NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council approves 2025/26 budget and sets out priorities to keep improving Manchester

    Source: City of Manchester

    Manchester City Council has today (Friday 28 February) set its budget for 2025/26 outlining its spending plans to deliver services, make lives better and improve the city.

    The allocation of the £894 million revenue budget highlights the Council’s priorities, as well as the demands on services that councils across the country are seeing.  In common with councils across the land, Manchester City Council remains under significant financial pressure as it grapples with the difficult legacy of 14 years of national Government cuts to our budgets. Manchester was one of the areas hardest hit by cuts in central Government funding and a Council Tax increase of 4.99% (2% of which is specifically earmarked to support adult social care) has been required to help balance the budget.  

    However, improved funding for 2025/26 under the new Government – which saw Manchester receive one of the biggest increases in the country – and indications that future funding will be more closely linked to challenges such as deprivation have left grounds for optimism. 

    The 2025/26 budget prioritises supporting those most in need with a significant spend on children and adults social services; helping residents out of poverty and support with the cost of living crisis; building new genuinely affordable homes and reducing homelessness; protecting and investing in Manchester’s libraries and leisure centres, investing in our 148 parks and green spaces; and investing in local neighborhoods and high streets. The council is allocating an extra £5 million to tackle fly tipping, clean up our streets and make sure the city is clean, green and tidy 

    Council Leader Cllr Bev Craig said:

    “Our top priority is making sure that everything we do works towards making our city, and the lives of our residents, better. We’re pleased to be able to set a budget which continues to work hard for the people of Manchester – not just delivering the essential functions which they expect but also investing in making lives better and improving the city. 

    “We won’t forget the difficult cuts forced on us by previous governments since 2010 that left us £460 million worse off, but despite this we are putting residents first. From investing in new libraries and leisure centres, helping thousands of Mancunians with the cost of living crisis, expanding our youth offer, building much needed council and social housing to investing in neighborhoods and high streets right across the city, we will always spend what we have in a way that helps Manchester.  

    “Clean, green, safe and well maintained neighbourhoods are the bedrock of a great city, and that’s why we are investing an extra £5million in these much-needed services to reduce litter and flytipping that blights too many communities and make sure our streets are clean and tidy.” 

    Cllr Rabnawaz Akbar, Executive Member for Finance, said:

    “It’s been a tough few years for local government finances and the impact of cuts since 2010 can’t be turned round overnight.  

    “But thanks to careful planning and taking some difficult decisions early, Manchester has withstood the buffeting and is able to bring forward positive plans for how we’ll use the spending power which we still have.” 

    Supporting the most vulnerable 

    • Providing assistance, support and protection to around 5,500 children (including 1,351 looked after children, 842 of them in foster care.) 
    • Supporting more than 3,500 vulnerable adults through care at home or residential placements, with thousands more benefitting from equipment and home adaptations to help them live independently.  
    • Supporting around 2,700 homeless households and helping others avoid becoming homeless 

    Providing good quality everyday services 

    • Carrying out 31 million waste collections a year and providing street cleaning and other environmental services.  
    • Maintaining and investing in almost 150 parks and other green spaces. 
    • Providing 23 libraries and 25 leisure centres. 
    • Maintaining almost 2,500 miles of roads and pavements. 

    Investing in the future of the city to make it an even better place to live 

    • Major regeneration schemes are progressing across the city – from the transformation of Wythenshawe Civic Centre in the south to the enormous opportunities being opened up in North Manchester through initiatives such as Victoria North and Holt Town.  
    • In the past year 600 new council, social and genuinely affordable homes were completed with another 1,500 on site and a further 1,450 with planning permission in the pipeline. 

    Continuing to lend a helping hand to people struggling with the cost-of-living while tackling the underlying causes of poverty.  

    • Last year alone we spent £42m on measures to tackle poverty and support Mancunians with the cost of living. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Budget delivers investment in frontline services to residents

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council is set to invest an additional £15.3 million in the delivery of frontline services for residents over the coming year.

    The Council’s ‘core spending power’ – the Government’s measure of how much local authorities have to spend – has increased by 10.3 per cent in cash terms as a result of Government funding and a proposed Council Tax increase of 4.99 per cent.

    The Council is to benefit from a £20 million Government ‘recovery grant’ to help areas with greater deprivation and need.

    The budget includes an extra £1.5 million for neighbourhood services to help tackle issues such as flytipping, street cleansing and blight.

    The aim is to build on improvements which have seen a 25 per cent drop in complaints about street cleansing and weeding over the last year.

    Changes have included regular maintenance, litter picking and cleansing at 58 new locations, including central reservations, roundabouts and traffic islands; additional litter picks in areas including Kirkdale, Anfield, Picton and Dingle; and monthly cleansing of 850 communal bin stations.

    There is also £500k for the School Streets programme to improve road safety around primary schools.

    An additional £52 million is being set aside to deal with increased demand for adult and children’s social care, temporary housing and home to school transport. The Council has a legal duty to provide adult and children’s services, and they account for 63 per cent of spending.

    The Council’s financial resilience has been boosted thanks to an improvement programme which has increased the cash total of Council Tax collected in-year by 13 per cent, reduced arrears by £18 million and cut Business Rates debt by £5.3 million.

    In addition, a review of single person Council Tax discount has increased the amount of Council Tax that can be collected by £1.8 million, and changes to empty property premiums is bringing in an additional £8 million per year.

    We have also:

    • Reduced the time taken for an invoice to be paid from 51 to 38 days
    • Cut the amount of debt owed to the Council by £10.7 million in the last quarter,
    • Rolled out electronic invoicing to save on postage.

    The Benefit Maximisation Team has increased income for the most vulnerable households by £7,643,529 – up £433,583 compared to January 2024, and in this budget its staffing will be increased by 50 per cent.

    Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, said: “This is the most positive budget we have been able to present for some time due to the new government giving greater certainty to councils including future multi-year settlements and a bigger share of funding towards cities like Liverpool.

    “The budget continues our investment in the issues we know local people care about such as street cleansing, waste management and improving recycling rates, which is why we are bringing these services back in-house.

    “Like all councils, we continue to face real pressures in areas such as adult and children’s social care, temporary housing and home to school transport, and will continue to work with sector partners to suggest longer term solutions to the Government.“

    Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Resources and Transformation, Councillor Ruth Bennett, said: “We are continuing to make great strides in improving our own financial management to drive up income and make the most of every pound. This is helping manage the demand pressures we face in areas such as social care.

    “This rigorous approach is increasing Council Tax collection levels, reducing outstanding Business Rates and cutting the amount of outstanding debt we are owed. “We are determined to become a financially resilient organisation which provides services that are sustainable in the long-term.”

    At the Budget Council meeting on Wednesday 5 March, councillors will be asked to approve a rise of 4.99 per cent in Council Tax, including two per cent ringfenced for adult social care. The majority of households in Liverpool – 59 per cent – live in Band A properties, and will see the charge for the council services element of their bill rise by £84.04 per year. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Join dazzling bike parade and help to Light Up Leicester!

    Source: City of Leicester

    A DAZZLING bike parade is being planned as part of next month’s Light Up Leicester festival – and everyone is invited to join in the pedal-powered fun!

    Leicester city centre will be lit up with some extraordinary illuminated artworks and nightly performances from Wednesday 12 to Saturday 15 March, as the world-class Light Up Leicester festival returns to the city for a third time.

    The Light Up Leicester Bike Parade takes place on Thursday 13 March and gives participants the chance to be part of the event! The route takes riders on a vibrant 1.5km tour of the city centre, featuring some of the stunning art installations that will be in place for the Light Up Leicester festival.

    Arrive at 5pm at Town Hall Square to ‘bling your bike’ at one of the workshops run by local artists from Graffwerk and Cyclone Works, where you can add lights, colours or sparkle to your bike and get creative, as well as watch live art being created by local street artists. Participants might also like to arrive with their own fairy lights or other novelty lights attached to their bikes, to form part of a glittering cycle parade!  

    Parades will start at 6.30pm, 7pm, 7.30pm and 8pm. Sign up for your chosen start time and meet at Town Hall Square to join the parade.

    Assistant city mayor for environment and transport Cllr Geoff Whittle said: “We are inviting people of all ages to join together and experience the city in a whole new light.

    “The circular bike parade route will meander through the heart of the Light Up Leicester Festival, showing glimpses of the fabulous installations. Our focus is on it being a family-friendly ride, inclusive of all ages and abilities.

    “This will also show people how easy it can be to navigate the city centre by bike – and after the ride, you can use the bike park at Town Hall Square to securely store your bike while you look around on foot. It promises to be a great showcase of our city and a really enjoyable experience for those on the rides – and it’s all free.”

    Leicester city mayor Peter Soulsby said: “We are really looking forward to this festival, which will bring together our diverse communities and promises to be great experience for people of all ages.  

    “Leicester will come alive with light and colour, with extraordinary performances and installations by international artists that people will be able to enjoy free of charge.

    “More than 80,000 people enjoyed Light Up Leicester last time we hosted this festival, in 2022. Thanks to the generous support of our funders and sponsors, this free festival will brighten up the dark winter nights for many thousands more.”

    Presented by Leicester City Council, BID Leicester, Leicester Cathedral and Art Reach, and with additional backing from headline sponsor Highcross Leicester and PPL PRS, Light Up Leicester 2025 will feature four nights of family-friendly performances and activities. Schools and communities are getting involved too, with partners Inspirate and Art Reach working with local groups on projects that will celebrate the city’s diversity and bring an extra dimension to the festival.

    A full festival programme is available at lightupleicester.com/home

    Sign up for the bike parade at www.letsride.co.uk/rides/light-up-ride-leicester-bike-parade and plan your journey into the city by bike at choosehowyoumove.co.uk/

    Light Up Leicester is committed to being a welcoming and accessible event for everyone. A range of adapted bikes, e-cycles and piloted rickshaws can be booked in advance for free by people who need extra support to take part – please email cycle-city@leicester.gov.uk before 6 March to arrange this. Find out more at lightupleicester.com/accessibility/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Personal Income and Outlays, January 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Personal income increased $221.9 billion (0.9 percent at a monthly rate) in January, according to estimates released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Disposable personal income (DPI)—personal income less personal current taxes—increased $194.3 billion (0.9 percent) and personal consumption expenditures (PCE) decreased $30.7 billion (0.2 percent).

    Personal outlays—the sum of PCE, personal interest payments, and personal current transfer payments—decreased $52.7 billion in January. Personal saving was $1.01 trillion in January and the personal saving rate—personal saving as a percentage of disposable personal income—was 4.6 percent.

    The increase in current-dollar personal income in January primarily reflected increases in personal current transfer receipts, compensation, and personal income receipts on assets.

    The $30.7 billion decrease in current-dollar PCE in January reflected a decrease of $76.7 billion in spending for goods and an increase of $46.0 billion in spending for services.

    From the preceding month, the PCE price index for January increased 0.3 percent. Excluding food and energy, the PCE price index increased 0.3 percent.

    From the same month one year ago, the PCE price index January increased 2.5 percent. Excluding food and energy, the PCE price index increased 2.6 percent from one year ago.

    *          *          *

    Next release:  March 28, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    Personal Income and Outlays, February 2025

    For definitions, statistical conventions, updates to PIO, and more, visit “Additional Information.”

    Technical Notes

    Changes in Personal Income and Outlays for January

    The increase in personal income in January primarily reflected increases in personal current transfer receipts, compensation, and personal income receipts on assets.

    • The increase in personal current transfer receipts was led by social security benefits, reflecting a January cost-of-living adjustment based on data from the Social Security Administration.
    • The increase in compensation was led by private wages and salaries, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Current Employment Statistics (CES). Wages and salaries in services-producing industries increased $38.0 billion. Wages and salaries in goods producing industries increased $1.9 billion.
    • Within personal income receipts on assets, the increase was led by personal dividend income, based on data from publicly traded companies.

    Within personal outlays, personal current transfer payments to rest-of-world (net) decreased $26.4 billion, reflecting a settlement from a foreign pharmaceutical company that was paid to U.S. households.

    Revisions to Personal Income

    Estimates have been updated for July through December. The estimates for July through September for compensation, personal taxes, and contributions for government social insurance reflect the incorporation of third-quarter wage and salary data from the BLS Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages program. The estimates for October through December reflect updated BLS CES data.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Albanese’s pitch on beer – temporary freeze on excise indexation

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Albanese government will temporarily freeze the indexation on draught beer excise, in what it describes as a win for drinkers, brewers and businesses.

    The freeze is for two years and starts from the next due indexation date in August. Indexation changes are made twice a year, with the most recent one in February.

    The government says the cost to the budget would be $95 million over four years from 2025-26.

    The Australian Hotels Association had previously called for a freeze on the excise for drinks sold in pubs, clubs, bars, and restaurants.

    In a statement, the government said the move would “take pressure off the price of a beer poured in pubs, clubs and other venues, supporting businesses, regional tourism and customers”.

    Last week it announced relief for Australian distillers, brewers and wine producers.

    At present brewers and distillers get a full remission of any excise paid up to $350,000 each year. The government said it would increase the cap to $400,000 for all eligible alcohol manufacturers and also increase the Wine Equalisation Tax producer rebate cap to $400,000 from July 1 next year. That was estimated to decrease tax receipts by $70 million over five years from 2024-25.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the temporary excise indexation freeze as “a commonsense measure”.

    Treasurer Jim Chalmers said, “This is a modest change but will help take a little bit of pressure off beer drinkers, brewers and bars”.

    The AHA recently labelled the excise a “hidden” tax, saying it put pressure on the cost of living. It said Australia’s beer tax was the third highest in the OECD.

    The industry and Chalmers had a skirmish over the recent indexation increase. Chalmers said it would equal less than one cent a pint, and warned outlets not to “rip off” or mislead consumers.

    Chalmers wrote to the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission asking it to monitor outlets in February to make sure they “do not take undue advantage” of the rise to “mislead” customers about the impact.

    The federal government introduced the beer excise in 1988, with the tax linked to inflation. The AHA said in September that the recent jump in inflation meant the beer excise rose 8% over the previous six months.

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

    – ref. Albanese’s pitch on beer – temporary freeze on excise indexation – https://theconversation.com/albaneses-pitch-on-beer-temporary-freeze-on-excise-indexation-250898

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: ‘Warriors for Justice’: On anniversary of Castle Bravo nuclear test, Greenpeace calls for justice and reparations from United States

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    SYDNEY/MAJURO, MARSHALL ISLANDS, Saturday 1 March 2025 — 71 years since the most powerful nuclear weapons tests ever conducted were unleashed across the Marshall Islands by the United States, Greenpeace calls for the US government to comply with Marshallese demands for nuclear justice.

    On 1 March 1954, the Castle Bravo nuclear bomb was detonated on Bikini Atoll — an explosion 1,000 times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb. 150 kilometers on Rongelap Atoll, radioactive fallout rained down with children mistaking it for snow. 

    Today, communities continue to endure the physical, economic, and cultural fallout of the nuclear tests — compensation from the US has fallen far short of expectations for the Marshallese people, who are yet to receive an apology, and the accelerating impacts of the climate crisis threatens further displacement of communities.

    Shiva Gounden, Head of Pacific at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, said: “The Marshall Islands bears the deepest scars of a dark legacy — nuclear contamination, forced displacement, and premeditated human experimentation at the hands of the U.S. government. To this day, its people continue to grapple with this injustice, all while standing on the frontlines of the climate crisis — facing yet another wave of displacement and devastation for a catastrophe they did not create

    “But the Marshallese people and their government are not just survivors — they are warriors for justice, among the most powerful voices demanding bold action, accountability, and reparations on the global stage. Those who have inflicted unimaginable harm on the Marshallese must be held to account and made to pay for the devastation they caused. Greenpeace stands unwaveringly beside Marshallese communities in their fight for justice. Jimwe im Maron.”

    Greenpeace flagship vessel the Rainbow Warrior III will arrive in the Marshall Islands in early March to reaffirm its solidarity with the Marshallese people. A scientific mission led by Greenpeace will undertake much-needed independent research across the country, to support the National Nuclear Commission and Marshallese government in their ongoing legal proceedings with the US and at the UN. 

    The trip also marks 40 years since Greenpeace’s iconic Rainbow Warrior I evacuated the people of Rongelap after toxic nuclear fallout rendered their ancestral lands uninhabitable. The ship was bombed months later in Auckland harbour.

    Ariana Tibon Kilma, Chairperson at Marshall Islands National Nuclear Commission, said: “The immediate effects of the Bravo bomb on March 1 were harrowing. Hours after exposure, many people fell ill — skin peeling off, burning sensation in their eyes, their stomachs were churning in pain. Mothers watched as their children’s hair fell to the ground and blisters devoured their bodies overnight.”

    “Without their consent, the United States government enrolled them as ‘test subjects’ in a top secret medical study on the effects of radiation on human beings — a study that continued for 40 years. Today on Remembrance Day the trauma of Bravo continues for the remaining survivors and their descendents — this is a legacy not only of suffering, loss, and frustration, but also of strength, unity, and unwavering commitment to justice, truth and accountability.”

    Members of the Greenpeace Australia Pacific team will be on board the Rainbow Warrior, expected to arrive in Majuro, Marshall Islands on March 11.

    —ENDS—

    Archival footage and images from the evacuation that Greenpeace conducted in 1985 is available here

    Archival footage and images from the US nuclear weapons testing collected here 

    For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact Kate O’Callaghan on +61 406 231 892 or [email protected] 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: Core Group Statement at the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: Core Group Statement at the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan

    Core Group Statement at the 58 Human Rights Council for the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report of the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO & UN, Simon Manley.

    Thank you, Mr President. 

    I am pleased to speak on behalf of the Item 2 core group for South Sudan – Albania, Norway, Ireland and the UK. 

    We thank the Commissioners for their important report. We also welcome South Sudan’s continued cooperation with the Commission and the Minister of Justice’s presence today.

    The Commission’s report demonstrates the scale of ongoing human rights violations and abuses committed in South Sudan. Civic space and media freedom are severely restricted. Appalling acts of conflict-related sexual violence are being committed frequently, and with impunity, across the country. 

    While the recent passing of legislation on transitional justice institutions represents some progress, only fully resourced and operational institutions can deliver justice and accountability for the South Sudanese people.

    During this extension period, the Revitalised Agreement must be fully implemented, including operationalising the Chapter Five transitional mechanisms and holding peaceful, inclusive and credible elections in 2026.

    We remain committed to continuing our support to the people of South Sudan and their path to peace, reconciliation and accountability.

    The Commission plays a vital role in supporting such efforts. Its mandate must therefore be extended in full in this Session, to ensure continued, robust scrutiny of the human rights situation. 

    We will continue to engage with South Sudan in the hope that this extension can be agreed by consensus.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Climate Change Funding for Seafood Companies; Another Call for Applications

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    NOTE: The list of funding recipients and projects follows this release.

    Fourteen seafood companies and related organizations across the province are receiving funding to help reduce their carbon footprint.

    The projects, supported through the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund, range from the first zero-emission electric lobster boat in Canada to solar power at lobster and bait facilities.

    “Addressing climate change continues to be a priority for our government,” said Kent Smith, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “Funding for these seafood organizations will help support our efforts to respond to climate change, reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as reduce costs for industry.”

    The fund is a $6.5-million, three-year program that supports new projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by boats, buildings and other commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations.

    The Province is now accepting applications for the fund’s second round. Examples of eligible projects include:

    • adapting emerging electric and hybrid technology for fishing vessels and fleets
    • installing renewable energy systems
    • reducing emissions through equipment upgrades and new technology
    • conducting research to enable future emission-reduction projects.

    The deadline for applications is April 11.

    Quotes:

    “The fisheries and aquaculture industry plays a vital role in Nova Scotia, generating significant economic benefits and employment opportunities across the province. Energy efficiency improves these economic benefits through cost reductions, helping organizations enhance long-term productivity and competitiveness. When organizations invest in energy efficiency, they can improve equipment lifespans, increase operational resilience and solidify their position as a global leader in the industry.”
    — Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne

    “This fund represents a direct investment into members of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance and the seafood sector to reduce their bottom line by increasing efficiency, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the biggest costs they have for operation – energy. At the same time, the reputational benefits of moving the industry to a low-emission model will elevate Nova Scotia seafood products above their competitors on the shelves in premium markets worldwide. This is a win-win for everyone involved.”
    — Kris Vascotto, Executive Director, Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance

    “The Province’s support to build and demonstrate the first all-electric lobster boat is an important step in developing Membertou’s sustainable fishery for future generations. The electric boat will play an important role in building trust in battery-electric propulsion as a viable solution for decarbonizing Canada’s commercial fishery.”
    — Chief Terry Paul, CEO, Membertou

    Quick Facts:

    • the Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board will make available $10 million over three years in dedicated lending to support eligible applicants
    • the fund is a commitment in Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth
    • the Department of Energy provided $2 million to the fund

    Additional Resources:

    More information on the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund is available at: https://www.efficiencyns.ca/business/business-types/agriculture/fisheries-and-aquaculture-energy-efficiency-innovation-fund/

    Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board lending program: https://nsfishloan.ca/energy-efficiency

    Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth: https://climatechange.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/ns-climate-change-plan.pdf

    Approved projects:

    • Bill and Stanley Oyster Company Ltd. – $250,000 to implement an electric work boat and electric forklift at a shellfish farm
    • BMC Seafoods Limited – $100,000 to implement an energy-efficient heat exchanger that will reduce electricity costs at a live lobster holding facility
    • Brazil Rock Lobster Association – $100,000 to install solar and wind-power on 18-member lobster vessels
    • Glas Ocean Electric – $198,225 towards a data logging study on five harbours/wharves which will involve 20 vessels
    • Havre Boucher Seafoods Inc. – $250,000 to implement a fully electric aluminum work boat with vessel-to-grid charging capability at a shellfish farm
    • Ignite (Atlantic) – $150,000 toward a study to develop a marine electrification roadmap for the communities of Digby and Sheet Harbour
    • L. Walker Seafoods – $30,000 toward an energy efficient condenser with floating head pressure control at a live lobster holding facility
    • Little Harbour Fisheries – $9,848 to install solar panels and convert energy usage to a renewable source at a bait storage facility
    • Membertou Fisheries Inc. – $250,000 toward the first zero-emission electric lobster fishing boat in Canada
    • NovaShell Fisheries – $70,000 toward an energy-efficient heat exchanger with floating head pressure control at a new live lobster holding facility
    • R. Baker Fisheries Limited – $86,500 to install advanced refrigeration units that will reduce energy consumption at a seafood processing facility
    • Red Fish Blue Fish Incorporated – $14,871 to install a solar photovoltaic system with battery storage at a commercial bait storage facility
    • Strait of Canso Superport Corporation – $250,000 toward a charging station for electric vessels
    • Yarmouth Bar Fisheries – $50,000 toward solar installation that will result in a net-zero seafood processing/live holding facility
    Other than cropping, Province of Nova Scotia photos are not to be altered in any way

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crypto 2.0: Regulatory Whiplash

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    [1]Today the Commission moved the Court to dismiss its enforcement action against Coinbase, a crypto trading platform. This reverse-course midstream – coupled with recent high-profile stays of other litigations – is not only unprecedented, it ignores 80 years of well-established law.  We say we are dismissing the action because of future recommendations that may be made by the “crypto task force dedicated to helping the Commission develop the regulatory framework for crypto assets.”[2] But, whatever the law may be tomorrow, market participants should not be able to avoid the law as it stands today. 

    The Commission has brought numerous actions to enforce the securities laws with respect to crypto assets since their advent, during both Republican and Democratic administrations.[3] And, court after court has upheld the Commission’s jurisdiction in this space.[4] In fact, in the Coinbase matter the Commission moved to dismiss today, the court had found that the Commission adequately pleaded violations of the securities laws. The court explained that: “[t]he SEC has a long history of proceeding through [enforcement] actions to regulate emerging technologies and financial instruments within the ambit of its authority as defined by cases like Howey[.] Using enforcement actions to address crypto-assets is simply the latest chapter in the long history of giving meaning to the securities laws through iterative application to new situations.”[5] The court also held that “the challenged transactions fall comfortably within the framework that courts have used to identify securities for nearly eighty years.”[6] The Commission’s action today blithely tosses aside that body of precedent. 

    I have heard many say that the industry craves legal clarity. Today’s action results in less clarity. I have and will continue to work with participants who seek to operate within the securities laws. Or, should the Commission enact new regulations or Congress change the law, we can progress down a different path. But until that time, we have a framework in place and that framework should be applied and enforced equally as to all participants. 

    Far from clarity, today’s action creates more uncertainty. What exactly is the law as it applies to crypto assets? How can we pursue fraudulent conduct in this space while casting doubt on our regulatory jurisdiction? Are we eroding our ability to police fraudulent Ponzi[7] schemes? Are we poised to give special treatment to crypto assets over traditional assets, or even other emerging assets? What effects will this have on our traditional markets and financial instruments? The newly created crypto task force may intend to make recommendations to answer some of these questions, but we do not have any legally enforceable answers yet. In fact, the most salient change to date has been this retreat from enforcement of the securities laws with respect to crypto.[8] Or, “regulation by non-enforcement.”

    It may well be that “environments in which the law is unclear are havens for bad actors,”[9] but wholesale failure to enforce the law seems worse. There are well known risks in this industry ̶  fraud and manipulation, money laundering, national security concerns, volatility, and retail investor losses  ̶  just to name a few.[10] 

    Lastly, today’s action undermines the credibility of our Division of Enforcement. It creates the specter that the agency will deploy its enforcement resources in conjunction with election cycles or in favor of those with means. This invites criticism that our agency is politicized and sows distrust in government. Our agency’s job is to do what is right for investors, issuers, and capital markets. This is not it. 

    [1] The views that I express are my own as a Commissioner and not necessarily those of the SEC or staff (and are decidedly not those of my current fellow Commissioners). 

    [4] See e.g., SEC v. Binance, Plaintiff Securities and Exchange Commission’s Memorandum of Law in Opposition to Defendants’ Motion to Dismiss the Amended Complaint, 23-cv-01599-ABJ-ZMF, ECF No. 290, at 9-10 (D.D.C. Dec. 4, 2024) (discussing Commission claims “premised solely on secondary market transactions in crypto assets” and that “many courts have allowed a variety of securities laws claims to proceed on such claims,” and citing SEC v. Coinbase,726 F. Supp. 3d 260 (S.D.N.Y. 2024); SEC v. Payward Ventures, Inc., 2024 WL 4511499 (N.D. Cal. Aug. 23, 2024); SEC v. Wahi, 2024 WL 896148 (W.D. Wash. Mar. 1, 2024); Harper v. O’Neal, 2024 WL 3845444, (S.D.Fla. Aug. 16, 2024); Dufoe v. DraftKings Inc., 2024 WL 3278637 (D.Mass. July 2, 2024); In re Ripple Labs Inc., 2024 WL 3074379 (N.D. Cal. Jun. 20, 2024); Patterson v. Jump Trading, 710 F. Supp. 3d 692 (N.D. Cal. 2024); Barron v. Helbiz Inc., 2021 WL 229609 (S.D.N.Y. Jan. 22, 2021), vacated on other grounds, 2021 WL 4519887 (2d Cir. Oct. 4, 2021); Samuels v. Lido DAO, 2024 WL 4815022 (N.D. Cal. Nov. 18, 2024); Hardin v. Tron Found., 2024 WL 4555629 (S.D.N.Y. Oct. 23, 2024); Houghton v. Leshner, 2023 WL 6826814 (N.D. Cal. Sept. 20, 2023); Owen v. Elastos Found., 2021 WL 5868171 (S.D.N.Y. Dec. 9, 2021)). See also Gurbir Grewal, What’s Past is Prologue: Enforcing the Federal Securities Laws in the Age of Crypto (July 2, 2024) (stating “in every case, where federal courts have had to determine whether there were “securities” at issue, the courts have applied the Howey test—looked at the economic realities of the offerings, and, even though the offerings at issue involved supposedly novel technologies, rejected defense arguments that they were not securities” and citing multiple cases in footnotes 26 and 66, including SEC v. LBRY, 639 F. Supp. 3d 211 (D.N.H. 2022); SEC v. Kik Interactive Inc., 492 F. Supp. 3d 169 (S.D.N.Y. 2020); SEC v. Telegram Group Inc., 448 F. Supp. 3d 352 (S.D.N.Y. 2020); SEC v. Blockvest, LLC, 18-CV-2287-GPB(BLM), 2019 WL 625163 (S.D. Cal. Feb. 14, 2019); SEC v. Terraform Labs, No. 23-cv-1346-JSR, 2023 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 230518 (S.D.N.Y. Dec. 28, 2023)).

    [5] SEC v. Coinbase, Opinion and Order, 23-cv-4738, ECF No. 105, at p. 34.

    [6] Id. at p. 2.

    [7] U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Investor.gov, Ponzi Scheme (explaining that “[a] Ponzi scheme is an investment fraud that pays existing investors with funds collected from new investors… With little or no legitimate earnings, Ponzi schemes require a constant flow of new money to survive. When it becomes hard to recruit new investors, or when large numbers of existing investors cash out, these schemes tend to collapse.”) (last visited Feb. 27, 2025).

    [8] It seems likely that we will continue down this path. See Commissioner Hester M. Peirce, The Journey Begins (Feb. 4, 2025) (launching a “journey” that will result in the Crypto Task Force “determining how to best disentangle all these strands, including ongoing litigation.”). 

    [10] In fact, on the same day that Coinbase filed a Form 8-K announcing that it had reached an agreement in principle with Commission staff to dismiss the litigation against it, another crypto exchange announced a hack with losses estimated at nearly $1.5 billion, reportedly the largest in crypto history. See David Yaffe-Bellany, Banner Day For Crypto Takes a Turn, N.Y. Times, Feb. 24, 2025; see also Chainalysis, The 2025 Crypto Crime Report (Feb. 2025) (reporting on the “rising role of cryptocurrency in all forms of crime” and noting that “[a]lthough illicit activity on-chain previously revolved heavily around cybercrime, cryptocurrency is now also being used to fund and facilitate all kinds of threats, ranging from national security to consumer protection. As cryptocurrency has gained greater acceptance, illicit on-chain activity, too, has become more varied. For example, some illicit actors primarily operate off-chain, but move funds on-chain for laundering.”); Federal Bureau of Investigation, 2023 Cryptocurrency Fraud Report Released (Sept. 10, 2024) (reporting that “[l]osses related to cryptocurrency fraud totaled over $5.6 billion in 2023, a 45% increase in losses since 2022” and that “[t]he number of complaints from the public regarding cryptocurrency fraud continues to steadily increase, reaching 69,000 in 2023.”); Gurbir Grewal, What’s Past is Prologue: Enforcing the Federal Securities Laws in the Age of Crypto (July 2, 2024) (describing how investors in crypto are being harmed); SEC Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, 5 Ways Fraudsters May Lure Victims Into Scams Involving Crypto-Asset Securities – Investor Alert (Feb. 29, 2024) (issuing an alert “because fraudsters continue to exploit the popularity of crypto assets to lure retail investors into scams”); U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, Exercise Caution with Crypto Asset Securities: Investor Alert (Mar. 23, 2023) (urging investors to be cautious if investing in crypto asset securities because, among other things, they “can be exceptionally volatile and speculative” and “the risk of loss for individual investors…remains high.”). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The third wave of selection of research centers in the field of artificial intelligence is starting

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Ministry of Economic Development is launching a competitive selection of the “third wave” of research centers in the field of artificial intelligence.

    February 28, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    The Ministry of Economic Development is launching a competitive selection of the third wave of research centers in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Grants to universities and research organizations for scientific research in the field of artificial intelligence technology development for the period 2025–2026 will be distributed within the framework of the federal project “Artificial Intelligence” of the national project “Data Economy”. The four-year cycle of work of six research centers of the first wave ended at the end of 2024.

    “President Vladimir Putin set the task of ensuring the availability of our own developments of a new generation of artificial intelligence, emphasizing that this is one of the key conditions for the scientific, technological and ideological sovereignty of the country. To strengthen breakthrough scientific discoveries within the third wave, at least six research centers will be selected, which will be allocated about 4.5 billion rubles in grants. They will focus on the development of strong AI, technology forecasting and attracting industrial partners, forming a basis for fundamental scientific research and accelerating the emergence of innovative solutions that can provide Russian science with leading positions in the world,” emphasized Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    In particular, the new centers will work in such areas as “Elements of Strong AI”, “Control, Decisions, Agent/Multi-Agent Systems”, “Fundamental and Generative Models”, and others.

    The specific achievements of the recipients of support will contribute to the development of the potential of Russian science and the technological growth of the economy, noted First Deputy Minister of Economic Development Maxim Kolesnikov.

    “The task of the research centers is to conduct breakthrough scientific research at the world level. Each center that passes the selection procedure will be able to receive about 336 million rubles in 2025, and up to 422 million rubles in 2026. At the same time, the volume of extra-budgetary co-financing should be at least 30% annually,” commented Maxim Kolesnikov.

    He expressed confidence that it would be possible to support the best teams with the most ambitious programs. On the instructions of the President, support for research centers in the field of AI will continue until 2030.

    The first wave of selection of research centers in the field of AI took place in 2021 within the framework of the federal project “Artificial Intelligence” of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation”. Six scientific and educational organizations received state support for the implementation of programs in the field of AI: Skoltech, Innopolis University, ITMO University, HSE University, MIPT and V.P. Ivannikov Institute of System Programming of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The total amount of support exceeded 8 billion rubles.

    Research center staff have published 165 articles on AI topics in first quartile journals indexed in WoS/Scopus systems, made 206 publications at A* level conferences in the field of artificial intelligence, and created and maintain 15 frameworks.

    Research centers, together with 36 industrial partners, including Sber, Yandex, MTS, Gazprom Neft, Sibur, KhimRar, and Kaspersky Lab, have already launched about 50 applied solutions.

    As part of the second wave of selection of research centers, programs of industry centers in the field of AI were supported at the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, S.P. Korolev Samara University, MEPhI, N.I. Lobachevsky UNN, St. Petersburg State University, and Novosibirsk State University.

    Expert support for the competitive selection and subsequent support for the implementation of research center activity programs will be provided by the Strategic Agency for Support and Formation of AI Developments, a project office created on the basis of the Skolkovo Foundation. You can get advice on preparing applications for the competition by contacting the e-mail address aicenters3@sk.ru.

    Documentation for participation in the selection is posted on the portal Rinse. Bujet.gh.ru.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Pakistani astronaut to enter Chinese space station

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) and the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) signed a cooperation agreement on the spaceflight of Pakistani astronaut to the Chinese space station on Friday.

    Under the agreement, the Chinese government will select and train a group of Pakistani astronauts, and one of them will be the first foreign astronaut to enter the Chinese space station.

    The selection process will last about a year, and the Pakistani astronauts will join a comprehensive and systematic training camp in China. After that, Pakistani astronauts will carry out short-term flight missions in batches together with their Chinese counterparts in the space station in the next few years.

    In the presence of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the agreement was signed by Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSEO and Muhammad Yousuf Khan, chairman of the SUPARCO at the Prime Minister’s House. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rehab services complex opens

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today officiated at the opening ceremony of the Siu Lam Integrated Rehabilitation Services Complex, the largest of its kind in the city showcasing government support and commitment to disabled people and their carers.

    Addressing the ceremony, Mr Chan commended the design of the services complex which makes full use of its spatial advantages as well as incorporates smart technology and rehabilitation equipment to create a safe and comfortable living environment for the service users.

    He was also pleased to learn that the services complex smoothly implements a medical-social collaboration model, where close communication and flexible arrangements enable quality medical services for the residents with fewer hospital visits.

    Mr Chan noted that the Social Welfare Department’s (SWD) estimated recurrent expenditure on rehabilitation and medical social services has reached $12.6 billion in 2025-26, a 35% increase in comparison with that of five years ago, demonstrating the Government’s commitment in supporting people with disabilities.

    The Chief Secretary said the Government will continue to strive for service enhancements, including providing additional places for rehabilitation services so that the total number of these places will reach around 39,900 by 2028-29 to meet the keen demand.

    Accompanied by Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun and other officials, Mr Chan presided at the services complex’s unveiling ceremony. The guests also toured the residential care and day training facilities prior to the ceremony.

    Located at 12 and 20 Hong Fai Road, Siu Lam, Tuen Mun, the services complex was designed and constructed by consultants and contractors commissioned by the SWD, and started operation in phases starting December 2023.

    It is operated by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, SAHK and the New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, providing a total of 1,150 residential care places and 560 day training places for mentally handicapped people, physically handicapped people as well as people in mental recovery.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: 20th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK FAIR

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    MEDIA ADVISORY: 20th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK FAIR

    Posted on Feb 27, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    NADINE Y. ANDO

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

    20th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK FAIR

    MEDIA ADVISORY

    What: National Consumer Protection Week Fair

    When: Thursday, March 7, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

    Where: Fourth Floor of the Hawai‘i State Capitol

    Details: National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) will take place March 3 – 9, 2024 and serves as a significant annual event dedicated to raising awareness about consumer rights and educating the public on avoiding frauds and scams. NCPW is a time when government agencies, consumer protection groups and organizations work together to share information on these important issues. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) is sponsoring the 20th Annual NCPW Fair in Hawai‘i.

    Attendees will have the chance to connect with more than two dozen vendors offering practical solutions and resources for protecting consumer rights. This fair is a unique opportunity for citizens to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions, safeguard their finances and protect their families online. By attending, individuals contribute to the collective effort toward building a more informed and resilient community. For more details on what to expect and footage from previous years, please watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyHhCnpYHb0.

    Entry to the state Capitol: The state Capitol has implemented increased security measures. All visitors entering the Capitol are required to go through metal detection screening from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. All visitors may enter the Capitol through three entry points: Two at street level (elevator Cores 1 and 3) which are located at the Diamond Head makai and ʻEwa mauka corners of the Capitol Rotunda, and through the main basement entrance. Please arrive early to allow extra time to go through the security checkpoints.

    # # #


     Media Contact:

    Communications Office
    Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

    Phone: 808-586-2760
    Email: [email protected]

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom partners with 21 Brazilian state governors to protect the environment, cut harmful pollution

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 27, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – California and a consortium of 21 Brazilian states are partnering together to combat pollution and foster sustainable economic growth. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom and Governor Renato Casagrande of the Brazilian state of Espírito Santo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today that establishes a four-year partnership between California and the Brazilian consortium of states leading on environmental protections, Consórcio Brasil Verde (CBV).

    Together with these 21 Brazilian states, California is committed to advancing a bold, collaborative action plan that tackles pollution, protects public health and safety, and creates good-paying jobs.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    This collaboration encompasses clean air, transportation and energy; adaptation; forest management; and more. The full text of the MOU is available here. R20 Regions of Climate Action – an organization founded by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to support subnational climate work – played a key role in supporting this MOU.

    “This is a historic opportunity to join efforts and share knowledge between Brazilian states and California, which is a reference in combating climate change,” said Governor Renato Casagrande. “The partnership not only reaffirms our commitment to sustainability but also highlights the importance of active participation from everyone in building solutions that benefit our planet.”

    How we got here: California met its 2020 climate target six years ahead of schedule thanks to world-leading climate policies and partnerships across the U.S. and around the world, created to share best practices and support cooperation on climate work.

    • Last year, Governor Newsom welcomed a new international partnership with South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province to collaborate on climate and economic efforts. Also last year, Governor Newsom welcomed delegations from Sweden and Norway and signed renewed climate partnerships with the two governments.
    • In 2023, Governor Newsom led a California delegation to China, where California signed five MOUs – with China’s National Development and Reform Commission, the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu, and the municipalities of Beijing, and Shanghai. The trip also resulted in a first-of-its-kind declaration by China and California to cooperate on climate action like aggressively cutting greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels, and developing clean energy.
    • Also in 2023, California signed a MOU with the Chinese province of Hainan, as well as with Australia.
    • In 2022, California signed Memorandums of Cooperation with Canada, New Zealand and Japan, as well as Memorandums of Understanding with China and the Netherlands, to tackle the climate crisis. The Governor also joined with Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia to recommit the region to climate action.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 26, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced multiple clemency actions. He granted pardons in three cases. He also sent multiple clemency cases to the Board of Parole Hearings, initiating the process for granting clemency in fifteen cases. He also sent two…

    Feb 26, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today released a new economic vision for California’s future with a bold plan, realized locally. The unveiling comes alongside the announcement of more than $245 million in investments to help support workers statewide,…

    Feb 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today issued a statement in response to the Trump administration’s announcement that it had released more than $315 million of obligated money to create new water storage at the future Sites Reservoir and at the existing San…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Piero Cipollone: The role of the digital euro in digital payments and finance

    Source: European Central Bank

    Contribution to Bancaria by Piero Cipollone, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, based on remarks at the Crypto Asset Lab Conference on 17 January 2025

    28 February 2025

    Being a key player in digital payments and digital finance should be a priority for Europe.

    As Mario Draghi pointed out in his recent report, the productivity gap between the United States and the European Union is mostly explained by technology and finance.[1] If we take the information and communications technology (ICT) and financial sectors out, the gap disappears.

    If we want to close the productivity gap with the United States, we need to focus on these areas. Digital payments and digital finance stand at the intersection of these two sectors. And they are developing fast, driven by changes in habits and technology. This is both an opportunity and a risk for Europe. It is an opportunity to close the gap by developing innovative and competitive European solutions. But if we do not seize that opportunity, we run the risk of weakening our competitiveness, resilience and strategic autonomy.

    At the European Central Bank (ECB), as guardians of our single currency, the euro, we consider this a matter of crucial importance. Ultimately, it is about the future of our currency. Today, the euro is the second most important currency in the international monetary system. Its share across a range of indicators stands at around 20%, and the euro area accounts for around 12% of global GDP.[2] If we want to prevent the euro from losing importance on the global stage, transacting and investing in euro needs to be seen as safe, easy and efficient, even as digitalisation transforms payments and finance.[3]

    Central bank money – the central pillar of the payments and financial system – has a key role to play in connecting the different parts of the financial system in a safe and risk-free way. This is particularly relevant in Europe, where payments and finance often remain fragmented along national lines, preventing us from fully reaping the benefits of the single European market. This is true for both retail and wholesale transactions.

    For retail transactions – payments made on a daily basis by consumers and businesses – our reliance on non-European solutions weakens our strategic autonomy and is a drag on productivity growth. We should ask, for example, why we don’t have a European VISA or Mastercard. A digital euro – that is, central bank money in digital form for retail transactions – would give us the chance to increase efficiency, competition, innovation and resilience while allowing European private payment solutions to scale up and protect our monetary sovereignty.[4]

    For wholesale transactions – transactions between financial institutions – we need to avoid repeating the mistake we made in the retail sector and ensure that we provide the conditions for European actors to stay ahead of their competitors. New technologies offer us the opportunity to create an integrated European market for digital assets from the outset, in other words a European capital markets union.[5]

    A digital euro for everyday payments

    For firms and households, central bank money is currently only available in the form of cash; there is currently no equivalent in digital form, which is becoming increasingly problematic because the use and acceptance of cash are declining. In the euro area, cash transactions have fallen below card transactions in value.[6] The share of companies reporting that they do not accept cash has tripled over the last three years to 12%.[7] The European Commission has put forward a legislative proposal to ensure the acceptance of cash[8], and the ECB is committed to ensuring that cash remains as widely available and accessible as possible[9]. Still, the trend towards cash being used less for daily transactions is likely to continue owing to the digitalisation of the economy in line with what has been observed in many advanced economies.

    Day-to-day payments in the euro area by payment instrument, in value terms

    (percentage of the value of all non-recurring day-to-day payments)

    Source: ECB (2024), Study on the payment attitudes of consumers in the euro area (SPACE).

    Note: The “Other” category includes bank cheques, credit transfers, direct debit, instant payments, loyalty points, vouchers and gift cards, crypto-assets, buy-now-pay-later services and other payment instruments.

    Current European digital payment solutions, such as cards issued by European payment schemes, mainly cater to national markets and specific use cases. To pay across European countries, consumers have to rely on a few non-European providers. More than two-thirds of card transactions in the euro area were settled through international payment schemes in the second half of 2023.[10] And 13 out of 20 euro area countries rely entirely on non-European solutions in the absence of their own domestic payment scheme. But even those international payment solutions are not accepted everywhere and do not cover all key use cases.

    National card schemes in the euro area

    Source: ECB.

    As a result, one of the key objectives of central bank money – to offer the public a means of payment backed by the sovereign authority that can be used for retail transactions across the entire currency area – is not being fulfilled in the digital space.

    In addition, European payments have become a prime example of the situation that Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi described in their recent reports.[11] The fragmentation of the market along national lines, the lack of European payment solutions available on a European scale and the difficulty faced by European payment service providers in keeping pace with technological advances mean that Europe is not competitive within its own market, let alone on a global scale.

    Moreover, in an unstable geopolitical environment, we are being left to rely on companies based in other countries. In future, this dependency could extend beyond traditional payment service providers. Platforms like Ant Group’s Alipay have shown they know how to bridge geographical gaps: during major events like UEFA EURO 2024 they were able to boost their payment app usage among customers in Europe.

    Merchants – and consumers, who bear the costs – are left to deal with the consequences of the international card schemes’ market dominance. To give just one example, the average net merchant service charges in the EU almost doubled between 2018 and 2022.[12] This increase occurred despite regulatory efforts to contain it. And the cost falls disproportionately on smaller retailers, who face charges that are three to four times higher than those paid by their larger counterparts.[13]

    We must move swiftly to counter the risks stemming from Europe’s current inability to secure the integration and autonomy of its retail payment system. This is one of the key reasons behind the digital euro project: to bring central bank money into the digital age. Doing so would provide firms and households with a digital equivalent to banknotes and would strengthen our monetary sovereignty.

    Benefits for consumers and merchants

    Complementing banknotes, the digital euro would give all European citizens and firms the freedom to make and receive digital payments seamlessly.[14]

    The digital euro would provide a single, easy, secure and universally accepted public solution for digital payments in stores, online and from person to person. It would be available both online and offline, and would be free for basic use.

    For merchants, the digital euro would provide seamless access to all European consumers. Moreover, it would offer an alternative that would increase competition, thereby lowering transaction costs in a more direct way than is possible through regulations and competition authorities.[15]

    Fostering competition and innovation in an integrated payments ecosystem

    The digital euro would strengthen the euro area economy by fostering competition and innovation.

    European payment service providers are finding it increasingly difficult to compete with international card schemes and mobile payment solutions. As the latter grow in popularity, banks risk falling behind not only in terms of interchange fees, but also in terms of client relationships and user data.

    By contrast, the digital euro would ensure that payment service providers would continue to play a central role, thus enabling them to maintain customer relationships and be compensated for their services, as is currently the case.[16] It would also offer an alternative to co-badging with international card schemes for cross-border payments in – and potentially beyond – the euro area, thus promoting competition.

    The digital euro would also expand the opportunities available to payment service providers while reducing the cost of offering their own services on a European scale. In addition, it would foster an environment conducive to the widespread adoption of payment innovations throughout the euro area.

    Currently, several innovations aimed at simplifying payments are emerging within specific national markets or across a few countries, driven by European payment service providers. Although these innovations are highly commendable and would enhance people’s lives, existing structural barriers are hampering their efforts to achieve pan-European scale.

    These solutions are struggling to achieve the scale needed to provide a service to everyone in the euro area. This limits their ability to compete effectively with the large international players who can fully leverage economies of scale, even on a global level.

    The European Commission’s legislative proposal[17] foresees that the digital euro would have legal tender status; this implies that it would be accepted by all merchants who currently accept electronic payments. In reality this would equate to the creation of a pan-European network which could also be used by private solutions, thus overcoming the obstacles limiting their growth.

    This would foster a more integrated European payments market. As private providers expand their geographical reach and diversify their product portfolios, they will benefit from cost efficiencies and be better positioned to compete internationally.

    In essence, the network effects generated by a digital euro would function as a public good, benefiting both public and private initiatives. This approach would be akin to creating a unified European railway network or European energy grid, where various companies could competitively operate their own services and deliver added value to customers.

    Instead of requiring significant investment to expand existing services across the euro area, the open digital euro standards would facilitate cost-effective standardisation, making it possible for private retail payment solution providers to launch new products and functionalities on a broader scale.

    Ultimately, whether through the digital euro or private solutions, this framework would unlock innovation, create new business opportunities and improve consumer access to a diverse range of goods and services.

    Making this vision a shared reality

    The design of the digital euro, as well as the key provision in the regulation proposed by the European Commission, contains all the key elements required to make this vision a reality.

    Over the past years, we have extensively engaged with a multitude of market stakeholders to establish the digital euro’s features. We have collected and discussed the input of representatives of consumers, merchants, banks and payment service providers. Furthermore, we are now looking at how the digital euro could be used to provide services currently not available on the market. To this end, we launched a call for expressions of interest, asking for collaboration from stakeholders, and we received a very strong response. Through this inclusive approach, we want to take everyone’s needs and perspectives into consideration to produce a robust payments solution.

    The role of central bank money in developing a European market for digital assets

    Currently, the ECB and the national central banks of those EU Member States whose currency is the euro (which we collectively refer to as the Eurosystem) offer central bank money in digital form to financial institutions through our TARGET Services: T2 settles more than 90% of the value of large payments between financial institutions, and T2S settles securities transactions. These services have been crucial in increasing the efficiency and integration of post-trade platforms in Europe.

    We are committed to continuing to provide state-of-the-art settlement services in central bank money, even as new technologies emerge.

    The potential of new technologies

    In this respect, we recognise the potential of new technologies, such as distributed ledger technology (DLT), to transform and improve wholesale financial markets by enabling assets to be issued or represented in digital token form.

    DLT allows market participants to handle trading, settlement and custody on the same platform, reducing credit risk, transaction failures and reconciliation needs. It can enhance efficiency by operating on a 24/7, 365 days a year basis and settling transactions instantly, which could potentially reduce annual infrastructure operational costs. A shared DLT platform could lower market entry barriers, enable small and medium-sized enterprises and new players to access capital markets and facilitate the efficient trading of financial instruments currently not covered on regulated markets.

    We have an opportunity to create an integrated European capital market for digital assets from the outset – in other words, a digital capital markets union.[18]

    In fact, we have recently seen an upsurge in DLT initiatives in Europe. Over 60% of EU banks are exploring or using DLT, with 22% already implementing DLT applications. Furthermore, on the securities side, there has been an increasing number of issuances on DLT.

    The role of central bank money and the Eurosystem’s exploratory work

    The ECB is aware that it has a role to play in this work from the very beginning.

    The availability of central bank money to settle transactions using these new technologies is important for two reasons. First, if we don’t use central bank money, other settlement assets – such as stablecoins or tokenised deposits – will be used, which would reintroduce credit risks and fragmentation in the financial system. And second, the possibility to settle in central bank money is seen by the market as a key factor in the adoption of new technologies.

    The Eurosystem has already worked with the market to test settling wholesale transactions in central bank money using DLT. In exploratory work we carried out in 2024, for example, we offered three different solutions to link our TARGET services to market DLT platforms. This allowed industry participants to either settle real transactions in central bank money or conduct experiments with mock transactions.[19]

    This exploratory work stands out at the global level in terms of its scale and scope. Overall, 60 industry participants took part, including incumbents and new entrants. More than 40 experiments and trials covered a wide range of securities and payments use cases, including the first issuance of an EU sovereign bond using DLT. A total value of €1.6 billion was settled via trials over a six-month period, exceeding values settled in comparable initiatives in other jurisdictions.

    Next steps

    In the short term, the Eurosystem will aim to make it possible to settle DLT transactions in central bank money, with a view to enabling the further development of DLT on the market.[20] The technological solution will be based on interoperability between market DLTs and the Eurosystem, but also – and this is crucial – between market platforms, based on strong and enforceable standards.

    Looking further ahead, we will investigate how DLT can be used to create a more integrated financial market. With new technology, there is the opportunity to create a new ecosystem from scratch in a more integrated and harmonised manner. One way to achieve this integrated ecosystem in the longer term would be to move towards a European shared ledger. This would bring together token versions of central bank money, commercial bank money and other digital assets on a shared, programmable platform, on which market participants could provide their services. Another option could be the coordinated development of an ecosystem of fully interoperable technical solutions, which might better serve specific use cases and enable legacy and new solutions to coexist.

    The trade-offs between the benefits of such flexibility and those of bringing everyone together on one platform need further analysis. We will reflect on these trade-offs and refine this long-term vision together with private and public sector stakeholders.

    Conclusion

    In the current fast-moving environment, Europe cannot stand still. If we do not bring central bank money into the digital age, we will hamper Europe’s competitiveness, resilience and strategic autonomy. And we will miss out on the opportunities that digital payments and digital finance offer. Others would reap the benefits instead.

    By ensuring that central bank money keeps pace with digitalisation and new technologies, we would safeguard our monetary sovereignty. We would overcome fragmentation by offering money that can be used for any digital transactions in the euro area. We would foster competition and innovation. And we would strengthen our autonomy and resilience.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa’s newest book prize is named after Andreé Blouin: who was she?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Tinashe Mushakavanhu, Research Associate, University of Oxford

    Andrée Blouin was a political activist and writer from the Central African Republic. Until recently, her name hardly ever appeared in the grand narratives of Africa’s liberation.

    When she died in 1986, her passing was hardly in the news – a stark contrast to her pivotal role as an adviser and campaign strategist to newly independent African leaders in Algeria, both Congos, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Guinea and Ghana.

    She was more than a participant. She was an organising force, an architect of resistance, a strategist who shaped the fight against colonial rule. Yet, like many women in African history, her contributions faded into the margins, overshadowed by the men she helped empower.

    Eve Blouin/Inkani Books

    Interest in Blouin has been rekindled. She is featured in the Oscar-nominated documentary Soundtrack to a Coup d’État about DRC independence leader Patrice Lumumba. She worked as his speechwriter and chief of protocol.

    And her memoir My Country, Africa: Autobiography of the Black Pasionaria, long out of print, was re-released and is now widely available.

    Now a new annual book award called the Andrée Blouin Prize has been launched in her honour by a South Africa-based publishing house, Inkani Books. Its mission is to amplify the voices of African women, cisgender and transgender, writing about history, politics and current affairs from a left perspective.

    For me as a literary historian who has been preoccupied with archives of marginal historical figures, this activation of Blouin powerfully highlights her legacy. It also invites new engagement with her work.

    Who was Andrée Blouin?

    Blouin was born in 1921 in Central African Republic but from the age of three she was placed in an orphanage in neighbouring Congo Brazzaville. She ran away when she was 14 and so began a life of rebellion.

    She would grow up to be a formidable political operator. Her reach touches many parts of Africa. For her, the struggle was not just local, it was everywhere. As a multilingual person, she spoke a dozen languages, a gift that allowed her to easily move between places and political contexts.

    Her political awakening was deeply personal – she was radicalised by her son’s death from malaria in a colonial hospital in 1942. He had been denied life-saving medication. Colonialism, she realised, was not just her own misfortune but a system of evil suffocating African lives.

    Verso Books

    Today history is vindicating this fascinating historical figure. This is happening through the wealth of archival material – photographs, videos, interviews and texts – that places her at the centre of political action. The image of African liberation tends to be men in suits. And yet a smiling Blouin can be seen with them, side by side, even addressing large crowds.

    It is thanks to the refusal of this archive to be repressed that we can review moments that shaped African liberation history. And appreciate the roles that women like Blouin played.

    Behind the prize

    African literary prizes have seen significant growth in recent years, both in number and influence. They play an important role in promoting African literature, offering recognition and financial support to writers, and shaping the literary canon.

    They can also address the need for dedicated platforms that amplify underrepresented voices.

    Inkani Books describes itself as a “people’s movement-driven publishing house”. It is introducing The Andrée Blouin Prize in her honour. The impetus for the prize, according to Inkani’s publishing director Efemia Chela, was to directly challenge erasure of women in history and in political writing.

    She explains:

    This prize is not just an accolade; it is a reclamation of space, a declaration that African revolutionary women’s narratives will no longer be sidelined.

    The publishing house, established less than five years ago, has been reissuing popular books about revolutionary figures. These include the likes of Thomas Sankara, Kwame Nkrumah, Amílcar Cabral and Frantz Fanon. These men are often celebrated for their heroism and intellectual contributions to pan-African ideas about freedom, politics and revolution.

    Blouin in Time magazine, 1960. Time/Terence Spencer/Courtesy Eve Blouin

    The Andrée Blouin Prize is a bold act of reclamation, ensuring that the narratives of African revolutionary women are no longer overlooked but recognised, celebrated and centred.

    In fact, this is an invitation for contemporary women to write themselves into literary history.

    The inaugural winner will receive a $2,000 advance and a publishing contract with Inkani. The prize is open to all women across Africa and is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the continent’s diverse and vibrant experiences.

    It is part of a broader movement challenging historical exclusions in African publishing. Literary production is dominated by big multinational publishing companies that determine reading tastes and trends.

    Last year, Nigeria-based Cassava Republic Press launched the Global Black Women’s Non-Fiction Manuscript Prize to spotlight exceptional works by Black women.

    Read more: African literary prizes are contested – but writers’ groups are reshaping them

    While African publishing has not always been welcoming to women writers, a shift is underway. Writers like Nigeria’s Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Zimbabwe’s NoViolet Bulawayo, Uganda’s Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, and Zambia’s Namwali Serpell are now among the most influential voices shaping African literature today.

    – Africa’s newest book prize is named after Andreé Blouin: who was she?
    – https://theconversation.com/africas-newest-book-prize-is-named-after-andree-blouin-who-was-she-250828

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Failure to consult Indigenous Peoples on future pandemics will further harm children’s education

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The failure of governments around the world to consult Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 school closures and other emergency pandemic responses violated their rights, as children continue to feel the effects five years after the first global lockdown, Amnesty International said in a new report today.

    Indigenous leaders interviewed by Amnesty International for its report What If Indigenous Consent Is Not Respected?, testified to sharp and sustained increases in post-pandemic absenteeism and school dropout rates, of more than 80 per cent in some cases, among Indigenous children in more than 10 countries. Indigenous leaders and activists also voiced concerns that the often discriminatory, desultory or non-existent response by authorities to the educational needs of Indigenous children during the pandemic worsened long-standing inequities faced by Indigenous communities – with Indigenous girls and children with disabilities particularly disadvantaged. Going forward, the organization is calling for Indigenous Peoples to be consulted during future pandemics.  

    The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic.

    Chris Chapman, Amnesty’s researcher on Indigenous rights

    “The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic, which had an enduring and damaging impact on their rights and prospects,” said Chris Chapman, Amnesty International’s Researcher on Indigenous Rights.

    “They said that remote learning solutions were often unavailable to Indigenous children. Those in rural areas, where Indigenous communities often lacked devices, internet connections, electricity and the technological knowledge or capacity to participate in virtual classes or remote learning, were worst affected.”

    When lower-tech solutions such as printed materials were distributed to other groups, Indigenous communities in several different countries said they were passed over, ignored, or asked to pay for them.

    Indigenous campaigner Sylvia Kokunda said: “For the most part these materials were distributed by the local government, since it can be easier for the village chairperson to identify the people in this community. However, local officials would not give the materials to these Batwa people, they would give only to their people.”

    Radio or television-based educational broadcasting during the pandemic was often unavailable in Indigenous languages. An Ogiek activist said that although Sogoot FM 97.1, an Ogiek language radio station, was used to reach the community to inform them about Covid-19 and its impacts, it was not used for school coursework.  

    The report is based on data and more than 80 interviews or collected responses that Amnesty International gathered to explore how Indigenous students around the world were impacted by pandemic-related school closures, including in Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Russia, Taiwan and Uganda. There are 476 million Indigenous people worldwide in more than 90 countries, belonging to 5,000 different Indigenous groups and speaking more than 4,000 languages.

    Technology, discrimination and dropout rates

    Where Indigenous families had limited access to technology for remote learning during the pandemic, boys were often prioritized.

    According to Indigenous women activists from Nepal,“If some families have a mobile, then only one or two will use it. And if there are more children in the house, one has to sacrifice their education. When it comes to the sacrifice, the girls are sacrificed more.”

    Even if Indigenous students had devices capable of being used for remote learning, their families were sometimes unable to afford sufficient data. In addition, remote teaching was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    Children with learning difficulties or disabilities which required specialist teaching, for instance through use of sign language or braille, were often excluded, including among Indigenous communities.

    Interviewees in many states said there was often little or no government monitoring, or consideration of the effectiveness of alternative learning initiatives for Indigenous communities. Information on how to access education when schools closed – and they stayed shut for more than 18 months in some countries – was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    “Boys who had begun working as motorcycle taxi drivers to earn money for their families also dropped out.

    Indigenous activist from Kenya

    Students with little or no access to education during the pandemic often worked instead, and never returned to schools when they reopened. Those who did return when schools reopened, often found that they had fallen behind their classmates. If they were unwilling to retake a year, or could not be supported financially, they too dropped out.

    In Kenya, the majority of dropouts of Ogiek students were girls, especially girls who got pregnant during Covid-19 or were subjected to early marriage. However, it affected boys too. An Indigenous activist from Kenya said: “Boys between the ages of 12 and 18 who had begun working in jobs such as motorcycle taxi drivers or farm workers to earn money for themselves and their families also dropped out.”

    Some schools across many states never reopened, further reducing access to education for Indigenous children, Indigenous activists reported.

    Asked to reply to Amnesty’s findings, the Mexican government stated that it responded to the “unprecedented challenge of Covid-19″ by working with Indigenous schools and teachers to roll out a set of measures including distributing materials in five Indigenous languages, sometimes in printed formats where access to internet or devices was restricted, developing new digital educational materials, and capacity-building for schools and parents to use digital platforms.

    Recommendations

    “Significantly more resources are now required to safeguard, restore and improve the educational opportunities and rights of Indigenous communities,” Chris Chapman said.

    “States must work with Indigenous communities to immediately restore and enhance the right to education for all Indigenous children including a focus on re-enrolling Indigenous girls, and Indigenous students with disabilities.”  

    Alongside the report, Amnesty International has shared a guide for researchers who wish to investigate the extent to which the human right to participate effectively in decision-making has been violated, especially when it comes to Indigenous communities.  

    “Governments must consult with Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 response measures and other pandemic and emergency response measures, otherwise they risk violating their right to consultation, and their right to give or withhold their consent to decisions affecting them. Our study highlights the risks of failing to take into account the realities, cultures and rights of Indigenous Peoples,” said Chris Chapman.

    “While our report sets out the devastating impact of this lack of inclusion, it’s hoped that Amnesty’s guide will ensure Indigenous people are included in discussions that affect them in the future. Every child has the right to free, high-quality primary education. States must therefore ensure that no child is left behind.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Release of civilian hostages held in Gaza and arbitrarily detained Palestinians must be immediate and not hinge on ceasefire negotiations

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The release of Israeli and foreign national civilians held hostage by Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza, and Palestinians arbitrarily detained by Israel, must take place immediately and should not be contingent on the outcome of political negotiations over the next phase of the ceasefire, said Amnesty International, as the first phase of the hostage-prisoner swap deal draws to a close.

    Overnight on 26/27 February, Hamas returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of 640 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, as part of the last exchange deal under the first phase of the ceasefire agreement. The release of Palestinian prisoners had been delayed by Israel in previous days. Negotiations over the second phase of the ceasefire are set to agree the release of remaining Israeli hostages and further Palestinian detainees and prisoners, as well as a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and a permanent end to hostilities.

    “Israeli and foreign hostages and Palestinian detainees must not be treated as political pawns in a despicable power struggle over the next phase of the ceasefire deal. Only a durable ceasefire, including unhindered humanitarian assistance for Gaza, will end suffering for all. But the release of both civilian hostages and Palestinians arbitrarily detained – especially those held without charges or trial – should not be a matter of negotiation; it is a matter of international law. Hostage taking is a war crime. There can be no justification for abducting anyone to use as a hostage, nor for the prolonged, arbitrary detention of individuals to serve as bargaining chips,” said Erika Guevara Rosas, Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns at Amnesty International.

    “Israel and Hamas must release all unlawfully held individuals – immediately – regardless of the outcome of political negotiations over phase two of the ceasefire.”

    Israeli and foreign hostages and Palestinian detainees must not be treated as political pawns in a despicable power struggle over the next phase of the ceasefire deal

    Erika Guevara Rosas, Senior

    At least 59 hostages, the vast majority of them Israelis, remain in captivity in Gaza, of whom at least 24 are believed to be alive.

    Over 4,000 Palestinians are held without charge or trial either under administrative detention or based on the Unlawful Combatants’ Law, which violates international law.  

    The release of Palestinian detainees and Israeli hostages in recent weeks has raised grave concerns over inhumane treatment in custody and dire conditions of detention for both hostages in Gaza and detainees in Israel.

    At least 250 individuals, alive and dead, were taken hostage in southern Israel during the Hamas-led attacks on 7 October 2023. An Israeli forensic examination of the bodies of at least six deceased hostages retrieved in August 2024 indicates they were shot dead at close range shortly before their retrieval suggesting they were killed by their captors.

    Hamas has also withheld the bodies of two Israeli soldiers since 2014. One of those bodies was recovered by Israeli forces during a military operation in January 2025.

    Israeli media reports indicate some released hostages described being held in tunnels while in chains, deprived of food and with very limited exposure to daylight. They also reported being subjected to torture and other ill-treatment.

    Hamas has publicly paraded hostages and forced them to participate in humiliating public handover ceremonies in front of crowds. In one incident, the coffins of deceased Israeli hostages, including two children, were displayed publicly in front of a poster depicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a vampire. 

    “Outrages to personal dignity, in particular humiliating and degrading treatment, are prohibited by international humanitarian law. Yet we have witnessed hostages being paraded in public as trophies of war or coerced to participate in propaganda videos. Hamas and other armed groups must immediately put an end to these degrading spectacles and ensure all hostages and human remains are treated with respect and dignity,” said Erika Guevara Rosas.

    “All those who remain in captivity must be treated humanely and protected from torture and other ill-treatment and be given access to the International Committee of the Red Cross, and to medical care.”

    Palestinian detainees released during the ceasefire deal have also emerged from detention looking gaunt and bearing signs of torture and other ill-treatment. Amnesty International has previously documented how detainees have been subjected to enforced disappearance, incommunicado detention and widespread torture in custody including through beatings, starvation and other cruel inhuman or degrading treatment. At least 60 Palestinian detainees have died while in Israeli custody since 7 October 2023.

    “Continuing to arbitrarily hold thousands of Palestinians without any legal grounds is cruel, unjustified and blatantly unlawful. Israeli authorities must stop using arbitrary detention and refrain from holding the bodies of deceased Palestinians as bargaining chips. Until the detainees are released, Israel must allow international monitors access to detention facilities. All individuals in custody must be protected from torture and provided with adequate food, water and medical treatment, as well as access to their families and lawyers,” said Erika Guevara Rosas.

    Israeli authorities also forced Palestinians to undergo degrading and humiliating treatment during their release, including forcing them to wear shirts with a Star of David logo and the slogan “we will not forget or forgive”.

    In one case in September 2024, Israeli forces also sent containers including the remains of at least 88 unidentified Palestinians to Gaza, who were then buried in a mass grave. The bodies of at least 600 Palestinians continue to be held by Israeli forces as bargaining chips under a long-standing illegal Israeli practice that predates October 2023.

    “The bodies of the deceased should never be treated as a battleground. All parties to the conflict have a clear obligation to respect and uphold the dignity of the living and the dead, including ensuring that bodies and remains are properly identified and handed over with dignity,” said Erika Guevara Rosas.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: El Salvador: Criminal law reforms exacerbate human rights violations against children and adolescents

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Serious violations of human rights in El Salvador in the context of the state of emergency have reached alarming levels, with over 84 000 detentions, many of them arbitrary, and hundreds of reports of torture, forced disappearances and deaths in state custody.

    On 12 February 2025, the Legislative Assembly approved reforms that exacerbate and facilitate continued human rights abuses, particularly against persons not yet of legal age (18 years), as documented by civil society organizations and regional and international human rights bodies.

    Amendments to the Prisons Law, the Juvenile Criminal Law and the Law against Organized Crime worsen the conditions of persons deprived of their liberty and establish a disproportionate and punitive prison treatment, particularly for children and adolescents. These reforms consolidate mass repression without adequate safeguards, which could lead to further human rights violations.

    In this regard, Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International, stated:

    The reforms that came into effect on 22 February institutionalize deprivation of liberty as the state’s only response, including for children, in clear violation of international human rights standards

    -Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International

    “Since the declaration of the state of emergency in March 2022, the government of El Salvador has dismantled due process guarantees and normalized mass detentions with insufficient evidence. The reforms that came into effect on 22 February institutionalize deprivation of liberty as the state’s only response, including for children, in clear violation of international human rights standards.”

    “Using the legislative branch to consolidate a model of unchecked repression shows that emergency rule is no longer a temporary measure, but a permanent government strategy.”

    Children treated as adults in a punitive system

    Since the declaration of the state of emergency in El Salvador, a significant number of detentions of children and adolescents have been reported. Human rights organizations indicate that more than 1000 children and adolescents have been convicted, mainly on charges of unlawful association, in proceedings characterized by a lack of sufficient evidence, pressure to plead guilty, and inhumane conditions of imprisonment.

    Reforms to the Juvenile Criminal Law will now allow the transfer of adolescents convicted of organized crime offences to adult prisons, under the administration of the General Directorate of Penal Centres, in direct violation of international standards. Both the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Beijing Rules state that children in conflict with the law should receive differentiated treatment aimed at rehabilitation, rather than simply punitive imprisonment.

    Moreover, the Prisons Law will allow the creation of special sections within prisons for children under 18 and adults up to 21 years of age, without guaranteeing an adequate system of protection and reintegration. Simply separating by age groups does not protect against violence or abuse, nor does it guarantee access to education or rehabilitation programmes.

    “With these reforms, the Salvadoran state is sentencing adolescents to a prison system designed for adults, where torture, extreme overcrowding, and the deaths in custody of more than 300 people have already been documented. Instead of ensuring their protection and reintegration, the authorities are exposing children and adolescents to inhumane conditions that may constitute torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.”

    Instead of ensuring their protection and reintegration, the authorities are exposing children and adolescents to inhumane conditions that may constitute torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment

    -Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International

    The deprivation of liberty should be a measure of last resort applied only in exceptional circumstances, as established by international standards. These reforms are in direct breach of this principle, putting the safety of thousands of young people in the country at risk.

    Harsher sentences

    Furthermore, the reforms to the Law on Organized Crime eliminate access to prison benefits, such as conditional release, for persons convicted of offences specified in the law, whether they are under 18 years of age or adults. This undermines the possibility of social reintegration, in contravention of the Mandela Rules and the American Convention on Human Rights.

    “These changes to prisons legislation consolidate a model of incarceration based on punishment and repression, with no effective judicial oversight mechanisms. Rather than guaranteeing justice, the reforms reinforce existing violations of due process and increase the risk of torture and inhumane treatment in detention centres.”

    Urgent appeal to the international community

    Amnesty International again calls on the Salvadoran authorities to allow international human rights bodies access to prison centres, and on the international community to drive independent monitoring mechanisms to document the country’s prison crisis.

    El Salvador must urgently reverse these reforms and ensure that its prison system meets international human rights standards. The country’s security policy cannot be based on mass incarceration and the weakening of legislation that guarantees the protection of people’s rights.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: An interview with Chris Chapman

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Chris Chapman is Amnesty International’s Advisor on Indigenous Peoples’ Rights. Working with communities around the world, he has seen how states continue to violate the rights of Indigenous Peoples, failing to involve them in decisions that affect them, most recently during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Inspired by the incredible people he’s met and interviewed, and his years working in human rights, Chris has now penned a research guide on how to assess whether people have been effectively involved in decisions that affect them and been able to influence them.

    Can you tell me about your role at Amnesty and what it involves?

    I am a researcher and advisor for Indigenous Peoples’ rights. I’m currently focusing on conservation and protected areas and how they impact Indigenous Peoples. Quite often, protected areas are established on lands claimed by Indigenous Peoples. For example, on the borders of Paraguay and Brazil, an Indigenous People has been evicted to make way for a hydroelectric dam. The company has created protected nature reserves around the new borders of the river, yet the displaced Indigenous People have no right to go into those nature reserves, due to lack of consultation by governments.

    I also support people at Amnesty who are doing research on the situations of Indigenous Peoples and provide advice.

    Is there a piece of research that has had a lasting impact on you?

    I was inspired by a joint project between Amnesty’s human rights education team and our Philippines office. They worked with communities all over the Philippines, shared lots of resources on running human rights campaigns, and now they apply these to the most important and pressing issues in their communities. It’s a great example of how Amnesty can share skills and experience and empowers others.

    Another inspiring experience was working with Elias Kimaiyo, an activist and leader for the Sengwer Indigenous People in Kenya. We worked together on a report that came out in 2018. Elias never had the opportunities many of us have had but it’s not held him back. He tells the truth about what is happening to the Sengwer whether it’s to his local MP, in Nairobi, or in Geneva or Brussels. He’s also an amazing photographer and video maker. While I was writing up the research, I learnt he had been out in the field filming the Kenya Forest Service who were evicting his people from their forest. He was shot at by one of the rangers and it permanently damaged his arm. But he continues the work.

    When governments take decisions that might impact on people’s human rights, there is an obligation to consult those people and involve them meaningfully in decision-making.

    Chris Chapman

    What’s the aim of Amnesty’s new research guidelines, Public participation in decision-making ?

    Amnesty’s new guide is for researchers on how to research processes of public participation in decision-making. When governments take decisions or implement projects that might impact on people’s human rights, there is usually an obligation to consult those people and involve them meaningfully in decision-making.

    This guide provides guidance to researchers who want to research such processes to make sure the government has fully complied with its obligations. The researchers could be from NGOs like Amnesty, or academics, or people from the affected communities themselves. It’s about seeing if things are being done as they should – whether that involves consulting the public on projects such as clearing informal settlement housing, building a dam, or passing a new law which will affect a particular group of people.

    The research guide is incredibly engaging – it’s beautifully presented and packed with photographs, so hopefully it’s appealing and useful to those who want to use it. Within it, there’s a series of practical tools for researchers, such as example lists of questions which you need to ask in a particular situation. For example, if a mine or a dam is being built, there is a checklist for what information communities should receive. I really hope researchers will pick it up and use it.

    Why is the guide needed?

    When the public aren’t consulted by the government on issues that affect them, it can affect their human rights negatively. In some cases, governments just tell people what they’re going to do without listening to them. In addition, Indigenous Peoples have the right to free, prior and informed consent, which means that they should be not only consulted, but that the proposal should not go ahead against their will.

    During the pandemic, governments were scrambling to take emergency action very quickly – they closed schools and learning went online. Many Indigenous communities who live in rural areas didn’t have sufficient access to the Internet. In some cases, there weren’t enough devices for a remote connection for schooling and materials weren’t provided in specific languages.  

    Aymara indigenous women walk their children to the Ladislao Cabrera school during their first week of face to face classes, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The children of the Machacamarca highlands town in Bolivia started face to face classes, due to the lack of means to access virtual education.

    Governments took steps to close down schools without taking into account the issues Indigenous peoples would face. They weren’t ready for these challenges and failed to adapt their policies, which led to a detrimental impact on children’s education. Their schooling effectively ended, causing a long-lasting impact.

    How does it feel to hear these stories?

    It’s really sad. Sometimes we talk about how human rights researchers get a bit blasé because they hear so many accounts and you’re exposed to human rights violations every day. But when you hear first-hand accounts, it’s obviously going to affect you and if it doesn’t, maybe it’s time to reach out for support, as it could be a sign that you’ve reached burn out.

    How could Indigenous Peoples be included in their government responses to emergencies?

    Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines have put an emergency response protocol in place, covering what the government should do when there’s an emergency. Initially designed for floods and hurricanes, it could easily be adapted for pandemics.

    The plan details what the government should do immediately after a disaster, as well as numerous initiatives that can be done immediately or staggered over time. It’s a great idea and if Indigenous Peoples have such a protocol, governments should comply with them, it would provide a starting point for knowing how to consult on pandemic responses.

    Finally, how did you get into this area of work?

    I was always interested in human rights. I was a member of a local Amnesty group in my twenties and passionate about dealing with injustices in the world. I travelled around and worked in Guatemala just as the peace accords had been signed, ending decades of civil conflict. There were people who had gone into exile and who wanted to return, or they had gone into hiding in remote places in Guatemala. They wanted to return to normal life, but they wanted international observers in their communities because they still didn’t trust the army. So I worked in a rainforest community for five months, teaching maths, and getting involved in the community’s activities – it was an incredible experience where people told me about what happened during the civil war. It was powerful and inspired me to work within the human rights field.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Three Federal Treasury deposit auctions will take place on 28.02.2025

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 02.28.2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025042
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 1,288,000
    Placement period, in days 4
    Date of deposit 02.28.2025
    Refund date 04.03.2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Fix
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 20.05
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds –
    Minimum spread, % per annum –
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 09:30 to 09:40
    Preliminary applications: from 09:30 to 09:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 09:35 to 09:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 09:40 to 09:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 09:40 to 10:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 10:00 to 10:50
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 10:00 to 10:50
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 02.28.2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025043
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 50,000
    Placement period, in days 182
    Date of deposit 02.28.2025
    Refund date 08/29/2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Flotting
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds Ruonmds
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Special
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 12:00 to 12:10
    Preliminary applications: from 12:00 to 12:05
    Applications in competition mode: from 12:05 to 12:10
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 12:10 to 12:20
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 12:10 to 12:30
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a RUONIA rate value published on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 02.28.2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025044
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 10,000
    Placement period, in days 4
    Date of deposit 02.28.2025
    Refund date 04.03.2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Fix
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 20.05
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds –
    Minimum spread, % per annum –
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 18:30 to 18:40
    Preliminary applications: from 18:30 to 18:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 18:35 to 18:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 18:40 to 18:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 18:40 to 18:50
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 18:50 to 19:30
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 18:50 to 19:30
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MEEX.K.M.M.

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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 28 February 2025 Donors making a difference: community engagement to promote, provide and protect the health and well-being of all

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO defines community engagement as “a process of developing relationships that enable stakeholders to work together to address health-related issues and promote well-being to achieve positive health impact and outcomes”.

    WHO’s partners and donors support the Organization to work in this area as there are undeniable benefits to engaging communities in promoting health and well-being. At its core, community engagement enables changes in behaviour, environments, policies, programmes and practices within communities.

    Below are some country stories that demonstrate the breadth of community engagement work that WHO conducts, resulting in more positive health outcomes for the people in these communities than before.

    Uganda trains district health workers on community-based approach to Ebola

    Uganda trains Community Health workers from Kole, Mukono and Wakiso districts on community-based approach to Ebola. Photo by: WHO/Sadat Kamugisha 

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health conducted a training on Ebola disease detection and management for Community Health Workers representatives from Kole, Wakiso, and Mukono districts. Participants focused on multi-sectoral action to safeguard communities from emerging zoonotic diseases with pandemic potential such as Ebola.

    Communities play an integral role in raising awareness, supporting case identification, tracing contacts, and maintaining essential health services. The emphasis on collaboration with local leaders, volunteers, and health workers is vital for effective responses to public health emergencies. Building on lessons learned from past health crises, Uganda has already made substantial advancements in emergency preparedness.

    The three-day event was supported by WHO, and the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team (UK-PHRST), which is a UK aid project funded by the Department of Health and Social care. The community protection approach is a central component of WHO’s new Health emergency prevention, preparedness, response, and resilience framework.

    Visit the WHO/Uganda web page to read the full story.

    Community engagement for access to health services in Lao PDR

    CONNECT team members discuss community health priorities in Khammouane Province, Lao PDR. Photo by: WHO/Enric Catala

    Developed by the Lao Ministry of Health and Ministry of Home Affairs in response to COVID-19 with the support of WHO and partners, the CONNECT initiative enhances local governance and community engagement for equitable access to public services, particularly health.

    Supported by USAID, the Australian Government and Luxembourg, as of July 2024, CONNECT reached over 230 villages across 10 provinces (including Vientiane Capital) and support already in-place for expansion to all provinces.

    An external evaluation of implementation in 12 villages found an increase in essential service uptake for maternal health and improved attitudes towards using primary care; increased trust in health providers; increased sense of ownership of health at community level; and increased vaccination uptake and confidence, especially among ethnic groups and previously unreached communities.

    Visit the WHO/WPRO web page to read the full story.

    Côte d’Ivoire community radios boost public awareness on mpox outbreak

    Community radios, pillar of the fight against mpox. Photo by: WHO/Toiherou De Marfere Sidibe

    A network of community radio stations, known as Radio Santé, comprises 350 stations in West African, with over half based in Côte d’Ivoire. Launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic with major support from WHO, Radio Santé has become a preferred channel for disseminating reliable, verified health information. It brings together nearly 1000 journalists and communications specialists.

    Radio Santé is an interactive and accessible tool for mobilizing communities around health issues, throughout Côte d’Ivoire and across borders. Health authorities use Radio Santé to counter rumours and misinformation, and to strengthen community engagement, which is crucial to curbing the spread of diseases such as mpox.

    After WHO declared mpox as a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024, Radio Santé devoted its health talk show to mpox. 185 Ivorian community radio stations have since broadcasted messages on mpox. Over 50 programmes have been produced and broadcast in eight countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo.

    Visit the WHO/Côte d’Ivoire web page to read the full story.

    Bolivia strengthens social participation in health for indigenous population

    Indigenous organizations are clear about their requests. They want free and equitable access to health care, an improved indigenous health network, incorporation of traditional medicine, and the consideration of the indigenous population’s culture, customs, and practices. Photo by: WHO/PAHO

    The Ministry of Health and Sports of Bolivia is engaging indigenous populations in community participation processes, creating space for them to discuss health topics, share concerns, and contribute to a health improvement plan.

    The meaningful inclusion and engagement of indigenous populations in health policy planning, taking into account the social determinants of health, is critical to ensure context-specific interventions, uptake of guidance and services, and positive health outcomes for all.

    PAHO/WHO, through the Universal Health Coverage Partnership, has supported the Ministry of Health and Sports of Bolivia in this endeavour since 2021. The UHC Partnership operates in over 125 countries, representing over 3 billion people. It is supported and funded by Belgium, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and WHO

    Visit the PAHO/AMRO web page to read the full story.

    Weaving hope in Honduras: the community wisdom that saves lives

    Maternal health in Honduras Hermelinda shares her experience. Photo by: WHO/Honduras

    In Honduras, high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality are often the result of multiple factors, including socioeconomic barriers, lack of access to adequate healthcare services, gaps in education and awareness about maternal and child health, and cultural differences.

    Hermelinda Hernández, who is familiar with the local practices and beliefs of her community and also recognizes the value of professional medical interventions, participated in the “Knowledge Dialogues Methodology” workshop organized by the Honduran Ministry of Health with the support of PAHO/WHO and funded by Global Affairs Canada.

    The workshop aimed to promote mutual understanding between midwives and healthcare providers to reach agreements that improve the health of women, and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability within the community.

    Visit the PAHO/AMRO web page to read the full story.

    Grassroots heroes in Cambodia

    Mrs Say Sa with her Baby in Cambodia’s Principal of Health Centre Kok Chuk. Photo by: Aforative media

    In Cambodia, village chiefs stepped up to create a healthier future for their communities. In villages across 25 provinces, 2000 village chiefs and nearly 5400 village health support groups received trainings, organised by the Ministry of Heath with support from WHO and the EU.

    This equipped the chiefs with knowledge and skills necessary to control transmission of COVID-19, influenza, and other respiratory diseases, and collaborate with authorities more closely on health issues facing their communities.

    The chiefs then shared their newfound knowledge during community dialogues, which then transformed how community members adopted healthier practices. Empowered with accurate information, communities embraced protective measures during times of high COVID-19 transmission.

    Visit the WHO/WPRO web page to read the full story, and more on EU’s support to WHO in ASEAN region.

    Bolstering public awareness to help curb mpox spread in Uganda

    Dr Kenneth Kabali, WHO Field Coordinator for Busoga Sub-region sensitizes the community on mpox in Mayuge district, Eastern Uganda. Photo by: WHO/Abdu Mutwalibu Seguya

    Uganda witnessed an upsurge in mpox cases, with laboratory-confirmed cases increasing from 24 as of 21 September to 413 as of 7 November 2024. Health authorities, with support from WHO and partners, worked closely with communities to raise awareness about the dangers of the disease and how to stay safe, and address misinformation and stigma.

    The risk communication and community engagement team reached more than 100 fishmongers, fisherfolk, boda boda (motorbike taxi) riders, 8000 school children and 30 sex workers. In addition, 500 teachers in the district have been oriented on mpox.

    WHO is also using mass media to expand the reach of mpox response communication. With funding from USAID, WHO has contracted 10 regional radio stations and 2 national TV stations to raise awareness and promote preventative behaviour.

    Visit the WHO/AFRO web page to read the full story.

    Combating measles: a comprehensive community-centred approach in Ethiopia

    Combating measles, a comprehensive community-centred approach in Ethiopia. Photo by: WHO/Hassen Ali

    In the districts of Sidama, Central, and South Ethiopia, access to healthcare is often challenging, exacerbated by various health emergencies. A community-led initiative made remarkable progress in combating measles, malaria, and malnutrition through collaborative efforts between local health facilities, community health workers, and government agencies.

    The initiative received significant financial support from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) bolstering community-based intervention efforts.

    By leveraging collaboration between healthcare facilities, community health workers, and local communities, this initiative represents a beacon of hope in improving healthcare access and outcomes in regions of Ethiopia.

    Visit the WHO/Ethiopia web page to read the full story.

    WHO races to contain malaria resurgence in southeastern Iran

    Malaria resurgence in Iran. Photo by: WHO/Iran

    A race against time is underway in southeastern Iran, where the resurgence of malaria threatens to undo years of progress. The dramatic rise in cases has been attributed to the devastating floods in neighbouring Pakistan in September 2022 which led to an expansion of malaria breeding sites.

    WHO, with crucial support from the Government of Japan, is on the ground in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, battling this public health emergency and working to protect vulnerable communities. Japan’s generous contribution provided 4902 mosquito dome tents offering families protection from infected mosquitos, 50 000 malaria rapid diagnostic tests enabling health care workers to quickly identify and treat infected individuals, and 1655 kg of insecticides, deployed to contain mosquito populations at their source. The combined resources are estimated to benefit 77 400 people in the province.

    In December 2024, a WHO mission observed a proactive approach to malaria control demonstrated by local health workers as they conducted house-to-house screenings, distributed mosquito nets and educated communities on how to use them.

    Visit the WHO/Iran web page to read the full story.

    Mali: screening for malnutrition in affected children to avoid complications

    Screening for malnutrition in affected children to avoid complications, Mali. Photo by: WHO/Razzack Saizonou

    Malnutrition among children is one of the main health problems that the affected populations of Ségou had to face after severe floods hit Mali between July and October 2024. Having lost everything including their food reserves and their means of subsistence, people found themselves in a very precarious situation.

    Among the more than 370,000 people affected by these floods, children, who represent 45% of the affected population, are particularly vulnerable. To enable access to health care, WHO, with thanks to the Central Emergency Response Fund, supported the deployment of mobile clinics on relocation sites.

    In the Ségou region, three sites were set up and equipped with medical tents. Medical staff go there five times a month. Between July and October 2024, nearly 700 children suffering from malnutrition were identified in the three health districts of the Ségou region.

    Visit the WHO/Mali web page to read the full story in French.

    Effective community engagement saving lives in Tanzania during cholera outbreak

    Abdul Zachari, a young man is washing his hands. Photo by: WHO/Clemence Eliah

    The recurrence of Cholera outbreaks has been a threat to many lives in the United Republic of Tanzania for decades now. In mid-2024, situation reports from the Ministry of Health indicated that, the outbreak have been reported in 19 regions of Tanzania Mainland. Thanks to flexible funding available for responding to outbreaks such as this, WHO has been able to support the Government’s efforts to control cholera outbreaks. Risk Communications and Community Engagement (RCCE) Experts worked on the ground delivering an intensive community sensitization in over 92 households and 32 villages . The joint and community-based action plan against Cholera outbreak was built jointly, this way enhancing 54 community members and local authorities from the affected wards and districts. The community engagement strategies adopted generate local solutions tailored to control and prevent further transmissions in these areas. In addition, WHO applied behavioral science approaches to guide tailored interventions to community protection and resilience – and as a result, enhancing many lives in Tanzania.

    Visit the WHO/Tanzania web page to read the full story.

    * * * *

    Read more about the WHO’s community engagement work.

    The donors and partners acknowledged in this story are (in alphabetical order) Australia, Belgium, Canada, the European Union (ECHO), France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund, and the USA Agency for International Development.

    WHO’s work is made possible through all contributions of our Member States and partners. WHO thanks all donor countries, governments, organizations and individuals who are contributing to the Organization’s work, with special appreciation for those who provide fully flexible contributions to maintain a strong, independent WHO.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/SOUTH KOREA – Fertility rate reverses trend: Church community works to restore hope

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Foto di sq lim su Unsplash

    Seoul (Agenzia Fides) – The number of newborns and the fertility rate in South Korea are bucking the trend and rising for the first time in nine years of steady decline. According to the 2024 demographic trends, data released by the Korea Institute of Statistics, the number of births last year was 238,300, 8,300 more than the previous year, representing the first increase in the number of births since 2015. The fertility rate, i.e. the number of children a woman has in her lifetime, meanwhile rose to 0.75, an increase of 0.03 compared to the previous year. However, according to the report, Korea’s fertility rate is still well below the average of 1.51 for member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). According to the Institute of Statistics, there are three reasons for the increase in the number of births: an increase in the population in the fertile age group, an increase in marriages that have been delayed by the pandemic, and also the beginning of a “cultural” shift in young people’s values regarding marriage. Joo Hyung-hwan, vice chairman of the government’s Low Birth Rate and Aging Society Committee, which was set up specifically to deal with these phenomena, said, “This year, the number of newborns will increase by 10,000 compared to last year, to about 250,000, and the total fertility rate will be about 0.79,” referring to the number of pregnancy and childbirth registrations received at workplaces. “The positive changes are obvious,” he said, emphasizing “that this is the result of the joint efforts of not only the government, but also companies and local authorities.” To counter the low birth rate, the government plans to expand parental leave for men, increase tax support for companies that excel in balancing work and family life, and require companies to raise awareness among their employees about work-life balance.In 2024, President Yoon Suk Yeol, currently under impeachment, proposed a new ministry to address the “national demographic crisis,” taking a more comprehensive approach that would not only focus on financial support and childcare, but also – as a broad national debate has shown – address the culture so that a balance between work and family can be found. To this end, companies would be encouraged to encourage their employees to become parents. In June 2024, the committee announced a package of “measures to reverse the trend of low birth rates.” A change in social practices and the work system could prove crucial in a country where the birth rate has fallen to the lowest in the world over the past decade.Sociologists have noted that Korean women have prioritized career advancement over marriage or parenthood, and another contributing factor has been the rising cost of housing and living and the cost of raising a child. But now, economists say, the demographic crisis has become the biggest risk to the growth of Asia’s fourth-largest economy and its social security system, as the population of 51 million could halve by the end of the century if the trend is not reversed.Father Oh Seok-jun, head of the Seoul Archdiocese Committee for Life, urged people not to view the low birth rate as “just a matter of numbers,” nor as a phenomenon that can be tackled with reproductive technologies, as some claim. It is necessary to “look at the issue from a spiritual and hopeful point of view”: “A child is a gift of grace granted by the Lord through the perfect union of love between a man and a woman. This is why the Catholic Church, in its pastoral care with young people and couples, invites them to look to the future with hope.” This is an approach that also characterizes the Holy Year under the motto “Pilgrims of Hope.” In this context, the Yeokchon-dong parish of the Archdiocese of Seoul held a “Blessing Ceremony for Families with Three or More Children” on February 23 to sensitize couples to the protection of life and to overcome the serious crisis of the low birth rate in Korea. Yuliana Kim Min-jeong, head of the family department in the parish, said: “It was good for the faithful to see how couples with three children live a life of faith and turn to the Lord in these rough times. We hope that their testimony will have a positive influence and give encouragement and hope to young couples.” At the level of mentality and social trends, a culture that tends towards individualism and questions the couple relationship must also be overcome. According to the census conducted by the Korea Statistics Institute, the percentage of single-person households in Korea exceeded 35 percent in 2023. In 2000, there were 2.2 million single-person households in the country, in 2015 there were over 5 million, and in 2023 there were 7.8 million. The Catholic Church, especially in the context of pastoral care for young adults, plays an active role in supporting those who, after entering the world of work, choose to live alone and create a “single” household: the aim is to propose to them forms of positive socialization that allow them to open up to others and develop interpersonal relationships, looking at their lives from the perspective of self-giving and not only from the perspective of self-interest. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 28/2/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY HON. FALEOMAVAEGA TITIMAEA TAFUA, MINISTER OF MCIL AT THE SIGNING OF THE SAMOA DECENT WORK COUNTRY PROGRAM 2024-2028. – 20th February 2025.

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    Reverend, Houlton Faasau

    Regional Director for the ILO in the Pacific – Mr Martin Wandera,

    ILO Officials from Fiji and the National ILO Coordinator in Samoa,

    Members of the Samoa National Tripartite Forum (SNTF),

    Members of the National Occupational Safety and Health (NOSH) Taskforce,

    Members of the Child Labour Taskforce,

    Senior Executives of Government Agencies, Private Sector and Non-Government Organizations,

    Distinguished Partners and Guests;

    Talofa lava with a smile,

    A smile is one of the identities of the Pacific people which is part of our great hospitality to welcome all visitors to our beautiful shores.

    It is a new day and further testament to the merciful Grace of our Father in Heaven, through His divine leadership and protection over our great nation.

    In particular, the Government of Samoa and its people welcome the ILO Regional Director in the Pacific, Mr Martin Wandera with warm greetings from another Pacific Island, the paradise and the pearl of the Pacific, Samoa, Talofa lava.

    I am sure we are joined in the belief that Samoa is a blessed nation, mostly when we continue to witness on a daily basis the suffering and grief we have been spared from, the long effect of Covid-19, Whooping Cough, climate change crisis, and all its worst scenarios we foresee on media or surrounding environment in the face of developments. Yet; we are here today, building a strong future, the future of decent work and commitment to fair labour conditions for our people and for all.

    Todays’ event marks another milestone for the signing of our fourth Decent Work Country Program since Samoa became a member of the ILO. The government can not achieve the set priorities under this program without the support and contributions from our employers and workers, civil society and all others. They have played a major role to ensure public and private partnerships as well as employer and employee relationships define how we effectively implement this program as we did in the previous programs. With any labour work; we encounter problems, and with problems, we learn lessons and educate ourselves to come up with solutions.

    The Decent Work Country Programs (DWCP) is the framework for delivering ILOs support to promote Decent Work for all of its member countries. The priorities of the DWCP are aligned with the Pathway for the Development of Samoa, the United Nations Pacific Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-2027, and its contribution to achieve the 2030 Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals.

    We acknowledge the ongoing determinations and commitment by the ILO in supporting the labour system in Samoa through a variety of activities and the development of this new DWCP. However, the end of a tunnel, is the beginning of a new journey. The journey of ensuring implementation and planning and evaluations are in good grounds, for the future of Samoa in decent work programs.

    In addition, we acknowledge the great effort and contributions from our stakeholders in the government, private sector, civil societies and everyone who have played their part to ensure we achieve the priority areas of our Decent Work Country Program within the next four years. Without your deep assurance and support, our goals could not be achieved.

    May our Lord be the center of every work we do, so that the achievements of our work today, will be enjoyed by our people living tomorrow.

    I wish you all a pleasant day.

    God Bless

    Faafetai tele lava

    Saunoaga Autu Afioga i le Minisita o Pisinisi, Alamanuia ma Leipa le afioga Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua i le sainiga o le Lona 4 o Polokalame ma Galuega Talafeagai a Samoa 2024-2028

    (Aso Tofi, 20 Fepuari 2025, Tanoa Tusitala, 9.00am)

    Susuga i le faafeagaiga, Houlton Faasau

    Faatonu Sili a le Faalapotopotoga Faavaomalo o Leipa i le Pasefika, Mr Martin Wandera;

    Faapea ma ana Ofisa Soo Upu mai le Malo o Fiti ma Samoa nei

    Sui ole Fono Aoao Faatafatolu o Samoa

    Sui a le Komiti Faafoe o le Saogalemu ma le Soifua Maloloina i Samoa

    Sui o le Komiti Faafoe mo le Faafaigaluegaina o Fanau

    Ofisa Sili o Matagaluega ma Ofisa a le Malo, Pisinisi Tumaoti ma Faalapotopotoga Tumaoti

    Ma le mamalu i Paaga ma Valaaulia

    Talofa Lava ma le laufofoga fiafia,

    Manatu o lenei faamoemoe, o lea ua tufala tulima le lupe sa talifau i le atu folasa o Tupu, ina ua mae’a ona megamega i tafua le aneanea, ae fa’atili foemuli le Tautai sa fai ma To’o taumua; ma le folauga ua tutaga eleele i lenei taeao ua manū to mai lagi. Malo afua; malo ua maua ile Alofa ma le Agalelei ole Silisili Ese.

    O paia ole taeao ma le aso e le toe faafuluina faa-ie se’ese’e a matuau’u, aua e tala-tau Toga, ae tala Tofi Samoa, ile afua mai ile matāsaua ole Tuimanua, se’ia pā’ia le si’uolefanua na malele ai le Nafanua, tali i Lagi se Ao o lou Mālo. E Faigata Tama ma o latou Aiga, Aiga foi ma Tama, usoga Tumua ma Pule, Ituau ma Alataua, Aiga i le Tai ma le Vaa o Fonoti. Ae matua le tu’u le aufai tatalo isi o tatou atunuu, Tulou, tulouna lava.

    Ua tatou aofia poto i lenei taeao, sei o tatou molimauina le sainiga o le lona 4 o Polokalame mo Galuega Talafeagai (DWCP) a Samoa, e faavae mai i fuafuaga a le Faalapotopotoga Faavaomalo o Leipa mo ona sui auai. E faafetaia ai le lagolagosua a sui ole Fono Aoao Faatafatolu a Samoa (SNTF), sui o Komiti Faafoe ole Saogalemu ma le Soifua Maloloina faapea ma le Faafaigaluegaina o Fanau, o matagaluega ma faalapotopotoga a le Malo, ma le Vaega tumaoti, aua le lauliliuina o lenei polokalama ina ia ‘ausia matāti’a ua faata’atitia, mo le atinaeina o galuega e gafatia ma talafeagai aua se soifua manuia o nai o tatou tagata.

    Ia manuia tele lo tatou faamoemoe i lenei taeao.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Address by Prime Minister Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa at the Farewell reception for the outgoing UN Resident Coordinator

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    Taumeasina Island Resort, Tuesday 18 February 18:30pm

    Talofa lava and good evening to you all.

    I am happy to join you this evening to bid farewell to Mr. Themba Kalua, who has served with dedication and commitment as the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau.

    Let me first of all acknowledge the successful conclusion of the Government of Samoa–UN Country Implementation Plan (CIP) Workshop today, which brought together government officials, UN agencies, and stakeholders to set the priorities for our cooperation over the next three years. I am grateful to all who contributed their time, expertise, and insights to this important process.

    Mr. Kalua, your tenure has been marked by steadfast leadership in strengthening the partnership between Samoa and the United Nations. Your efforts have added to Samoa’s voice and priorities being heard in regional and global discussions; your advocacy has led to increased UN technical expertise and engagement in areas important to our national development.

    Notably, your tenure, though shortened, has fostered a more coordinated and integrated UN engagement, aligning with the UN Secretary-General’s reform agenda, which Samoa has strongly supported.

    I would like to highlight three significant achievements of your tenure:

    1️. Advancing Samoa’s SDG Implementation & National Priorities through the joint UN technical support for the preparation of Samoa’s Third Voluntary National Review (VNR), which was successfully presented at the High-Level Political Forum last year.

    Additionally, we appreciate your support for the SDG Acceleration Initiative which the UN launched last year to help drive targeted actions in climate action including NDC 3.0, food systems transformation, gender-based violence, non-communicable diseases and economic development. The joint programs launched have reinforced collaborative, high-impact solutions to some of our development challenges.

    2. UN’s Support to CHOGM 2024.

    Samoa’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in October 2024 was a historic milestone. We thank you for your role in mobilizing and coordinating UN technical support to forums and events at CHOGM.

    3. Hosting the UN Secretary-General in Samoa

    Your leadership also ensured the successful hosting of the historic visit of the United Nations Secretary-General to Samoa last year. This visit reinforced the importance of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the global development agenda and reaffirmed Samoa’s role as a strong advocate for climate action, resilience, and sustainable development.

    We are pleased to know that you will continue to influence the global agenda in ways that matter to Samoa and other SIDS in your new post.

    Congratulations on your appointment as Director for the Pact for the Future Implementation in the Executive Office of the UN Secretary-General.

    Samoa contributed to this landmark resolution, and we look forward to working with you in your new capacity to ensure that the unique challenges and aspirations of our region remain visible and well-supported at the highest levels of the UN.

    We value our partnership with the United Nations, and I am confident that the Samoa UN Country Team will continue to build upon the strong foundation you and your predecessors have helped establish.

    On behalf of the Government and people of Samoa, I would like to express my gratitude for your service to Samoa. We wish you all the very best and look forward to continuing our collaboration in your new role.

    SOIFUA

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  • MIL-OSI: Boralex reports net earnings of $74 million for fiscal 2024 and continues construction of its large-scale projects in Québec, Ontario and the United Kingdom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex Inc. (“Boralex” or the “Corporation”) (TSX: BLX) is pleased to report its results for the three-month period and year ended December 31, 2024.

    Highlights
    Financial results

    • EBITDA(A)1, operating income and net earnings under pressure in Q4-2024 owing to adverse wind and hydropower conditions
      • Production 16% (11% on a Combined1 basis)2 lower than in Q4-2023 and 16% (12%) below anticipated production1, due primarily to the adverse climate conditions. For fiscal 2024 overall, production was 5% (2%) lower than in 2023 and 10% (8%) below anticipated production.
      • EBITDA(A) of $169 million ($191 million) for Q4-2024, down $33 million ($38 million) from Q4-2023. For fiscal 2024, EBITDA(A) was $581 million ($670 million), up $3 million (down $5 million) from 2023. The decrease in production was partly offset by the contribution of newly commissioned sites in France and the positive impact of the electricity selling price optimization strategy.
      • Operating income of $78 million ($53 million) for Q4-2024, down $20 million ($66 million) from Q4-2023. For fiscal 2024, operating income totalled $226 million ($267 million), unchanged (down $39 million) from 2023.
      • Net loss of $2 million in Q4-2024, down $60 million from T4-2023. For fiscal 2024, net earnings amounted to $74 million, $41 million lower than in 2023. Excluding the impairment of an asset, net earnings would have been $6 million higher in fiscal 2024 compared to fiscal 2023.
    • Lower cash flow related to operating activities for the quarter but balance sheet remains strong
      • Net cash flows related to operating activities of $31 million for Q4-2024 and $215 million for fiscal 2024, compared to $107 million for Q4-2023 and $496 million for fiscal 2023.
      • Discretionary cash flows1 of $47 million for Q4-2024 and $158 million for fiscal 2024, down $44 million from Q4-2023 and $26 million from fiscal 2023.
      • Boralex has $592 million in cash and cash equivalents and $523 million in available cash resources and authorized financing1 as at December 31, 2024.
      • A record of nearly $1.2 billion in project financing, bridge financing and letter of credit facilities obtained in 2024.

    Update on development and construction activities

    • Portfolio of projects under development and growth path totalling 8,005 MW in the high growth potential markets of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and France, 1,227 MW or 18% higher than in 2023
    • Progress in under-construction and ready-to-build projects
      • Start of electrification of the Limekiln wind farm in the United Kingdom (106 MW) in February 2025, with full commissioning planned for early April, and work continues on the Apuiat wind farm in Quebec (total 200 MW, Boralex’s share 100 MW), with commissioning planned for the first half of 2025.
      • Construction of the Hagersville (300 MW) and Tilbury (80 MW) storage projects in Ontario progressing on schedule, with commissioning planned for the fourth quarter of 2025. Financings closed in December 2024.
      • Start of work on the Des Neiges Sud wind project in Quebec (total 400 MW, Boralex’s share 133 MW), with commissioning scheduled for 2026.
    • Acquisition of the Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension project in the United Kingdom, with an installed capacity of 145 MW, and the adjacent battery energy storage system (BESS) with a maximum capacity of 50 MW, for a total capacity of 195 MW. Boralex has a 50% interest, but has control over the project and will fully consolidate the results in the financial statements.
    1 EBITDA(A) is a total of segment measures. Anticipated production is an additional financial measure. “Combined,” “discretionary cash flows” and “available cash resources and authorized financing” are non-GAAP financial measures and do not have a standardized definition under IFRS. Consequently, these measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. For more details, see the Non-IFRS financial measures and other financial measures section of this press release.
    2 Figures in brackets indicate results on a Combined basis as opposed to a Consolidated basis.
       

    “The year 2024 proved to be full of challenges, which our employees met head-on. I would highlight in particular the significant effort our team invested in 2024 to secure nearly $1.2 billion in financing, a record for Boralex, on very good terms. Despite high volatility in the financial markets and pressure on the stock prices of renewable energy companies, notably in the wake of the American elections, we are convinced that renewable energy development will continue in many regions. Strong growth in electricity demand is expected in the regions where we are developing wind and solar farms and battery storage systems, namely Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States and France,” said Patrick Decostre, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boralex.

    Renewable energy, which is the most competitive type of energy, can be brought on line to meet demand much faster than other types of energy. Boralex is in a position to capitalize on its project pipeline and growth path, which now represent more than 8 GW of power, and will continue to develop key projects with rates of return in line with its targets.

    “Boralex saw its financial results decline in fiscal 2024, mainly as a result of adverse wind conditions in France and to a lesser extent in Canada, as well as impairment of an asset. During the year, we continued to implement our various initiatives aimed at optimizing administrative, financial and development costs. We ended our 2024 financial year with net earnings of $74 million, a strong balance sheet and good financial flexibility, with over $500 million in available cash resources and authorized financing,” Mr. Decostre added.

    Boralex continues to excel on the corporate social responsibility front. In 2024, the Corporation announced that it was one of the few in the industry to have had its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This recognition shows Boralex’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. In addition, Boralex ranked 94th out of the 215 S&P/TSX Composite Index companies and trusts analysed as part of The Board Games, with a score of 80/100, while in 2023 it was 102nd with a score of 76. Finally, Boralex placed 15th in the ranking of Canada’s 50 best corporate citizens, out of the 340 leading Canadian organizations analysed.

    4th quarter highlights

    Three-month periods ended December 31

      Consolidated Combined
    (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise specified)   2024     2023 Change   2024     2023 Change
            $   %           $   %  
    Power production (GWh)1   1,520     1,814   (294 ) (16 )   2,099     2,351   (252 ) (11 )
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium   228     315   (87 ) (28 )   258     345   (87 ) (25 )
    Operating income   78     98   (20 ) (21 )   53     119   (66 ) (55 )
    EBITDA(A)   169     202   (33 ) (17 )   191     229   (38 ) (17 )
    Net earnings (loss)   (2 )   58   (60 ) >(100 )    (2 )   58   (60 ) >(100 )
    Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders of Boralex   (16 )   37   (53 ) >(100 )    (16 )   37   (53 ) >(100 )
    Per share – basic and diluted   ($0.15 ) $0.36   ($0.51 ) >(100 )    ($0.15 ) $0.36   ($0.51 ) >(100 )
    Net cash flows related to operating activities   31     107   (76 ) (71 )   —     —   —   —  
    Cash flows from operations2   105     161   (56 ) (35 )   —     —   —   —  
    Discretionary cash flows   47     91   (44 ) (48 )   —     —   —   —  
                                             

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, Boralex produced 1,520 GWh (2,099 GWh) of power, 16% (11%) less than the 1,814 GWh (2,351 GWh) produced in the same quarter of 2023. The decrease was mainly attributable to adverse weather conditions. As a result, Boralex ended the quarter with total production that was 16% (12%) below anticipated production.

    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums for the three-month period ended December 31, 2024, amounted to $228 million ($258 million), 28% (25%) lower than in the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease was mainly attributable to the lower production. EBITDA(A) amounted to $169 million ($191 million), down 17% (17%) from the fourth quarter of 2023. The decline in production was partly offset by the contribution of new assets commissioned in France and the positive impact of the electricity selling price optimization strategy. Operating income totalled $78 million ($53 million), compared to $98 million ($119 million) for the same quarter of 2023. The Company posted a net loss of $2 million, which represents a $60 million decrease from the $58 million in net earnings reported for the fourth quarter of 2023.

    1 Power production includes the production for which Boralex received financial compensation following power generation limitations as management uses this measure to evaluate the Corporation’s performance. This adjustment facilitates the correlation between power production and revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium.
    2 The cash flows from operations is a non-GAAP financial measure and does not have a standardized meaning under IFRS. Accordingly, it may not be comparable to similarly named measures used by other companies. For more details, see the Non-IFRS and other financial measures section of this press release.
       

    Years ended December 31

      Consolidated Combined

    (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise specified)

    		   2024   2023 Change   2024   2023 Change
            $   %           $   %  
    Power production (GWh)1   5,691   5,973   (282 ) (5 )   7,845   8,020   (175 ) (2 )
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium   817   994   (177 ) (18 )   933   1,104   (171 ) (15 )
    Operating income   226   226   —   —     267   306   (39 ) (12 )
    EBITDA(A)   581   578   3   —     670   675   (5 ) (1 )
    Net earnings   74   115   (41 ) (35 )   74   115   (41 ) (35 )
    Net earnings attributable to shareholders of Boralex   36   78   (42 ) (54 )   36   78   (42 ) (54 )
    Per share – basic and diluted $0.35 $0.76 ($0.41 ) (54 ) $0.35 $0.76 ($0.41 ) (54 )
    Net cash flows related to operating activities   215   496   (281 ) (57 )   —   —   —   —  
    Cash flows from operations   415   445   (30 ) (7 )   —   —   —   —  
    Discretionary cash flows   158   184   (26 ) (14 )   —   —   —   —  
      As at
    Dec. 31    		 As at
    Dec. 31    		 Change As at
    Dec. 31    		 As at
    Dec. 31    		 Change
            $   %           $   %  
    Total assets   7,604   6,574   1,030   16     8,476   7,304   1,172   16  
    Debt – principal balance   4,032   3,327   705   21     4,588   3,764   824   22  
    Total project debt   3,608   2,844   764   27     4,166   3,281   885   27  
    Total corporate debt   424   483   (59 ) (12 )   424   483   (59 ) (12 )
                                         

    For the year ended December 31, 2024, Boralex produced 5,691 GWh (7,845 GWh) of power, less than the 5,973 GWh (8,020 GWh) produced during the same period in 2023. Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, amounted to $817 million ($933 million), down $177 million ($171 million) or 18% (15%) from the same period in 2023.

    EBITDA(A) amounted to $581 million ($670 million), up $3 million (down $5 million) from the same period last year. Operating income totalled $226 million ($267 million), essentially unchanged (down $39 million) from the same period in 2023. Overall, Boralex posted net earnings of $74 million ($74 million) for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $115 million ($115 million) for fiscal 2023.

    1 Power production includes the production for which Boralex received financial compensation following power generation limitations imposed by its customers since management uses this measure to evaluate the Corporation’s performance. This adjustment facilitates the correlation between power production and revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums.
       

    Outlook

    Boralex’s 2025 Strategic Plan is built around the same four strategic directions as the plan launched in 2019 – growth, diversification, customers and optimization – and six corporate targets. The details of the plan, which also sets out Boralex’s corporate social responsibility strategy, are found in the Corporation’s annual report. Highlights of the main achievements for the 2024 financial year in relation to the 2025 Strategic Plan can be found in the 2024 Annual Report, in the Investors section of the Boralex website.

    In the coming quarters, Boralex will continue to work on its various initiatives under the strategic plan, including project development, analysis of acquisition targets and optimization of power sales and operating costs. The Corporation will present a new plan for the period to 2030 during the course of 2025.

    Finally, to fuel its organic growth, the Corporation has a portfolio of projects under development and growth path based on clearly identified criteria, totalling more than 8 GW of wind, solar and energy storage projects.

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has more than doubled to over 3.1 GW. We are developing a portfolio of projects in development and construction of more than 8 GW in wind, solar and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, our discipline, our expertise and our diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit www.boralex.com or www.sedarplus.ca. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

    Non-IFRS measures
    Performance measures

    In order to assess the performance of its assets and reporting segments, Boralex uses performance measures. Management believes that these measures are widely accepted financial indicators used by investors to assess the operational performance of a company and its ability to generate cash through operations. The non-IFRS and other financial measures also provide investors with insight into the Corporation’s decision making as the Corporation uses these non-IFRS financial measures to make financial, strategic and operating decisions. The non-IFRS and other financial measures should not be considered as substitutes for IFRS measures.

    These non-IFRS and other financial measures are derived primarily from the audited consolidated financial statements, but do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS; accordingly, they may not be comparable to similarly named measures used by other companies. Non-IFRS and other financial measures are not audited. They have important limitations as analytical tools and investors are cautioned not to consider them in isolation or place undue reliance on ratios or percentages calculated using these non-IFRS financial measures.

    Non-IFRS financial measures
    Specific financial
    measure    		 Use Composition Most directly
    comparable IFRS
    measure
    Financial data – Combined (all disclosed financial data) To assess the operating performance and the ability of a company to generate cash from its operations and investments in joint ventures and associates. Results from the combination of the financial information of Boralex Inc. under IFRS and the share of the financial information of the Interests.

    Interests in the Joint Ventures and associates, Share in earnings (losses) of the Joint Ventures and associates and Distributions received from the Joint Ventures and associates are then replaced with Boralex’s respective share in the financial statements of the Interests (revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, etc.)

    		 Respective financial data – Consolidated
    Discretionary cash flows To assess the cash generated from operations and the amount available for future development or to be paid as dividends to common shareholders while preserving the long-term value of the business.

    Corporate objectives for 2025 from the strategic plan.

    		 Net cash flows related to operating activities before “change in non-cash items related to operating activities,” less
    (i) distributions paid to non-controlling shareholders;
    (ii) additions to property, plant and equipment (maintenance of operations);
    (iii) repayments on non-current debt (projects) and repayments to tax equity investors;
    (iv) principal payments related to lease liabilities;
    (v) adjustments for non-operational items; plus
    (vi) development costs (from the statement of earnings).    		 Net cash flows related to operating activities
    Cash flows from operations To assess the cash generated by the Company’s operations and its ability to finance its expansion from these funds. Net cash flows related to operating activities before changes in non-cash items related to operating activities. Net cash flows related to operating activities
    Non-IFRS financial measures
    Specific financial
    measure    		 Use Composition Most directly
    comparable IFRS
    measure
    Available cash and cash equivalents To assess the cash and cash equivalents available, as at balance sheet date, to fund the Corporation’s growth. Represents cash and cash equivalents, as stated on the balance sheet, from which known short-term cash requirements are excluded. Cash and cash equivalents
    Available cash resources and authorized financing To assess the total cash resources available, as at balance sheet date, to fund the Corporation’s growth. Results from the combination of credit facilities available to fund growth and the available cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents
    Other financial measures – Total of segments measure
    Specific financial measure Most directly comparable IFRS measure
    EBITDA(A) Operating income
    Other financial measures – Supplementary Financial Measures
    Specific financial measure Composition
    Credit facilities available for growth The credit facilities available for growth include the unused tranche of the parent company’s credit facility, apart from the accordion clause, as well as the unused tranche credit facilities of subsidiaries which includes the unused tranche of the credit facility- France and the unused tranche of the construction facility.
    Anticipated production For older sites, anticipated production by the Corporation is based on adjusted historical averages, planned commissioning and shutdowns and, for all other sites, on the production studies carried out.
       

    Combined

    The following tables reconcile Consolidated financial data with data presented on a Combined basis:

        2024     2023  
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) Consolidated   Reconciliation(1)   Combined   Consolidated  Reconciliation(1) Combined  
    Three-month periods ended December 31:              
    Power production (GWh)(2) 1,520   579   2,099   1,814 537 2,351  
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium 228   30   258   315 30 345  
    Operating income 78   (25 ) 53   98 21 119  
    EBITDA(A) 169   22   191   202 27 229  
    Net earnings (loss) (2 ) —   (2 ) 58 — 58  
    Years ended December 31:                    
    Power production (GWh)(2) 5,691   2,154   7,845   5,973 2,047 8,020  
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums 817   116   933   994 110 1,104  
    Operating income 226   41   267   226 80 306  
    EBITDA(A) 581   89   670   578 97 675  
    Net earnings 74   —   74   115 — 115  
      As at December 31, 2024
    		   As at December 31, 2023
    		  
    Total assets 7,604   872   8,476   6,574 730 7,304  
    Debt – Principal balance 4,032   556   4,588   3,327 437 3,764  
    (1) Includes the respective contribution of joint ventures and associates as a percentage of Boralex’s interest less adjustments to reverse recognition of these interests under IFRS. This contribution is attributable to the North America segment’s wind farms and includes corporate expenses of $2 million under EBITDA(A) for the year ended December 31, 2024 ($2 million as at December 31, 2023). 
    (2) Includes compensation following electricity production limitations.
       

    EBITDA(A)

    EBITDA(A) is a total of segment financial measures and represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted to exclude other items such as acquisition and integration costs, other losses (gains), net loss (gain) on financial instruments and foreign exchange loss (gain), with the last two items included under Other.

    EBITDA(A) is used to assess the performance of the Corporation’s reporting segments.

    EBITDA(A) is reconciled to the most comparable IFRS measure, namely, operating income, in the following table:

      2024       2023   Change 2024 vs 2023
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) Consolidated Reconciliation(1) Combined Consolidated Reconciliation(1) Combined Consolidated   Combined
    		  
    Three-month periods ended December 31:            
    EBITDA(A) 169   22   191   202   27   229   (33 ) (38 )
    Amortization (73 ) (15 ) (88 ) (75 ) (14 ) (89 ) 2   1  
    Impairment —   (47 ) (47 ) (20 ) (1 ) (21 ) 20   (26 )
    Other gains (losses) (3 ) —   (3 ) 1   (1 ) —   (4 ) (3 )
    Share in earnings of joint ventures and associates (3 ) 3   —   (17 ) 17   —   14   —  
    Change in fair value of a derivative included in the share in earnings of a joint venture —   —   —   7   (7 ) —   (7 ) —  
    Impairment included in the share in earnings of a joint venture (12 ) 12   —   —   —   —   (12 ) —  
    Operating income 78   (25 ) 53   98   21   119   (20 ) (66 )
                 
    Years ended December 31:            
    EBITDA(A) 581   89   670   578   97   675   3   (5 )
    Amortization (297 ) (59 ) (356 ) (293 ) (58 ) (351 ) (4 ) (5 )
    Impairment (5 ) (47 ) (52 ) (20 ) (1 ) (21 ) 15   (31 )
    Other gains 5   —   5   1   2   3   4   2  
    Share in earnings of joint ventures and associates (46 ) 46   —   (59 ) 59   —   13   —  
    Change in fair value of a derivative included in the share in earnings of a joint venture —   —   —   19   (19 ) —   (19 ) —  
    Impairment included in the share in earnings of a joint venture (12 ) 12   —   —   —   —   (12 ) —  
    Operating income 226   41   267   226   80   306   —   (39 )
    (1) Includes the respective contribution of joint ventures and associates as a percentage of Boralex’s interest less adjustments to reverse recognition of these interests under IFRS.
       

    Cash flow from operations and discretionary cash flows

    The Corporation computes the cash flow from operations and discretionary cash flows as follows:

      Consolidated
      Three-month periods ended Years ended
      December 31 December 31
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) 2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Net cash flows related to operating activities 31   107   215   496  
    Change in non-cash items relating to operating activities 74   54   200   (51 )
    Cash flows from operations 105   161   415   445  
    Repayments on non-current debt (projects)(1) (53 ) (50 ) (240 ) (232 )
    Adjustment for non-operating items(2) 5   2   7   6  
      57   113   182   219  
    Principal payments related to lease liabilities(3) (6 ) (4 ) (19 ) (17 )
    Distributions paid to non-controlling shareholders(4) (17 ) (33 ) (52 ) (57 )
    Additions to property, plant and equipment (maintenance of operations)(5) (3 ) 2   (10 ) (6 )
    Development costs (from statement of earnings)(6) 16   13   57   45  
    Discretionary cash flows 47   91   158   184  
    (1) Includes repayments on non-current debt (projects) and repayments to tax equity investors, and excludes VAT bridge financing, early debt repayments and repayments under the construction facility – Boralex Energy Investments portfolio and the CDPQ Fixed Income Inc. term loan.
    (2) For the years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, favourable adjustment consisting mainly of acquisition, integration and other non-operating miscellaneous items.
    (3) Excludes the principal payments related to lease liabilities for projects under development and construction.
    (4) Comprises distributions paid to non-controlling shareholders as well as the portion of discretionary cash flows attributable to the non-controlling shareholder of Boralex Europe Sàrl.
    (5) Excludes the additions to the property, plant and equipment of regulated assets (treated as assets under construction since they are regulated assets for which investments in the plant are considered in the setting of its electricity selling price). During the fourth quarter of 2023, an amount of $4 million was reclassified as new property, plant, and equipment under construction.
    (6) During Q1-2024, the Corporation reclassified the employee benefits for 2023 and 2024 related to its incentive plans, which were reported in full under Operating expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings. To better allocate these expenses to the Corporation’s various functions and thus provide more relevant information to users of the financial statements, the Corporation is now allocating these costs to Operating, Administrative and Development expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings according to the breakdown of staff. This change resulted in a $1 million increase in development costs for the three-month period ended December 31, 2023 and $5 million increase for the year ended December 31, 2023.
       

    Available cash and cash equivalents and available cash resources and authorized financing

    The Corporation defines available cash and cash equivalents as well as available cash resources and authorized financing as follows:

      Consolidated
      As at December 31   As at December 31  
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) 2024   2023  
    Cash and cash equivalents 592   478  
    Cash and cash equivalents held by entities subject to project debt agreement and restrictions(1) (526 ) (388 )
    Bank overdraft (5 ) (6 )
    Available cash and cash equivalents 61   84  
    Credit facilities available for growth 462   463  
    Available cash resources and authorized financing 523   547  
    (1) This cash can be used for the operations of the respective projects, but is subject to restrictions for non-project related purposes under the credit agreements.
       

    Disclaimer regarding forward-looking statements

    Certain statements contained in this release, including those related to results and performance for future periods, installed capacity targets, EBITDA(A) and discretionary cash flows, the Corporation’s strategic plan, business model and growth strategy, organic growth and growth through mergers and acquisitions, obtaining an investment grade credit rating, payment of a quarterly dividend, the Corporation’s financial targets, the projects commissioning dates, the portfolio of renewable energy projects, the Corporation’s Growth Path, the bids for new storage and solar projects and its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives are forward-looking statements based on current forecasts, as defined by securities legislation. Positive or negative verbs such as “will,” “would,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “plan,” “project,” “continue,” “intend,” “assess,” “estimate” or “believe,” or expressions such as “toward,” “about,” “approximately,” “to be of the opinion,” “potential” or similar words or the negative thereof or other comparable terminology, are used to identify such statements.

    Forward-looking statements are based on major assumptions, including those about the Corporation’s return on its projects, as projected by management with respect to wind and other factors, opportunities that may be available in the various sectors targeted for growth or diversification, assumptions made about EBITDA(A) margins, assumptions made about the sector realities and general economic conditions, competition, exchange rates as well as the availability of funding and partners. While the Corporation considers these factors and assumptions to be reasonable, based on the information currently available to the Corporation, they may prove to be inaccurate.

    Boralex wishes to clarify that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and that its results, or the measures it adopts, could be significantly different from those indicated or underlying those statements, or could affect the degree to which a given forward-looking statement is achieved. The main factors that may result in any significant discrepancy between the Corporation’s actual results and the forward-looking financial information or expectations expressed in forward-looking statements include the general impact of economic conditions, fluctuations in various currencies, fluctuations in energy prices, the risk of not renewing PPAs or being unable to sign new corporate PPA, the risk of not being able to capture the US or Canadian investment tax credit, counterparty risk, the Corporation’s financing capacity, cybersecurity risks, competition, changes in general market conditions, industry regulations and amendments thereto, particularly the legislation, regulations and emergency measures that could be implemented for time to time to address high energy prices in Europe, litigation and other regulatory issues related to projects in operation or under development, as well as certain other factors considered in the sections dealing with risk factors and uncertainties appearing in Boralex’s MD&A for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

    Unless otherwise specified by the Corporation, forward-looking statements do not take into account the effect that transactions, non-recurring items or other exceptional items announced or occurring after such statements have been made may have on the Corporation’s activities. There is no guarantee that the results, performance or accomplishments, as expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, will materialize. Readers are therefore urged not to rely unduly on these forward-looking statements.

    Unless required by applicable securities legislation, Boralex’s management assumes no obligation to update or revise forward- looking statements in light of new information, future events or other changes.

    For more information:

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TeraWulf Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Announced strategic expansion into AI-driven HPC hosting with long-term data center leases expected to generate $1 billion in cumulative revenue over initial 10-year contract terms

    Annual revenue and non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA increase 102% and 89% year-over-year, respectively

    Expanded self-mining operating capacity by 94% year-over-year to 9.7 EH/s as compared to 5.0 EH/s in 2023

    Strengthened the Balance Sheet with cash and bitcoin holdings of $275 million as of December 31, 2024

    Proactively repaid legacy term loan debt ahead of schedule and financed HPC hosting growth with new 2.75% convertible notes issuance due 2030

    Authorized $200 million share repurchase program and executed over $150 million of repurchases equivalent to over 24 million shares of Common Stock to date

    EASTON, Md., Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TeraWulf Inc. (Nasdaq: WULF) (“TeraWulf” or the “Company”), which owns and operates vertically integrated, next-generation digital infrastructure primarily powered by zero-carbon energy, today announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

    Management Commentary

    “In 2024, TeraWulf achieved significant financial and operational milestones, further solidifying our leadership in sustainable digital infrastructure,” said Paul Prager, Chief Executive Officer of TeraWulf. “We expanded our self-mining capacity to 9.7 EH/s, secured long-term data center lease agreements with a credit-worthy counterparty that are expected to generate significant recurring revenue, providing a stable foundation for long-term growth, and enhanced our financial flexibility through strategic asset monetization and capital raises. As the scarcity of digital infrastructure intensifies, we believe we are exceptionally well-positioned to scale our high-performance compute (HPC) hosting and colocation services by 100-150 MW annually.”

    Patrick Fleury, Chief Financial Officer, added, “Our disciplined financial management was reflected in our $500 million oversubscribed convertible debt offering, which strengthened our liquidity and funded our initial expansion into HPC hosting. The $85 million sale of our 25% equity interest in Nautilus allowed us to monetize an asset with a declining value at peak pricing and reinvest in Lake Mariner’s HPC hosting capabilities. Demonstrating confidence in our long-term growth, we also strategically repurchased over $150 million in shares in late 2024 and early 2025 while maintaining a strong liquidity position.”

    Paul Prager concluded, “Looking ahead, our focus is on executing the 72.5 MW of HPC hosting capacity set for delivery in 2025. With strong demand for AI-driven compute infrastructure, we see a significant opportunity to leverage our low-cost, predominantly zero-carbon energy infrastructure platform to meet this growing need. TeraWulf sits at the convergence of bitcoin mining and HPC hosting, reinforcing our role as a leader in next-generation digital infrastructure.”

    Full Year 2024 Operational and Financial Highlights

    Key financial and operational highlights for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 include:

    • Revenue increased 102% to $140.1 million in 2024, as compared to $69.2 million in fiscal 2023, driven by increased bitcoin production and higher average realized bitcoin prices during the period.
    • Cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation, increased 129% to $62.6 million in 2024, as compared to $27.3 million in fiscal 2023, driven by increased bitcoin mining capacity due to infrastructure constructed and placed in service during 2024, a near doubling of network difficulty and the impacts of the bitcoin halving in April 2024, and, to a lesser extent, an increase in realized power prices during 2024 as compared to 2023.
    • Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA increased by $28.5 million to $60.4 million in 2024, as compared to $31.9 million in fiscal 2023.
    • Reported cash and cash equivalents of $274.1 million as of December 31, 2024, as compared to $54.4 million at fiscal year-end 2023.
    • The Company’s legacy term loan debt was eliminated in 2024, as compared to $139.4 million at fiscal year-end 2023, significantly improving strategic and financial flexibility.

    Expansion into HPC Hosting

    In 2024, TeraWulf expanded into the rapidly growing digital infrastructure market with a focus on AI and HPC hosting, backed by long-term customer agreements.

    A pivotal milestone in this expansion was achieved on December 23, 2024, when TeraWulf signed long-term data center lease agreements with Core42, securing 72.5 MW of hosting capacity at Lake Mariner for GPU cloud compute workloads. These lease agreements are expected to commence at various dates in 2025 and include an option to expand by an additional 135 MW.

    To support this diversification of its business, the Company has upgraded its digital infrastructure at Lake Mariner, incorporating advanced liquid cooling systems and Tier 3 redundancy to optimize high-density compute workloads. This cutting-edge infrastructure further strengthens TeraWulf’s ability to attract hyperscale and enterprise customers.

    Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results

    Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased 102% to $140.1 million compared to $69.2 million in fiscal 2023. The increase in revenue is primarily attributable to a 129% increase in the average price of bitcoin year-over-year. The Company increased its mining capacity at Lake Mariner to 195 MW as of December 31, 2024, as compared to 110 MW as of December 31, 2023. Despite industry-wide headwinds from the April 2024 halving and network hashrate increases, TeraWulf maintained strong mining margins, leveraging its low-cost, predominantly zero-carbon infrastructure.

    Cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation, increased 129% to $62.6 million compared to $27.3 million in fiscal 2023. These increases were driven by increased bitcoin mining capacity due to infrastructure constructed and placed in service during 2024, the impacts of the bitcoin halving in April 2024 and, to a lesser extent, an increase in realized power prices during 2024 as compared to 2023.

    Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $60.4 million, as compared to $31.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    Liquidity and Capital Resources

    As of December 31, 2024, the Company held $274.5 million in cash and cash equivalents and bitcoin on its balance sheet. As of the same period, the Company had outstanding indebtedness of approximately $500 million related to the 2.75% convertible senior notes due 2030. As of February 26, 2025, TeraWulf had 383,137,722 common shares outstanding.

    Investor Conference Call and Webcast

    As previously announced, TeraWulf will host its fourth quarter and full year 2024 earnings call and business update for investors today, Friday, February 28, 2025, commencing at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (5:00 a.m. Pacific Time). Prepared remarks will be followed by a question-and-answer session with management.

    The conference call will be broadcast live and will be available for replay via “Events & Presentations” under the “Investors” section of the Company’s website at https://investors.terawulf.com/events-and-presentations/.

    About TeraWulf

    TeraWulf develops, owns, and operates environmentally sustainable, next-generation data center infrastructure in the United States, specifically designed for bitcoin mining and hosting HPC workloads. Led by a team of seasoned energy entrepreneurs, the Company owns and operates the Lake Mariner facility situated on the expansive site of a now retired coal plant in Western New York. Currently, TeraWulf generates revenue primarily through bitcoin mining, leveraging predominantly zero-carbon energy sources, including hydroelectric and nuclear power. Committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles that align with its business objectives, TeraWulf aims to deliver industry-leading economics in mining and data center operations at an industrial scale.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “plan,” “believe,” “goal,” “target,” “aim,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “seek,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “strategy,” “opportunity,” “predict,” “should,” “would” and other similar words and expressions, although the absence of these words or expressions does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and beliefs of TeraWulf’s management and are inherently subject to a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions and their potential effects. There can be no assurance that future developments will be those that have been anticipated. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements based on a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, among others: (1) the ability to mine bitcoin profitably; (2) our ability to attract additional customers to lease our HPC data centers; (3) our ability to perform under our existing data center lease agreements (4) changes in applicable laws, regulations and/or permits affecting TeraWulf’s operations or the industries in which it operates; (5) the ability to implement certain business objectives, including its bitcoin mining and HPC data center development, and to timely and cost-effectively execute related projects; (6) failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and/or on acceptable terms with regard to expansion or existing operations; (7) adverse geopolitical or economic conditions, including a high inflationary environment, the implementation of new tariffs and more restrictive trade regulations; (8) the potential of cybercrime, money-laundering, malware infections and phishing and/or loss and interference as a result of equipment malfunction or break-down, physical disaster, data security breach, computer malfunction or sabotage (and the costs associated with any of the foregoing); (9) the availability and cost of power as well as electrical infrastructure equipment necessary to maintain and grow the business and operations of TeraWulf; and (10) other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Potential investors, stockholders and other readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they were made. TeraWulf does not assume any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement after it was made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law or regulation. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements and the discussion of risk factors contained in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov.

    Non-GAAP Measures

    We have not provided reconciliations of preliminary and projected Adjusted EBITDA to the most comparable GAAP measure of net income/(loss). Providing net income/(loss) is potentially misleading and not practical given the difficulty of projecting event-driven transactional and other non-core operating items that are included in net income/(loss), including but not limited to asset impairments and income tax valuation adjustments. Reconciliations of this non-GAAP measure with the most comparable GAAP measure for historical periods is indicative of the reconciliations that will be prepared upon completion of the periods covered by the non-GAAP guidance. Please reference the “Non-GAAP financial information” accompanying our quarterly earnings conference call presentations on our website at www.terawulf.com/investors for our GAAP results and the reconciliations of these measures, where used, to the comparable GAAP measures.

    Investors:
    Investors@terawulf.com 

    Media:
    media@terawulf.com 

    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    AS OF December 31, 2024 AND 2023
    (In thousands, except number of shares, per share amounts and par value)

      December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    ASSETS      
    CURRENT ASSETS:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 274,065     $ 54,439  
    Digital currency   476       1,801  
    Prepaid expenses   2,493       4,540  
    Other receivables   3,799       1,001  
    Other current assets   598       806  
    Total current assets   281,431       62,587  
    Equity in net assets of investee   —       98,613  
    Property, plant and equipment, net   411,869       205,284  
    Operating lease right-of-use asset   85,898       10,943  
    Finance lease right-of-use asset   7,285       —  
    Other assets   1,028       679  
    TOTAL ASSETS   787,511       378,106  
           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    CURRENT LIABILITIES:      
    Accounts payable   24,382       15,169  
    Accrued construction liabilities   16,520       1,526  
    Accrued compensation   4,552       4,413  
    Other accrued liabilities   4,973       4,766  
    Share based liabilities due to related party   —       2,500  
    Other amounts due to related parties   1,391       972  
    Current portion of operating lease liability   25       48  
    Current portion of finance lease liability   2       —  
    Insurance premium financing payable   —       1,803  
    Current portion of long-term debt   —       123,465  
    Total current liabilities   51,845       154,662  
    Operating lease liability, net of current portion   3,427       899  
    Finance lease liability, net of current portion   292       —  
    Long-term debt   —       56  
    Convertible notes   487,502       —  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES   543,066       155,617  
           
    Commitments and Contingencies (See Note 12)      
           
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
    Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 100,000,000 authorized at December 31, 2024 and 2023; 9,566 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024 and 2023; aggregate liquidation preference of $12,609 and $11,423 at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.   9,273       9,273  
    Common stock, $0.001 par value, 600,000,000 and 400,000,000 authorized at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively; 404,223,028 and 276,733,329 issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.   404       277  
    Additional paid-in capital   685,261       472,834  
    Treasury Stock at cost, 18,568,750 and 0 at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively   (118,217 )     —  
    Accumulated deficit   (332,276 )     (259,895 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   244,445       222,489  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 787,511     $ 378,106  
     

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    FOR THE YEAR ENDED December 31, 2024, 2023 AND 2022
    (In thousands, except number of shares and loss per common share)

      Year Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2022  
    Revenue $ 140,051     $ 69,229     $ 15,033  
               
    Costs and expenses:          
    Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation shown below)   62,608       27,315       11,083  
    Operating expenses   3,387       2,116       2,038  
    Operating expenses — related party   4,262       2,773       1,248  
    Selling, general and administrative expenses   57,883       23,693       22,770  
    Selling, general and administrative expenses — related party   12,695       13,325       13,280  
    Depreciation   59,808       28,350       6,667  
    Gain on fair value of digital currency, net   (2,200 )     —       —  
    Realized gain on sale of digital currency   —       (3,174 )     (569 )
    Impairment of digital currency   —       3,043       1,457  
    Loss on disposals of property, plant, and equipment, net   17,824       1,209       —  
    Loss on nonmonetary miner exchange   —       —       804  
    Total costs and expenses   216,267       98,650       58,778  
               
    Operating loss   (76,216 )     (29,421 )     (43,745 )
    Interest expense   (19,794 )     (34,812 )     (24,679 )
    Loss on extinguishment of debt   (6,300 )     —       (2,054 )
    Other income   3,927       231       —  
    Loss before income tax and equity in net income (loss) of investee   (98,383 )     (64,002 )     (70,478 )
    Income tax benefit   —       —       256  
    Equity in net income (loss) of investee, net of tax   3,363       (9,290 )     (15,712 )
    Gain on sale of equity interest in investee   22,602       —       —  
    Loss from continuing operations   (72,418 )     (73,292 )     (85,934 )
    Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax   —       (129 )     (4,857 )
    Net loss $ (72,418 )   $ (73,421 )   $ (90,791 )
               
    Loss per common share:          
    Continuing operations $ (0.21 )   $ (0.35 )   $ (0.78 )
    Discontinued operations   —       —       (0.04 )
    Basic and diluted $ (0.21 )   $ (0.35 )   $ (0.82 )
               
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:          
    Basic and diluted   351,315,476       209,956,392       110,638,792  
     

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    FOR THE YEAR ENDED December 31, 2024, 2023 AND 2022
    (In thousands)

      Year Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2022  
    CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:          
    Net loss $ (72,418 )   $ (73,421 )   $ (90,791 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:          
    Amortization of debt issuance costs, commitment fees and accretion of debt discount   11,382       19,515       11,676  
    Related party expense to be settled with respect to common stock   —       2,917       2,083  
    Common stock issued for interest expense   —       26       82  
    Stock-based compensation expense   30,927       5,859       1,568  
    Depreciation   59,808       28,350       6,667  
    Amortization of right-of-use asset   1,373       1,001       303  
    Revenue recognized from digital currency mining and hosting services   (139,278 )     (63,877 )     (10,810 )
    Gain on fair value of digital currency, net   (2,200 )     —       —  
    Realized gain on sale of digital currency   —       (3,174 )     (569 )
    Impairment of digital currency   —       3,043       1,457  
    Proceeds from sale of digital currency   97,559       83,902       9,739  
    Digital currency paid as consideration for services   370       —       —  
    Loss on disposals of property, plant, and equipment, net   17,824       1,209       —  
    Loss on nonmonetary miner exchange   —       —       804  
    Loss on extinguishment of debt   6,300       —       2,054  
    Deferred income tax benefit   —       —       (256 )
    Equity in net loss of investee, net of tax   (3,363 )     9,290       15,712  
    Gain on sale of equity interest in investee   (22,602 )     —       —  
    Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax   —       129       4,857  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:          
    Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses   2,047       555       (3,601 )
    Decrease in amounts due from related parties   —       —       815  
    Increase in other receivables   (2,774 )     (1,001 )     —  
    Decrease (increase) in other current assets   288       (215 )     (46 )
    (Increase) decrease in other assets   (466 )     310       (994 )
    Increase (decrease) increase in accounts payable   740       (7,272 )     10,197  
    Increase (decrease) in accrued compensation and other accrued liabilities   694       (931 )     5,916  
    Increase (decrease) increase in other amounts due to related parties   480       (2,013 )     700  
    (Decrease) increase in operating lease liability   (11,113 )     (42 )     175  
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities from continuing operations   (24,422 )     4,160       (32,262 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities from discontinued operations   —       103       (1,804 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities   (24,422 )     4,263       (34,066 )
               
    CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
    Investments in joint venture, including direct payments made on behalf of joint venture   —       (2,845 )     (46,172 )
    Reimbursable payments for deposits on plant and equipment made on behalf of a joint venture or joint venture partner   —       —       (11,741 )
    Reimbursement of payments for deposits on plant and equipment made on behalf of a joint venture or joint venture partner   —       —       11,716  
    Proceeds from sale of equity interest in investee   86,086       —       —  
    Purchase of and deposits on plant and equipment   (267,940 )     (75,168 )     (61,116 )
    Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment   23,324       —       —  
    Proceeds from sale of net assets held for sale   —       —       13,266  
    Proceeds from sale of digital currency   67,371       —       —  
    Net cash used in investing activities   (91,159 )     (78,013 )     (94,047 )
               
    CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
    Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of issuance costs paid of $0, $0 and $38   —       —       22,462  
    Principal payments on long-term debt   (139,401 )     (6,599 )     —  
    Payments of prepayment fees associated with early extinguishment of long-term debt   (1,261 )     —       —  
    Principal payments on finance lease   (941 )     —       —  
    Proceeds from insurance premium and property, plant and equipment financing   211       2,513       7,041  
    Principal payments on insurance premium and property, plant and equipment financing   (2,103 )     (2,738 )     (4,924 )
    Proceeds from issuance of promissory notes to stockholders   —       —       3,416  
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs paid of $663, $1,051 and $142   188,715       135,917       47,326  
    Proceeds from exercise of warrants   4,808       2,500       5,700  
    Purchase of capped call   (60,000 )     —       —  
    Purchase of treasury stock   (118,217 )     —       —  
    Payments of tax withholding related to net share settlements of stock-based compensation awards   (23,654 )     (2,013 )     —  
    Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock   —       —       9,566  
    Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes, net of issuance costs paid of $12,950, $0, and $0   487,050       —       —  
    Proceeds from issuance of convertible promissory note   —       1,250       14,700  
    Principal payments on convertible promissory note   —       —       (15,306 )
    Payment of contingent value rights liability related to proceeds from sale of net assets held for sale   —       (10,964 )     —  
    Net cash provided by financing activities   335,207       119,866       89,981  
               
    Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   219,626       46,116       (38,132 )
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year   54,439       8,323       46,455  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year $ 274,065     $ 54,439     $ 8,323  
               
    Cash paid during the year for:          
    Interest $ 6,957     $ 19,572     $ 13,989  
    Income taxes $ —     $ —     $ —  
                           

    Non-GAAP Measure

    The Company presents Adjusted EBITDA, which is not a measurement of financial performance under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). The Company defines non-GAAP “Adjusted EBITDA” as net loss adjusted for: (i) impacts of interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization; (ii) stock-based compensation expense, amortization of right-of-use asset and related party expense to be settled with respect to common stock, all of which are non-cash items that the Company believes are not reflective of its general business performance, and for which the accounting requires management judgment, and the resulting expenses could vary significantly in comparison to other companies; (iii) one-time, non-recurring transaction-based compensation expense related to the 2030 Convertible Notes (iv) equity in net income (loss) of investee, net of tax, related to Nautilus and the gain on sale of interest in Nautilus; (v) other income which is related to interest income or income for which management believes is not reflective of the Company’s ongoing operating activities; (vi) loss on extinguishment of debt and net losses on disposals of property, plant and equipment, net, which are not reflective of the Company’s general business performance and (vii) losses from discontinued operations, net of tax, which is not be applicable to the Company’s future business activities. The Company’s Adjusted EBITDA also includes the impact of distributions from investee received in bitcoin related to a return on the Nautilus investment, which management believes, in conjunction with excluding the impact of equity in net income (loss) of investee, net of tax, is reflective of assets available for the Company’s use in its ongoing operations as a result of its investment in Nautilus.

    Management believes that providing this non-GAAP financial measure allows for meaningful comparisons between the Company’s core business operating results and those of other companies, and provides the Company with an important tool for financial and operational decision making and for evaluating its own core business operating results over different periods of time. In addition to management’s internal use of non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA, management believes that adjusted EBITDA is also useful to investors and analysts in comparing the Company’s performance across reporting periods on a consistent basis. Management believes the foregoing to be the case even though some of the excluded items involve cash outlays and some of them recur on a regular basis (although management does not believe any of such items are normal operating expenses necessary to generate the Company’s bitcoin related revenues). For example, the Company expects that share-based compensation expense, which is excluded from Adjusted EBITDA, will continue to be a significant recurring expense over the coming years and is an important part of the compensation provided to certain employees, officers, directors and consultants. Additionally, management does not consider any of the excluded items to be expenses necessary to generate the Company’s bitcoin related revenue.

    The Company’s Adjusted EBITDA measure may not be directly comparable to similar measures provided by other companies in the Company’s industry, as other companies in the Company’s industry may calculate non-GAAP financial results differently. The Company’s Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under U.S. GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to operating loss or any other measure of performance derived in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Although management utilizes internally and presents Adjusted EBITDA, the Company only utilizes that measure supplementally and does not consider it to be a substitute for, or superior to, the information provided by U.S. GAAP financial results. Accordingly, Adjusted EBITDA is not meant to be considered in isolation of, and should be read in conjunction with, the information contained in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    The following table is a reconciliation of the Company’s non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA to its most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measure (i.e., net loss) for the periods indicated (in thousands):

      Year Ended December 31,
        2024       2023  
    Net loss $ (72,418 )   $ (73,421 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA:      
    Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax   —       129  
    Gain on sale of equity interest in investee   (22,602 )     —  
    Equity in net (income) loss of investee, net of tax, related to Nautilus   (3,363 )     9,290  
    Distributions from investee, related to Nautilus   22,776       21,949  
    Income tax benefit   —       —  
    Other income   (3,927 )     (231 )
    Loss on extinguishment of debt   6,300       —  
    Interest expense   19,794       34,812  
    Loss on disposals of property, plant, and equipment, net   17,824       1,209  
    Depreciation   59,808       28,350  
    Amortization of right-of-use asset   1,373       1,001  
    Stock-based compensation expense   30,927       5,859  
    Transaction-based compensation expense   3,885       —  
    Related party expense to be settled with respect to common stock   —       2,917  
    Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA $ 60,377     $ 31,864  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Africa’s newest book prize is named after Andreé Blouin: who was she?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Tinashe Mushakavanhu, Research Associate, University of Oxford

    Andrée Blouin was a political activist and writer from the Central African Republic. Until recently, her name hardly ever appeared in the grand narratives of Africa’s liberation.

    When she died in 1986, her passing was hardly in the news – a stark contrast to her pivotal role as an adviser and campaign strategist to newly independent African leaders in Algeria, both Congos, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Guinea and Ghana.

    She was more than a participant. She was an organising force, an architect of resistance, a strategist who shaped the fight against colonial rule. Yet, like many women in African history, her contributions faded into the margins, overshadowed by the men she helped empower.

    Interest in Blouin has been rekindled. She is featured in the Oscar-nominated documentary Soundtrack to a Coup d’État about DRC independence leader Patrice Lumumba. She worked as his speechwriter and chief of protocol.

    And her memoir My Country, Africa: Autobiography of the Black Pasionaria, long out of print, was re-released and is now widely available.

    Now a new annual book award called the Andrée Blouin Prize has been launched in her honour by a South Africa-based publishing house, Inkani Books. Its mission is to amplify the voices of African women, cisgender and transgender, writing about history, politics and current affairs from a left perspective.

    For me as a literary historian who has been preoccupied with archives of marginal historical figures, this activation of Blouin powerfully highlights her legacy. It also invites new engagement with her work.

    Who was Andrée Blouin?

    Blouin was born in 1921 in Central African Republic but from the age of three she was placed in an orphanage in neighbouring Congo Brazzaville. She ran away when she was 14 and so began a life of rebellion.

    She would grow up to be a formidable political operator. Her reach touches many parts of Africa. For her, the struggle was not just local, it was everywhere. As a multilingual person, she spoke a dozen languages, a gift that allowed her to easily move between places and political contexts.

    Her political awakening was deeply personal – she was radicalised by her son’s death from malaria in a colonial hospital in 1942. He had been denied life-saving medication. Colonialism, she realised, was not just her own misfortune but a system of evil suffocating African lives.

    Today history is vindicating this fascinating historical figure. This is happening through the wealth of archival material – photographs, videos, interviews and texts – that places her at the centre of political action. The image of African liberation tends to be men in suits. And yet a smiling Blouin can be seen with them, side by side, even addressing large crowds.

    It is thanks to the refusal of this archive to be repressed that we can review moments that shaped African liberation history. And appreciate the roles that women like Blouin played.

    Behind the prize

    African literary prizes have seen significant growth in recent years, both in number and influence. They play an important role in promoting African literature, offering recognition and financial support to writers, and shaping the literary canon.

    They can also address the need for dedicated platforms that amplify underrepresented voices.

    Inkani Books describes itself as a “people’s movement-driven publishing house”. It is introducing The Andrée Blouin Prize in her honour. The impetus for the prize, according to Inkani’s publishing director Efemia Chela, was to directly challenge erasure of women in history and in political writing.

    She explains:

    This prize is not just an accolade; it is a reclamation of space, a declaration that African revolutionary women’s narratives will no longer be sidelined.

    The publishing house, established less than five years ago, has been reissuing popular books about revolutionary figures. These include the likes of Thomas Sankara, Kwame Nkrumah, Amílcar Cabral and Frantz Fanon. These men are often celebrated for their heroism and intellectual contributions to pan-African ideas about freedom, politics and revolution.

    The Andrée Blouin Prize is a bold act of reclamation, ensuring that the narratives of African revolutionary women are no longer overlooked but recognised, celebrated and centred.

    In fact, this is an invitation for contemporary women to write themselves into literary history.

    The inaugural winner will receive a $2,000 advance and a publishing contract with Inkani. The prize is open to all women across Africa and is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the continent’s diverse and vibrant experiences.

    It is part of a broader movement challenging historical exclusions in African publishing. Literary production is dominated by big multinational publishing companies that determine reading tastes and trends.

    Last year, Nigeria-based Cassava Republic Press launched the Global Black Women’s Non-Fiction Manuscript Prize to spotlight exceptional works by Black women.



    Read more:
    African literary prizes are contested – but writers’ groups are reshaping them

    While African publishing has not always been welcoming to women writers, a shift is underway. Writers like Nigeria’s Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Zimbabwe’s NoViolet Bulawayo, Uganda’s Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, and Zambia’s Namwali Serpell are now among the most influential voices shaping African literature today.

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

    – ref. Africa’s newest book prize is named after Andreé Blouin: who was she? – https://theconversation.com/africas-newest-book-prize-is-named-after-andree-blouin-who-was-she-250828

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary-General/Bangladesh, Ramadan, Türkiye & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (27 February)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/Bangladesh
    Secretary-General/Ramadan Message
    Türkiye
    Haiti
    Ukraine
    Sudan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo/Jean-Pierre Lacroix
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Staff Security

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/BANGLADESH
    Every year, the Secretary-General does a Ramadan solidarity visit, where he likes to visit and fast with a Muslim community, which is facing distress. He began this tradition when he was High Commissioner for Refugees. In his own words, the Secretary-General said that Ramadan embodies the values of compassion, empathy and generosity. It is an opportunity to reconnect with family, with community and a chance to remember those less fortunate. These missions are to remind the world of the true face of Islam.
    This year, the Secretary-General will be going to Bangladesh from the 13-16 March. He will travel to Cox’s Bazaar to join an Iftar and meet with Rohingya refugees who have been forcibly displaced from their homes in Myanmar, and also, of course, with the host Bangladeshi communities who have been generously in hosting the refugees from Myanmar.
    During his visit, he will also be in the capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka, where he will meet with the Chief Adviser for the interim government, Professor Muhammed Yunus, as well as with young women and men and representatives from civil society.

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/RAMADAN MESSAGE
    In his annual message at the start of Ramadan, the Secretary-General expressed a special message of support to all those who will spend this sacred time in displacement and violence. From Gaza and the wider region, to Sudan, the Sahel and beyond.
    The Secretary-General stands with all those who are suffering and joins those observing Ramadan to call for peace and mutual respect.

    TÜRKIYE
    On the reports coming out of Türkiye regarding Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party, the PKK, and his message calling for fighters to lay down their arms and the PKK to dissolve itself, the spokesperson said that the Secretary-General welcomes this important development. This represents a glimmer of hope, which would lead to the resolution of a long-standing conflict.

    HAITI
    The World Food Programme (WFP) today said that, as part of their emergency response in Haiti, they continue to provide critical food assistance, cash-based transfers, and hot meals across the Artibonite, Nord, and Ouest departments. This includes $1.2 million in cash assistance, as well as nearly 3,000 meals distributed in border regions to Haitians deported back to their country.
    Last week, the WFP organized the first of two humanitarian cargo flights from Panama City to Port-au-Prince. This was the first humanitarian cargo flight to land at the Port-au-Prince airport since its closure lastNovember.
    The flight carried medicines, vaccines, and medical supplies for eight humanitarian organizations. A second flight is scheduled in about one month.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=27%20February%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nX1Wlh5xwHk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Donald Trump should not be welcome in Scotland

    Source: Scottish Greens

    28 Feb 2025 External Affairs

    We must recognise the threat he poses to global security, democracy and our climate.

    More in External Affairs

    Donald Trump does not deserve a warm welcome and must be met with protest on his visit to Scotland, say the Scottish Greens. 

    The US President has been invited to meet with King Charles in Scotland to discuss their “mutual interests” and plan a second state visit.

    Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP said:

    “In the short time since Donald Trump has re-entered the White House he has unleashed some of the most destructive policies of any US President in living memory. 

    “Despite Keir Starmer’s sickening deference to him, Trump is not a friendly leader and should not be treated as if he was. He is a dangerous, fraudulent, misogynistic, racist, climate-change denier, and one who openly opposes democratic values.

    “During his first Presidency he repeatedly promoted the work of fascists, and in recent weeks high profile members of his government have been openly advancing the interests of far right parties in Europe, interfering in our domestic politics in a way that would once have sparked global outrage. It was only two weeks ago that his Vice President was spreading misinformation about abortion rights in Scotland to a global audience.

    “The threat Trump represents to global security, to democracy, to human rights and to our climate could not be clearer. To offer him such a warm welcome and the trappings of a state visit is a slap in the face to the millions of people across the US and beyond who are frightened for their friends and family who are having their rights eroded or removed.

    “The UK Labour Government is utterly failing to recognise the threat he poses and the urgent strategic choice this country faces. Either we stand reunited with democratic Europe, or we assist Trump in ushering in a frightening new era, one where international law is replaced by the whim of tyrants and their billionaire backers.”

    Mr Harvie added:

    “I have no doubt that Donald Trump’s visit will be met with protests and a great deal of anger. 

    “Only this week the First Minister was calling for a united front against the far right. That must also mean standing up to Donald Trump and the toxic and hateful politics that he represents.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –