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Category: MIL-Submissions

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Johan Castberg producing at full capacity – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    20 JUNE 2025 – The first cargo from Johan Castberg was loaded by the tanker Bodil Knutsen on 25 May, shipping around 700,000 barrels to Spain

    Only three months after coming on stream Johan Castberg is producing at peak capacity of 220,000 barrels of oil per day. This increases energy deliveries from the Barents Sea by 150%.

    The early operation phase has gone according to plan, the field reaching plateau production on 17 June. Seventeen of a total of 30 wells have been completed. The wells that have come on stream are producing as expected.

    “Johan Castberg represents a gamechanger for the importance of the Barents Sea for Norway’s future as an energy nation. Every three to four days, tank loads now depart from Johan Castberg, each of them worth around half a billion Norwegian kroner. The field will remain on stream for at least 30 years, delivering stable energy to Europe, generating high value for Norway, and ripple effects and jobs in Northern Norway,” says Kjetil Hove, Equinor’s executive vice president for Exploration & Production Norway.

    The new production vessel (FPSO) came on stream on 31 March, opening a new area for production in the Barents Sea. The first cargo was loaded by the tanker Bodil Knutsen on 25 May, shipping around 700,000 barrels to Spain. Almost all oil from the NCS is currently delivered to Europe.

    “The Johan Castberg volume base initially estimated at 450-650 million barrels, our ambition is to increase the reserves by between 250-550 million barrels. We are already planning six new wells to extend plateau production. The Isflak project will be a rapid field development with an investment decision at the end of the year and start-up in 2028. In addition, we will drill one or two exploration wells annually near Johan Castberg,” Hove adds.

    New exploration targets have been matured in the Johan Castberg area. Going forward, two rigs will be drilling new exploration wells in the areas around Johan Castberg and Goliat. They will also drill production wells for the fields.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Conflict and Stocks – Israel and Iran Stock Markets Hit Record Highs Amid Conflict – Finbold

    Source: Finbold

    War is Bad for Stocks? Think Again.

    June 20, 2025 – Missiles struck the heart of Tel Aviv’s financial district yesterday, yet investors barely flinched. Defying conventional market logic, Israel’s stock indices surged to record highs, even as tensions with Iran escalated dramatically.

    Notably, shares of the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange itself (TASE.TA) climbed approximately 1.67% to close around 6,161 ILA, extending impressive year-to-date gains beyond 45%. Broader market indices also reached fresh 52-week peaks, with the prominent Tel Aviv-35 closing at approximately 2,834 points, and the Tel Aviv-125 index finishing around 2,850 points.

    Meanwhile, Iran’s Tehran Stock Exchange (TEDPIX) remained near its recent all-time highs around 3,035,000 points, despite a brief pullback triggered by recent conflict developments. TEDPIX’s dramatic year-over-year increase of roughly 46% has largely been driven by aggressive domestic monetary expansion and capital fleeing currency instability, rather than true economic strength.

    Finbold’s market analyst Jordan Major explained these unusual market dynamics:

    “Investors seem to be betting on resilience rather than peace. Israeli markets are buoyed by sector rotation into defense, cybersecurity, and commodities, alongside robust governmental support and expectations of swift, limited military retaliation. In Iran, however, market strength primarily reflects investors’ efforts to shield their capital from currency instability rather than genuine economic optimism.”

    For more information: https://finbold.com/israel-and-iran-stock-markets-at-all-time-highs/

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – From natural resources to natural capital: Africa charts path to prosperity in Nairobi

    Source: Global Landscapes Forum (GLF)

    GLF Africa 2025 gathered nearly 2,500 people online and in Nairobi, Kenya, to explore and learn from experts how communities and ecosystems across the continent can thrive under a nature economy.  

    Nairobi, Kenya (19 June 2025) – Today, GLF Africa 2025: Innovate, Restore, Prosper – hosted by the Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) and CIFOR-ICRAF – brought together nearly 2,500 participants from 118 countries online and in Nairobi, Kenya, to explore how local communities are spearheading a green transition across Africa.  

    The Forum, which has reached over 9 million people on social media, convened African and global innovators, scientists, investors and community leaders to raise their voices, share insights and spotlight how grassroots action is leading the way – from ecosystem restoration, land rights and diverse knowledge systems to green jobs, natural capital and AI.  

    Here’s what experts shared at GLF Africa 2025:

    Innovation and AI for people and planet

    “When raw data is given meaning, it becomes information. When information is put into context, it becomes knowledge. And when knowledge becomes actionable and applied, only then does it become wisdom. That is the work we all need to do – to move into wisdom territory. To turn data into gold. Africa already has immense natural capital. It’s our responsibility to bring intelligence, meaning and context towards a nature economy.” – Éliane Ubalijoro, CEO, CIFOR-ICRAF.

    “AI technology is going to help us only when we include the farmer not just as the end user but as a co-creator in our solutions. … Leveraging what people know is one way we can find better fitting solutions for them.” – Esther Maina, Geospatial Developer, Kenya Space Agency.

    “Data and AI play a pivotal role in unlocking some of those insights that we’ve never had access to before, bringing a level of transparency that can restore trust in our ecosystem. Data creates transparency, transparency creates trust, and trust accelerates investments. It will only work, though, if we really start treating our natural capital as a core economic driver … with the potential to unlock trillions in capital.” – Kate Kallot, Founder & CEO, Amini AI

    Restoring and reclaiming Africa’s landscapes  

    “Land rights are the foundation for Africa’s nature economy. How can we make sure that Africa’s relationship with the West or the private sector is based on a win-win situation? We all know that the West has the technology, but we have the resources, so that should put Africa in a very powerful bargaining position.” – Solange Bandiaky-Badji, President, Rights and Resources Group (RRG), Coordinator, Rights and Resources Initiative (RRI)

    “Indigenous people, particularly those on drylands – they have been living their life for generations, overcoming challenges and uncertainties just with the simple knowledge of understanding the environment.” – Joshua Laizer, Co-founder, Tanzania Conservation and Community Empowerment Initiative (TACCEI) and GLFx Maasai Steppe

    “We need to create enabling ecosystems that support people to do more restoration and tap into nature-based economies, because policies without people is just poetry.” – Melyn Abisa, INUKA Project coordinator, Youth4Nature

    Prosperity through working with nature

    “We [need to] give value to our biomass … that helps keep natural capital in the right state. The current model that we operate in the restoration community is only capturing and valuing 6–10% of the biomass. It’s largely based around commodities and non-timber forest products: coffee, cashew, macadamia, timber. We export everything raw.” – Peter Minang, Director for Africa, CIFOR-ICRAF.

    “We need a shift from aid to investment-centered development. Africa is home to $6.5 trillion in natural resources, a population that is about to reach 2.5 billion by 2050 and 60% of the world’s renewable energy potential. This is not a charity case. This is a compelling investment case that the world cannot afford to ignore.” – Sellah Bogonko, Co-Founder and CEO, Jacob’s Ladder Africa.

    “Africa’s nature economy has the potential to sustain ourselves, so there’s no need for us to heavily rely on foreign aid. We are our own resource” – Steve Misati, Director at Youth Pawa and 2024 Ocean Restoration Steward.

    FIGURES

    Over 60% of Africa’s economy relies on its natural capital – from forests and biodiversity to water and land.    
    Investing in restoration and sustainable landscape practices could deliver major ecological, social and financial returns, with up to 600% returns on investment.
    Up to 70% of communities in Sub-Saharan Africa rely on forests and woodlands for their livelihoods.
    65% of Africa’s productive landscapes are degraded, driven largely by the climate crisis, insecure land rights and underfunded restoration initiatives.
    Africa’s demands for food, shelter and jobs will increase as its population is expected to grow from 1.5 billion to 2.5 billion by 2050.

    Rewatch GLF Africa 2025 for free and learn first-hand what all experts shared: bit.ly/GLFAfrica2025.

    ABOUT THE GLF

    The Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) is the world’s largest knowledge-led platform on integrated land use, connecting people with a shared vision to create productive, profitable, equitable and resilient landscapes. It is led by the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), in collaboration with its co-founders UNEP and the World Bank, and its charter members. Learn more at www.globallandscapesforum.org.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza – Deliberate shortages of food, medicine and fuel by Israeli authorities are suffocating Gaza

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières’ (MSF)

    Gaza, 20 June 2025— Palestinians are perpetually on the verge of losing access to essential medical care and clean water due to deliberate actions by Israeli authorities. This policy restricts the entry of medical supplies and fuel to the bare minimum and at their whim. While this strategy creates the illusion of aid flowing into the Strip, it effectively prevents the humanitarian response from reaching even the minimum required for a population entirely reliant on assistance. The Israeli authorities must end their collective punishment of the people in Gaza and immediately allow the consistent entry of sufficient medical supplies and fuel.

    Over the past week we have seen large influxes of wounded patients, many of whom have suffered traumatic injuries. At Médecins Sans Frontières’ (MSF’s) field hospital in Deir Al-Balah, central Gaza, the number of patients with gunshot wounds increased by 190 per cent compared to the week before. Clinics, such as Khan Younis clinic and Deir Al-Balah clinic, saw their highest weekly intake to date. Following three months of total blockade and despite Israel’s claims to have opened supply corridors, MSF’s supplies are running critically low due to continuing restrictions imposed on entering goods.

    “We are missing everything, medical consumables like gauze, medications and food for our patients. This also includes therapeutic food for people with malnutrition, especially children,” says Katja Storck, nursing activity manager in Khan Younis.

    Along with crucial medical supplies, the dangerously low level of fuel is a big concern for people in Gaza as it powers the desalination plants where much of the clean water comes from. Palestinians across the Strip have already seen their access to water drop significantly. Without fuel, millions of people will be trapped with no safe drinking water. Equally, fuel powers the entire healthcare system: medical equipment, air conditioning, elevators, oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and cold-chain storage for medicines and vaccines. Even ambulances will be grounded, preventing the transport of critically ill and wounded people.

    “Newborns in neonatal intensive care units are often too small to breathe on their own — they need ventilators and oxygen to survive. But recently lack of fuel has caused electricity at Al-Helou Maternity hospital in northern Gaza to cut out several times, shutting off ventilators and oxygen and putting babies’ lives at immediate risk,” says Amy Low, medical team leader in Gaza City.

    Yesterday, the UN managed to retrieve 280,000 litres of fuel from the stocks which are stuck in a no-go area in Rafah, after the Israeli authorities denied 12 previous requests. As fuel stocks got so low, the teams at Al-Helou, where MSF teams work in the maternity ward, had to temporarily shut down elevators in the hospital to ration stocks.  

    “The charade of only allowing medical and fuel supplies at the very last minute ahead of a looming disaster is nothing but a band aid on a gushing wound. The weaponisation of aid must end,” says Aitor Zabalgogeazkoa, MSF emergency coordinator in Gaza. “No militarised scheme developed by a warring party, like the one we are witnessing with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, can replace the work of independent humanitarian agencies.”

    MSF teams are witnessing patterns consistent with genocide in Gaza. Mass killings, the destruction of vital civilian infrastructure, and severe restrictions on fuel supplies and the delivery of aid are deliberate actions. Israel is systematically dismantling the conditions necessary for Palestinian life.

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: WHO – Global Leaders Unite to Accelerate Cervical Cancer Elimination Efforts

    Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

    New commitments at Bali Forum drive momentum to save hundreds of thousands of girls and women from cancer

    BALI, Indonesia, 19 June 2025 – Governments, donors, multilateral institutions, the private sector, and partners today announced significant policy, programmatic, and financial commitments to eliminate one of the most preventable cancers.

    At the 2nd Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Forum, hosted in Bali, Indonesia, on 17-19 June, leaders announced a wave of new investments and policy pledges to expand access to HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment – bringing the world closer to making cervical cancer the first cancer to ever be eliminated.  

    The Forum is attended by more than 300 participants, among them are high-level delegates, such as Ministers of Health from Fiji, Indonesia, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Timor-Leste, and Vanuatu, as well as Vice Ministers from Costa Rica, Paraguay, and South Africa, demonstrating strong political commitment from countries across regions.

    The Global Strategy for the elimination of cervical cancer sets clear targets for 2030: 90% of girls fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15; 70% of women screened with a high-performance test by age 35 and again at 45; and 90% of women identified with cervical disease receiving appropriate treatment. Progress across all three pillars is essential to achieve and sustain elimination.

    “In 2018, WHO issued a global call for action to eliminate cervical cancer on the world to act, and the commitments made here in Indonesia show that call is being answered,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “But we must go further and faster. Every girl who remains unvaccinated and every woman who lacks access to screening or treatment is a reminder that equity must be at the heart of our elimination strategy. Together, we can consign cervical cancer to the history books.”

    Despite being preventable, cervical cancer still claims the life of a woman every two minutes – 94% of them in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Less than five per cent of women in many LMICs receive cervical cancer screening due to health system limitations, cost barriers and logistical challenges.  

    Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) – the leading cause of cervical cancer – can prevent the vast majority of cases, averting 17.4 deaths for every 1000 girls vaccinated. Combined with screening and treatment—including for precancerous lesions and invasive cancer— it provides a path to elimination. However, as of 2024 only 46 per cent of low-income countries have introduced HPV vaccination nationally, compared to 98 per cent of high-income nations.

    The Bali forum builds on momentum from Cartagena, Colombia, where nearly US$ 600 million was committed last year to scale up efforts. 194 countries have adopted WHO’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer and 75 countries globally

    have adopted the single-dose HPV vaccine, which expands access to the vaccine to even more girls and saves costs. Vaccination coverage is also improving: in Africa, first dose coverage rose from 28% in 2022 to 40% in 2023 – making it the region with the second-highest rate globally and empowering millions of girls to protect their health and realize their potential. There is increased vaccine supply thanks to market shaping efforts by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and updated recommendations are helping to make cervical cancer screening and treatment more affordable.

    The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia continues to accelerate the national HPV vaccination program to reduce mortality rates from cervical cancer. Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin emphasized the urgency of this initiative, as cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women in Indonesia.

    To address this issue, the Ministry of Health is not only expanding free HPV vaccination coverage for school-age girls but also strengthening early detection programs for cervical cancer through DNA HPV test and co-testing with IVA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) at health-care facilities. Additionally, the ministry is collaborating with various stakeholders, including local governments and community organizations, to enhance public education and awareness about the importance of early prevention.

    “We cannot rely solely on treatment. Prevention is far more important. Therefore, in addition to HPV vaccination, we strongly encourage regular screening so that cancer can be detected at an early stage before it progresses,” said Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin.

    Early detection significantly increases the chances of recovery and reduces treatment cost. For this reason, combining screening and vaccination is essential for effectively preventing and tackling cervical cancer.

    Alongside gains in vaccination, countries are also reporting progress in expanding access to cervical cancer screening and treatment, aligned with WHO recommendations. Innovations such as self-sampling are improving reach and feasibility, especially in low-resource settings. Many countries are scaling up national screening programmes and investing in treatment services to ensure that women who test positive receive timely and appropriate care.

    This growing global push, driven by renewed commitments from governments and partners at the Forum shows that it is possible to reverse the tide and prevent annual deaths from rising to over 410 000 by 2030, as currently estimated.

    To sustain and accelerate this momentum, donors committed to a future free from cervical cancer are strongly urged to fully fund Gavi, which aims to vaccinate an additional 120 million girls between 2026-2030, saving 1.5 million lives.

    “At its heart, this movement is about justice. It’s about ensuring that every girl and every woman, regardless of where she lives or what she earns, has access to basic, lifesaving care,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “As we build these services, we are not just preventing cancer, we are strengthening the bond between women and the health system. We are breaking down barriers. We are dismantling stigma. We are advancing the broader agenda for women’s health. Let us act now—so that every woman, everywhere, can live a healthy, dignified life.”

    Continued support is also essential for the coordinated efforts of governments, and global partners across the full elimination strategy to help bring us closer to a world where no girl or woman dies from a disease that there is the power to eliminate. Further, the forum calls countries to set ambitious national targets, align with global commitments, and strengthen collective action toward a cervical cancer-free world by 2030 through the Bali Declaration to Reaffirm Commitment to Cervical Cancer Elimination.

    Notes:

    Country commitments made at the forum include:

    Government of Indonesia

    Indonesia stands unwavering in its mission to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030, ensuring that every woman, regardless of socioeconomic status, can live free from its threat. With an ambitious national 90-75-90 target, Indonesia is scaling up its efforts and setting a precedent for bold, decisive action.

    Recognizing that elimination requires sustained commitment, Indonesia is mobilizing all sectors through evidence-based programming, strong local leadership, and dynamic multi-stakeholder collaboration. We are prioritizing substantial investments in the health system and fortifying the key pillars of progress—governance, financial sustainability, and social outreach—to drive real change.

    With the National Cervical Cancer Elimination Plan 2023–2030 launch, Indonesia has solidified a comprehensive partnership ecosystem spanning ministries, local governments, civil society, communities, and international development partners. Significant strides have been made across the three elimination pillars: vaccination, screening, and treatment. To accelerate our impact, Indonesia is advancing the following commitments:

    1. HPV Vaccination – Reaching Every Girl, Every Woman

    By the end of 2025, Indonesia will transition to a single-dose HPV vaccination schedule, deploying both school-based and community-based platforms to ensure 90% coverage of HPV vaccination among girls and women in all target groups by 2030.

    2. Cervical Cancer Screening – Scaling Up and Innovating

    Indonesia is dramatically expanding its screening efforts to reach 75% of women aged 30–69 by 2030, using high-performance HPV DNA testing—a globally recognized best practice. Nationwide pilots are already underway, with full-scale adoption targeted by the end of 2025.

    3. Treatment and Care – Strengthening Access and Innovation

    Indonesia is fortifying its health system by closing diagnostic and treatment services gaps. Key advancements include accelerated procurement of essential diagnostic tools and treatment equipment and expanded access to chemotherapy, immunohistochemistry testing, and cryotherapy across all regions. Additionally, we are upskilling our healthcare workforce to ensure expertise in the latest treatment techniques.

    As we move forward, Indonesia is embedding cervical cancer elimination within its broader National Cancer Control Plan 2025–2034, driving continuous monitoring, research, and evidence-based policy refinement to guarantee universal access to preventive and curative services.

    Indonesia is fully committed to accelerating progress, ensuring that every woman across the country has access to the services needed for cervical cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. At this pivotal global forum, Indonesia with the participants of the forum urge countries to set ambitious national targets, align with global commitments, and strengthen collective action toward a cervical cancer-free world by 2030 through the adoption of Bali Declaration to Reaffirm Commitment to Cervical Cancer Elimination.

     

    Other Government commitments

    Government of Pakistan

    The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination reaffirms Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to cervical cancer elimination, aligning with the WHO’s 2030 targets. With over 5,000 new cases and 3,000 deaths annually, cervical cancer is a public health challenge in Pakistan. We are prioritizing a comprehensive strategy focusing on HPV vaccination for adolescent girls starting in 2025, alongside strengthening screening programs and ensuring timely treatment access.

    Our goal is to achieve a future where no woman in Pakistan loses her life to this preventable disease.

    Government of Papua New Guinea

    Papua New Guinea has committed to eliminate cervical cancer from the country. Integrated cervical cancer screening and treatment has been scaled up and the country plans to introduce HPV vaccine nationally in 2026.

    Government of Samoa

    Samoa has made major strides:

    Over 80% HPV vaccination coverage among girls aged 10–18, supported by ADB and UNICEF.
    Our first Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy was developed in 2023 with UNFPA support.
    The National Cancer Policy and Action Plan (2024–2029) was approved by our government last December and was funded with Australian assistance.

     

    Our approach integrates screening into primary care, uses mobile outreach, and embeds community engagement through the Fa’asamoa and “Healthy Islands” principles.

    We recognise the challenges—limited resources and workforce—but we remain committed to combining prevention, screening, and partnerships to achieve our goals.

    This program is about equity, hope, and action. Every woman in Samoa deserves access to life-saving care. As a Pacific nation and proud Commonwealth member, we are determined to lead by example.

    Together, we will eliminate cervical cancer and save lives.
    Thank you for the assistance from our Development Partners and the Global Community.

    Co-host commitments

    Gates Foundation

    The Gates Foundation is committed to protecting the next generation of women from cervical cancer by increasing equitable, sustainable access to HPV vaccines in low- and middle-income countries and we are proud to support Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and countries in the ongoing work to accelerate the introduction and scale-up of HPV vaccines.

    We continue in our commitment that supports research on new prophylactic HPV vaccines, further studies investigating the durability of protection of single-dose vaccination, and tools to help countries better understand how vaccines might be used beyond current target populations. And we remain dedicated to our partnerships with governments, non-governmental organizations, multilateral organizations, and the private sector. Working together, we can eliminate cervical cancer.  

    Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance

    Gavi reaffirms its commitment to the Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative by supporting lower- and middle-income countries to introduce, finance and scale up coverage of HPV vaccines to drive equitable and sustainable access.

     In partnership with countries and Alliance partners, Gavi is on track to reach its ambitious goal of protecting 86 million girls with the lifesaving HPV vaccine by the end of 2025. To date, we have supported 45 countries to introduce the HPV vaccine to their routine systems. This effort is expected to prevent more than 1.4 million future deaths from cervical cancer and represents a major step forward in advancing health equity.

    In Gavi’s next strategic period 2026–2030, Gavi aims to intensify its efforts by reaching over 120 million additional girls with the HPV vaccine- an initiative that could save 1.5 million more lives. Achieving this goal will depend on a fully funded Gavi for the next strategic period. Gavi’s investment in HPV vaccination programmes provides a strong foundation for elimination initiatives across the pillars of WHO’s Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination.

    Investing in the health of women and girls is essential to unlocking their full potential and building a healthier, more equitable future for all.

    UNICEF

    At the 2024 Forum, UNICEF announced an investment of USD 10 million towards the HPV vaccine programme (the HPV Plus initiative). Through the HPV Plus initiative and other investments and partnerships, UNICEF supported the vaccination of over 20 million girls across the 21 HPV Plus implementing countries. Importantly, UNICEF forged strong multi-sectoral engagements and partnerships, working directly with over 250,000 stakeholders in the 21 countries to ensure access for key integrated adolescent health services including nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, HIV/AIDs, menstrual hygiene management, and related services to over 490,000 girls – in addition to receiving the HPV vaccine.  

     

    In UNICEF’s next strategic plan for 2026-2029 we commit to supporting vaccination of 100 million girls with the HPV vaccine. UNICEF will continue to leverage its programmatic and multi-sectoral footprint to advance effective initiatives including integrated HPV vaccination and adolescent health services and strengthening effective delivery platforms including school-based vaccination.  We will also continue to generate and share evidence to help build stronger immunization and health programmes that advance the wellbeing of adolescent girls.

     

    UNICEF will also leverage its Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) program alongside its cervical cancer diagnostic toolkit to shape markets and to create linkages for the screening and treatment pillars of the cervical cancer elimination strategy. Through key programmatic touchpoints, we will raise awareness among country stakeholders and partners about effective screening and treatment options, while providing technical support where feasible.

    Unitaid

    Unitaid has been a leading investor in the secondary prevention of cervical cancer for over six years and ever since the WHO launched the call to action in 2018. This long-standing engagement reflects Unitaid’s dedication to closing the prevention gap for millions of women worldwide who are not eligible for or able to access the HPV vaccination.

    Building on this foundation, Unitaid will invest an additional US$50 million over the next two years to accelerate access to screening and pre-cancer treatment, resulting in a cumulative commitment now reaching US$130 million. This includes an immediate US$18 million investment to directly support 18 countries across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean in establishing and scaling national programs. These efforts will prioritize the rapid uptake of HPV testing and pre-cancer treatment devices, decentralized screening models to reach underserved populations, and the integration of services into health systems in ways that are both sustainable and cost-effective.

    In addition to country-level support, Unitaid will strengthen regional mechanisms that benefit a broader set of countries. This includes expanding supply options to improve access to affordable commodities and fostering South-South learning structures that promote local innovation and experience sharing. Through these efforts, Unitaid aims to help countries accelerate progress toward their national cervical cancer elimination goals and contribute meaningfully to the global 90-70-90 targets.

    Civil Society Organisations

    African Cervical Health Alliance (ACHA)

    As a network of grassroots civil society organisations, activists and allies committed to advancing the health and wellbeing of African women, thus safeguarding the fabric of our communities, and nations, the African Cervical Health Alliance (ACHA) remains committed to using our knowledge of the community, our collective voices, experiences, and skills as cervical cancer survivors, caregivers and allies, in our advocacy with and for our women and girls, in the achievement of the WHO 90/70/90 targets by 2030.

    ACHA will continue scaling up the use of our evidence based, customisable IEC materials to reach at least 150,000 adolescent girls, women, parents, and community leaders across underserved communities with culturally appropriate and age-specific messages about HPV, the importance of HPV vaccination for all eligible girls, routine cervical cancer screening and access to treatment.

    We will also continue to advocate for increased HPV vaccine uptake by integrating cervical health messages into at least 100 advocacy and community engagement activities annually with key populations, including but not limited to school health programs, youth forums, and faith-based initiatives.

    We are also committed to supporting government-led efforts in our respective member countries, through technical input, stakeholder engagement, and community mobilization to adopt WHO’s recommendation for single-dose HPV vaccine schedule for our girls, and to expand access to high performance screening tests for all women, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

    We stand firm in our commitment to building the advocacy capacity of grassroots champions and cancer survivors, by training at least 200 advocates by June 2026 to lead awareness campaigns, reduce stigma, and foster demand for cervical cancer prevention services.

    Our commitments remain resolute, in accelerating the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem across Africa, with a focus on underserved populations, and advocating for the integration of preventive services at all levels of implementation. We therefore pledge to use our unified voice, networks, and tools to catalyse political will, drive accountability, and ensure no woman or girl is left behind in the journey to a cervical cancer free Africa.

    Association for Mothers and Newborns (AMAN)

    The Association for Mothers and Newborns (AMAN) reaffirms its commitment to cervical cancer elimination, in alignment with the WHO’s 90-70-90 targets and as a national health priority of Pakistan.

    As a community-rooted professional organization, AMAN recognizes that demand generation, social mobilisation, and evidence-based advocacy are essential pillars to increase the uptake of HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening services, particularly in underserved and marginalized communities. AMAN also provides professional training in Screening methods (Cytology, VIA), and treatment with Colposcopy, LLETZ and Surgical management.

    Through its GAVI-funded advocacy project in Sindh province (2025–26), AMAN is addressing vaccine hesitancy, countering misconceptions, and mobilizing families, community leaders, teachers, and caregivers to support HPV vaccination for adolescent girls. The initiative aims to reach over 400,000 adolescent girls, parents, and teachers via community awareness sessions, health camps, and digital outreach. It has also successfully engaged local influencers, health workers, and peer educators as advocates for cervical cancer prevention and health equity.

    AMAN pledges to collaborate with public health authorities, civil society, and global partners to amplify local voices, remove barriers, and accelerate Pakistan’s progress toward the global goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem. Together, with a multipronged approach, we can end cervical cancer.

    Cancer Awareness, Prevention and Early Detection Trust (CAPED)

    As a founding member of the Cervical Cancer Elimination Consortium – India (CCEC-I), CAPED commits to being the community engagement partner and extending outreach through its 48 partner organizations and their extended networks to support the rollout of HPV vaccination and a national cervical cancer screening program.

    By June 2026, we will coordinate efforts to:
    • Develop a national preparedness map and readiness report using real-time grassroots data, reflecting local realities on awareness, access, and health system readiness.
    • Collect and document human interest stories from communities to highlight both challenges and successes in cancer prevention efforts.
    • Create and disseminate contextually relevant communication materials that resonate with diverse audiences and address stigma, misinformation, and fear.

    These efforts will help ground national strategies in lived experiences and ensure that civil society plays a central role in advancing equitable, people-centred cervical cancer elimination in India.

    Girls and Women Health Initiative (GWHI)

    GWHI commits to double its impacts in advocacy for HPV vaccination, cervical cancer screening and treatment, along with disseminating the findings from the first ever situation analysis commissioned by the Ministry of National Health Services Regulation and Coordination, Pakistan and WHO.

    GWHI has also created the Pakistan Alliance for Cervical Cancer Elimination (PACCE), a platform to bring together all partners, governmental and non-governmental, working in Pakistan for cervical cancer elimination, to amplify efforts and impact.

    Union for International Cancer Control

    The Union for International Cancer Control is committed to working alongside its 1,150 members across 172 countries and territories to address inequities and drive global action towards the elimination of cervical cancer. With a strong reputation in global advocacy, a rich history of delivering initiatives to support national action, and flagship convening platforms that facilitate peer-to-peer exchange and foster collaboration, UICC continues to champion efforts that improve access to care, sustain progress, and lessen the impact of cervical cancer on individuals, their families and communities.

    As part of its new three-year business plan, UICC will further strengthen its engagement—including through its role in the ‘Elimination Partnership in the Indo-Pacific for Cervical Cancer’, ongoing support for cervical cancer programmes in Francophone Africa, and initiatives that amplify the voices of those with lived experience, including as part of its current three-year World Cancer Day campaign – United by Unique. A core focus of this work will be to mobilise and equip civil society to advocate for the elimination of cervical cancer—ensuring communities are heard, policies are strengthened, and accountability is upheld.

    UICC is rooted in its belief that everyone experiencing cancer should have access to quality treatment and care, and no one should die from a preventable cancer. To achieve this, UICC will leverage its established learning and knowledge-sharing opportunities, its broad multi-sectoral network, and continued advocacy to further progress and ensure that health systems are equipped to improve cancer control, and eliminate cervical cancer.

     

    Private sector

    Becton Dickinson

    Becton Dickinson HPV Access Pricing Initiative: Becton Dickinson (BD) proudly commits to a Global Access Price for our advanced HPV Screening Solution, featuring integrated Extended Genotyping and a self-collection option to expand equitable access to life-saving diagnostics globally. This all-inclusive “Price per Patient Result” will be available to governments and non-governmental organizations advancing public sector programs in 73 Low and Low-Middle Income Countries. Through multi-stakeholder collaboration, we aim to expand access, improve patient management, and help public sector programs implement high-quality, sustainable, and scalable screening programs for effective cervical cancer prevention.

    The Ministry of Health Indonesia and Becton Dickinson (BD) are partnering to expand cervical cancer screening in West Java, aiming to reach 300,000 women in three years. Building on a successful pilot in Papua, the initiative supports Indonesia’s National Action Plan, improving patient management and long-term cost-effectiveness through HPV DNA testing, self-collection, and extended genotyping.

    Roche

    Roche commits to expand affordable pricing for its cobas® HPV DNA test to 17 additional countries, bringing the total to 106 countries, with the potential to positively impact more than 600 million women worldwide. The decision reflects Roche’s unwavering dedication to continuous innovation and advancing equitable access to cervical cancer screening, a critical step in supporting countries as they work towards their elimination goals. Roche’s commitment ext

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor’s first solar plant in Denmark starts production

    Source: Equinor

    19 JUNE 2025 – Production has commenced at the 65 MW Ingerslev Å solar plant located in Jutland, Denmark. The facility is operated by BeGreen, a wholly owned subsidiary of Equinor.

    Anders Bade, senior vice president for onshore and markets within Renewables at Equinor.

    “This is another step in our ambition to establish a profitable onshore renewables business in select markets across Europe and the Americas. Currently, we have around 1.2 GW of onshore capacity in production and under construction ,” says Anders Bade, senior vice president for onshore and markets within Renewables at Equinor.

    Ingerslev Å marks an important milestone as BeGreen’s first project to reach production since Equinor acquired the company in 2023. With the launch of Ingerslev Å, all four Equinor subsidiaries that specialize in onshore renewables and battery storage now have assets in operation.

    “Our ownership of local companies provides a strong foundation for value creation by leveraging their on-the-ground expertise and maximizing synergies with our trading house, Danske Commodities,” says Bade.

    Danske Commodities will sell the power generated from Ingerslev Å on merchant terms in the DK1 power market in western Denmark. The annual production is estimated at 68 GWh.

    The construction of Ingerslev Å was completed in under a year, showcasing the rapid project cycles typical of onshore renewables. The facility features over 100,000 solar panels and six transformer stations installed on site.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor’s first solar plant in Denmark starts production

    Source: Equinor

    19 JUNE 2025 – Production has commenced at the 65 MW Ingerslev Å solar plant located in Jutland, Denmark. The facility is operated by BeGreen, a wholly owned subsidiary of Equinor.

    Anders Bade, senior vice president for onshore and markets within Renewables at Equinor.

    “This is another step in our ambition to establish a profitable onshore renewables business in select markets across Europe and the Americas. Currently, we have around 1.2 GW of onshore capacity in production and under construction ,” says Anders Bade, senior vice president for onshore and markets within Renewables at Equinor.

    Ingerslev Å marks an important milestone as BeGreen’s first project to reach production since Equinor acquired the company in 2023. With the launch of Ingerslev Å, all four Equinor subsidiaries that specialize in onshore renewables and battery storage now have assets in operation.

    “Our ownership of local companies provides a strong foundation for value creation by leveraging their on-the-ground expertise and maximizing synergies with our trading house, Danske Commodities,” says Bade.

    Danske Commodities will sell the power generated from Ingerslev Å on merchant terms in the DK1 power market in western Denmark. The annual production is estimated at 68 GWh.

    The construction of Ingerslev Å was completed in under a year, showcasing the rapid project cycles typical of onshore renewables. The facility features over 100,000 solar panels and six transformer stations installed on site.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Gooooal! CommBank and Football Australia sign landmark deal to lift Australia’s biggest game to new heights

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CommBank)

    CommBank becomes the largest supporter of football in Australia’s history sponsoring the game at all levels and abilities, and extending its support of Australia’s most played team sport.1

    CommBank and Football Australia today announced a ground-breaking investment in the world game, and Australia’s most played team sport, for the next six years.

    With this agreement, CommBank will become Football Australia’s major sponsor at all levels. In addition to the existing sponsorship of the CommBank Matildas, the 2024 IFCPF Women’s World Cup Champions the ParaMatildas, and the Pararoos, CommBank will become the naming rights partner of the Socceroos, and the Emerging Matildas and Emerging Socceroos Championships.

    CommBank’s investment will place an emphasis on keeping young people engaged in the sport from grassroots to elite levels. The support of the Emerging Socceroos Championships and Emerging Matildas Championships will be a significant boost for Australia’s premier youth tournaments and talent identification pipeline for young players, creating greater professional pathways for the next generation of CommBank Matildas and Socceroos.

    This agreement is an extension of the success achieved during CommBank and Football Australia’s initial partnership, particularly in the Bank’s sponsorship of the CommBank Matildas. Since the beginning of the partnership in 2021, women’s and girls’ football participation has increased by 27 per cent,2 and CommBank Matildas game attendance is up more than 100 per cent, including a run of 17 sold-out matches in a row from 2023 to 2024.3 Through CommBank’s Growing Football Fund, over 230 grassroots clubs and associations have received grants of up to $5000 to support initiatives and programs.

    The expanded CommBank and Football Australia partnership is a commitment to supporting all Australians regardless of age, gender, ability or location participate in the most played team sport in the country.

    CommBank CEO, Matt Comyn, said: “With the Socceroos facing the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026™, and the CommBank Matildas preparing for the Australian-hosted AFC Women’s Asia Cup™, there has never been a more exciting time to be a fan of football in Australia.

    “When we partnered with Football Australia as naming rights sponsors of the CommBank Matildas, they were about to embark on a history making international campaign, and what an incredible amount they’ve achieved for Australian football and women’s sport since 2021.

    “This six-year extension, combined with our previous four years, will result in a 10-year partnership. We hope this long-term commitment will help drive positive and lasting change for the game, players and communities.

    “CommBank is proud to play our part in extending the incredible growth we’ve seen in the female game over the past few years into all facets of the game, including the men’s, para athletes and youth competitions – we are committed to promoting supporting inclusivity, keeping communities connected, and ensuring a brighter future for all.”

    Interim CEO of Football Australia, Heather Garriock, said: “We are beyond delighted to take this next step in our relationship with CommBank and continue with our joint purpose of creating a game that is accessible to and loved by all Australians.

    “CommBank have been incredible partners since 2021 – in the four years since, we have together taken the women’s and para games from strength to strength, and we cannot wait to extend this success into other programs.

    “This is so much more than a sponsorship agreement, it is a values-aligned business partnership through which we will innovate and support each other in many ways – with a core aim of improving the lives of Australians through the world game right across the country. We look forward to embarking on this next step in our journey together.”

    Commencing from 1 September 2025, the partnership between CBA and Football Australia will include, but is not limited to:

    Official Banking Partner of Football Australia
    Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Matildas
    NEW Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Socceroos (Sep 1, 2025)
    Official Naming Rights Partner of the U23 Matildas
    Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Young Matildas
    Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Junior Matildas
    NEW Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Olyroos
    NEW Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Young Socceroos
    NEW Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Joeys
    Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank ParaMatildas
    Official Naming Rights Partner of the CommBank Pararoos
    Official Bank of the Matildas
    Official Bank of the of the U23 Matildas
    Official Bank of the Junior Matildas
    Official Bank of the Young Matildas
    NEW Official Bank of the Socceroos
    NEW Official Bank of the Olyroos
    NEW Official Bank of the Young Socceroos
    NEW Official Bank of the Joeys
    Official Bank of the CommBank ParaMatildas
    Official Bank of the CommBank Pararoos
    Official Partner of Female Football Week
    Presenting Partner of Matildas Fan Days
    NEW Presenting Partner of Socceroos Fan Days
    NEW Presenting Partner of the Socceroos and Matildas Player Mascots
    Financial Wellbeing Partner of Football Australia
    NEW Official Naming Rights Partner of the Emerging Matildas Championships
    NEW Official Naming Rights Partner of the Emerging Socceroos Championships
    Official Partner of the Growing Football Fund
    Official Partner of Coles Miniroos

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025 concludes with new commitments to accelerate global development impact

    Source: OPEC Fund

    18 June 2025 – Highlights:  

    – Announcement of over US$1 billion new financing: OPEC Fund signs US$362 million new loan agreements during the Forum and announces approval of US$720 million in new financing in the second Quarter
     – A Country Partnership Framework agreement with Rwanda earmarks US$300 million financing in the next three years 
    – At the high-level Mauritania roundtable hosted by the OPEC Fund, the Arab Coordination Group (ACG) announced a pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next 5 years to support Mauritania’s development priorities.
    June 18, 2025: The fourth OPEC Fund Development Forum concluded today with a strong slate of new commitments, loan agreements and strategic partnerships to advance inclusive transition and sustainable development. The Forum, which took place in Vienna, Austria brought together more than 600 global leaders, including government representatives, development institutions and private sector stakeholders, under the theme “A Transition That Empowers Our Tomorrow”.
    The OPEC Fund announced some US$720 million in new financing to support development efforts across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and saw the signing of US$362 million in new loan agreements. A new Trade Finance Initiative is set to secure vital supplies and help close trade-related liquidity gaps in partner countries.
    OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “The OPEC Fund Development Forum reflects our conviction that partnerships must deliver results. Today we achieved tangible progress – with new signings, new partnerships and new approaches to help our partner countries turn ambition into action. Whether in energy, infrastructure, agriculture or finance, we are responding with solutions that make a difference.”
    As part of its Small Island Developing States (SIDS) initiative, the OPEC Fund signed cooperation agreements with Grenada, and the Solomon Islands, expanding support for climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure.
    Deepening Country Partnerships for Long-term Impact: New country-level agreements and cooperation frameworks include:  
    – A US$212 million loan agreement with Oman to finance the Khasab-Daba-Lima Road Project (Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road), improving local and regional connectivity, as well as a Country Partnership Framework (CPF) to strengthen cooperation over the next five years.
    – A US$25 million loan agreement with Cameroon to strengthen the Rice Value Chain Development Project, supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening food security in vulnerable regions, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and the Kuwait Fund.
    – A CPF with Rwanda to allocate up to US$300 million in financing for 2025 – 2028, supporting the country’s development priorities, including quality infrastructure, improved essential basic services and the promotion of entrepreneurship and the private sector.
    – Other country partnership agreements included: Azerbaijan to support infrastructure, energy transition and sustainable development; Botswana to support infrastructure, renewable energy, innovation and digital transformation, as well as private sector export-led growth over the next three years; Grenada to build resilience through sustainable development initiatives; Kyrgyz Republic to increase cooperation in transport, water supply and sanitation, energy, agriculture and banking sectors; and Solomon Islands to expand engagement and increase cooperation including in the private sector.
    Scaling up Private Sector Support : The OPEC Fund continues to prioritize private sector-led growth with targeted financing to financial institutions across Africa:
    – In Côte d’Ivoire, a €30 million loan agreement with Coris Bank International Côte d’Ivoire and a €35 million loan agreement with NSIA Banque will facilitate access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
    – A US$40 million loan agreement with the East African Development Bank (EADB) will boost economic investments across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, strengthening regional integration and inclusive growth.
    New Trade Finance Initiative: At the Forum the OPEC Fund also announced a new Trade Finance Initiative to boost trade resilience in partner countries by facilitating access to essential imports, closing liquidity gaps and strengthening resilience to external shocks in vulnerable economies.
    Advancing global cooperation: The Forum also featured new agreements to deepen multilateral cooperation:
    – A new cooperation agreement with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) will strengthen collaboration in infrastructure, energy and human development projects across the Latin America and Caribbean region.
    – The OPEC Fund and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) formalized a cooperation agreement to coordinate efforts on climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.
    – A cooperation agreement with the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) will support training programs to promote institutional transparency and anti-corruption capacity building in partner countries.
    Ahead of the Forum, the OPEC Fund hosted the Annual Meeting of the Heads of Institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG). Delegates participated in a high-level roundtable with the President of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani to strengthen development collaboration and mobilize investment flows to Mauritania. 
    The roundtable resulted in an ACG joint pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next five years. This will be directed to vital sectors, including energy, water, transportation and digital infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. A dedicated Arab Donors Roundtable on the Sahel addressed strategies to mobilize greater support for the region’s urgent challenges. It was organized by the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CLISS) and sponsored by the OPEC Fund’s partner institution, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
    About the OPEC Fund
    The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025 concludes with new commitments to accelerate global development impact

    Source: OPEC Fund

    18 June 2025 – Highlights:  

    – Announcement of over US$1 billion new financing: OPEC Fund signs US$362 million new loan agreements during the Forum and announces approval of US$720 million in new financing in the second Quarter
     – A Country Partnership Framework agreement with Rwanda earmarks US$300 million financing in the next three years 
    – At the high-level Mauritania roundtable hosted by the OPEC Fund, the Arab Coordination Group (ACG) announced a pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next 5 years to support Mauritania’s development priorities.
    June 18, 2025: The fourth OPEC Fund Development Forum concluded today with a strong slate of new commitments, loan agreements and strategic partnerships to advance inclusive transition and sustainable development. The Forum, which took place in Vienna, Austria brought together more than 600 global leaders, including government representatives, development institutions and private sector stakeholders, under the theme “A Transition That Empowers Our Tomorrow”.
    The OPEC Fund announced some US$720 million in new financing to support development efforts across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and saw the signing of US$362 million in new loan agreements. A new Trade Finance Initiative is set to secure vital supplies and help close trade-related liquidity gaps in partner countries.
    OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “The OPEC Fund Development Forum reflects our conviction that partnerships must deliver results. Today we achieved tangible progress – with new signings, new partnerships and new approaches to help our partner countries turn ambition into action. Whether in energy, infrastructure, agriculture or finance, we are responding with solutions that make a difference.”
    As part of its Small Island Developing States (SIDS) initiative, the OPEC Fund signed cooperation agreements with Grenada, and the Solomon Islands, expanding support for climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure.
    Deepening Country Partnerships for Long-term Impact: New country-level agreements and cooperation frameworks include:  
    – A US$212 million loan agreement with Oman to finance the Khasab-Daba-Lima Road Project (Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road), improving local and regional connectivity, as well as a Country Partnership Framework (CPF) to strengthen cooperation over the next five years.
    – A US$25 million loan agreement with Cameroon to strengthen the Rice Value Chain Development Project, supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening food security in vulnerable regions, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and the Kuwait Fund.
    – A CPF with Rwanda to allocate up to US$300 million in financing for 2025 – 2028, supporting the country’s development priorities, including quality infrastructure, improved essential basic services and the promotion of entrepreneurship and the private sector.
    – Other country partnership agreements included: Azerbaijan to support infrastructure, energy transition and sustainable development; Botswana to support infrastructure, renewable energy, innovation and digital transformation, as well as private sector export-led growth over the next three years; Grenada to build resilience through sustainable development initiatives; Kyrgyz Republic to increase cooperation in transport, water supply and sanitation, energy, agriculture and banking sectors; and Solomon Islands to expand engagement and increase cooperation including in the private sector.
    Scaling up Private Sector Support : The OPEC Fund continues to prioritize private sector-led growth with targeted financing to financial institutions across Africa:
    – In Côte d’Ivoire, a €30 million loan agreement with Coris Bank International Côte d’Ivoire and a €35 million loan agreement with NSIA Banque will facilitate access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
    – A US$40 million loan agreement with the East African Development Bank (EADB) will boost economic investments across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, strengthening regional integration and inclusive growth.
    New Trade Finance Initiative: At the Forum the OPEC Fund also announced a new Trade Finance Initiative to boost trade resilience in partner countries by facilitating access to essential imports, closing liquidity gaps and strengthening resilience to external shocks in vulnerable economies.
    Advancing global cooperation: The Forum also featured new agreements to deepen multilateral cooperation:
    – A new cooperation agreement with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) will strengthen collaboration in infrastructure, energy and human development projects across the Latin America and Caribbean region.
    – The OPEC Fund and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) formalized a cooperation agreement to coordinate efforts on climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.
    – A cooperation agreement with the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) will support training programs to promote institutional transparency and anti-corruption capacity building in partner countries.
    Ahead of the Forum, the OPEC Fund hosted the Annual Meeting of the Heads of Institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG). Delegates participated in a high-level roundtable with the President of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani to strengthen development collaboration and mobilize investment flows to Mauritania. 
    The roundtable resulted in an ACG joint pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next five years. This will be directed to vital sectors, including energy, water, transportation and digital infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. A dedicated Arab Donors Roundtable on the Sahel addressed strategies to mobilize greater support for the region’s urgent challenges. It was organized by the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CLISS) and sponsored by the OPEC Fund’s partner institution, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
    About the OPEC Fund
    The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – Fed holds rates – markets turn to Powell’s successor amid Trump rant – deVere Group

    Source: deVere Group

    June 18 2025 – The Federal Reserve has held interest rates steady—resisting mounting pressure from President Trump to cut—and investors are now preparing for what may come next: a pro-Trump successor at the helm of the world’s most powerful central bank.

    Global financial advisory giant deVere Group says the central bank’s decision is the right one, warning that cutting too soon could have backfired badly and pushed long-term borrowing costs higher, not lower.

    Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, says: “Trump wants a full-point rate cut to offset the damage from his own tariffs. But if the Fed delivers prematurely, markets will punish that kind of political submission. Long yields could spike, and the cost of capital could rise across the board.”

    May inflation data shows some easing—headline CPI dipped to 2.4% and core to 2.8%—but it is not enough for the Fed to justify a move. Wage growth remains resilient, household consumption is firm, and services inflation is still uncomfortably sticky.

    “The Fed is right to stay on hold,” says Nigel Green. “The disinflation trend is fragile, the tariff shock is still working its way through, and rate cuts in this environment would send the wrong message.”

    Tensions hit a new peak on Wednesday morning, just hours before the central bank’s decision, when President Trump launched a personal attack on Fed Chair Jerome Powell during an impromptu press briefing on the South Lawn of the White House.

    Speaking beside a new row of flagpoles unveiled as part of a symbolic national display ahead of what the president described as a “potential war with Iran,” Trump again blamed the Fed for slowing the economy and accused Powell of incompetence.

    “We’re doing well. Well as a country, if the Fed would ever lower rates, you know, we’d buy debt for a lot less,” he told reporters. “Do you ever have a guy that’s not a smart person and you’re dealing with him and you have to deal? He’s not a smart guy.”

    deVere points to sharp movements in the yield curve as a warning sign. The 2-year/30-year spread is now at its widest since early 2022. Investors are demanding more compensation to hold long-dated Treasuries amid growing concern about inflation credibility, surging debt issuance, and the creeping politicisation of the Fed.

    “What we’re seeing now is a re-pricing of long-term risk,” says Green. “If the Fed signals it’s willing to bow to political pressure, it damages its ability to anchor expectations—and yields will move accordingly.”

    The decision to hold comes against the backdrop of Trump’s increasingly aggressive demands for looser monetary policy and his influence over the next central bank leadership decision. Powell’s term

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – Fed holds rates – markets turn to Powell’s successor amid Trump rant – deVere Group

    Source: deVere Group

    June 18 2025 – The Federal Reserve has held interest rates steady—resisting mounting pressure from President Trump to cut—and investors are now preparing for what may come next: a pro-Trump successor at the helm of the world’s most powerful central bank.

    Global financial advisory giant deVere Group says the central bank’s decision is the right one, warning that cutting too soon could have backfired badly and pushed long-term borrowing costs higher, not lower.

    Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, says: “Trump wants a full-point rate cut to offset the damage from his own tariffs. But if the Fed delivers prematurely, markets will punish that kind of political submission. Long yields could spike, and the cost of capital could rise across the board.”

    May inflation data shows some easing—headline CPI dipped to 2.4% and core to 2.8%—but it is not enough for the Fed to justify a move. Wage growth remains resilient, household consumption is firm, and services inflation is still uncomfortably sticky.

    “The Fed is right to stay on hold,” says Nigel Green. “The disinflation trend is fragile, the tariff shock is still working its way through, and rate cuts in this environment would send the wrong message.”

    Tensions hit a new peak on Wednesday morning, just hours before the central bank’s decision, when President Trump launched a personal attack on Fed Chair Jerome Powell during an impromptu press briefing on the South Lawn of the White House.

    Speaking beside a new row of flagpoles unveiled as part of a symbolic national display ahead of what the president described as a “potential war with Iran,” Trump again blamed the Fed for slowing the economy and accused Powell of incompetence.

    “We’re doing well. Well as a country, if the Fed would ever lower rates, you know, we’d buy debt for a lot less,” he told reporters. “Do you ever have a guy that’s not a smart person and you’re dealing with him and you have to deal? He’s not a smart guy.”

    deVere points to sharp movements in the yield curve as a warning sign. The 2-year/30-year spread is now at its widest since early 2022. Investors are demanding more compensation to hold long-dated Treasuries amid growing concern about inflation credibility, surging debt issuance, and the creeping politicisation of the Fed.

    “What we’re seeing now is a re-pricing of long-term risk,” says Green. “If the Fed signals it’s willing to bow to political pressure, it damages its ability to anchor expectations—and yields will move accordingly.”

    The decision to hold comes against the backdrop of Trump’s increasingly aggressive demands for looser monetary policy and his influence over the next central bank leadership decision. Powell’s term

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Republic of Nauru becomes first Pacific country to launch digital asset regulator

    Source: Government of Nauru

    In a landmark move for the Pacific region, the Nauru Parliament yesterday passed legislation to establish a dedicated virtual asset regulatory authority.

    The Bill establishes the Command Ridge Virtual Asset Authority (CRVAA), named after the highest point of land in Nauru, as an autonomous regulator overseeing virtual assets, digital banking, and Web3 innovation.

    It will provide a licencing scheme that will allow virtual asset service providers (VASPs) to register and offer their services using Nauru as a base.

    Nauru President David Adeang said the regulation would pave the way for Nauru to be a digital asset leader in the region and is another step towards strengthening financial integrity, investing in future generations, and forging new pathways for resilience.

    He pointed out that Nauru is one of the Pacific’s most at-risk nations, acknowledged under the United Nations Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), for its heightened exposure to economic and environmental shocks, and that the Government needed to embrace innovation.

    “This bold step aims to harness the potential of virtual assets to diversify revenue streams and fortify economic resilience,” he said.

    “By implementing robust oversight of VASPs, Nauru aims to foster sustainable growth, channel new financial inflows into strategic instruments such as its Intergenerational Trust Fund, and reduce its reliance on climate financing, which is often challenging to secure.”

    The President said Nauru aspires to secure a more sustainable and self-reliant economic future.

    “We want to be a government of solutions and innovation, be proactive not passive, and positively approach the future with boldness,” he said.

    Minister for Commerce and Foreign Investment Maverick Eoe told Parliament that more countries are recognising the potential of virtual assets from blockchain technologies to decentralised finance.

    “This Bill proposes to introduce a framework that will put Nauru on par with other countries leading in the development of their digital economies and generating revenue from such developments,” he said.

    “The licensing framework….ensures Nauru becomes a competitor, attracting businesses that bring investment, job creation, and financial innovation,” he said.

    “By regulating VASPs, token issuance, and secure digital transactions, we can position Nauru as a hub for these types of innovation and development within this part of the world.

    He said the legislation is a commitment to the future prosperity of the country and a statement that Nauru does not fear the digital transformation, but embraces it and leads within the Pacific region.

    CRVAA will be tasked with ensuring cybersecurity standards, monitoring financial transactions and enforcing compliance with international anti-money laundering and financial transparency protocols.

    The Bill, which provides unmatched legal certainty for the token-issuer, introduces a groundbreaking token classification system that provides long-awaited clarity for the global crypto industry, stating that:

    Cryptocurrencies are presumed commodities, not securities;
    Utility and payment tokens are excluded from investment contract status;
    Governance and reward tokens are protected from misclassification

    The Nauru law defines the activities subject to CRA authorisation as follows:

    • Operation of centralised or decentralised virtual asset platforms
    • Exchange services between virtual assets and/or fiat currencies
    • Custodial and non-custodial virtual asset wallet services
    • Issuance of virtual tokens, including ICOs, STOs, and NFTs
    • Lending, staking, yield farming, and decentralised finance (DeFi) services
    • Stablecoin issuance and cross-border payment solutions
    • Operation of digital banks and digital payment platforms
    • Issuance and management of E-money.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: MITP – Moldova’s Digital Engine Accelerates: Record Results In 2024 And Projections Of 1 Billion Euros In Revenues For 2025

    Source: Moldova Innovation Technology Park

    Chisinau, Moldova — The IT sector contributes 6% to the national GDP – a result that reflects the efficiency and impact of the ecosystem created by the Moldova Innovation Technology Park (MITP). The data were presented by Marina Bzovîi, Administrator of MITP, at the Moldova Digital Summit 2025, confirming the essential role of the Park in the digital transformation of the Republic of Moldova. With 2024 marked by record performance, MITP expects a clear upward trajectory for 2025, supported by the accelerated expansion of the resident base and the increase in revenues generated by the IT sector.

    Unprecedented growth: 533 resident companies in a single year

    Currently, Moldova Innovation Technology Park brings together over 2,370 resident companies, of which 533 joined in 2024 alone – the largest annual advance since the park’s launch. This record growth reflects Moldova’s growing attractiveness for international investors and technology companies looking for a stable, competitive and future-oriented environment.

    The MITP model offers a unique framework in the region: an ultra-competitive tax regime with a flat tax of only 7%, VAT exemptions and simplified contributions, which allows companies to focus on growth and innovation. These conditions are guaranteed by law until 2035, providing investors not only with incentives, but also with long-term predictability.

    MITP is 100% virtual, allowing remote operation without the obligation of a physical presence in the Republic of Moldova — a key advantage in an era where remote work is becoming the global norm. In addition, initiatives such as the Visa IT program facilitate the attraction of international talent, ensuring quick and legal access to the global workforce.

    In this modern and well-connected ecosystem, residents benefit from quality digital infrastructure, constant dialogue with the authorities and specialized support for international expansion. It is no coincidence that more and more companies from Romania and Ukraine are choosing to relocate to Moldova, in search of a more efficient, flexible and innovation-friendly space.

    MITP is no longer just a tax-advantaged framework — it’s a complete platform for accelerated growth, global connection, and sustainable digital transformation.

    The park hosts companies with capital from 43 countries, most of them from Ukraine and Romania.

    “The regional geopolitical context has had a major impact. If in 2021 only three Ukrainian companies were registered in the MITP, in 2024 their number increased 14 times, reaching 42, amid strategic relocations caused by the war. In the same period, the presence of companies with Romanian capital has almost doubled, boosted by the recent tax changes in Romania applied to the IT sector. Today, there are 41 companies in Romania in MITP”,

    said Marina Bzovîi, MITP Administrator.

    IT sector – a force in the economy: 6.3% of GDP

    The contribution of the IT sector to the national economy has increased significantly, reaching 6.3% of GDP in 2024, according to preliminary estimates, compared to 1.8% in 2015. This remarkable evolution is a direct result of the expansion of tech companies, favorable fiscal policies and the sustained attraction of foreign investment.

    “For 2025, we estimate that the revenues generated by MITP resident companies will reach 1 billion euros, with an increase of approximately 30% compared to 2024, when they totaled 785 million euros. It is a clear confirmation of the potential for sustainable growth and the value that the IT sector brings to the Moldovan economy”,

    said Nadejda Hodus, Financial Manager MITP.

    IT exports – Moldova, regional leader in growth rate

    Exports of IT services increased spectacularly, reaching 523 million euros in 2023, 10 times more than in 2015 (53 million euros). Although the absolute volume is lower than that reported by countries such as Romania (7.5 billion euros) or Ukraine (6 billion euros), Moldova’s growth rate is the fastest in the region.

    “This performance is all the more impressive as Moldova is a small country, both in terms of territory and population. MITP’s development model proves to be an efficient and sustainable one, transforming Moldova into a regional digital hub with strategic potential”,

    added Nadejda Hodus.

    Record contributions to the state budget

    The economic impact of the MITP is also directly felt in the revenues of the National Public Budget. In 2024, resident companies contributed €78 million – four times more than in 2017. About 50% of these amounts come from newly established businesses after the launch of the park.

    According to a recent analysis conducted by MITP, the contributions paid by resident companies could cover up to 16% of the national expenditure on health care and about 90% of the financing of vocational higher education – an eloquent illustration of the real economic impact generated by the IT sector in the Republic of Moldova.

    “Through these results, MITP imposes itself not only as a successful model in the region, but also as an example of effective public policy, which creates jobs, attracts investments and amplifies the country’s digital competitiveness. With clear objectives and a sustained pace of development, Moldova is getting closer to becoming a regional pole of innovation and technology”,

    concluded the Administrator of Moldova Innovation Technology Park, Marina Bzovîi.

    About Moldova Innovation Technology Park (MITP)

    Launched in 2016, MITP is Moldova’s national platform dedicated to the tech industry, offering a unique 7% tax regime and 100% virtual operation. With more than 2,300 resident companies in 43 countries, MITP contributes significantly to the national GDP and attracts global investment. Supported by legislative guarantees until 2035, the park promotes innovation, IT exports and Moldova’s integration into the European digital economy.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Aviation – Lufthansa honored with World Airline Awards 2025

    Source: Lufthansa

    • Most family-friendly airline and best First Class lounge worldwide
    • Austrian Airlines and Eurowings also receive Awards

    Frankfurt 17 June 2025 – Lufthansa is the world’s most family-friendly airline. This prize from the World Airline Awards 2025 was presented today by the market research institute Skytrax at the Paris Air Show. The Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt was also named the world’s best First Class Lounge. Austrian Airlines and Eurowings also received one of the coveted prizes – the award for “Best Airline Staff in Europe” went to Austrian Airlines in Vienna and Eurowings was named “Best Low Cost Airline in Europe”. Skytrax, a market research institute specializing in aviation, had previously surveyed 22.3 million passengers from well over 100 countries worldwide.

    “Lufthansa attaches great importance to ensuring that all guests on board feel comfortable with us – from Economy to First Class. I am therefore particularly pleased that we have received the award for the world’s most family-friendly airline and at the same time for the best First Class lounge,” says Heiko Reitz, Chief Customer Officer Lufthansa Airlines. “Above all, Lufthansa’s unsurpassed hospitality is also premium. In particular, our colleagues in the cabin, cockpit and on the ground can be very proud today. They are the ones who fulfill our promise of quality day after day.”

    Traveling with children  

    Lufthansa attaches great importance to ensuring that its youngest guests also feel comfortable on board. The airline therefore offers specially created kids’ menus prepared by the chefs at Gate Gourmet. The menus belong to the “Special Meals” category and can be pre-ordered by passengers free of charge up to 24 hours before departure. The offer applies to all classes on long-haul flights and to Business Class on short-haul flights.

    The trays are lovingly designed with colorful illustrations of the Lufthansa mascots “Lu” and “Cosmo” and the menu card invites young passengers to puzzle and color while they playfully learn how an airplane flies.

    Lufthansa has also introduced a new range of children’s toys on board. From cloud-shaped cuddly blankets for toddlers to puzzles and the game “City, Country, Flight”, there is something for every taste and every age. There is also a portfolio of coloring pages featuring Lu and Cosmo, which can be accessed via the Lufthansa eJournals homepage. Young passengers will also find magazines for children and teenagers in various languages. The in-flight entertainment program for children includes a large selection of films, series, music, audio books and podcasts. Children can also look forward to special amenity kits and, from summer 2025, new year-round “Best Friend” children’s boarding passes.

    Travel in Lufthansa First Class

    The separate First Class terminal in Frankfurt with limousine transfer directly to the aircraft and personal assistant, which has been named the best First Class lounge in the world, is emblematic of Lufthansa’s premium offering.

    Since the beginning of the year, traveling in Lufthansa’s top class has become even more exclusive. The new Lufthansa Allegris First Class on long-haul aircraft can be experienced in the summer timetable on flights from Munich to San Francisco, Chicago, San Diego, Shanghai and Bengaluru and sets new standards with two individual suites and the extraordinary Suite Plus: guests can heat or cool their almost one meter wide seats in the individual suites according to their personal needs. The separate cabins with ceiling-high walls and lockable door, large table and wide seat, a living room-sized screen and wireless “over-ear” headphones define a new standard in comfort and individuality. Generous storage space is provided by a personal wardrobe in the suite, so that travelers can change comfortably and have all their personal items to hand. Individual lamps allow travelers to create their very own feel-good atmosphere.

    The Suite Plus double cabin, the only one of its kind in the world, creates a special travel experience with two wide seats that can be combined to form a comfortable double bed if required. The flying private room impresses with maximum comfort and individuality. The Suite Plus offers maximum exclusivity for the single passenger and the unique opportunity to use the double cabin as a couple.

    The new First Class is part of a major Lufthansa premium offensive. Among other things, First Class guests can also look forward to renovated First Class check-in areas in Frankfurt (from late summer) and Munich as well as the newly designed First Class Lounge at Munich Airport.

    Skytrax

    The survey was conducted by the market research institute Skytrax. It evaluated the airlines’ in-flight offers and services at the airports. Skytrax has been conducting the annual passenger survey since 1999. All detailed results of the World Airlines Awards can be found at www.worldairlineawards.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Sustainability researcher wins $1.5m global award for visionary work tackling the climate crisis – UoS

    Source: University of Sydney (UoS)

    Largest individual monetary prize for research in the University’s history – 18 June 2025 – The Frontiers Planet Prize, a global initiative of the Frontiers Research Foundation in Switzerland, has announced Associate Professor Arunima Malik as one of its three 2025 International Champions, awarding her US$1 million (A$1.54 million) to advance her and her research team’s pioneering work in sustainability science.

    By providing innovative, scalable solutions to help keep humanity within planetary sustainability boundaries, Associate Professor Malik received the award for, ‘Polarising and equalising tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: World’s Top Science Competition Awards $1M to Australia’s Visionary Scientist Tackling Global Climate Crisis

    Source:  Frontiers Planet Prize

    • The Frontiers Planet Prize has named its three 2024/25 International Champions, including Australia’s Dr Arunima Malik. The winners are scientists offering innovative, scalable solutions to help keep humanity safely within planetary boundaries.
    • Dr Arunima Malik will receive a prize of one million dollars (USD) to further her research and impact.
    • The winning research focuses on the environmental and social impacts of international trade and its effect on meeting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • Following an independent scientific assessment involving 100 experts, chaired by Professor Johan Rockström, the developer of the Planetary Boundaries framework, the prize ensures faster global scientific consensus around the innovative ideas with greatest potential to drive change. 

      

    On 17 June, the Frontiers Planet Prize announced Dr Arunima Malik, from The University of Sydney, as one of its 2025 International Champions, awarding her $1 million to advance her and her research team’s pioneering work in sustainability science. Providing groundbreaking, scalable solutions to help keep humanity within planetary boundaries, Dr Malik received the award for the publication, Polarizing and equalizing tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Marine Environment – Three major French investors reject deep sea mining

    Source: United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC)

    Three major French financial institutions, including two of the country’s largest banks and the state’s public investment arm, have announced their rejection of deep sea mining during the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) last week in Nice.

    The three institutions are:

    • BNP Paribas – France’s largest and Europe’s second largest bank. BNP Paribasconfirms it does not invest in deep sea mining projects due to the intrinsic environmental and social risks involved.

    • Crédit Agricole – The second largest bank in France and the world’s largest cooperative financial institution. Crédit Agricole stated it will not finance deep sea mining projects until it has been proven that such operations pose no significant harm to marine ecosystems.

    • Groupe Caisse des Dépôts – The public investment arm of the French Government, which also holds a majority stake in La Banque Postale. The Group has pledged to exclude all financing and investment in companies whose main activity is deep sea mining, as well as in deep sea mining projects.

    Amundi Asset Management also made a statement that it seeks to avoid investment in companies “involved in deep sea mining and/or exploration”.

    This now brings to 24 the number of financial institutions who exclude deep sea mining in some form. 

    Deep Sea Mining Campaign Finance Advocacy Officer Andy Whitmore says: “This is a truly significant outcome from UNOC. Until recently no French financiers had matched their Government’s position calling for a ban. This UN Ocean Conference, co-hosted by France, was the perfect opportunity for the most important national players to step up and be counted”

    These financial announcements are a sign of global concern pushing itself on to the agenda. World leaders renewed calls for a global moratorium on the dangerous industry, with French President Emmanuel Macron denouncing it as “madness”, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres responding to recent announcements from President Trump by warning that the deep sea “cannot become the Wild West.” Slovenia, Latvia, Cyprus and the Marshall Islands also announced their support for a moratorium or precautionary pause, bringing the number of like-minded countries to 37. 

    Andy Whitmore concluded “the events at UNOC have added further momentum to the financial establishment rejecting deep sea mining. The recent unseemly rush to mine is creating push-back from the financial world, as much as from governments and civil society.”

    Read the Full List of Financiers Excluding DSM.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor secures exploration acreage in Brazil

    Source: Equinor

    18 JUNE 2025 – Equinor has today been awarded a new exploration opportunity in Brazil, providing the potential for deepening the company’s position in the country.

    Equinor has deepened its position in the Santos basin after winning the S-M-1617 block during Brazil’s 5th Open Permanent Concession bid round.

    “We are pleased with our success in today’s bidding round, securing a new exploration opportunity in Brazil – a core country in our international portfolio. The license is in close proximity to the S-M-1378 block we already own, an area with strong potential that we can leverage to reinforce our position in the Santos basin. This award provides us with longevity options for Brazil and demonstrates our continuous commitment and appetite to grow in the country,” says Veronica Coelho, Senior Vice President and Brazil Country Manager.

    The S-M-1617 license in Brazil was secured by Equinor on a 100% basis with a total signature bonus of around 30.5 million Brazilian Real (around 5.5 MUSD).

    The block is located 60 kilometers away from the S-M-1378 block already owned by Equinor. This is an addition to our existing opportunity set in Brazil and demonstrates the company’s continued commitment and growth ambition in the country. Equinor will now work to conduct necessary geological and geophysical assessments for future exploration activities.

    Facts about Brazil:

    Equinor as an international operator has been present in Brazil for more than two decades and sees the country as a core area for long-term growth.
    The S-M-1617 license is located in the Santos basin, 400 kilometres off the coast, in water depths up to 2600 metres.
    Equinor is progressing as an operator of the Bacalhau and Raia projects, in the Santos and Campos basins respectively.
    Beyond oil and gas, Equinor is expanding investments into renewable energy with onshore assets already in operation and more projects under development through its subsidiary Rio Energy.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: DAWN Statement on Israel’s Escalating Attacks on Iran and U.S. Citizens Unable To Leave Israel and Iran

    Source: DAWN

    Washington, D.C. June 16, 2025 – In response to Israel’s escalating attacks on Iranian infrastructure and hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens unable to leave Israel and Iran, DAWN issued the following statements:

    “Israel’s targeted attacks against Iranian media and government infrastructure makes clear that this is war for regime change and Iran’s nuclear enrichment capability is just the pretext,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, DAWN’s Executive Director. 

    “President Trump campaigned on a promise not to get us entangled in another endless regime change war, but he’s now allowing Israel and its Washington backers to dictate the agenda for a dangerous, new war with Iran.”

    “The U.S. government has a moral and legal obligation to protect the hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens unable to leave Israel and Iran,” said Raed Jarrar, DAWN’s Advocacy Director. “The Trump administration should act immediately to evacuate all U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, from Israel and Iran before the situation worsens.”

    “The U.S. should immediately withdraw troops, military assets, and bases from the Middle East because their continued presence is not only a danger to U.S. forces there but to the civilians anywhere near them,” said Michael Schaeffer Omer-Man, Israel-Palestine Director at DAWN. “Maintaining a large military presence in the region unwisely turns them into unnecessary, opportunistic targets.”

    DAWN is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. Please refer to the organization’s name as “DAWN”.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Trump’s Truth Social enters crypto ETF race – deVere Group urges caution

    Source: deVere Group

    June 16 2025 – Donald Trump’s Truth Social has filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission to launch a dual Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF), sparking concern from one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory organizations.

    The proposed fund, the Truth Social Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF (ticker: B.T.), sponsored by Yorkville America Digital, LLC, would be the first attempt by a politically affiliated platform to offer a spot ETF with combined exposure to both Bitcoin and Ethereum.

    deVere Group is issuing a strong warning to investors to exercise caution and seek independent financial advice before engaging with this product.

    Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, comments: “We’re long-term advocates of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and digital assets.

    “We believe they are a crucial component of modern portfolios. But this filing is not just another step forward for crypto adoption, it’s an entry point that raises serious questions about alignment, influence, and investor risk.

    “When a politically connected media platform attempts to issue a financial product tied to volatile, high-profile assets, investors must scrutinize everything from the structure to the motive.”

    deVere warns that the convergence of politics and finance in this way could create an illusion of safety or legitimacy, particularly for retail investors.

    “Being SEC-filed doesn’t automatically mean a product is in an investor’s best interests,” says the deVere CEO.

    “It doesn’t insulate against poor governance or conflicts of interest. These are the considerations investors need to weigh carefully, with professional guidance.”

    The renewed appetite for crypto exposure is intensifying, especially following the previous approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs.

    The dual-asset proposal from Truth Social arrives at a moment of renewed enthusiasm.

    deVere Group continues to support the development of well-regulated digital asset investment vehicles and encourages innovation that promotes access, security, and transparency.

    “This fund filing will generate excitement. But excitement is not a strategy,” Nigel Green adds.

    “We urge investors: ask the hard questions, understand the mechanics, and consult advisors who are not part of the hype cycle.”

    deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients.  It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $14bn under advisement.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Moldova Digital Summit 2025: Tech Innovation, Business Solutions, and a Clear Vision for the Country’s Digital Future

    Source: E-Governance Agency

    The 2025 edition of the Moldova Digital Summit delivered an unprecedented tech experience in Chișinău, where innovation, entrepreneurship, and global expertise converged over three dynamic days during June 05 – June 07, 2025. The event brought together more than 3,000 participants from 15 countries — including Sweden, Qatar, Romania, the United Kingdom, and Germany — driven by an agenda focused on digital skills development, business acceleration, investment attraction, infrastructure modernization, and e-governance.

    Anzhela Kashperuk, Vice President for Business Development, Mastercard, noted:
     
    “Moldova has already achieved remarkable digitalization results, which are truly impressive. For example, 99% of transactions with our cards are contactless — positioning Moldova among the top five countries globally.”

    Natalia Corobco, Co-founder and CEO at Francis xGoogle, shared:
     
    “The energy at the Summit was inspiring. I was genuinely impressed by the innovative ideas and strategic vision for Moldova’s digital future. The quality of speakers, participants, and represented organizations was exceptional.”

    A Summit for All

    The Moldova Digital Summit 2025 offered personalized experiences for every participant profile — from entrepreneurs and investors to public sector leaders and tech experts. The event showcased the latest tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: University Research – Climate change linked to dangerous sleep apnea – Flinders

    Source: Flinders University

    Sleep apnea will become more common and more severe due to global warming, leading to increased health and economic burdens across the globe, warn Flinders University sleep experts.

    A new study, published in leading journal, Nature Communications, found that rising temperatures increase the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and that under the most likely climate change scenarios, the societal burden of OSA is expected to double in most countries over the next 75 years. 

    Lead author and sleep expert, Dr Bastien Lechat, from FHMRI Sleep Health says this is the first study of its kind to outline how global warming is expected to affect breathing during sleep and impact the world’s health, wellbeing and economy.

    “This study helps us to understand how environmental factors like climate might affect health by investigating whether ambient temperatures influence the severity of OSA,” says Dr Lechat.

    “Overall, we were surprised by the magnitude of the association between ambient temperature and OSA severity. 

    “Higher temperatures were associated with a 45 per cent increased likelihood of a sleeper experiencing OSA on a given night. 

    “Importantly, these findings varied by region, with people in European countries seeing higher rates of OSA when temperatures rise than those in Australia and the United States, perhaps due to different rates of air conditioning usage.”

    Sleep apnoea – a condition that disturbs breathing during sleep – affects almost 1 billion people globally and, if untreated or severe, increases the risk of dementia and Parkinson’s disease, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, anxiety and depression, reduced quality of life, traffic accidents and all-cause mortality, previous research has found.

    In Australia alone, the economic cost associated with poor sleep including sleep disorders like OSA has been estimated at $66 billion a year.

    The study analysed sleep data from over 116,000 people globally using an FDA-cleared under-mattress sensor to estimate the severity of OSA.

    For each user, the sensor recorded around 500 separate nights of data. The researchers then matched this sleep data with detailed 24-hour temperature information sourced from climate models.

    They conducted health economics modeling using disability adjusted life years, a measure employed by the World Health Organization that captures the combined impact of illness, injury, and premature mortality, to quantify the wellbeing and societal burden due to increased prevalence of OSA from rising temperatures under several projected climate scenarios.

    “Using our modelling, we can estimate how burdensome the increase in OSA prevalence due to rising temperature is to society in terms of wellbeing and economic loss,” says Dr Lechat.

    “The increase in OSA prevalence in 2023 due to global warming was associated with a loss of approximately 800,000 healthy life years across the 29 countries studied. 

    “This number is similar to other medical conditions, such as bipolar disorder, Parkinson’s disease or chronic kidney diseases.”

    Similarly, the estimated total economic cost associated was ~98 billion USD, including 68 billion USD from wellbeing loss and 30 billion USD from workplace productivity loss (missing work or being less productive at work).

    “Our findings highlight that without greater policy action to slow global warming, OSA burden may double by 2100 due to rising temperatures.” 

    Senior researcher on the paper, Professor Danny Eckert, says that while the study is one of the largest of its kind, it was skewed towards high socio-economics countries and individuals, likely to have access to more favourable sleeping environments and air conditioning.

    “This may have biased our estimates and led to an under-estimation of the true health and economic cost,” says Professor Eckert

    In addition to providing further evidence of the major threat of climate change to human health and wellbeing, the study highlights the importance of developing effective interventions to diagnose and manage OSA.

    “Higher rates of diagnosis and treatment will help us to manage and reduce the adverse health and productivity issues caused by climate related OSA,” says Professor Eckert.

    “Going forward, we want to design intervention studies that explore strategies to reduce the impact of ambient temperatures on sleep apnea severity as well as investigate the underlying physiological mechanisms that connect temperature fluctuations to OSA severity.”

    The article, ‘ Global warming may increase the burden of obstructive sleep apnea’ by Bastien Lechat (Flinders University), Jack Manners (Flinders), Lucía Pinilla (Flinders) Amy Reynolds (Flinders), Hannah Scott (Flinders), Daniel Vena (Harvard Medical School), Sebastien Bailly (Univ. Grenoble Alpes), Josh Fitton (Flinders), Barbara Toson (Flinders), Billingsley Kaambwa (Flinders), Robert Adams (Flinders), Jean-Louis Pepin (Univ. Grenoble Alpes), Pierre Escourrou (Centre Interdisciplinaire du Sommeil), Peter Catcheside (Flinders), and Danny J Eckert (Flinders), has been published in the journal Nature Communications. First published 16 June DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60218-1.

    These findings were presented at the ATS 2025 International Conference prior to being journal peer reviewed.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – KOF Economic Forecast, summer 2025: Swiss economy hit by international trade conflict

    Source: KOF Economic Institute

    The United States’ erratic trade policy has caused even more economic uncertainty in the sec-ond quarter of 2025. Tariffs are also weighing on the economic outlook. 

    Data revisions last year mean that KOF is sticking to its forecast of real, sport-adjusted GDP growth of 1.4 per cent for 2025 (1.0 per cent unadjusted) despite a deterioration in its assessment. Its GDP growth forecast for 2026, however, has been lowered by 0.4 percentage points to 1.5 per cent (1.9 per cent unadjusted).

    The international trade conflict is more pronounced than was expected in the spring and is triggering a more marked deterioration in economic projections. 

    The latest KOF forecast is based on the assumption that the tariffs on exports to the United States in force at the beginning of June and the corresponding countermeasures will remain in place throughout the entire forecast period. This equates to a flat-rate 10 per cent tariff on most imports to the US with the exception of pharmaceutical products for the most part.

    Companies fast-track exports to the US; countervailing trend likely to follow

    The great uncertainty about the future of the United States’ trade policy and the announcement of tariff increases imposed on countries around the world have prompted firms to bring forward their production and exports of goods to the United States as much as possible. This yielded stellar growth in global trade in the first quarter and strong GDP growth in exportled countries such as Germany. In contrast, the disproportionately high growth in imports in the United States resulted in a negative quarter. Short-term demand for foreign goods displaced that for domestic goods and thus had an adverse impact on output in the US. Countervailing tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Asia Pacific – New UN report notes major gains in civil registration in Asia and the Pacific, but millions still left behind

    Source: United Nations – ESCAP

    The number of unregistered children under five has dropped by 62 per cent in Asia and the Pacific, from 135 million in 2012 to 51 million in 2024. This means 84 million more children today have a recognized name, a legal identity and a stronger foundation for the future, according to the newly released Progress Made on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics in Asia and the Pacific After a Decade of Getting Every One in the Picture.

    However more work remains as despite this progress, 14 million babies each year still go unregistered by their first birthday. Without birth registration, a child may be denied their right to education and healthcare services based on the lack of official documentation.

    This latest progress report tracks achievements across the region during the Asia-Pacific CRVS Decade (2015-2024) and sets the foundation for renewed commitments in the years ahead.

    Other Key Findings:

    The number of countries using civil registration data to produce vital statistics has risen by nearly 60 per cent.
    An estimated 6.9 million deaths go unregistered annually across Asia and the Pacific.
    A quarter of countries and territories do not medically certify deaths, leaving major gaps in mortality data and evidence for public health planning

    Legal identity is the foundation for accessing essential rights and services, from healthcare and education to social protection and legal services. Civil registration data is also vital for evidence-based policymaking, disaster preparedness and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The report was released by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) ahead of the Third Ministerial Conference on CRVS in Asia and the Pacific, which will be held from 24 to 26 June in Bangkok. The conference will bring together governments and key partners to reflect on regional progress, identify key actions and enhance commitments towards ensuring universal registration. 

    Notes:
    The report Progress Made on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics in Asia and the Pacific After a Decade of Getting Every One in the Picture is available at https://bit.ly/CRVS2025  

    Members of the media are also invited to attend the Ministerial Conference in-person or via the online webcast.
     
    What: Third Ministerial Conference on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics in Asia and the Pacific

    When: 24 – 26 June 2025

    Where: UN Conference Centre, Ratchadamnern Nok Avenue, Bangkok  

    Registration: https://indico.un.org/event/1014582/

    Livestream for online attendees: https://webtv.un.org/ and https://www.youtube.com/unescap  

    Full programme: https://crvs.unescap.org/crvs-decade/third-ministerial-conference/programme

    The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is the most inclusive intergovernmental platform in the Asia-Pacific region. The Commission promotes cooperation among its 53 member States and 9 associate members in pursuit of solutions to sustainable development challenges. ESCAP is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations.
     

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: MSF permanently closes hospital and ends support to 13 health facilities in Ulang County following violent looting

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

    Juba, June 14, 2025—Due to safety and security concerns, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has made the decision to permanently close its hospital in Ulang, Upper Nile State, as well as withdraw its support to 13 primary health facilities in the county. MSF suspended all its medical services on 14 April 2025 after armed individuals forced their way into the hospital and its offices, threatened both staff and patients, and violently looted and destroyed property throughout the facility.

    The hospital infrastructure, in which MSF had invested millions of euros, was completely destroyed. In addition, intruders looted medicines worth €135,000—enough to run the hospital for months and care for thousands of patients. This has left the hospital in ruins and unable to function.

    “They took everything: medical equipment, laptops, patients’ beds and mattresses from the wards, and approximately nine months’ worth of medical supplies, including two planeloads of surgical kits and drugs delivered just the week before. Whatever they could not carry, they destroyed,” says Zakaria Mwatia, MSF head of mission for South Sudan.

    “The extensive losses from the looting have left us without the necessary resources to continue operations. We have no other option but to make the difficult decision to close the hospital and our support to 13 primary healthcare facilities, as they all relied on the hospital for medical supplies, referrals, and technical support.”

    This was the second attack on MSF in the area in less than three months. In January, two clearly marked MSF boats on their way to Ulang after delivering medical supplies to Nasir County Hospital were shot at by unknown gunmen, forcing everyone on board to jump into the water and swim to safety. Less than a month after the looting, another MSF hospital was bombed in Old Fangak, forcing MSF to suspend activities.

    Such attacks on healthcare facilities severely disrupt access to healthcare services by the communities, who depend on MSF for medical assistance. The closure of MSF facilities has left the area spanning more than 200 kilometres, from the Ethiopian border to Malakal, without any secondary healthcare facility. With the closure of the Ulang Hospital, pressure has increased significantly on the few remaining health structures, especially in Malakal, which has recorded an influx of patients in recent weeks.

    “The security situation in the area remains volatile, with ongoing clashes in neighbouring regions. MSF prioritises the safety of its staff and patients and the integrity of our services, but the current environment makes it impossible to ensure either. We are deeply concerned by the growing trend of attacks on healthcare and the devastating impact this has on communities. We urgently call for the protection of patients, healthcare workers, and medical facilities at all times,” Mwatia adds.

    Since its launch in 2018, the MSF project in Ulang has provided vital healthcare services to over 150,000 people across Ulang County. This included running a secondary care hospital and supporting 13 primary healthcare facilities throughout the region. Over the past seven years, MSF has carried out more than 139,730 outpatient consultations, admitted 19,350 patients, treated 32,966 cases of malaria, and assisted 2,685 maternal deliveries, among other essential services. During this time, MSF also facilitated patient referrals by boat along the Sobat River, provided support to Nasir County Hospital, and responded to multiple emergencies and disease outbreaks.

    Despite these closures, MSF remains committed to responding to the healthcare needs of displaced and vulnerable people in Ulang and Nasir counties. A mobile emergency team is assessing the needs and preparing to provide short-term healthcare services along the Sobat Corridor, wherever security conditions allow. MSF continues to provide healthcare services in its other projects in Upper Nile State, including in Malakal and Renk Counties.

     

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: GAZA – June 13 – Lives at risk as communications down at Gaza’s hospitals

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

    Flash Quote by Jose Mas, Head of MSF Emergency Programmes:

    “Our teams in Gaza are witnessing another chaotic day as the carnage at Gaza Humanitarian Foundation distribution sites continues unabated, internet connection is cut off at mass scale after an attack that hit communications lines, and Israeli forces issued new displacement orders in the blocks that include Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.

    On 11 June, MSF-supported Al Mawasi Primary Health care clinic received 32 casualties including three dead on arrival. The ICRC field hospital received 160 casualties including five dead on arrival and three with severe wounds who were declared dead shortly after. Today ICRC field hospital saw 125 people wounded with three declared dead upon arrival. Most of those killed and wounded are Palestinians that were seeking urgent assistance at GHF distribution sites.

    The delivery of supplies by private logistics and security firms, as well as local armed actors under the guise of aid, disregarding humanitarian principles, imposing access restrictions on humanitarian agencies in terms of movements, supplies, as well as constantly displacing the population all with the backdrop of 20 months of intense daily bombardment, is pushing Gaza’s fragile social order to the brink of collapse.

    The partial loss of communication has dealt another severe blow to the already decimated humanitarian and medical response, putting the lives of our patients and staff at imminent risk. We have barely heard from our teams in Gaza for over 12 hours. The lack of internet and limited phone connections makes it even harder for humanitarian and medical teams to coordinate movements of staff and supplies, call ambulances, and manage our teams’ security in one of the world’s deadliest war zones.

    Moreover, the possibility of Nasser hospital being subjected to bombardment or damaged by attacks in the area or hardly being accessible anymore is harrowing. Nasser hospital has wards that cannot be moved without putting patients’ lives at grave danger, as their specialist equipment cannot be found anywhere else in southern Gaza, including incubators for the 17 babies currently in intensive care. The hospital is already functioning over capacity, as are other hospitals in Gaza.”

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. 

    MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – How can nature power Africa’s present and future?

    Source:  Global Landscapes Forum (GLF)

    On 19 June, join experts and community leaders for the hybrid event GLF Africa 2025: Innovate, Restore, Prosper. Explore opportunities for the continent to reverse land degradation, biodiversity loss and the climate crisis.

    Nairobi, Kenya (12 June 2025) – GLF Africa, hosted by the Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) and CFOR-ICRAF, returns for its 7th edition on 19 June, held online and in person in Nairobi, Kenya, in English, French and Swahili.

    Bringing together leading voices from diverse sectors and backgrounds, this hybrid conference will spotlight Africa’s progress, priorities and possibilities in building healthy, resilient and prosperous landscapes, communities and economies.  

    Africa holds two-thirds of the world’s arable land and the youngest population on Earth. GLF Africa 2025: Innovate, Restore, Prosper will highlight how science and traditional knowledge are guiding local action towards an economy that keeps the continent’s land healthy for future generations.  

    The event will cover four key themes:  

    • Forest and landscape restoration
    • Land and tree use rights and livelihoods 
    • Natural capital and sustainable finance  
    • AI, technology and data for intelligent landscapes 

    Building Africa’s nature economy  

    Africa faces a triple environmental crisis of land degradation, biodiversity loss and climate change, but current policies, funding and land rights fall short of what’s needed.

    Time is running out to tackle these challenges – which is why the continent must start building a powerful nature economy today. This means unlocking its vast natural capital –its forests, biodiversity, land and water – combined with its deep knowledge systems, good governance, meaningful partnerships, AI and big data.

    How to join the conversation

    Everyone is invited to register for free at bit.ly/GLFAfrica2025.

    The event will feature more than 60 inspiring speakers, including:

    • Balbina Andrew, Indigenous community leader from Tanzania, Executive Director of Nourish Africa and Coordinator of the locally-led initiative GLFx Mwanza.
    • Kate Kallot, Founder and CEO of Amini AI, recognized for expanding access to technology across Africa and named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in AI.
    • Ngobi Joel, Co-Founder of the School Food Forest Initiative, 2025 GLF Forest Restoration Steward and activist focused on climate, education and rural development in Uganda.
    • Peter Minang, Africa Director at the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) and an expert in climate-smart landscapes.
    • Rekia Foudel, Founder and Managing Partner of Barka Fund, one of the GLF’s 8 Women with a New Vision for Earth 2025, bringing innovative financing to African startups.
    • Sellah Bogonko, Co-Founder and CEO of Jacob’s Ladder Africa, working to activate 30 million green jobs across Africa by 2033.
    • Solange Bandiaky-Badji, President of the Rights and Resources Group (RRG) and Coordinator of the Rights and Resources Initiative (RRI), who spearheaded RRI’s Gender Justice program.

    These leaders will be joined by many other changemakers in youth-led action, research, storytelling, academia, gender equity, sustainable finance and policy to discuss topics such as:

    • Powering Africa’s future – the promise of nature-centered economies 
    • Confronting challenges to secure rights, land restoration and livelihoods 
    • Scaling up farmer-managed natural regeneration: Action in Ethiopia and Kenya 
    • Bridging knowledge domains for inclusive landscape restoration 
    • Financing frontline action for climate, nature and livelihoods 
    • How Africa can lead agri-tech transformation 
    • From vision to action – A roadmap for Africa’s nature economy. 

    Explore the full agenda here: (ref. https://connect.globallandscapesforum.org/e/africa-2025#agenda)

    NOTES

    Alongside GLF Africa 2025, the GLF will engage youth and local leaders from across the continent in collaborative in-person experiences during:

    • Africa Restoration Week (20–21 June)
    • The Stakeholder Engagement with Evidence training (23–25 June) 
    • The Landscape Leadership Camp (16–18 June) 

    The workshops, interactive learning and peer networking will bridge community experience, scientific research and regional insights on policy, evidence-based restoration action, inclusive decision making, landscape approaches, breaking silos, climate justice, fundraising and more.

    ABOUT THE GLF

    The Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) is the world’s largest knowledge-led platform on integrated land use, connecting people with a shared vision to create productive, profitable, equitable and resilient landscapes. It is led by the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), in collaboration with its co-founders UNEP and the World Bank, and its charter members. Learn more at www.globallandscapesforum.org.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Time to prepare for better floodwater management at Murray Mouth – Flinders

    Source: Flinders University

    Extended drought and warm weather are damaging South Australia’s marine ecosystems, and periodic flooding of the River Murray poses another major risk.

    A significant flood in the Murray-Darling Basin in 2022-23 gave Flinders University researchers a rare opportunity to analyse conditions that damaged biodiversity and water quality for both marine species and local ecosystems, some at popular tourist locations south of Adelaide.

    A new study led by the Beach and Dune Systems (BEADS) Lab at Flinders University provides a detailed framework for understanding how the river discharge increased turbidity (silt, clay and other suspended particles in the water) as the sediment plume expanded across thousands of kilometres from the river mouth westwards around the Fleurieu Peninsula into Gulf St Vincent.

    “During this period of high riverine discharge, we measured the spatial extent and intensity of the surface sediment plume, with our satellite imagery providing a reference point for future plume behaviour – particularly near shore for targeted monitoring,” says Flinders environmental science honours student Evan Corbett.

    “Interestingly we found the historically important sediment plume within the coastal region reached its maximum spatial extent of 13,681 km2 during the eight-day period beginning on 11 December 2022, more than a month before the peak discharge occurred.”

    The local monitoring and satellite imaging between November 2022 and February 2023 measured the volume of water discharge, turbidity levels affecting regular seawater quality, surface winds, barrage controls and other factors.

    The study found the major plume typically pooled near the river’s mouth within the northern corner of Long Bay, before migrating persistently westward around the Fleurieu Peninsula through Backstairs Passage into Gulf St Vincent, occasionally exhibiting brief eastward migration periods.

    Fine organic and inorganic particulate matter in water can make it cloudy or opaque, often having a detrimental impact on ecosystems when it occurs in large amounts.  

    Strategic Professor in Coastal Studies Patrick Hesp, who leads Environmental Sciences at Flinders University’s College of Science and Engineering, says the study – in collaboration with University of Adelaide lecturer Dr Sami Rifai – used technology which effectively built a useful dataset to direct future research.

    “This study highlights the significant role of riverine discharge in driving the surface sediment plume’s spatial extent and intensities, particularly within the plume’s inner core,” says Professor Hesp.

    “Revealing when and where plumes are likely to form and evolve, this study provides a foundation for targeted monitoring, timely management interventions, and informed planning to reduce the discussed ecological and socio-economic risks associated with extreme river discharge events in the future.

    “By improving how we measure and analyse these environmental events, we pave the way for better coastal management strategies, ensuring beaches and ecosystems remain more stable and resilient in the face of changing climate and weather conditions.”

    The article, ‘Temporal and spatial distribution of 2022–2023 River Murray major flood sediment plume’ (2025) by Evan Corbett, Sami W Rifai (University of Adelaide), Graziela Miot da Silva and Patrick A Hesp has been published in the journal Remote Sensing. DOI: 10.3390/rs17101711.

    https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17101711

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Household spending subdued in May, but consumers show signs of life with restaurant, recreation spending uplift – CBA

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

    Households using money saved from energy rebates, lower petrol prices, and interest rate cuts to treat themselves.

    https://youtu.be/obtoCYYhE4Q?si=aLwclsdKp-L9zzA1

    The CommBank Household Spending Insights (HSI) Index rose just 0.5 per cent in May. However signs are emerging that consumers are starting to loosen the purse strings for small luxuries thanks to lower costs in key spending areas like petrol and electricity bills. (ref. https://www.commbankresearch.com.au/apex/researcharticleviewv2?id=a0NDo000000wSW3 )

    Despite overall spending softness in the second quarter so far, Hospitality and Recreation now rank at the top of annual spending categories when compared to May last year, as households splashed out on restaurants, food delivery, cinemas and online travel, indicating continued divergence in spending tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –