throughout schools for training, as well as throughout the police, gendarmerie and judiciary.  The State went to remote areas to organise training workshops on the Convention and all other instruments entered into by the State. 

    The Niger was party to the two Conventions on Statelessness. Children who faced statelessness in the Niger who were in the country and met the necessary conditions could acquire citizenship.  Children whose parents were unknown could also apply for citizenship.  There were no stateless individuals in the country. 

    The diaspora document had been drafted by the private sector, civil society and the Government.  This was a guide for returnees who wished to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country.  The Niger had five seats in the National Assembly dedicated to the diaspora before the Constitution.  There were large communities of Niger nationals in Benin, Sudan and Burkina Faso, among others, which was the reason for this choice. 

    All the texts for the Human Rights Observatory were ready and it should be established soon.  It would have the same competencies as the Human Rights Commission.  In addition to the technical services in charge of migration, migrants also received training to ensure they could stay in the Niger. 

    Refugees could not be refouled to countries where their lives could be at risk, but migrants could go to courts with an expedited procedure. The Niger as a member country of the International Labour Organization was aware that the ratification of international labour standards would make it possible to guarantee the protection of migrant workers.  The resources available to the labour inspectors were lacking and while they had a specific status, they encountered difficulties in carrying out their everyday work.  To date, the Niger did not have a national action plan to combat child labour, but it was in the process of drafting this plan. 

    The bilateral agreements the Niger had signed with countries of destination each had their own specific features and focused on social security.  The Niger had made significant progress with Qatar and was in the process of drawing up a memorandum of understanding. 

    Refugee children from the Niger were not held together with adults, but were placed in foster families, who were supported to care for these children.  Children who had been placed in foster families benefitted from State support, free of charge health care, and access to school.  Their parents could have access to the justice system without any restrictions.  Despite meagre resources, the Niger had been able to welcome Africans from other nationalities and provide them with the necessary care. 

    Questions by Committee Experts 

    SABRINA GAHAR, Committee Expert and Co-Rapporteur, asked for more information about cooperation with non-governmental organizations?  How did the Government collaborate and cooperate to meet the specific needs of vulnerable groups?  The Committee commended the Niger on the strategy to combat gender-based violence.  Had an assessment of the strategy been conducted?  What were the success indicators?  Did the strategy concern harmful practices against migrant girls? 

    What measures were taken by the State to combat sexual violence against women and girls in certain regions?  It was reported that some women were trapped and forced into prostitution to survive.  They were forced into certain sexual practices with security agents at border posts, with some falling pregnant and contracting sexually transmitted diseases at an early age.  It was also reported that smugglers sold these women.  How did the State protect these women against smugglers and those involved in human trafficking?  What measures and strategies had been implemented to protect children from practices, such as begging? 

    KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, asked what sanctions were handed down if the provisions of the Labour Code were violated?  What efforts had the State party made to guarantee better assistance to unaccompanied and separated children? 

    MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, asked what was being done to ensure that the right of migrant workers to transfer social security benefits could be made effective?  What measures had Niger taken to fill the protection gaps for the rights of migrant workers who came from the Economic Commission of West African States? Was it planned to sign bilateral agreements to bridge the protection gap?  Could more information be provided about the joint teamwork made up of French, Spanish and Niger police to combat smugglers networks; was this work still ongoing?  How did the team work in combatting these networks? 

    An Expert asked what specific measures had been taken to assist migrants impacted by climate change?  Were there migrants in the various mining areas?  What kind of support was provided to them? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said the Niger had established a human rights institution which had an A status, in line with the Paris Principles.  The State tried to find foster families for unaccompanied children in local communities, and supported them.  It could not be proven that women were forced into prostitution and to have sex with the defence forces.  In 2023, measures were taken to sanction security forces and efforts were taken to prosecute any officer committing offences. In Niger, the Labour Code was clear; those working fell under the protection of the Labour Code regardless of nationality.  Foreigners were protected by the Labour Code and if their rights were violated, there were remedies.  There were labour inspectorates for anyone whose rights were violated, and the inspectors were swamped by complaints.  All workers were aware of the inspectorate and did not hesitate to consult its members in the event of a violation of rights.  There were also labour courts which workers could access, whether they were nationals or foreigners. 

    Closing Remarks

    KHALED CHEIKHNA BABACAR, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, thanked the delegation of Niger for the dialogue and for attempting to reply to the Committee’s questions.  The candidacy of the delegation was appreciated.

    MYRIAM POUSSI, Committee Expert and Country Co-Rapporteur, said the presence of the delegation made it clear that the Niger had the clear intention of advancing the rights of migrants.  The State should continue to improve the situation for migrant workers in the country. 

    SABRINA GAHAR, Committee Expert and Co-Rapporteur, thanked the delegation for all the information provided and the interesting discussions had. The State’s report showed that Niger was committed to protecting the rights of migrant workers and their families. The initiatives showed best practices and strategies aimed at improving migrants’ situations. However, there was still a lot to do to guarantee that the rights of migrant workers and the members of their families were fully respected and protected. 

    ALIO DAOUDA, Minister of Justice and Human Rights of the Niger, Keeper of the Seals and head of the delegation, expressed gratitude for the attention given to the report and the efforts of the Niger to guarantee the basic rights of migrants and their families.  The interactive dialogue was vital to building a society where human rights and equity were accessible to all, including migrant workers.  The State acknowledged the remaining challenges, but would tackle them with conviction and would step up efforts to meet the provisions under the Convention.  The Niger looked forward to the Committee’s concluding observations and recommendations.  Mr. Daouda thanked all those who had made the dialogue possible. 

    ___________

     

     

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

     

    CMW25.003E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Michigan Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax Return and Employment Tax Crime

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Michigan man pleaded guilty today to filing a false tax return for his international vehicle shipping business along with not paying taxes on cash wages he paid to his employees.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Ali Kassem Kain owned and operated a business called Specialized Overseas Shipping that arranged for vehicles to be shipped to West Africa and other destinations for third parties. For tax years 2017 through 2020, Kain underreported the company’s gross receipts by $6.4 million on the business’ tax returns. Kain also did not collect and pay over to the IRS taxes on $249,000 in cash wages he paid to his employees.

    Kain faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the employment tax offense and a maximum penalty of three years in prison for filing a false tax return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Leitman for the Eastern District of Michigan scheduled sentencing for Aug. 14.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI Detroit Field Office are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Richard J. Kelley and Jeffrey A. McLellan of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Cooperating with third countries in alerts pursuant to Article 36 of Regulation (EU) 2018/1862 (SIS II) – E-002956/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission considers ‘priority third parties’ as the parties for which the Council has authorised the Commission, as Union negotiator, to open negotiations and adopted negotiating directives for international agreements to be concluded between the Union and third parties on exchange of personal data with Europol[1].

    2. In accordance with Article 23(5) of Regulation (EU) 2016/794[2], regardless of an international agreement enabling the exchange of personal data being in place, and while upholding all provisions on ownership and data protection as well as necessity and proportionality, Europol may receive personal data from third countries.

    According to Regulation (EU) 2018/1862[3], only the competent authorities of Member States can enter, modify or delete alerts in Schengen Information System (SIS), in line with the requirements and conditions set out in that regulation, including when the underlying case for the alert is partially or fully based on information received from third parties. There is no obligation or procedure for the alert issuing Member State to inform other Member States or Europol on the source of information.

    3. The Commission has no access to data in the SIS and no access to information on specific cases of bilateral information exchange between Europol and third countries on hit information. Pursuant to Article 48(4) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1862, Europol shall only communicate such information to third countries with the consent of the alert issuing Member State and in full compliance with EU law on data protection.

    • [1] The countries for which the Council has authorised the Commission to open negotiations for an agreement on the exchange of personal data are: Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia, and Türkiye (all in 2018), New Zealand (the only one -that so far entered into application on 15 August 2024), and Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru (negotiations with Brazil were concluded and on 18 December 2024 the Commission adopted the proposals to sign and conclude the Agreement).
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2016/794 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and replacing and repealing Council Decisions 2009/371/JHA, 2009/934/JHA, 2009/935/JHA, 2009/936/JHA and 2009/968/JHA, OJ L 135, 24.5.2016, p. 53.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2018/1862 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 November 2018 on the establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System (SIS) in the field of police cooperation and judicial cooperation in criminal matters, amending and repealing Council Decision 2007/533/JHA, and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1986/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Commission Decision 2010/261/EU, OJ L 312, 7.12.2018, p. 56.
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax Return and Employment Tax Crime

    Source: United States Attorneys General 9

    A Michigan man pleaded guilty today to filing a false tax return for his international vehicle shipping business along with not paying taxes on cash wages he paid to his employees.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Ali Kassem Kain owned and operated a business called Specialized Overseas Shipping that arranged for vehicles to be shipped to West Africa and other destinations for third parties. For tax years 2017 through 2020, Kain underreported the company’s gross receipts by $6.4 million on the business’ tax returns. Kain also did not collect and pay over to the IRS taxes on $249,000 in cash wages he paid to his employees.

    Kain faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the employment tax offense and a maximum penalty of three years in prison for filing a false tax return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Leitman for the Eastern District of Michigan scheduled sentencing for Aug. 14.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI Detroit Field Office are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Richard J. Kelley and Jeffrey A. McLellan of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Judicial appointments increase Albertans access to justice

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Worrying rise in terrorism threat level in Europe – E-003072/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While national security is a competence of the Member States[1], the Commission has supported the Member States to counter terrorism as regards the protection of public spaces[2] and countering threats posed by non-cooperative drones[3].

    Considering the high and fast evolving security threat in the EU, the Commission has adopted a new Internal Security Strategy[4] and is preparing a new Agenda on Preventing and Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism[5].

    The Commission will also propose to strengthen the EU Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol), whose mandate was already reinforced in 2022[6].

    The Pact on Migration and Asylum[7] entered into force in June 2024 and will enter into application in June 2026. This will ensure that the EU has strong and secure external borders, that people’s rights are guaranteed, and that no EU country is left alone under pressure.

    The status of churches and religious associations is defined by the national laws of Member States[8] thus matters concerning the foreign funding of religious associations fall within their competence.

    The Commission is supporting Member States to develop and implement policies and strategies to prevent and counter violent extremism at national level through the EU Knowledge Hub on Prevention of Radicalisation[9] with particular attention paid to youth.

    Furthermore, the EU Internet Forum[10] brings together technology companies, Member States, and other relevant actors to develop concrete actions to address violent extremist and terrorist content online.

    The regulation on addressing the dissemination of terrorist content online[11] requires Member States to issue removal orders of terrorist content to online service providers offering services in the EU.

    • [1] Article 4(2) of the Treaty of the European Union.
    • [2] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/internal-security/counter-terrorism-and-radicalisation/protection_en
    • [3] Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on countering potential threats posed by drones, COM(2023) 659 final.
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_920
    • [5] Announced in the Political Guidelines for the next European Commission (2024-2029), https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    • [6] Regulation (EU) 2022/991 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 8 June 2022 amending Regulation (EU) 2016/794, as regards Europol’s cooperation with private parties, the processing of personal data by Europol in support of criminal investigations, and Europol’s role in research and innovation.
    • [7] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on a New Pact on Migration and Asylum, COM(2020) 609 final.
    • [8] Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
    • [9] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/networks/eu-knowledge-hub-prevention-radicalisation_en
    • [10] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/networks/european-union-Internet-forum_en
    • [11] Regulation (EU) 2021/784 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2021 on addressing the dissemination of terrorist content online.
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission’s response to the impact of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) on the competitiveness of EU businesses – E-001325/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001325/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jaroslav Bžoch (PfE), Petr Bystron (ESN), Filip Turek (PfE), Jaroslava Pokorná Jermanová (PfE), Petra Steger (PfE), Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI), Virginie Joron (PfE), Jana Nagyová (PfE), Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR), Tom Vandendriessche (PfE), Gerolf Annemans (PfE), Adrian-George Axinia (ECR), Klara Dostalova (PfE), Gheorghe Piperea (ECR), Vilis Krištopans (PfE), Elisabeth Dieringer (PfE), Ondřej Krutílek (ECR), Veronika Vrecionová (ECR), Alexandr Vondra (ECR), Tomáš Kubín (PfE)

    On 29 January 2025, the Commission presented ‘A Competitiveness Compass for the EU’, an economic framework to guide its work in the coming years. One of its aims is to simplify EU legislation and thus strengthen the competitiveness of EU businesses in the global economy. Yet concerns have been raised about the impact of current legislation, particularly the Digital Markets Act (DMA), on the competitiveness of EU businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that rely on online platforms in terms of advertising. This is occurring despite evidence supporting the positive impact of digital advertising on the EU economy.

    Given this context:

    • 1.Can the Commission explain the economic rationale for introducing measures that may undermine the ability of advertisers, particularly SMEs, to conduct business effectively online through personalised ads?
    • 2.What evidence from the Commission’s analysis supports the claim that restricting personalised ads will not lead to increased costs for advertisers using online platforms?
    • 3.If the Commission’s intention is to provide users with an alternative option, does the Commission believe that subscription models, as highlighted by the Court of Justice of the EU, are sufficient for addressing concerns regarding the DMA?

    Supporter[1]

    Submitted: 1.4.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Ondřej Knotek (PfE)
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Violation of the principle of media freedom and pluralism by the government of Donald Tusk in Poland in relation to Telewizja Republika – E-001643/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission monitors the situation of media freedom and pluralism in all Member States in its annual Rule of Law Reports[1]. It takes into account the 2021 Recommendation on the Safety of Journalists[2] which recommended Member States to ensure that public authorities create transparent, fair and non-discriminatory conditions for journalists regarding access to press conferences and documents.

    The Rule of Law Report is prepared in continuous dialogue with the 27 Member States and is based on a transparent methodology, developed in consultation with the Member States in full respect of the principles of equal treatment, impartiality and objectivity. It relies on a broad variety of sources.

    As regards the country chapter for Poland of the 2023 Rule of Law Report[3], to which the Honourable Member refers, it briefly and factually mentions concerns raised about the case of Pablo González under the pillar of media freedom, without taking a position.

    For more details, the Commission refers the Honourable Member to its answers to parliamentary questions E-001534/2024, E-001545/2024 and E-003062/2024.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/upholding-rule-law/rule-law/annual-rule-law-cycle/2024-rule-law-report_en
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/dae/redirection/document/79357
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/b576c76e-0755-4690-9266-7895c4294433_en?filename=48_1_52627_coun_chap_poland_en.pdf
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Seasonal firefighters – E-000569/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission fully recognises the crucial role of firefighters in the face of increasing challenges linked to wildfires and other natural disasters.

    It also underlines that the framework Agreement on fixed-term work[1] aims to improve the quality of fixed-term work and to prevent misuse of successive fixed-term employment relationships.

    The Commission does not have any evidence indicating that the provisions of Greek law transposing the framework Agreement are not applicable to fixed-term firefighters.

    If misuse of successive fixed-term contracts occurs in violation of the national transposing provisions, it is a matter to be primarily addressed by the national courts and authorities. In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission may decide to take appropriate action in accordance with the prerogatives conferred to it by the Treaty.

    As the Honourable Member refers to ‘seasonal’ firefighters, the Commission recalls that, according to the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union[2], the fact that two fixed-term contracts are separated by a significant lapse of time is generally sufficient to interrupt an existing employment relationship.

    Therefore, in the absence of overriding considerations based on specific circumstances, the framework Agreement does not require Member States to consider such contracts to be successive.

    • [1] Annexed to Directive 1999/70 Council Directive 1999/70/EC of 28 June 1999 concerning the framework agreement on fixed-term work concluded by ETUC, UNICE and CEEP (OJ L 175, 10.7.1999, p. 43 ), https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1999/70/oj/eng
    • [2] See Case C-362/13, Fiamingo, par. 71.
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Assessment of the conduct in office of Stephan Kramer, President of the Office for the Protection of the Constitution in Thuringia, with regard to the rule of law and democracy – E-003070/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is fully committed to upholding democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights in the Member States and will continue to monitor developments at national level.

    Concerning the question of the handling of parliamentary immunities by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution in Thuringia, based on the available information, it does not appear that this matter is linked to the implementation of EU law.

    The fundamental right to good administration, enshrined in Article 41 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU[1], aims to fulfil the EU’s commitment to the rule of law, which pursuant to Article 2 of the Treaty on the European Union is one of the EU’s founding values.

    The right to good administration has also been recognised as a general principle of EU law by the Court of Justice of the EU.

    Nevertheless, Article 41 of the Charter is only addressed to the EU’s institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, and not to Member States.

    For this reason, the Commission is not in a position to assess its application in the context mentioned by the Honourable Member.

    • [1] Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, OJ C 326, 26.10.2012, p. 391-407.
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Intimidation of journalists and media freedom in Hungary – E-000230/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware of the fact that journalists have been questioned by the Hungarian Constitution Protection Office.

    The Commission monitor incidents involving journalists in all Member States in the framework of its annual Rule of Law Report, which covers all Member States, including Hungary. The next edition will be published in July 2025.

    As of 8 August 2025, Article 4(3)(a) of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA)[1] will become applicable. The provision states that Member States shall ensure that journalistic sources and confidential communications are effectively protected. Member States shall not (…) oblige media service providers or their editorial staff to disclose information related to or capable of identifying journalistic sources or confidential communications or oblige any persons who, because of their regular or professional relationship with a media service provider or its editorial staff, might have such information to disclose it.

    It is the objective of that and other safeguards in EMFA to ensure free and independent media across the EU and protect them against undue interference. The Commission will use all the tools at its disposal to ensure effective compliance with this provision across the EU.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32024R1083
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Houston Seeks Suspect in April Fools’ Foiled Bank Robbery

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    HOUSTON, TX—The FBI Houston’s Violent Crime Task Force is asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating the man behind an “April Fools’ Day” foiled bank robbery in southwest Houston. Crime Stoppers of Houston is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the robber.

    The robbery occurred at approximately 9 a.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the PNC Bank located at 7414 South Sam Houston Parkway in southwest Houston. During the robbery, the suspect entered the bank, approached the counter, and handed the teller a note threatening the robber’s own family and demanding money. The teller was able to walk to a secure part of the bank, hence foiling the bank robbery, and the suspect eventually departed without any money. No one was physically hurt during the robbery.

    The robber is described as a black male in his late 40s, approximately 6’0” tall, with a slim build. During the robbery he wore a black hoodie, black pants, and black/white sneakers.

    Photographs of the suspect from the robbery can be found on FBI Houston’s X and Facebook accounts.

    Crime Stoppers of Houston, a non-governmental organization, is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of this robber. If you have any information, please call the Crime Stoppers tip line at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or the FBI Houston Field Office at (713) 693-5000. Tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers through their website, www.crime-stoppers.org, or the Houston Crime Stoppers mobile phone app which can be downloaded for both iPhone and Android devices. All tipsters remain anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President calls for holistic overhaul of policing

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President calls for holistic overhaul of policing

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a bold, coordinated, and community-driven approach to crime-fighting, describing policing in South Africa as being at a crossroads that demands urgent reform and collaboration from across all sectors of society.

    The President was delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Policing Summit held in Ekurhuleni on Tuesday. 

    President Ramaphosa applauded the Ministry of Police for convening what he termed a “critical” gathering, which brings together government, civil society, business, interfaith groups, labour, and communities to reshape the country’s safety and security strategy.

    “Safeguarding our nation’s safety and security requires that we are proactive, innovative and solution-oriented in our approach… Just as crime is an all-of-society problem, overcoming crime must be an all-of-society effort.

    “In doing so, we must marshall our full support behind the hardworking men and women of the South African Police Service,” the President said. 

    The President said crime has a direct impact on the economy, as it discourages investment, disrupts business activity and leads to increased security costs for companies. 

    He noted that social ills such as poverty and inequality, unemployment, lack of opportunity, patriarchy and misogyny, and broken family structures are just some of the issues that contribute to crime and criminality. 

    “Addressing crime without understanding its root causes is like a doctor treating a patient for a fever without diagnosing the underlying illness. 
     
    “It is therefore encouraging that this summit has as one of its key objectives adopting a more holistic approach to law-enforcement, encompassing not just the police but the entire policing system,” the President said. 

    The President emphasised that policing must be grounded in the Batho Pele principles of service delivery, which include respect, empathy, accessibility, and accountability. 

    He said that the policing terrain of today is complex and multi-faceted and the police strive to fulfil their mandate in the context of emerging threats. 
     
    These threats, he said, include transnational organised crime, illegal mining, extortion syndicates, the theft of economic infrastructure, money laundering and terror financing. 
     
    “And yet, even in this extremely challenging environment, the South African Police Service continues to register successes in fighting crime in its various operations,” the president said.

    Restoring public trust 

    The President warned that restoring public trust in the police is critical to winning the fight against crime.

    “We need to improve the relationships between the police and the communities they serve. We need to work to improve the morale of SAPS members, many of whom are battling heavy workloads, insufficient resources and outdated systems. 
     
    “Even as the SAPS budget has increased over the past ten years, the reality is that the number of police personnel has been declining while the country’s population has been growing,” the President said. 
     
    President Ramaphosa stressed that policing cannot succeed without the active involvement of communities. 

    He called for a stronger role for Community Policing Forums (CPFs), citizen empowerment, and partnerships with the private sector, which has already played a crucial role in equipping victim support centres and bolstering frontline capacity.

    “We know that communities are the most potent resource for fighting crime. Crimes happen in communities and criminals are often known to communities. 
     
    “From this summit we need a clear plan on how to better involve communities in crime prevention and detection, and on harnessing the potential of CPFs in line with relevant legislation and regulations,” he said. 
     
    The role of technology and data

    The President welcomed and backed the focus of the summit on exploring the role of technology in modern policing, investigation and intelligence.

    “We need to harness modern technologies to support crime-fighting. Technology is particularly crucial when analysing crime trends and patterns. It is also valuable in empowering citizens,” President Ramaphosa said.

    He further advocated for applying a socio-economic lens to crime data to better tailor responses for example, by examining links between substance abuse and robbery, or alcohol abuse and gender-based violence.

    “Data plays a pivotal role in policing and law-enforcement. And we need to apply a socio-economic lens when analysing such data. The data may tell us, for example, about a community with a high prevalence of housebreaking and robbery, in which substance abuse is also rife. 
     
    “Understanding the connections revealed by this data should inform the approach to policing in that community. There is ample data on the linkages between alcohol abuse and the prevalence of gender-based violence,” the President said.

    He added that a holistic policing approach would, for example, need to involve working with local authorities to enforce municipal by-laws for establishments selling alcohol. 

    As part of facilitating access to SAPS services, the President said it is encouraging that discussions are planned for how to leverage innovative digital platforms such as mobile apps, online reporting systems and virtual communication channels to improve the public’s interaction with the police. 
     
    “To turn the tide against crime, we need better collaboration among the different agencies in the law-enforcement space,” he said.

    The President further highlighted that there is a proliferation of organised crime in South Africa, including the manufacture of illicit drugs, kidnapping for ransom and money laundering. 

    He said this is taking place alongside a growth in illegal mining, extortion in the construction sector, and the theft of public infrastructure.
     
    Addressing corruption

    The President urged police to stay away from corrupt activities, stressing that corruption has infiltrated every part of society, including the SAPS. 

    He said while prosecuting corrupt officers is important, it is equally crucial to instil a culture of honesty and integrity within the police service. 

    The President emphasised the need to strengthen the fundamentals of policing through ethics, accountability, and professionalism. 

    He expressed hope that the summit would focus on promoting ethical conduct, restoring public trust in law enforcement, and upholding the rule of law. 

    Key initiatives include protecting whistleblowers, implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and improving recruitment and training to attract the right calibre of candidates to the SAPS. 

    “If the SAPS is to fulfil its crucial mandate, we have to emerge from these few days with a clear plan on how to address the systemic deficiencies that are negatively impacting policing. 
     
    “As a country we owe the SAPS our full support. As government we remain committed to turning the tide against crime and to making our communities safer. 
     
    “It is our hope that the recommendations emerging from this summit translate into deeper collaboration, more effective methods and a promising future for policing in South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    DikelediM
    Tue, 04/08/2025 – 13:57

    1107 views

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Seven to appear in court for illegal mining

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, April 9, 2025

    Seven suspects are expected to appear in court soon after they were nabbed following police operations in Limpopo.

    “Vala Umgodi Operations conducted in the Sekhukhune District in Limpopo led to the arrest of seven suspects for illegal mining of sand and possession of suspected precious minerals (raw Chrome), on Sunday, 06 April 2025, at [the] Nebo and Burgersfort Policing areas,” the South African Police Service (SAPS).

    In its statement on Tuesday, the SAPS said a 36-year-old man was arrested for the possession of suspected stolen precious minerals (raw chrome) at Spitzkop Farm in the Burgesfort policing area.

    “The suspect was found loading chrome in a yellow dumbbell truck. Another suspect aged 18 was arrested for contravention of immigration act in the area,” said the police.

    Additionally, five suspects aged between 28 and 51, were nabbed for illegal mining of sand on Sunday, 06 April 2025, at Ga-Marishane Village in the Nebo policing area. 

    Members of Vala Umgodi Operation conducted a disruptive operation at the area when a group of people were noticed loading sand into a white leyman truck. Police confiscated three shovels and the truck that was loaded with sand.

    “The suspects will appear before the local magistrate’s court soon. Police investigations are ongoing,” said the SAPS.  –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Four murder suspects killed in shootout with police

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, April 9, 2025

    Four suspects, who were wanted for cases of murder in the vicinity of Inanda, were shot and fatally wounded in a shootout with police on the M4 Highway in Umlazi on Tuesday afternoon.

    Police had gathered intelligence about the whereabouts of the wanted suspects, and when police pounced on them at a mall in Umlazi, the suspects sped off. 

    “When the police caught up with them, the suspects fired shots towards the police. To protect themselves and other road users, police returned fire,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. 

    During the shootout, four suspects were shot and fatally wounded. No police officer sustained any injuries during the shootout.

    “The suspects were found in possession of three firearms. The four suspects were wanted for at least three cases of murder in Inanda, two of which were double murders. The murders were committed in March and April 2025,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: GBV laws must be strengthened: President Ramaphosa

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the urgent need to confront and address existing blind spots within the legal system, which continue to undermine the rights and interests of survivors of gender-based violence (GBV).

    Delivering the keynote address at the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) biennial conference on Wednesday, the President said it is critical that these legal deficiencies are urgently identified and resolved.

    “A central issue is overcoming the blind spots in the law and the legal system that are working against the rights and interests of survivors.

    “For the fight against gender-based violence to be strengthened and have a measurable and sustainable impact, it is critical that these deficiencies are addressed to bring about change,” the President said. 

    Judges, magistrates, legal professionals and policymakers from across the world are currently meeting at the biennial conference of the IAWJ underway in Cape Town to address the global scourge of gender-based violence and femicide through judicial leadership and activism.

    This year’s conference is organised under the theme” “Resilience: Women in Leadership to End Gender-Based Violence & Femicide”.

    It is the first to be hosted in South Africa under the leadership of a female Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, Mandisa Maya, who is also the IAWJ Vice President. 

    President Ramaphosa last addressed the IAWJ back in 2022, which was the year the country passed a trio of laws to strengthen the legal framework and offer greater protection to survivors.

    Following an extensive public consultation process, the country amended three existing laws as part of the wider effort to combat GBVF. 

    Amendments were made to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act to introduce a new category of sexual intimidation, and to expand the scope of the National Register for Sex Offenders. 

    The Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act was amended to regulate the granting and cancellation of bail, to regulate sentences for offenses committed against vulnerable persons, and to advance the right of complainants to participate in parole proceedings.

    Lastly, the Domestic Violence Act was amended to expand the existing definitions of domestic violence, and to enable survivors to apply for protection orders online.

    President Ramaphosa stressed that while courts are constitutionally mandated to dispense justice without fear or favour, it is equally important that justice is seen to be done.

    He said that in addressing the scourge of gender-based violence, it is not enough to have laws in place — they must be implemented and enforced effectively.

    “In the context of gender equality, and within the context of high levels of gender-based violence more specifically, what do we mean? It means laws cannot just be written — they must be enforced. 

    “It means that perpetrators must be held accountable, and that the sentences they are given should reflect the seriousness of their crimes. When judicial discretion is exercised in a prescribed minimum sentencing regime, the reasons for departure must indeed be substantial and compelling,” he said. 

    The President further highlighted the need for fairness, not only in ensuring the accused receives a fair trial, but also in how survivors of gender-based violence are treated by the courts.

    “It means fairness, and this doesn’t only apply to an accused’s right to a fair trial. It also applies to fair treatment of survivors of GBV by our courts, and that they should not be subjected to bias and victim-blaming,” the President said. 

    President Ramaphosa emphasised that the IAWJ is a catalyst for change, highlighting the unique contribution that women judges make to the legal profession. 

    “As women judges, your lived experiences provide insight into the realities behind the cases, and you have the power to reshape how the law is interpreted, how justice is delivered, and how society evolves. 

    “This conference is an opportunity to sharpen our collective commitment to law that heals, courts that transform, and to systems that centre humanity,” he said. 

    In addition to utilising the law, President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to embark on many other efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide, and have a multifaceted approach that will include education and spreading awareness about the importance of gender equality from a young age. 

    He also underscored the importance of engaging men and boys in the conversation to prevent gender-based violence. He further called on society to advocate for women’s empowerment and economic independence, which would help reduce their vulnerability to abuse.

    “We must make men and boys part of the conversation to prevent gender-based violence. We should also as society insist that women should have more control over their lives and economic independence which will reduce their vulnerability to violence.

    “I wish you well in your deliberations and I am confident that the outcomes of this conference will make a significant impact in advancing the fight against gender based violence and femicide,” the President said. 

    The biennial conference will end on Saturday, 12 April. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chairs meeting with Odisha Chief Minister, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, in New Delhi to review implementation of three New Criminal Laws in the State

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chairs meeting with Odisha Chief Minister, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, in New Delhi to review implementation of three New Criminal Laws in the State

    Odisha government should prioritize the 100% implementation of the New Criminal Laws across all levels of administration for the next six months

    Next decade is crucial for the development of Odisha; considering the state’s future industrial and technological growth, New Criminal Laws will play a vital role in strengthening law & order

    State’s Home Secretary should review the progress of implementing the New Criminal Laws once a week, Chief Secretary and DGP should review it every 15 days, and the Chief Minister should review on a monthly basis, setting a timeline for their implementation in the state

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 8:42PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chaired a review meeting on the implementation of three new criminal laws in Odisha, in the presence of Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, in New Delhi today. The meeting reviewed the implementation and present status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics in Odisha. The meeting was attended by the Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Odisha, the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), the Director, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the government of Odisha.

     

     

    During the meeting, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, said that the Odisha government should prioritize 100% implementation of the new criminal laws across all levels of administration for the next six months.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the next decade is crucial for the development of an emerging state like Odisha. Considering the state’s future industrial and technological growth, he highlighted that the three new criminal laws will play a vital role in strengthening the law and order.

     

    Union Home Minister said that the state’s Home Secretary should review the progress of implementing new criminal laws on a weekly basis and the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police should review it fortnightly and the Chief Minister should review on a monthly basis, prioritizing the timelines of implementation.

    *****

     

    VV/RR/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2120594) Visitor Counter : 46

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Workshop on Developing Ecosystem for Assistive Technology in India” Organised by NITI Aayog

    Source: Government of India

    Workshop on Developing Ecosystem for Assistive Technology in India” Organised by NITI Aayog

    Organised in Collaboration with Govt of Maharashtra

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 6:37PM by PIB Delhi

    NITI Aayog in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra, organised a workshop on the theme “Developing Ecosystem for Assistive Technology in India” at YASHADA, Pune today.

    The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Sanjay Shirsat, Minister of Social Justice and Special Assistance Department, Govt of Maharashtra. Dr. V.K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, Smt. Sujata Saunik, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Maharashtra, Dr. Rajib Kumar Sen, Senior Adviser, NITI Aayog, Shri Niranjan Kumar Sudhanshu, Director General, YASHADA, and Shri K.S. Rejimon, Joint Secretary, NITI Aayog, were also present among other dignitaries.

    In his inaugural address, Hon’ble Minister highlighted the importance of domestic capabilty of AT industry and its role in promoting inclusivity.

    Dr. V.K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, in his special address, emphasised the need for developing an eco-system for Assistive Technology which is critical for social inclusion in achieving the vision@2047.

    The day long workshop included three sessions deliberating the challenges, gaps, best practices, initiatives and role of Central Government, State Govt., International organisation, Industry/ Start-ups etc.

    The first session focused on “Improving Access to Assistive Technology in India”. The session provided a comprehensive view of how key government initiatives, policies, and inter-sectoral collaborations which are playing a transformative role in making assistive technologies more accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs), the elderly, and other marginalised communities. 

    In the second session on “State Initiatives in Assistive Technology”, The representatives from state Governments of Goa, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Telangana and Tamil Nadu, highlighted how targeted policies, partnerships, and on-the-ground efforts are improving the reach and impact of AT.

    The third session of the Assistive Technology workshop focused on “AT Manufacturing and Global Collaborations” brought forth significance of fostering a strong domestic manufacturing base for AT and the immense value of global partnerships. Representatives of WHO, UNDP, ATSCale (UNOPS), World Bank, AssisTech Foundation and Tynor, highlighted the key role of global collaborations in advancing AT in India, as India aspires to become a global hub for AT innovation and manufacturing.

    In the Concluding session Shri Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment addressed the participants and underscored the importance of building an inclusive society.

    The deliberations and suggestions emerged during the workshop will pave the way for developing an eco-system for Assistive Technology in India to achieve Viksit Bharat vision @2047 of building an inclusive society.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM to visit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 11th April

    Source: Government of India

    PM to visit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 11th April

    PM to lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi

    Special focus of projects: road, electricity, education, tourism

    PM to present Geographical Indication (GI) certificates to newly registered local items and products

    PM to perform darshan and pooja at Guru Ji Maharaj Temple in Isagarh, Madhya Pradesh

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 9:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 11th April. He will travel to Varanasi and at around 11 AM, he will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore. He will also address a public meeting.

    Thereafter he will travel to Madhya Pradesh and at around 3:15 PM, he will perform darshan and pooja at Guru Ji Maharaj Temple in Isagarh. Further, at around 4:15 PM, he will participate in a public programme at Anandpur Dham and address the gathering on the occasion.

    PM in Uttar Pradesh

    Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi. In line with his commitment to infrastructure development, particularly enhancing road connectivity in Varanasi, he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for various road projects in the region. Furthermore, he will lay the foundation stone for a road bridge between Varanasi Ring Road and Sarnath, flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih crossings of the city and a highway underpass road tunnel on NH-31 at the Varanasi International Airport worth over Rs 980 crore.

    Giving a boost to the electricity infrastructure, Prime Minister will inaugurate two 400 KV and one 220 KV transmission substations and associated transmission lines of Jaunpur, Chandauli and Ghazipur districts of Varanasi division worth over Rs 1,045 crore. He will also lay the foundation stone of a 220 KV transmission substation at Chaukaghat, Varanasi, a 132 KV transmission substation in Ghazipur and augmentation of the Varanasi city electricity distribution system worth over Rs 775 crore.

    Prime Minister will inaugurate a Transit Hostel at the Police Line and barracks at PAC Ramnagar Campus, to improve facilities for the security personnel. He will also lay the foundation stone of new administrative buildings at various police stations and a residential hostel in Police Line.

    In line with his vision to ensure education for all, Prime Minister will inaugurate projects including a Government Polytechnic College at Pindra, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Government College at village Barki, 356 rural libraries and 100 Anganwadi centres also. He will also lay the foundation stone for renovation of 77 primary school buildings under the Smart City Mission and the construction of a new building for Kasturba Gandhi School at Cholapur, Varanasi. Promoting sports infrastructure in the city, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for a synthetic hockey turf with floodlights and spectator gallery at Uday Pratap College and a mini stadium at Shivpur.

    Prime Minister will also inaugurate the redevelopment of Samne Ghat and Shastri Ghat at Ganga river, 130 rural drinking water schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission worth over Rs 345 crore, improvement of six municipal wards of Varanasi and landscaping and sculpture installations at various sites of Varanasi.

    Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for MSME Unity Mall for artisans, infrastructure development works of Transport Nagar Scheme at Mohansarai, 1 MW solar power plant at WTP Bhelupur, Community halls in 40 Gram panchayats and beautification of various parks in Varanasi.

    Prime Minister will also handover Ayushman Vay Vandana cards to first time benefitting senior citizens over 70 years. He will present Geographical Indication (GI) certificates to various local items and products including  tabla, painting, thandai, tiranga barfi among others. He will also transfer over Rs 105 crore bonus to milk suppliers of Uttar Pradesh associated with Banas Dairy.

    PM in Madhya Pradesh

    In line with his commitment to furthering the cultural and spiritual heritage of India, Prime Minister will visit Anandpur Dham of Isagarh Tehsil in the Ashoknagar district in Madhya Pradesh. He will perform darshan and pooja at Guru Ji Maharaj Temple. He will also tour the temple complex at Anandpur Dham.

    Anandpur Dham has been established for spiritual and philanthropic purposes. Spanning 315 hectares, it houses a modern gaushala (cowshed) with over 500 cows and runs agricultural activities under Shri Anandpur Trust campus. The trust has been operating a charitable hospital in Sukhpur village, schools in Sukhpur and Anandpur and various Satsang Centers across the country.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2120622) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSD holds national security education student forum and premieres national security microfilm (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Correctional Services Department (CSD) today (April 9) held a national security education student forum at Queen Elizabeth Stadium and premiered a national security education microfilm produced by the CSD. The Acting Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk, was the officiating guest. Other guests included Deputy Director-General of the Police Liaison Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government (CPG) in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Mr Xie Wei; Deputy Director of the liaison office of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the CPG in the HKSAR Mr Xie Zhixiang; and the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Wong Kwok-hing.
     
    More than 1 600 teachers and students from 29 schools, principals, parent-teacher association members, members of Fight Crime Committees, members of the Committee on Community Support for Rehabilitated Offenders, and various community partners of the CSD attended the forum.
     
    To raise public awareness of safeguarding national security, the CSD produced two national security education microfilms, namely “Momentary Glory” and “Unfailing Love”. Adapted from real cases, the microfilms feature stories of teenagers who were incited to commit illegal acts which endanger national security, and paid a heavy price in the end. Through the microfilms, the CSD hopes to enhance the public’s ability to think critically and discerningly, and raise their awareness of abiding by the law.
     
    Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Cheuk said that the CSD has shouldered the mission of safeguarding national security and has taken initiatives to go beyond the prison walls to actively promote community crime prevention education to nurture young people to become a new generation that loves the country and Hong Kong, are law-abiding citizens and have a positive mindset. The microfilm “Momentary Glory”, shown at today’s forum, portrays the heavy price of committing crimes that endanger national security. He hoped that students can understand that they should think twice before they act and not to commit any crimes to avoid lifelong regrets.
     
         The forum also featured a video clip of the real protagonist in the microfilm. In the video, he shared his emotional journey of repentance and feelings after being misled into committing illegal acts and ultimately being sentenced to imprisonment. There was also an interactive session in the forum, allowing students to express their views on the microfilm to inspire them to think from different perspectives. Moreover, the CSD arranged for rehabilitated persons to talk about the cost they had to pay for committing crimes and their rehabilitation experiences, reminding students to determine the authenticity of information and refrain from engaging in illegal activities.
     
    The two microfilms will be uploaded to various official media platforms of the CSD and the Education Bureau on National Security Education Day on April 15 to convey messages of safeguarding national security to more students and the public.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government cautions public against online video about investment plan purported to be recommended by CE

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government cautions public against online video about investment plan purported to be recommended by CE 
    The spokesman strongly condemned those who have attempted to distribute fake investment advice in the name of the Chief Executive. The incident has been referred to the Police for a follow-up investigation.
    Issued at HKT 18:34

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Lead Legislation to Stop Anticompetitive Practices in Meat-Packing Industry, Promote Fair Playing Field for Livestock Producers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    Download broadcast quality video HERE 

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined Sens. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) to introduce bipartisan legislation that would beef up enforcement of anticompetitive practices in the consolidated meatpacking industry, aiding cattle producers and bringing down prices at the meat counter.

    The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act would strengthen the enforcement of the Stockyards and Packers Act by adding a team of investigators equipped with subpoena power within the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to ensure compliance by America’s meatpacking industry.  

    “For decades, America’s Big Four meatpackers’ anticompetitive practices have made it harder for Iowa cattle producers to receive a fair price,” Grassley said. “Our bill empowers USDA, in coordination with the Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission, to crack down on bad actors, ensuring a fair and functional marketplace that supports everyone who produces and enjoys quality American meat.”

    “For too long, Oregon ranchers and consumers have been greedily exploited by the Big Four meatpackers that sneak their way around regulations,” Wyden said. “While local ranchers work tirelessly day and night to support their small business and feed families across the country, these big companies keep raking in bigger bills at the expense of local communities in red and blue states alike. It’s way past time to level the playing field for local ranchers and bring grocery prices down for consumers at the meat counter by better enforcing laws that are already on the books.”

    “Anticompetitive practices in the meatpacking industry hurt producers and consumers alike,”Rounds said. “Currently, four large companies, two of which are foreign-owned, control over 80% of the meat processing market. Our legislation would establish an office within the USDA to investigate violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921, which will support competition in meat and poultry markets.”

    “Vermonters rely on fresh foods from local farmers and ranchers to feed their families,”Welch said. “But with meat and dairy prices at the grocery store soaring sky high, small producers across the country are struggling to make ends meet and support their businesses. The rapid consolidation of the meatpacking industry further cripples fair competition. Our bipartisan bill will bring down costs for consumers and create opportunities for producers in red and blue states alike.”

    The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act is endorsed by the National Farmers Union and the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association.

    “If the bad actors in the marketplace have nothing to hide, then they should have no problem with reinforcing USDA’s oversight authority through the measures provided in this bill. It’s not enough that producers stand on a level playing field in the marketplace – there also needs to be a referee, with a whistle, there to throw a flag when there’s a penalty. USCA fully supports the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act and would like to applaud our Champions for ‘Competition’ in the Senate who never waver on supporting producers not just in Oregon, South Dakota, and Iowa – but across the countryside,” said Justin Tupper, President of the United States Cattlemen’s Association.

    “A special investigator at USDA is an important step to cracking down on unfair practices and leveling the playing field for independent livestock producers. Senators Wyden, Rounds, and Grassley get it—strong enforcement keeps monopolies in check. When family farmers and ranchers thrive, so do our rural communities,” said Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union.

    Background:

    Today, just four companies control 85% of the beef market and 67% of the pork market. That’s a significant increase from 36% and 34% in 1980. The Big Four meatpackers have created a distorted marketplace through anticompetitive practices while turning big profits at the expense of livestock and poultry producers.

    Additional cosponsors include Sens. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.).

    Click HERE for broadcast quality video of Grassley discussing the legislation.

    Text of the legislation can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Highlights Efforts to Safeguard Critical Resources for Victims of Crime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Amid National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) highlighted his ongoing oversight of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Crime Victims Fund. 

    Last Congress, Grassley revealed the Biden administration diverted more than $1 billion away from the Crime Victims Fund, which provides critical resources to crime victims and survivors nationwide. Since Grassley began shining light on the issue, the fund’s balance has grown by more than $3 billion. 

    Grassley recently wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi urging the DOJ to safeguard the fund. Read his letter to Bondi HERE.

    Video and transcript of Grassley’s remarks follow.

    Floor Remarks by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa
    Senate President Pro Tempore
    “Supporting Victims and Survivors of Crime”
    Wednesday, April 9, 2025

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO

    Today, I come to the floor to support National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.  

    For many years, I’ve pressed the Department of Justice to do its part to shore up what is called the Crime Victims Fund.  

    That fund supports victims and survivors of crime across the nation. 

    On Monday, I, along with Senators Ernst, Crapo and Risch, sent a letter to Department of Justice.  

    That letter urged the Department of Justice to ensure that criminal fines and penalties are collected and deposited into the Crime Victims Fund.

    I made this request because last Congress, my oversight revealed Biden administration failures.

    Specifically, since the enactment of the Victims of Crime Act fix in 2021, the Biden Justice Department failed to collect and deposit more than a billion dollars in criminal fines and penalties which belongs to this fund.  

    Instead, the Biden administration allowed the fines to be paid to foreign governments and elsewhere. 

    Since my oversight shined the light on the Biden Justice Department’s failures and misguided approach, the Department of Justice Inspector General opened its own independent audit.  

    And at my request, the Government Accountability Office also agreed to review the Department of Justice’s administration of this Crime Victims Fund. 

    History has shown sunshine is the best disinfectant.  

    Since my Crime Victims Fund oversight began, the balance increased from $1 billion dollars in 2023, the lowest in over a decade, to its current balance of $4.3 billion. 

    Those figures that I just gave you came from the Department of Justice’s statistics. 

    The Department of Justice must ensure the Crime Victims Fund has adequate resources. 

    If the Department of Justice doesn’t, organizations across the nation helping survivors and helping victims of crime are at serious risk of potentially closing their doors and not being able to continue this help.  

    The Department of Justice shouldn’t allow the mistakes of the Biden administration to happen again.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: West Virginia Man Charged with Possession of an Unregistered Firearm After Attempting to Take Flashbang Grenade Through Airport Security

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Morgantown, West Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of an unregistered firearm, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The one-count Indictment named Zachary Vincent Velling, 26, as the sole defendant.

    According to the Indictment and public information from the Allegheny County Police Department, on November 12, 2024, Velling entered airport security at the Pittsburgh International Airport and placed his carry-on luggage through the x-ray machine. Representatives with the Transportation Security Administration noticed a suspicious object within Velling’s luggage, which officers from the Allegheny County Police Department ultimately determined to be a MK24 MOD 0,6 Bang/Flash diversionary hand grenade. The grenade is a firearm and destructive device under federal law that was not registered to Velling in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Velling was previously charged in relation to this incident in the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas with possession of an offensive weapon and criminal attempt. Those charges have been dismissed as a result of this federal Indictment.

    “Attempting to pass through airport security with any firearm or destructive device poses an unacceptable risk of harm to the innocent traveling public,” said Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “This danger is heightened when, as in this case, the destructive device is possessed illegally. We are steadfast in our commitment to work with our partners at the FBI, ATF, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and Transportation Security Administration to ensure safe air travel.”

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Allegheny County Police Department; Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office; and Transportation Security Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Justice Department, FBI Join U.S. Coast Guard During Offload of More than $509 Million in Illegal…

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi joined FBI Director Kash Patel and leaders from the U.S. Coast Guard as they offloaded over 48,400 pounds of illegal drugs valued at more than $509 million at Port Everglades, Florida.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arlington Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A man identified as a member/associate of the Heath Street Gang was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    Cerone Davis, 31, of Arlington, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to one year in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In January 2025, Davis pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.  

    On or about June 8, 2023, Davis was arrested on the grounds of the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments, a public housing complex in Jamaica Plain, in possession of numerous individually packaged bags of fentanyl. At the time of his arrest, Davis was on supervised release in connection with a prior federal conviction for distributing cocaine in the very same housing complex, and was specifically prohibited from being in that area.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement. The investigation was supported by the Boston Housing Authority Police Department and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hoefle of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
     

    MIL Security OSI –