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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Security: New White Paper on FOIA Data from Chief FOIA Officer Council Technology Committee’s Working Group

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A white paper issued by the Chief FOIA Officer (CFO) Council Technology Committee’s Data Working Group (DWG) has been posted to FOIA.gov.  The white paper summarizes the DWG’s work, which included interviews with other FOIA programs to gain a better understanding of how they utilize data in managing their operations and how FOIA programs respond to FOIA requests for data.

    The DWG interviewed ten agencies, ranging in size and mission, to better understand the role data plays in their day-to-day work. Through these interviews, the DWG identified commonalities across the federal government and areas for further consideration and improvement including:

    1. While all agencies subject to the FOIA track metrics needed to complete annual reporting requirements, agencies benefit from tracking data beyond what is required.
    2. Data analysis enables FOIA program managers and agency leadership to better identify, understand, and respond to emerging trends in their programs.
    3. FOIA requests for agency data can be complex and difficult to manage. Having a plan to address those requests can make that process smoother, and, in some cases, may allow for proactive disclosures that obviate the need for future requests.
    4. Partnerships with Chief Data Officers can benefit FOIA efforts and facilitate efficiency.

    Agency FOIA professionals, agency FOIA leadership, and members of the public are encouraged to review this white paper for further observations and recommendations. For additional information about the CFO Council’s work, visit the Council’s page on FOIA.gov. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why justice for Ukraine must be at the forefront of peace negotiations

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Oleksa Drachewych, Assistant Professor in History, Western University

    On Feb. 18, representatives from Russia and the United States met in Saudi Arabia to determine if peace in Ukraine is possible. Ukrainian representatives were not invited.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on social media that the meeting was a step in developing an “enduring peace” between Russia and Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed in a media interview that the meeting was “very positive” and confirmed the true meaning of the talks was to start normalising relations between Russia and the U.S.

    Although U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed “the Russians want to see the war end,” Russian officials remain committed to their war aims. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov announced before the meetings that Russia would not return Ukrainian territory. After, he stated that should a peace deal be brokered, any peacekeeping forces could not come from NATO nations. The latter statement stunted growing European efforts to develop a security guarantee for Ukraine should a ceasefire be reached.

    Keith Kellogg, U.S. envoy for Kyiv and Moscow, said after his Feb. 20 meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the U.S. is aligned with the nation — and that any end to the war with Russia should ensure there is no “next war”. Yet White House officials do not seem to have Ukraine’s best interest in mind in negotiating a potential resolution to the war.

    For instance, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Feb. 12 that the U.S. government doesn’t believe NATO membership for Ukraine “is a realistic outcome of a negotiated settlement.” He added that Ukraine would need to accept territorial concessions to Russia.

    Trump has also increasingly parroted Russian narratives — such as claiming that Ukraine started the war. He has also delegitimized Zelenskyy by claiming he is a “dictator” who refuses to hold elections — despite the nation’s constitution stating elections cannot legally be held under martial law.

    Trump also continues to demand 50 per cent of Ukraine’s natural resources to repay the United States for previous military and financial support. This has led to a deterioration in Ukrainian-U.S. relations at a time where Russian-U.S. relations appear to be improving.



    Read more:
    Ukraine’s natural resources are at centre stage in the ongoing war, and will likely remain there

    European leaders have responded with frustration. Zelenskyy has made his position clear that any negotiation must include Ukraine at the table. Ukraine would not accept an imposed peace.

    Any attempt at negotiating a lasting peace between the two nations must include accountability for Russian crimes.

    The realities of Russia’s invasion

    American overtures for peace have often referred to “stopping the millions of deaths” in Russia’s war in Ukraine. While on the surface this goal is admirable, it oversimplifies the realities of what the last three years of war have done to Ukraine. Namely, Russian forces have committed extensive war crimes and atrocity in Ukraine.

    Russian forces barrage Ukraine with drone strikes and terror bombing — including targeting civilians. Even as negotiations were happening in Saudi Arabia, Russian drones struck Odesa, injuring four civilians. This was the latest in a long line of such attacks. International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants are out for Russian military leaders on just this issue.

    The Ukrainian government has confirmed over 19,500 Ukrainian children have been abducted by Russian forces. But in July 2023, Russian officials claimed they had over 700,000 Ukrainian children in Russian territory.

    Investigative reporting confirms the Russian government is assimilating these children — forcing them to stop speaking Ukrainian and raising them with a Russian identity. These actions have also led to ICC arrest warrants for Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s Children’s Rights Commissioner who oversees the program. Russia’s actions violate the UN Genocide Convention.

    Widespread sexual assault by Russian forces has been documented against Ukrainian men and women. Torture chambers have also been found in liberated cities. Russian forces committed mass murder in multiple Ukrainian cities — underscored by the discovery of mass graves in Bucha, Izium and Lyman.

    Mariupol, once a city of over 400,000 has been reduced to a population of 120,000 as of 2023. This showcases the devastation caused by Russian forces. Russia has also started seizing buildings to give to Russian settlers to further Russify the city.

    The realities under Russian occupation are only partially known. The Russian government has demanded Ukrainians living under occupation forfeit their Ukrainian identification documents and obtain Russian passports. In schools, Russia has fully implemented its nationalistic curriculum, which includes “anti-Ukrainian propaganda” aimed at assimilating Ukrainian children.

    Against international law, forcible Russification of the Ukrainian people has become a common feature of Russian occupation during this war.

    Ukraine’s fight for justice

    Ukraine continues to fight against Russian occupation. While it’s honourable to want to stop the deaths caused by fighting, the Russian regime’s actions in Ukrainian territory must be remembered too.

    This is why justice is just as important as resolution. While it’s unlikely Russian officials will find themselves before the ICC, there must be some form of accountability for Russian crimes against Ukraine if peace is negotiated. While present frontlines may dictate where Ukraine may be forced to cede territory or freeze conflict, the realities of Russian aggression cannot be ignored.

    Here, history offers a guide for what shouldn’t be done this time when brokering a peace deal.



    Read more:
    How Russia’s fixation on the Second World War helps explain its Ukraine invasion

    During the Second World War, Soviet forces committed extensive war crimes and atrocities. Yet the Soviet Union never faced a reckoning for those acts. Russian officials remember this. As a result, Putin feels empowered to commit similar atrocities in Ukraine — believing Russia, just as the Soviet Union, won’t face any consequences.

    For any possibility of lasting peace, accountability and justice for Russian war crimes must be at the forefront of negotiations. Otherwise, Russia will have learned it can act with impunity — threatening the likelihood of enduring peace for Ukraine.

    Oleksa Drachewych 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. Why justice for Ukraine must be at the forefront of peace negotiations – https://theconversation.com/why-justice-for-ukraine-must-be-at-the-forefront-of-peace-negotiations-250208

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: UK statement for the annual High-Level Segment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: UK statement for the annual High-Level Segment

    UK statement at the annual High-Level Segment of the Human Rights Council. Delivered by Lord Collins, FCDO Minister for Africa, UN, Commonwealth & Human Rights.

    Mr Vice President,

    I stand here not just as a life-long trade unionist but also as a Minister of an internationalist Labour government committed to human rights and the rule of law.

    We have gathered today against the backdrop of an increasingly volatile and uncertain world. Conflicts and geopolitical tensions are robbing people across the world of their most basic rights.

    That’s why the United Kingdom backs Ukraine’s right to choose its own future. That’s why the ceasefire in Gaza must be fully implemented. We want to see an end to the conflict, with every hostage released and vital aid reaching Gaza, leading to a credible process towards a two-state solution.

    That’s why we welcome the Syrian interim authorities’ efforts to build a more inclusive future for all Syrians. It’s why we welcome Bangladesh engaging with the High Commissioner as it addresses past crimes and future aspirations. 

    It’s why we are heartbroken by the suffering in Sudan and commend the DRC for bringing the appalling situation in the East of their country to this Council just two weeks ago.

    That’s why we are urging China to implement the recommendations of the United Nations High Commissioner’s Xinjiang assessment and respect the Joint Declaration on Hong Kong.

    Against this worsening global climate, the United Kingdom is determined to champion equal and inalienable rights for all. So I’m proud that the United Kingdom is standing for election to the Council for the 2026 to 2028 term. 

    Throughout its many terms on the Council, the United Kingdom has always put respect and partnership at the heart of our approach. And we promise to collaborate in the same spirit once again. If elected, we pledge to defend civic space and fundamental freedoms, supporting civil society organisations and human rights defenders.

    We pledge to champion equal rights for all, by standing up for the rights of women and girls and LGBT+ people whose hard-won rights and freedoms are being so cruelly undermined, and by promoting women’s economic empowerment. And we will do all we can to uphold the rule of law. Because human rights and the rule of law are the basic building blocks of sustainable economic growth, stable societies, and humane migration policies.

    We will prioritise human rights and governance principles, including the use of new technologies and responding to modern slavery.

    But the United Kingdom is under no illusion that we can do all this alone. We cannot. That’s why we need your support. And if we have the honour of serving on the Council, we will prioritise practical action to achieve our shared human rights goals and change people’s lives for the better.

    Ultimately, it is only by building genuine, respectful partnerships that we can work together to defend the freedoms we all hold so dear.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in an extended meeting of the Federation Council Committee on Science, Education and Culture

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a meeting of the Committee on Science, Education and Culture in the Federation Council

    February 24, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a meeting of the Committee on Science, Education and Culture in the Federation Council

    February 24, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a meeting of the Committee on Science, Education and Culture in the Federation Council

    February 24, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a meeting of the Committee on Science, Education and Culture in the Federation Council

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a meeting of the Federation Council Committee on Science, Education and Culture. The participants discussed the issue of preparation for the government hour as part of the 585th meeting of the upper house of parliament.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko thanked Valentina Matvienko, Lilia Gumerova and other senators for their attention to the educational sphere and joint work on developing the Education Development Strategy.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the education sector is one of the key areas for achieving the national goals set by President Vladimir Putin.

    “Russian citizens are actively involved in the work on the Education Development Strategy. More than 340 thousand respondents took part in the survey on the public services portal, and more than 1 thousand proposals were generated. In the conditions of global competition, we need to ensure the accelerated development of the educational system together. Our goal is to create equal and decent conditions for teachers, increase the prestige of the profession, raise its social status, attract young personnel to schools and retain them,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also noted the importance of ensuring equal access to quality education regardless of place of residence. To this end, thanks to the implementation of the national project “Education”, about a million school places have already been created, and within the framework of the national project “Demography” – almost 250 thousand places in kindergartens, and the construction of new facilities is planned within the framework of the national projects “Youth and Children” and “Family”.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized the growing demand for blue-collar jobs and professions. The “Professionality” project has been implemented since 2022.

    “As of today, 493 clusters have been created in 81 regions in 24 sectors of the economy and social sphere within the framework of “Professionality”. We strive to ensure that by the end of 2026 the project covers all 89 regions of Russia, and by 2030 a total of 940 clusters have been created,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    The Government and the Federation Council also actively cooperate in the formation of regional policy in the field of intellectual property.

    “In the context of modern challenges, it is necessary to clearly define strategic directions for the development of education in the country. Government hour will be devoted to this topic,” said Lilia Gumerova, opening the meeting.

    According to her, during 2024, the committee carried out a number of events to improve the domestic education system. Recommendations were prepared, including on resolving issues of reducing the bureaucratic burden, improving the mechanisms for conducting the unified state examination, developing career guidance, secondary vocational education, pedagogical education, improving the higher education system, including the mechanism of targeted training, taking into account the experience of the admissions campaign in 2024.

    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 Canada: Third Anniversary of Ukraine Invasion Commemorated at Saskatchewan Legislature

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on February 24, 2025

    Today, Legislative Secretary Responsible for Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations Jamie Martens and representatives from Saskatchewan’s Ukrainian community, the Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations Advisory Committee, and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Saskatchewan Provincial Council (UCC-SPC) gathered at the Legislative Building in Regina to commemorate the third anniversary of Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine.

    “This war has caused untold suffering to the people of Ukraine, some of whom have resettled here in Saskatchewan,” Martens said. “As a province with a rich Ukrainian heritage, Saskatchewan is proud to support those displaced by this terrible conflict. With open arms we will continue to make these newcomers feel welcome and at home in our communities.”

    On Sunday, February 23, a car rally was organized to demonstrate support for Ukrainians by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), Regina Branch, that started at the Northgate Mall in Regina and concluded with a brief ceremony at the Holodomor Monument in Wascana Centre.

    Since the conflict began, nearly 8,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Saskatchewan, many of which have been supported by programs offered through UCC-SPC and the Government of Saskatchewan.

    “The UCC-SPC is grateful to Premier Scott Moe and the Government of Saskatchewan for their steadfast and reliable support for the Ukrainian people,” President of UCC-SPC Elena Krueger said. “From the early days of the conflict and the five charter flights that assisted hundreds to safely arrive in Saskatchewan, to the on-going financial support to UCC Saskatchewan, to various language and employment services, our provincial government truly does stand with Ukraine.”

    Through a funding agreement with the UCC-SPC, the province continues to provide displaced Ukrainians with access to language training, settlement and community supports, as well as connections to employers in their local labour market.

    In another show of solidarity with the people of Ukraine, the Provincial Capital Commission announced funding for necessary restoration work on the Holodomor Monument in Regina’s Wascana Centre, 10 years after its installation in the park. The monument memorializes the man-made famine endured by the Ukrainian people at the hands of the Soviet Union from 1932 to 1933.

    “The Holodomor Monument in Wascana Centre is an important monument to remember the victims of the man-made famine, as well as reiterate our support for the people of Ukraine through the ongoing conflict,” Minister Responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Eric Schmalz said. “This funding will help ensure that this important monument remains in Wascana Centre for years to come.”

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy Announced as Two Star Partner of the Institute for Defense and Government Advancement’s Operational Energy Summit with CEO James Walker Scheduled to Present

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Operational Energy Summit will be held at the Bethesda Marriot Hotel on February 25-26, 2025

    New York, N.Y., Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that it is a Two Star Partner of the 17th annual Operational Energy Summit, hosted by the Institute for Defense and Government Advancement in Bethesda, Maryland at the Bethesda Marriot Hotel on February 25 -26, 2025.

    On Tuesday, February 25th, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Reactor Development, James Walker, will lead a keynote presentation titled, “The role of innovative nuclear technology to support the defense industry and military operations”, at 1:30 PM. Thereafter, he will also present, “Industry insight session hosted by NANO Nuclear Energy Inc.” at 3:30 PM.

    For over two decades, the Institute for Defense and Government Advancement (IDGA) has served as a non-partisan event and thought leadership organization connecting the Defense and Security communities interested in solving high-level challenges. Through its industry-leading conferences, networking events and online community portal, IDGA supports and coordinates the participation of leading stakeholders across the Government, Military, and associated defense industry partners.

    For its 17th year, the IDGA Operational Energy Summit will bring together operational and installation energy leaders from the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Energy, allied military, industry, and academia to discuss the current state of military energy and the path forward. This year’s summit will focus on addressing the emerging threat landscape, contested environments, the role of innovative technology, and the challenges and gaps in defense energy to ensure support of military operations. Guided by thought leaders, the summit will explore alternative energy sources, including nuclear and solar power, along with microgrids and technologies for enhancing grid security. As the demand for energy increases to support both current and future weapon systems and technologies, the topics of discussion will include strategies for achieving energy resilience, security, reliability, and sufficiency.

    “The IDGA is at the forefront of efforts to address the U.S. armed forces’ most urgent challenges, particularly in understanding operational and installation energy,” said John G. Vonglis, Executive Director of Global Government Affairs of NANO Nuclear Energy. “This summit will bring together some of the nation’s foremost experts, united by a shared mission to provide service members with robust, reliable, and resilient next-generation energy solutions, with nuclear set to play a key role in discussions.”

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Announced as the Two Star Partner of the Institute for Defense and Government Advancement’s Operational Energy Summit on February 25-26, 2025.

    “The growing emphasis on nuclear-based energy systems within the U.S. military creates exciting opportunities to deliver reliable, carbon-neutral power to the country’s service members,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Reactor Development of NANO Nuclear Energy. “This summit provides a valuable platform to connect with key operational leaders throughout the military complex, and I look forward to discussing the future of nuclear energy with all attendees.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors. NANO Nuclear is also developing patented stationary KRONOS MMR™ Energy System and space focused, portable LOKI MMR™.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

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    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release, the conference presentation described herein, and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: German election: the results explained as Friedrich Merz comes out swinging for Europe

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ed Turner, Reader in Politics, Co-Director, Aston Centre for Europe, Aston University

    Friedrich Merz, the presumptive chancellor of Germany, has confirmed he will seek a coalition with the social democratic SPD after the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) won the February 23 election, topping the poll with 28.5%. Although the SPD has gone from winning the last election to a record low result of 16.4% of the vote, it remains the only credible coalition partner for presumptive chancellor and CDU leader Friedrich Merz.

    Among Merz’s first acts was a bold statement that his first priority is “to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that, step by step, we can really achieve independence from the USA”.

    Things might have looked different for Merz. Had a small party, (the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, or BSW) won just 0.03% less of the vote, Merz would have needed to find a third coalition partner. That would have most likely meant trying to work with the Greens. This would have been a much more difficult circle to square for the centre right and an option that would have come with a far greater risk of early government collapse, if a deal could even have been reached in the first place.

    The far right Alternative for Germany (AfD) had a record result, coming second with a 20.8% share of the vote. Mainstream parties including the CDU/CSU have ruled out any sort of deal with the far right, which the AfD will now be viewing as an opportunity. A further period of CDU/CSU-SPD government at a time of economic challenges will leave the party feeling it has a good opportunity to capitalise on discontent and grow further.

    The 2025 election saw a record low vote share for the CDU/CSU and SPD. It’s notable that none of the leaders of the one-time Volksparteien (“people’s parties” – with a cross-class, cross-society appeal) were popular. Merz fared best among them but on a scale of -5 to +5 for popularity, he achieved an average of precisely 0.

    Worse still was the situation of the centre-right FDP, which crashed out of the parliament on a grand scale, getting just 4.3%, down 7.1 points. Its leader, Christian Lindner, who had brought about the downfall of the previous “traffic light” coalition between his own party, the SPD and the Greens, announced his retirement from politics. The Greens, with a respectable result (11.6%, down 3.1 points), will prepare for a spell in opposition.

    The election shows a country disunited, a long way from being at ease with itself. Observers are immediately struck by the difference between eastern and western Germany. In the east, the far right Alternative for Germany (AfD) came first in all five states (excluding Berlin, which is a mix of east and west). In the west, with some exceptions, the CDU/CSU was dominant.



    Read more:
    These maps of support for Germany’s far-right AfD lay bare the depth of the urban-rural divide

    It has been evident for some time that concerns about migration as well as a feeling of being treated as second class citizens is driving up support for the far right in the east. Now, opposition to military support for Ukraine and general pessimism are also playing into the trend.

    Age proved another very significant divide. Among those aged 18 to 24, the Left party got 25%, ahead of the AfD (21%). The CDU/CSU took just 13% and the SPD 12% . Among the over 60s, the picture is reversed. The CDU/CSU took 37% and the SPD 23%, while the AfD took 15% and the Left just 5%.

    The Left’s success, at least among the young, was the one big surprise of the election. After a torrid period which saw the departure of leading figure Sahra Wagenknecht and her followers to form a separate party, the Left looked unlikely to meet the 5% vote share threshold needed to enter parliament until very recently. An internal split over Israel and Gaza was also causing difficulties.

    However, the Left profited from the polarisation caused by Friedrich Merz’s decision to press ahead with a vote on hardline policies towards asylum seekers, including more border checks and turning away irregular migrants without processing an asylum claim. A savvy social media campaign spearheaded by the party’s youthful joint parliamentary leader Heidi Reichinnek also helped.

    Meanwhile, the BSW took just 4.97% of the national vote and will therefore not have any seats in parliament. It is however worth noting that the BSW’s popularity was also extremely uneven across the country and another example of geographical division. While it tanked nationally, its anti-migration, “anti-woke” and pro-welfare policies, mixed with its criticism of support for Ukraine, was a more popular offering in the east with results around the 10% mark, double the national average.

    What now for Europe?

    The SPD has claimed it will not enter government at any price. It has hinted it will put any coalition proposals to a vote among party members as a way of trying to exercise leverage over Merz. But, in truth, the party has nowhere else to go. There is no alternative to a CDU/CSU-SPD coalition apart from early elections or a fundamental rethink of the former’s approach to the AfD. Neither is an attractive prospect.

    All parties are also acutely aware of the tremendous pressure from other European countries for Germany to get its act together in the context of US president Trump’s assertiveness and the need to support Ukraine. But there are huge challenges to address on the domestic front. Merz has pledged tax cuts and higher defence expenditure, but there is no clarity at all how these will be paid for. Drastic reductions in welfare and other social expenditure would likely be a “no go” area for the SPD. An option might be to loosen Germany’s “debt brake” – constitutional restrictions on government borrowing. This is something Merz has been reluctant to do, but he has hinted he might consider it in the aftermath of the vote. This fundamental reform would need a two-thirds majority in both chambers of parliament, and if extra funds were only for defence, it is possible the Left and the AfD would combine to defeat it.

    So Germany’s election gives us a paradox: in some ways the outcome is rather familiar, with an old-school Christian democrat leading a coalition with the SPD, another party with a long track record in government – and indeed with some prospect of German leadership in Europe. But it is also a deeply uncertain result. Germany is a country facing huge challenges: sluggish growth, war in Europe and a US president questioning key tenets of the post-war transatlantic relationship. It’s not clear how to put together a governing coalition that can agree on how to face these challenges, and which can satisfy a starkly divided electorate. Turbulent times, in the country and across the continent, may well be ahead.

    Ed Turner receives funding from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

    – ref. German election: the results explained as Friedrich Merz comes out swinging for Europe – https://theconversation.com/german-election-the-results-explained-as-friedrich-merz-comes-out-swinging-for-europe-250690

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Statement on the resumption of India-UK trade negotiations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Joint Statement on the resumption of India-UK trade negotiations

    Today the Republic of India and the United Kingdom have resumed negotiations towards a trade deal between our two countries.

    The Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom the Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in November 2024 to underline the importance of resuming trade negotiations at an early date. 

    Today the Republic of India and the United Kingdom have resumed negotiations towards a trade deal between our two countries. This announcement has been made by Minister for Commerce and Industry of India Shri Piyush Goyal and Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade of the United Kingdom the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds in Delhi. This announcement is an outcome of the above stated discussions held at the level of Prime Ministers of the two countries. 

    India and the United Kingdom have a close partnership, built through collaboration on security and defence, new and emerging technologies, climate, health, education, research and innovation, green finance and people-to-people contacts. At the centre of this relationship is the collective aspiration to deliver economic growth and sustainable development.

    Both sides have agreed to resume negotiations towards a balanced, mutually beneficial and a forward-looking deal that delivers mutual growth and builds on the strengths of the two complementary economies. The strengthening of the trading relationship between our two countries has the potential to unlock opportunities for business and consumers across both our nations and build further on our already deep ties.

    The two leaders directed the negotiators to work together to resolve the outstanding issues in the agreement to ensure a fair and equitable trade deal for shared success.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Entrepreneurship as a way out of poverty? Study in rural Kenya shows why it doesn’t always work

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ralph Hamann, Professor, University of Cape Town

    International development agencies and non-governmental organisations often seek to advance community development by fostering entrepreneurship. The premise is that poor people can enhance their household incomes by establishing small businesses or by adding value to natural resources.

    Such programmes commonly include training and the provision of loans to enable micro-entrepreneurs to get started. But these interventions aren’t straightforward and often fail to achieve their objectives.

    Prior research has pointed to the fundamental economic challenges of entrepreneurship in the context of poverty. Cultural and institutional factors also play a role. Researchers have argued, for instance, that cultural norms of collectivism shape how entrepreneurs define themselves. They are likely to prioritise their roles as mentors or community safety net. This constrains their ability to innovate and grow their businesses.

    We wanted to explore an entrepreneurship-focused intervention in more detail. Specifically, why do some people seem more inclined than others to adopt these new behaviours?

    In a recent paper we set out our findings based on a study we conducted with 25 participants in northern Kenya. We built on our combined interests in entrepreneurship in resource-constrained environments, identity theory, and community development. We found that programme participants responded to the intervention in very different ways, and that religion helped explain these differences.

    Our findings have implications for interventions promoting entrepreneurship as a means to reduce poverty. First, such interventions can create profound identity tensions for participants and so their proponents need to take into account local cultures much more than is commonly the case. Second, entrepreneurship-focused interventions can change participants’ behaviours in ways that potentially disadvantage the poorest community members, leading to greater inequality at the community level.

    On the ground

    The development intervention we examined was aimed at fostering entrepreneurship in extremely poor pastoralist communities. The programme built on a small government cash transfer and put recipients into savings groups of up to 30 people. Participants were encouraged to start small businesses in these group discussions. They also received training in life skills and basic financial and business skills, such as the concept of profit and how to buy and sell goods.

    We found that over the five-year period of our study, an increasing number of pastoralists began engaging in businesses involving the sale of livestock, beadwork, sugar, tea leaves, washing powder and other necessities. But we discovered that these new business-oriented behaviours created profound tensions for the participants, and participants responded in different ways.

    The source of these tensions was in how individuals defined themselves within the local culture.

    The collectivist culture in these communities involved norms such as nkanyit (loosely translated, respect), which meant that people should share their belongings with others. But the training and the credit repayment requirements associated with the intervention made this problematic.

    To make profits and repay loans, the programme participants had to deny other community members’ requests for handouts or loans. This contravened local norms and expectations. It also created the fear that community members might curse the entrepreneur or her or his family.

    One participant explained:

    Business is different from what we were doing; business is not to give credits and also not to just give things to people… but people can curse you {if you say no}.

    Yet participants responded to these tensions in different ways. Some (about one-third of our research participants) gave in to the existing expectations and the need to avoid curses. As a result, they gave handouts to community members and often this led to their business languishing or collapsing. One participant noted:

    When I have food {business goods} in the house, I can’t tell people that I don’t have anything, and they know that I do. I just give some to avoid {curses}.“

    Others, however, continued with the new business activities despite the threat of curses. We discovered that a key factor explaining this was religion.

    Christians believed that their faith would protect them from curses. For some this occurred from the beginning. Others, fearful of curses early on, came to believe that curses would not apply in the context of the businesses that they wanted to keep running.

    For instance, one participant argued:

    Don’t give to people because of the fear of curses, just say no and pray for protection from the curses because God is great.

    Implications

    We highlight the importance of people’s social identities – specifically religious identities – in explaining why some participants are more likely to adopt capitalist behaviours (such as borrowing money to invest in business, or charging consumers interest on loans) than others.

    Organisations delivering entrepreneurship interventions and education in contexts of extreme poverty need to be aware of what identities they are encouraging participants to construct, either directly or indirectly through training and mentorship, and even through the questions that they ask participants.

    They need to be careful about creating tensions between existing cultural norms and the new concepts and behaviours they are introducing.

    More broadly, there may also be unintended negative consequences at the community level. Among the research participants in our study that adopted the entrepreneur role, this was linked to a diminished willingness to support poor community members. So, even if participants in the programme benefit through higher incomes, their entrepreneurial behaviours reduce traditional habits of giving to the needy. This could increase hardships for the very poor and create greater inequalities.

    This article is co-authored by Jody Delichte, and it is based on her PhD research at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business. Jody currently works as an international development and culture consultant. We are grateful to Jeremy Upane for his translation support in the field.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Entrepreneurship as a way out of poverty? Study in rural Kenya shows why it doesn’t always work – https://theconversation.com/entrepreneurship-as-a-way-out-of-poverty-study-in-rural-kenya-shows-why-it-doesnt-always-work-246700

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: How is fake news affecting society? #Davos2025 #WorldEconomicForum #PedroSánchez

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    The 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum will provide a crucial space to focus on the fundamental principles driving trust, including transparency, consistency and accountability.

    This Annual Meeting will welcome over 100 governments, all major international organizations, 1000 Forum’s Partners, as well as civil society leaders, experts, youth representatives, social entrepreneurs, and news outlets.

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/
    X ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #Davos2025 #WorldEconomicForum #wef25

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LS_Al0L8tyg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK steps up life-saving medical support for Ukraine’s Armed Forces

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK steps up life-saving medical support for Ukraine’s Armed Forces

    The Ministry of Defence will double its funding for medical and rehabilitation services for Ukraine’s troops

    Britain is stepping up support for Ukrainian troops wounded on the frontline, who will receive life-saving medical support and rehabilitation services through the UK’s Project Renovator.  The programme, which will see its funding doubled, also includes training for surgeons and rebuilding of a military hospital targeted by Russian bombs. 

    Project Renovator draws on the UK’s leading defence medical expertise to expand Ukraine’s military rehabilitation and medical services and help troops who suffered life-changing injuries to return to the frontline or help them readjust to civilian life after the conflict ends. 

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP has today announced a new £20m funding package to step up the programme further – doubling the Government’s funding for the scheme – as the UK’s cast-iron commitment to Ukraine continues three years into the conflict. 

    The project, which started in October 2023 demonstrates the UK’s international leadership role, taking responsibility for repairing and upgrading a military rehabilitation hospital which was targeted and bombed by Putin’s forces earlier in the conflict. The UK is also encouraging allies to support and grow this work as part of the broader NATO Comprehensive Assistance Package for Ukraine scheme. 

    From providing life-saving surgery, to issuing advanced prosthetics, physiotherapy, and aftercare, the rehabilitation hospital will be a significant upgrade for Ukraine’s current services, with Ukrainian surgeons, doctors, and nurses being trained by the UK. 

    The announcement comes on the third anniversary of Putin launching his illegal full-scale invasion, as the Home Office announced new measures to block Russian elites entering the UK. It forms part of this Government’s record support for Ukraine this year – building on £12.8 billion worth of military, humanitarian, and economic support since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: 

    As we mark three years of this brutal conflict, Putin is still waging a war he thought he would win in three days, because of fierce resistance to the Russian invasion from ordinary Ukrainians – military and civilian alike. 

    In this critical period, Ukrainians need our support to keep them in the fight and to put their nation in the strongest possible position ahead of any talks. That’s why we are stepping up further our UK leadership and life-saving medical support for brave Ukrainian fighters. Our commitment to them is unshakeable. 

    I’m proud of the UK’s leadership in supporting Ukraine, both now and in the long-term, and this new investment in Ukraine’s military medical services will harness the UK’s leading expertise to ensure wounded troops are given the best treatment possible.

    The work will help address a major challenge posed by the conflict, with the largest casualty figures seen in Europe since the Second World War. The support stands in stark contrast to Russia’s widely-reported poor treatment of Russian casualties and veterans, leading to instances of crime and violence when they return from the frontline.

    While a small number of British personnel have been working to deliver the project in Ukraine, nearly 100 Ukrainian surgeons, doctors, and nurses are due to travel to the UK this year to receive further medical training using the latest techniques and equipment. 

    Around £20m of money from a NATO common fund has been invested in the rehabilitation hospital so far, much of which was provided by the UK. In addition to major structural repairs, improvements have included more than £300k worth of new gym equipment, and £400k worth of prosthetics and associated equipment. 

    Norway has also announced it is carrying out similar work to repair and improve a similar facility under the same NATO scheme, working closely with the UK. It comes as both nations have committed to deepen military ties, with a new agreement being drawn up following a visit from the Defence Secretary last week. 

    Defence Medical Services personnel from Project Renovator have been working with the team at the UK’s world-leading equivalent, the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Stanford Hall, to produce around 50 rehabilitation training videos to support the training of Ukrainian medical staff. 

    Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns DSO, OBE, MC, said:  

    The UK Armed Forces are experts in the area of defence medical services and rehabilitation, pioneering the field during the Second World War.

    These services are absolutely essential to ensuring veterans get the support they need to go back to their daily lives after being on the frontline, especially if wounded.

    The Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Stanford Hall in particular is a world-leading facility, and I am proud that the equipment and the skills of our personnel are being put to good use in supporting Ukraine.

    This year, the UK will spend £4.5 billion on military assistance for Ukraine – more than ever before. Supporting Ukraine in the conflict and to secure a peace deal is critical for the security of Europe and the UK, a foundation for the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change. Earlier this month, the Defence Secretary announced a new £150 million firepower package including drones, tanks and air defence systems.

    Since July 2024, the Government has provided over £5.26 billion in military aid and financial support to Ukraine, including a £3 billion annual military aid and a £2.26 billion loan for military spending. This includes £300 million for artillery ammunition and £68 million for air defence systems, as well as the new £150 million firepower package for thousands of drones, dozens of battle tanks and armoured vehicles.  

    The UK Government has supplied over 90,000 rounds of 155mm artillery, 150 artillery barrels, and 10 AS90 self-propelled howitzers. Air defence support includes 17 Gravehawk systems, 1,000 counter-drone electronic warfare systems, and £68 million for radars and counter-drone tech.  

    The UK has also invested £7.5 million in drone technology and continues training, surpassing 50,000 Ukrainian troops under Operation Interflex. Naval support totals £92 million, providing drones, uncrewed vessels, loitering munitions, and mine countermeasure drones.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kremlin-linked elites face exclusion from UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Kremlin-linked elites face exclusion from UK

    Elites with known links to the Kremlin may be subject to exclusion from the UK in show of steadfast support for Ukraine on 3 year anniversary of invasion.

    Elites linked to the Russian state can be excluded from entering the UK under new measures announced by the Home Secretary today.  

    Under the new measures, the government will expand the criteria for exclusion to cover Kremlin-linked elites. This will ensure that, while Russia remains an acute national security threat, elites linked to the Russian state can be prevented from entering the UK.  

    Those who could be barred from the UK include anyone who:

    • provides significant support to the Russian state
    • owes their significant status or wealth to the Russian state
    • enjoy access to the highest levels of the Russian state

    Kremlin-linked elites can pose a real and present danger to our way of life. They denounce our values in public while enjoying the benefits of the UK in private – benefits which they look to deprive Ukraine of through their support of Russia’s war.  They can act as tools for the Russian state, enabling the continuation and expansion of Russia’s aggression.      

    The move will bolster both UK national interest and national security, one of the key priorities underpinning the government’s Plan for Change, by blocking the physical access of those who undermine UK national security. These new measures will complement the UK’s existing sanctions regime against Russian elites who are supporting Putin’s war effort, which will remain in place as long as Russia threatens Ukraine’s sovereignty.  

    The move follows continued action from the UK to respond to Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine including through imposing extensive sanctions on elites linked to the Russian state, strengthening law enforcement capabilities through the National Crime Agency’s (NCA’s) Combatting Kleptocracy Cell and closing the legislative loopholes open to money laundering by criminal actors.   

    These measures also follow ramped up efforts to tackle Russian illicit finance through the NCA’s Operation Destabilise, successfully disrupting 2 Russian money laundering networks which provided services to Russian oligarchs and helped fund Russian state espionage operations. The NCA-led action led to 84 arrests and over £20 million in illicit funds seized. This work continues and since the disruption, a further £1 million of cash has been seized and a further 6 arrests made.

    This change builds on the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership signed in January, which commits both countries to work together to tackle the malign influence of elites linked to the Russian state.  

    Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:

    Border security is national security, and we will use all the tools at our disposal to protect our country against the threat from Russia.

    The measures announced today slam the door shut to the oligarchs who have enriched themselves at the expense of the Russian people whilst bankrolling this illegal and unjustifiable war.

    My message to Putin’s friends in Moscow is simple: you are not welcome in the UK.

    Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the UK’s total military, economic and humanitarian support for Ukraine amounts to £12.8 billion. We remain committed to the provision of £3 billion of military support a year to put Ukraine in the strongest position possible.  

    Earlier this month, the Defence Secretary led the 50-nation strong Ukraine Defence Contact Group for the first time and announced a further £150 million firepower package for Ukraine, including drones, tanks and air defence systems. 

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said:

    As we mark the third anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion, Putin is still waging a war he thought he would win in three days, because of fierce resistance from the Ukrainians. Our support for them is unshakeable. 

    I am proud of the UK’s leadership and unity on Ukraine. Keeping the Ukrainians in their fight and as strong as possible at any negotiating table is critical not only for them, but for the security of the UK. These new measures send a powerful message that we will do what it takes to turn the tables on Putin’s aggression.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Entrepreneurship as a way out of poverty? Study in rural Kenya shows why it doesn’t always work

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ralph Hamann, Professor, University of Cape Town

    International development agencies and non-governmental organisations often seek to advance community development by fostering entrepreneurship. The premise is that poor people can enhance their household incomes by establishing small businesses or by adding value to natural resources.

    Such programmes commonly include training and the provision of loans to enable micro-entrepreneurs to get started. But these interventions aren’t straightforward and often fail to achieve their objectives.

    Prior research has pointed to the fundamental economic challenges of entrepreneurship in the context of poverty. Cultural and institutional factors also play a role. Researchers have argued, for instance, that cultural norms of collectivism shape how entrepreneurs define themselves. They are likely to prioritise their roles as mentors or community safety net. This constrains their ability to innovate and grow their businesses.

    We wanted to explore an entrepreneurship-focused intervention in more detail. Specifically, why do some people seem more inclined than others to adopt these new behaviours?

    In a recent paper we set out our findings based on a study we conducted with 25 participants in northern Kenya. We built on our combined interests in entrepreneurship in resource-constrained environments, identity theory, and community development. We found that programme participants responded to the intervention in very different ways, and that religion helped explain these differences.

    Our findings have implications for interventions promoting entrepreneurship as a means to reduce poverty. First, such interventions can create profound identity tensions for participants and so their proponents need to take into account local cultures much more than is commonly the case. Second, entrepreneurship-focused interventions can change participants’ behaviours in ways that potentially disadvantage the poorest community members, leading to greater inequality at the community level.

    On the ground

    The development intervention we examined was aimed at fostering entrepreneurship in extremely poor pastoralist communities. The programme built on a small government cash transfer and put recipients into savings groups of up to 30 people. Participants were encouraged to start small businesses in these group discussions. They also received training in life skills and basic financial and business skills, such as the concept of profit and how to buy and sell goods.

    We found that over the five-year period of our study, an increasing number of pastoralists began engaging in businesses involving the sale of livestock, beadwork, sugar, tea leaves, washing powder and other necessities. But we discovered that these new business-oriented behaviours created profound tensions for the participants, and participants responded in different ways.

    The source of these tensions was in how individuals defined themselves within the local culture.

    The collectivist culture in these communities involved norms such as nkanyit (loosely translated, respect), which meant that people should share their belongings with others. But the training and the credit repayment requirements associated with the intervention made this problematic.

    To make profits and repay loans, the programme participants had to deny other community members’ requests for handouts or loans. This contravened local norms and expectations. It also created the fear that community members might curse the entrepreneur or her or his family.

    One participant explained:

    Business is different from what we were doing; business is not to give credits and also not to just give things to people… but people can curse you {if you say no}.

    Yet participants responded to these tensions in different ways. Some (about one-third of our research participants) gave in to the existing expectations and the need to avoid curses. As a result, they gave handouts to community members and often this led to their business languishing or collapsing. One participant noted:

    When I have food {business goods} in the house, I can’t tell people that I don’t have anything, and they know that I do. I just give some to avoid {curses}.“

    Others, however, continued with the new business activities despite the threat of curses. We discovered that a key factor explaining this was religion.

    Christians believed that their faith would protect them from curses. For some this occurred from the beginning. Others, fearful of curses early on, came to believe that curses would not apply in the context of the businesses that they wanted to keep running.

    For instance, one participant argued:

    Don’t give to people because of the fear of curses, just say no and pray for protection from the curses because God is great.

    Implications

    We highlight the importance of people’s social identities – specifically religious identities – in explaining why some participants are more likely to adopt capitalist behaviours (such as borrowing money to invest in business, or charging consumers interest on loans) than others.

    Organisations delivering entrepreneurship interventions and education in contexts of extreme poverty need to be aware of what identities they are encouraging participants to construct, either directly or indirectly through training and mentorship, and even through the questions that they ask participants.

    They need to be careful about creating tensions between existing cultural norms and the new concepts and behaviours they are introducing.

    More broadly, there may also be unintended negative consequences at the community level. Among the research participants in our study that adopted the entrepreneur role, this was linked to a diminished willingness to support poor community members. So, even if participants in the programme benefit through higher incomes, their entrepreneurial behaviours reduce traditional habits of giving to the needy. This could increase hardships for the very poor and create greater inequalities.

    This article is co-authored by Jody Delichte, and it is based on her PhD research at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business. Jody currently works as an international development and culture consultant. We are grateful to Jeremy Upane for his translation support in the field.

    – Entrepreneurship as a way out of poverty? Study in rural Kenya shows why it doesn’t always work
    – https://theconversation.com/entrepreneurship-as-a-way-out-of-poverty-study-in-rural-kenya-shows-why-it-doesnt-always-work-246700

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: “Our fossil fuel addiction is a Frankenstein monster” #Davos2025 #WorldEconomicForum #Guterres

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    The 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum will provide a crucial space to focus on the fundamental principles driving trust, including transparency, consistency and accountability.

    This Annual Meeting will welcome over 100 governments, all major international organizations, 1000 Forum’s Partners, as well as civil society leaders, experts, youth representatives, social entrepreneurs, and news outlets.

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/
    X ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #Davos2025 #WorldEconomicForum #wef25

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfZ3V13ky6M

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: The Navy’s carrier airwing flies further with Hercules’ new tanker approval

    Source: United States Navy

    The test effort expands Hercules’ mission – and that of the Navy’s fleet reserve, which exclusively operates the aircraft – beyond its primary focus on logistics and cargo transport.

    “Prior to this testing we only had a single aircraft cleared for refueling from the upgraded KC-130T,” said NAWCAD’s developmental test wing Commodore Capt. Elizabeth Somerville. “This advanced capability gives us flexibility in any future conflict.”

    Naval aviation’s F-35B/C, F/A-18, EA-18. CH-53K, CH-47, H-60s and AV-8B were cleared for air-to-air refueling from KC-130T after testing by NAWCAD federal government engineers, testers, and military test pilots from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20 along with industry partners who worked to make sure Hercules could safely refuel the aircraft with its upgraded NP2000 propeller system.

    “If we look forward to any future fight, it’s going to take intense collaboration between all of the forces: Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army, Coast Guard,” said Somerville. “Any resource that provides fuel airborne is going to be invaluable to all assets that are flying.”

    The test effort significantly increases naval aviation’s operational reach and flexibility, as well as several international allies, following a request by U.S. Pacific Fleet.

    The K-130T Hercules is a multi-role, long-range, land-based tactical aircraft that provides logistical support to fleet operating forces.

    Check out a video of the test effort here:

    NAWCAD employs more than 20,000 military, civilian and contract personnel. It operates test ranges, laboratories and aircraft in support of test, evaluation, research, development and sustainment of everything flown by the Navy and Marine Corps. Based in Patuxent River, Maryland, the command also has major sites in St. Inigoes, Maryland, Lakehurst, New Jersey, and Orlando, Florida.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister puts emphasis on safeguarding human rights and international system in address to UN Human Rights Council

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir today delivered her address to the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. In her speech, Foreign Minister Gunnarsdóttir emphasized the need to safeguard the United Nations and the international system established after World War II. That the values that the world’s nations agreed to respect were being severely undermined, and she particularly criticized Russia’s illegal, all-out invasion of Ukraine, on the day when leaders have gathered in Kiev to express support for Ukraine exactly three years after the invasion began.

    The Foreign Minister also addressed gender equality, women´s rights and the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in her address to the Human Rights Council, but a strong undercurrent is now working to undermine the achievements that have been made in recent years.

    “For me, the starting point is a simple truth: no person should have to live in fear of persecution and violence. This continues to apply if the persecution is based on a person´s sexual orientation or gender identity. And we will not hesitate to stand up on their behalf here in this venue, amplifying the voices of those who fight for their rights. Because we are all born free and equal,” said Þorgerður Katrín.

    The 58th session of the Human Rights Council is the first since Iceland became a member of the Council, following elections at the United Nations General Assembly in October. The Foreign Minister noted that eighty years have passed this year since the founding of the United Nations and that it is important to recall the important values that were laid down at the beginning. Of course, the United Nations had not always been able to live up to hopes and expectations. “The Israeli warfare in Gaza for fifteen months following the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October 2023 is only the latest testament of the failure of our system to address urgent crises. And yet that complex problem now seems more divisive than ever, the talk of removal of people from Gaza being only the latest example of the crossroads we now find ourselves at,” she said, noting further: “There is only one way to meet these challenges. We must redouble our efforts, recommit ourselves to principles laid out in the UN Charter. It may prove difficult. It may require sacrifices – for sure it will require sacrifices since, after all, the world is a different place than it was in 1945, and the United Nations must reflect those changes through reform and renewal.”

    During her visit to Geneva, the Minister of Foreign Affairs will also deliver an address on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries (NB8) at an event commemorating the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine today, and will also deliver an address on behalf of the same countries at an event commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Beijing World Conference on Women. She will also meet with Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, and will hold several bilateral ministerial meetings.

    An overview of Iceland’s key priorities can be found here and on this website dedicated to Iceland’s membership of the United Nations Human Rights Council. 

    Iceland joined the UN Human Rights Council on 1 January 2025 along with seventeen other states from all regions of the world. Iceland previously served on the Council for half a term in 2018-2019, filling the seat vacated by the United States in June 2018.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Coalition of Unions, Small Businesses, Veterans, and Conservation Organizations Seek Injunction to Prevent Unlawful Firings

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    Amended Complaint also Targets Illegal “Five Things” Email

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In their lawsuit attempting to block the unlawful mass terminations of probationary federal employees, some of the nation’s largest and most influential public service unions, along with small businesses, veterans, and conservation organizations, have filed for a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and its Acting Director, Charles Ezell. The TRO would stop OPM from directing the unlawful firings, which the plaintiffs refer to in their complaint as “one of the most massive employment frauds in the history of this country.”

    The complaint, filed last week and amended yesterday, says that OPM’s egregious firings were made on false pretenses and violate federal law, including the Administrative Procedure Act and other statutes defining federal employment and OPM’s role. These firings were executed across federal agencies, based on directives from OPM. OPM, the complaint asserts, acted unlawfully by directing federal agencies to use a standardized termination notice falsely claiming performance issues. Congress, not OPM,controls and authorizes federal employment and related spending by the federal administrative agencies, and Congress has determined that each agency is responsible for managing its own employees.   

    In federal service, new employees and employees who change positions (including through promotions) have probationary status. The plaintiffs claim that OPM is exploiting and misusing the probationary period to eliminate staff across federal agencies.

    The amended complaint is the first to target OPM’s illegal demand that federal employees enumerate five accomplishments of the previous week. The demand, which has been widely derided, is also a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act, as explained in the complaint. “This request, and the resulting confusion, is not just inappropriate – it is disruptive to essential government functions,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley, in a letter to Acting Director Ezell.

    With respect to the termination of the provisional employees,“small business owners across the country rely on the Small Business Administration for access to capital, technical assistance, government contracting, disaster relief and many other critical services. Main street businesses also rely on consistent and predictable permitting and regulation,” said Richard Trent, Executive Director for the Main Street Alliance. “More than 20 million new small businesses have formed in the US since 2020. OPM should immediately stop this chaos. MSA will keep fighting until they do.”

    “Units of the National Park System across the country – who are already struggling with a lack of staff – have been impacted by the unlawful and reckless firings of federal employees,” said Phil Francis, Chair of the Executive Council of the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks. “We know these reductions in staff will lead to partial or full park closures, safety concerns due to a lack of  emergency responders, reduction or elimination of visitor center operations, a lack of maintenance including filthy restrooms, and an increased risk of harm to plants, animals, and other natural and cultural resources. These mass firings hurt our national parks and they hurt surrounding communities that depend on tourism and visitor spending to help support the local economy. The Coalition appreciates and supports our NPS employees and all federal workers who work tirelessly to conserve and protect our country’s national parks and public lands.”

    “Federal land and wildlife agencies are already understaffed, and the Trump administration’s recent hatchet-job on federal employees is resulting in chaos that will reduce federal oversight over lands that are supposed to be managed for the public interest, with conservation of lands, wildlife, and watersheds an important focus,” said Erik Molvar, a wildlife biologist and Executive Director of Western Watersheds Project. “We are concerned that these new job cuts will result in less federal oversight over public lands, allowing loggers, grazers, and drillers to get away with serious land abuses.”

    “This administration’s mass firings are a direct attack on the working people who have dedicated their lives to public service, including thousands of veterans. These reckless terminations threaten their livelihoods, their families, and their ability to continue serving their country, but the harm doesn’t stop there. Working families across the country could suffer from cuts to essential government services, whether it’s VA hospitals, disaster relief, or public safety,” said Jose Vasquez, Executive Director, CommonDefense.us. “This is not just bureaucratic mismanagement, it’s an assault on our nation from within. Common Defense stands with our fellow plaintiffs to demand an immediate stop to this unlawful purge and to defend the veterans, military families, and public servants who keep our government running.”

    “Veterans constitute approximately 30% of the federal workforce.  The recent mass layoffs have disproportionately affected them, leading to job losses and increased uncertainty. Many veterans rely on federal employment for stability, and these cuts have disrupted their livelihoods, said VoteVets Action Fund Chairman Major General (Ret.) Paul Eaton. “In addition, the termination of tens of thousands of probationary federal employees has had an adverse impact on the services provided to veterans, leading to staffing shortages, diminished support for critical programs, and increased uncertainty for veterans and their families.”

    “This administration has abused the probationary period to conduct a chaotic, ill-informed, and politically-driven firing spree. The result has been the indiscriminate firing of thousands of patriotic public servants across the country who help veterans in crisis, ensure the safety of our nuclear weapons, keep power flowing to American homes, combat the bird flu, and provide other essential services,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley. “These actions aren’t just illegal. They are hurting everyday Americans and making us all less safe. It’s a stark reminder of the price we all pay when you stack the government with political loyalists instead of professionals.”

    “Overnight, tens of thousands of federal employees received the same termination letter citing ‘performance issues’ without any explanation or reasoning,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “These mass firings are yet another unlawful attempt by this billionaire-run administration to gut public services without regard to the health and safety of our communities. Federal workers are qualified professionals who make our nation stronger – supporting our schools, parks, hospitals and vital infrastructure. We will keep fighting these attacks on their freedoms that threaten everything from food safety to national security to health care.”

    “New hires are crucial as our country continues to face nurse staffing challenges. Indiscriminately firing these nurses, who are essential to the care their units provide, could truly cost lives,” said Charmaine S. Morales, RN and UNAC/UHCP President.

    Ambassador Norm Eisen, representing the plaintiffs and executive chair of SDDF, said, “SDDF is proud to stand with leading public service unions and others in this critical fight to protect their members, who dedicate their lives to serving our nation. The mass firings ordered by OPM are illegal and betray the trust of countless federal employees. The patronizing demand that federal workers still on the job have to justify themselves by enumerating five accomplishments just adds insult to injury. That too is against the law. We are committed to protecting all these workers.”

    The TRO motion is available here.
    The memorandum in support of the TRO is available here.
    The proposed TRO order is available here.
    The amended complaint is available here.

    # # #

     

    The Main Street Alliance champions the voices of small business owners to create a thriving economy. We cultivate a network of entrepreneurs, connecting them with resources to build sustainable enterprises. Our membership drives state and federal policymaking that gives a fair shot to small businesses and strengthens communities nationwide.
    Western Watersheds Project is a unionized nonprofit conservation group dedicated to protecting and restoring wildlife and watersheds throughout the American West.
    Common Defense Civic Engagement (“CommonDefense.us”) is a grassroots membership organization of progressive veterans, military families, and civilian supporters standing up for our communities against the rising tide of racism, hate, and violence. Common Defense invests in the leadership of its members through training and deployment in campaigns that connect directly to their history of service, including voting rights, climate justice, and anti-militarism. Approximately 33,187 of Common Defense’s members live in California, including approximately 2,000 veterans.
    VoteVets uses public issue campaigns to relentlessly lift up the voices of veterans on matters of national security, veterans’ care, and everyday issues that affect the lives of those who served, and their families.
    Altshuler Berzon LLP is a California law firm that  focuses on providing legal representation in the service of economic justice and the public interest. The law firm represents clients in federal and state trial and appellate courts and before administrative agencies.
    State Democracy Defenders Fund brings together a nonpartisan team to work with national, state and local allies across the country to defend in real-time the foundations of our democracy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Africa relies too heavily on foreign aid for health – 4 ways to fix this

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Francisca Mutapi, Professor in Global Health Infection and Immunity. and co-Director of the Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh

    There’s been a global trend in the reduction of aid to Africa since 2018. Donors are shifting their funding priorities in response to domestic and international agendas. Germany, France and Norway, for instance, have all reduced their aid to Africa in the past five years. And, in 2020, the UK government reduced its Overseas Development Aid from 0.7% of gross national income to 0.5%.

    Many health services across the African continent rely heavily on overseas aid to provide essential care. International funding supports everything from vaccines and HIV treatment to maternal health programmes.

    Cuts to aid, particularly unilateral ones, can have widespread implications. For instance, about 72 million people missed out on treatment for neglected tropical diseases between 2021 and 2022 due to UK aid cuts.

    The freeze of US aid to Africa in January 2025 is the latest in this trend. It’s already having significant and wide-ranging impacts across the African continent. For example, vaccination campaigns for polio eradication and HIV/Aids treatment through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) have been stopped. This puts millions of lives at risk. In South Africa alone, the cut of Pepfar’s US$400 million a year to HIV programmes risks patients defaulting on treatment, infection rates going up and eventually a rise in deaths.

    President Donald Trump’s actions have highlighted Africa’s reliance on foreign aid for health funding. I’m a global health expert who sits on various funding and advisory boards, including those of the World Health Organization (WHO), the UK government and boards of global resource mobilisation organisations. I am well aware of the competing funding priorities for international funders and have long advocated for local, sustainable health funding mechanisms.

    Long-term strategies to reduce aid dependency are critical. Breaking away from this current funding status requires concerted efforts building on proven best practice.



    Read more:
    How nonprofits abroad can fill gaps when the US government cuts off foreign aid

    Country-leadership and ownership

    African countries currently face the unique challenge of simultaneously dealing with high rates of communicable diseases, such as malaria and HIV/Aids, and rising levels of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

    But Africa’s health systems are not sufficiently resourced. They’re not able to provide appropriate, accessible and affordable healthcare to address these challenges.

    African governments spend less than 10% of their GDP on health, amounting to capital expenditure of US$4.5 billion. This falls short of the estimated US$26 billion annual investment needed to meet evolving health needs.

    Aid goes towards filling this funding gap. For example, in 2021, half of sub-Saharan African countries relied on external financing, such as grants and loans, for more than one-third of their health expenditures.

    Foreign aid has helped. But it clearly leaves African countries vulnerable to the political mood swings among funders.

    It also leads to loss of self-determination in terms of health priorities as, ultimately, the funder determines the health priorities. This is one reason why many programmes in Africa focus on a single disease, such as HIV. This leads to poorly integrated health services. For instance health workers or services are channelled into managing a single disease.

    New, underutilised financing options

    The current trajectory of reduced aid to Africa is likely to continue. Global aid is being directed to other challenges, such as conflict and illegal immigration.

    The continent cannot continue on the same path while hoping for different outcomes. Africa needs to grow a range of immediately available domestic financing options. Many of these are underutilised and include:

    1.) Diversifying domestic resource mobilisation. This should include commodity taxation to fund health. For instance, tobacco taxes which are currently underutilised in Africa.

    Zimbabwe offers a successful example. It has bridged donor resource gaps through its 3% Aids levy (started in 1999). Imposed on both individual and corporate incomes, it funds domestic HIV/Aids prevention, care and treatment programmes.

    Nigeria’s another country that’s taken initiative, prioritising domestic budget allocation to health. It recently absorbed the 28,000 healthworkers formerly paid by USAid. This demonstrates that domestic health financing in Africa is possible.

    2.) More private-public partnerships. Formed between local and international philanthropies or institutions, these can bridge financing gaps.

    One successful example is the 2015 health service provision partnership between the Kenyan government and GE Healthcare. GE Healthcare provides radiography equipment and services which the government pays for over time. This allows the government to budget and plan healthcare expenditure over several years.

    3.) Promotion of regional integration to boost local production. This will reduce the need for aid-funded imported medical products.

    For instance, the African Union’s harmonised Africa Medicines Authority registration facility creates a single continental market for medicines. This supports local producers and exporters, by allowing them to operate on a larger scale. It also makes production and distribution more cost-effective. Finally, it reduces the reliance on imported medicines, strengthening Africa’s pharmaceutical industry.

    4.) Leverage development finance institutions. These are specialised financial organisations – such as the Africa Development Bank, African Export-Import Bank and the Development Bank of Southern Africa. They can provide capital and expertise to projects deemed too risky for traditional investors. This includes support for health financing for infrastructure development, private sector development for small and medium-sized enterprises and the regional integration.

    One transformative initiative is the AfricInvest investment platform. With support from development finance institutions in the US and Europe, AfricInvest has raised over US$100 million for health investment in Africa. It has funded at least 45 dialysis facilities in Africa, delivering over 130,000 dialysis sessions annually, primarily to remote and underserved communities all at affordable costs.

    A combination of these approaches at national, regional and continental level will accelerate Africa’s withdrawal from aid dependency.

    Francisca Mutapi receives funding from the Aspen Global Innovation Programme, Scottish Funding Council funding to the University of Edinburgh, Academy of Medical Sciences, British Academy and the Royal Society. Francisca Mutapi is the Deputy Director of the Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA) Partnership and Deputy Board Chair of Uniting to Combat NTDS. She sits on the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and WHO Africa Regional Director’s Scientific Advisory Groups.

    – ref. Africa relies too heavily on foreign aid for health – 4 ways to fix this – https://theconversation.com/africa-relies-too-heavily-on-foreign-aid-for-health-4-ways-to-fix-this-249886

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Samaila Zubairu of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Succeeds Prof. Benedict Oramah of Afreximbank to Lead the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI)

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, February 24, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI), also known as the Africa Club, has announced the appointment of Samaila Zubairu as its new Chairperson.

    Mr. Zubairu, President and CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), succeeds AAMFI’s founding Chair, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). His appointment was confirmed at the fifth meeting of the AAMFI Governing Council on 16th February 2025, on the sidelines of the 38th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa.

    Additionally, Dr Corneille Karekezi, Group Managing Director and CEO Africa Re Corporation (Africa Re) and Mr Manuel Moses, Chief Executive Officer of the African Trade & Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI), were appointed as the first and second Vice Chairpersons of the AAMFI Governing Council, respectively.

    Established in 2024, AAMFI brings together Africa’s leading multilateral financial institutions to promote sustainable economic growth and financial self-reliance for the continent. The Alliance plays a critical role in strengthening intra-African collaboration, mobilising capital for development, and advocating for Africa’s economic interests on the global stage.

    Under Prof. Oramah’s leadership, AAMFI made significant strides, including its successful launch by African Heads of State in February 2024, the adoption of its governing Charter, the admission of 3 new members: Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), African Solidarity Fund (ASF), and East African Development Bank (EADB), increasing its membership from seven founding members to a total of ten members.

    Prof. Oramah’s leadership also saw the endorsement and recognition of AAMFI by key African Union organs and stakeholders, as well as successful elevation of the profile of the Alliance highlighting its key role in shaping discussions around African multilateral and development finance.

    “I want to thank the leadership of AAMFI for entrusting me with this mandate. Looking back at what we have achieved, I am reminded of the immense potential and responsibility that lies ahead. AAMFI has laid a strong foundation for Africa’s financial sovereignty, but there is still much more to be done. I am confident that under the leadership of Mr. Samaila Zubairu, the Africa will continue to drive impactful collaborations and innovative financial solutions to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation,” said Prof. Oramah, in his statement during the handover ceremony. “

    As Chair, Zubairu will drive collaborative growth by strengthening partnerships among member institutions, African governments, and global agencies to build a robust financial architecture. His agenda prioritizes youth empowerment through industrialization, financial literacy, and pension reforms, strategic investments in infrastructure, and developing capital markets to enhance liquidity and intra-African investment. He will also advocate for cross-border capital mobilization and early warning systems to prevent financial vulnerabilities, ensuring Africa’s economic resilience and long-term prosperity.

    While accepting the Chairmanship of the AAMFI for 2025, Mr Zubairu said: I am deeply honored to assume the chairmanship of AAMFI at this pivotal moment for Africa’s economic transformation. Our collective mission is clear—to build a robust financial architecture that captures and retains value within the continent, mobilizes African capital for African priorities, and accelerate the infrastructure development that enables industrialization. By fostering deeper intra-African collaboration, and strengthening our institutions, we will unlock opportunities that create high-quality jobs, drive innovation, and secure our long-term economic resilience. I look forward to working with my esteemed colleagues to chart a path toward true financial sovereignty and sustainable prosperity for Africa.”

    Mr. Zubairu’s leadership of AFC since 2018 has been pivotal to mobilising capital for infrastructure, industrialization and trade across Africa. AFC leads some of the continent’s most significant infrastructure projects, including the Lobito Corridor, Africa’s largest rail project, and transformative renewable energy initiatives such as the Lekela Power and Red Sea Power wind generation projects, and Xlinks, which is set to export electricity from the Sahara to Europe. Under his stewardship, AFC has doubled assets invested to $15 billion, and expanded membership from 18 countries to 44, representing 80% of African nations.

    Members commended Prof. Oramah on his successful leadership and tenure and pledged their commitment and support towards a successful year for Mr Zubairu as the new Chairperson of AAMFI.

    AAMFI members include AFC, Afreximbank, Trade and Development Bank Group (TDB Group), African Reinsurance Corporation (Africa Re), African Trade and Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI), Shelter Afrique Development Bank (SHAFDB), ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company), East African Development Bank (EADB), African Solidarity Fund (ASF), and the Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa relies too heavily on foreign aid for health – 4 ways to fix this

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Francisca Mutapi, Professor in Global Health Infection and Immunity. and co-Director of the Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh

    There’s been a global trend in the reduction of aid to Africa since 2018. Donors are shifting their funding priorities in response to domestic and international agendas. Germany, France and Norway, for instance, have all reduced their aid to Africa in the past five years. And, in 2020, the UK government reduced its Overseas Development Aid from 0.7% of gross national income to 0.5%.

    Many health services across the African continent rely heavily on overseas aid to provide essential care. International funding supports everything from vaccines and HIV treatment to maternal health programmes.

    Cuts to aid, particularly unilateral ones, can have widespread implications. For instance, about 72 million people missed out on treatment for neglected tropical diseases between 2021 and 2022 due to UK aid cuts.

    The freeze of US aid to Africa in January 2025 is the latest in this trend. It’s already having significant and wide-ranging impacts across the African continent. For example, vaccination campaigns for polio eradication and HIV/Aids treatment through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) have been stopped. This puts millions of lives at risk. In South Africa alone, the cut of Pepfar’s US$400 million a year to HIV programmes risks patients defaulting on treatment, infection rates going up and eventually a rise in deaths.

    President Donald Trump’s actions have highlighted Africa’s reliance on foreign aid for health funding. I’m a global health expert who sits on various funding and advisory boards, including those of the World Health Organization (WHO), the UK government and boards of global resource mobilisation organisations. I am well aware of the competing funding priorities for international funders and have long advocated for local, sustainable health funding mechanisms.

    Long-term strategies to reduce aid dependency are critical. Breaking away from this current funding status requires concerted efforts building on proven best practice.

    Read more: How nonprofits abroad can fill gaps when the US government cuts off foreign aid

    Country-leadership and ownership

    African countries currently face the unique challenge of simultaneously dealing with high rates of communicable diseases, such as malaria and HIV/Aids, and rising levels of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

    But Africa’s health systems are not sufficiently resourced. They’re not able to provide appropriate, accessible and affordable healthcare to address these challenges.

    African governments spend less than 10% of their GDP on health, amounting to capital expenditure of US$4.5 billion. This falls short of the estimated US$26 billion annual investment needed to meet evolving health needs.

    Aid goes towards filling this funding gap. For example, in 2021, half of sub-Saharan African countries relied on external financing, such as grants and loans, for more than one-third of their health expenditures.

    Foreign aid has helped. But it clearly leaves African countries vulnerable to the political mood swings among funders.

    It also leads to loss of self-determination in terms of health priorities as, ultimately, the funder determines the health priorities. This is one reason why many programmes in Africa focus on a single disease, such as HIV. This leads to poorly integrated health services. For instance health workers or services are channelled into managing a single disease.

    New, underutilised financing options

    The current trajectory of reduced aid to Africa is likely to continue. Global aid is being directed to other challenges, such as conflict and illegal immigration.

    The continent cannot continue on the same path while hoping for different outcomes. Africa needs to grow a range of immediately available domestic financing options. Many of these are underutilised and include:

    1.) Diversifying domestic resource mobilisation. This should include commodity taxation to fund health. For instance, tobacco taxes which are currently underutilised in Africa.

    Zimbabwe offers a successful example. It has bridged donor resource gaps through its 3% Aids levy (started in 1999). Imposed on both individual and corporate incomes, it funds domestic HIV/Aids prevention, care and treatment programmes.

    Nigeria’s another country that’s taken initiative, prioritising domestic budget allocation to health. It recently absorbed the 28,000 healthworkers formerly paid by USAid. This demonstrates that domestic health financing in Africa is possible.

    2.) More private-public partnerships. Formed between local and international philanthropies or institutions, these can bridge financing gaps.

    One successful example is the 2015 health service provision partnership between the Kenyan government and GE Healthcare. GE Healthcare provides radiography equipment and services which the government pays for over time. This allows the government to budget and plan healthcare expenditure over several years.

    3.) Promotion of regional integration to boost local production. This will reduce the need for aid-funded imported medical products.

    For instance, the African Union’s harmonised Africa Medicines Authority registration facility creates a single continental market for medicines. This supports local producers and exporters, by allowing them to operate on a larger scale. It also makes production and distribution more cost-effective. Finally, it reduces the reliance on imported medicines, strengthening Africa’s pharmaceutical industry.

    4.) Leverage development finance institutions. These are specialised financial organisations – such as the Africa Development Bank, African Export-Import Bank and the Development Bank of Southern Africa. They can provide capital and expertise to projects deemed too risky for traditional investors. This includes support for health financing for infrastructure development, private sector development for small and medium-sized enterprises and the regional integration.

    One transformative initiative is the AfricInvest investment platform. With support from development finance institutions in the US and Europe, AfricInvest has raised over US$100 million for health investment in Africa. It has funded at least 45 dialysis facilities in Africa, delivering over 130,000 dialysis sessions annually, primarily to remote and underserved communities all at affordable costs.

    A combination of these approaches at national, regional and continental level will accelerate Africa’s withdrawal from aid dependency.

    – Africa relies too heavily on foreign aid for health – 4 ways to fix this
    – https://theconversation.com/africa-relies-too-heavily-on-foreign-aid-for-health-4-ways-to-fix-this-249886

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GFSL Board adopt Institute of Directors Code of Conduct

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    GFSL Board adopt Institute of Directors Code of Conduct

    GFSL’s (Gov Facilities Services Ltd) Board of Directors has recently committed to adopting the Institute of Directors’ Code of Conduct.

    What is the Code?

    The Code of Conduct establishes 6 key principles:

    1. leading by example (demonstrating exemplary behaviour)
    2. integrity (acting with honesty, ethics)
    3. transparency (communicating openly, honestly, clearly)
    4. accountability (taking personal responsibility for actions/consequences)
    5. fairness (treating people equitably)
    6. responsible business (ESG)

    Why have we adopted the Code?

    The voluntary adoption of the Code underpins our existing approach to ethical governance and responsible business, with the values guiding our Directors’ professional behaviour and decision-making, and it consolidates public trust in GFSL. The principles outlined in the Code complement our GFSL values of Pride in People, One Team and Do the Right Thing.  

    How will the Code impact on GFSL employees?

    Employees can be confident that business decisions will be made with the highest ethical standards at their core, based on the key principles of the Code. In accordance with the way in which we operate, particular emphasis will be placed on delivering honest, open communications about decisions and actions that stem from them.

    How will the Code support our Directors?

    The Code supports our existing approach to leadership and governance, helping Directors to fulfil their responsibilities by outlining what good practice looks like. It lays out guiding principles for Directors to refer to when asking themselves ‘What would a responsible Director do in this situation?’. Designed as a practical tool, the Code helps Directors think clearly, make good decisions and promote high levels of integrity across GFSL.

    How will the Code support GFSL more widely?

    The intended outcomes of adopting the Code of Conduct will reinforce our commitments to being a responsible and respected organisation, building increased trust, confidence and respect among stakeholders, thus growing GFSL’s reputation. In turn, this will enhance relationships with stakeholders and help bolster our legitimacy and resilience.

    The Institute of Directors’ Code of Conduct can be found on their website.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New law to ban bonuses for polluting water bosses

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New law to ban bonuses for polluting water bosses

    The Water (Special Measures) Act 2025 has today received Royal Assent, boosting the powers of water sector regulators to tackle pollution.

    Major legislation to crack down on water bosses polluting Britain’s rivers, lakes and seas has today been signed into law in the most significant increase to enforcement powers in a decade.   

    The Water (Special Measures) Act 2025 will give regulators new powers to take tougher and faster action to crack down on water companies damaging the environment and failing their customers.  

    The Act delivers on the manifesto pledges to clean up the water sector, including increasing the ability of the Environment Agency to bring forward criminal charges against water executives who break the law. It will create new tougher penalties, including possible imprisonment, for water executives who obstruct investigations.   

    The new legislation will provide powers for Ofwat to ban the payment of bonuses to water bosses if they fail to meet high standards to protect the environment, their consumers, and their company’s finances.     

    Other measures in the Act include automatic penalties to allow regulators to issue penalties more quickly, without having to direct resources to lengthy investigations. It will also introduce independent monitoring of every sewage outlet, with water companies required to publish real-time data for all emergency overflows. Discharges will have to be reported within an hour of the initial spill.  

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:

    “We promised to put water companies under tough special measures to clean up our waterways. Today, the Government has delivered on that promise as we continue to deliver on our Plan for Change.       

    “Polluting water bosses will no longer be paid undeserved bonuses. And if they break the law over water pollution, they could end up in the dock and face prison time. 

    “This is just the beginning. The Independent Water Commission will report back later this year to shape new laws that will transform our water system so we can clean up our rivers, lakes, and seas for good.” 

    The Act introduces bold new measures to clean up the industry, including:   

    • Enhanced enforcement powers: The Environment Agency will have increased ability to bring criminal charges against water bosses who break the law, who could face tougher penalties such as imprisonment of executives when companies fail to cooperate or obstruct investigations. The cost recovery powers of regulators will be expanded to ensure that water companies bear the cost of enforcement action taken in response to their failings.  

    • Ban on bonuses: Ofwat will have the power to set rules prohibiting the payment of executive bonuses if companies fail to meet high standards in protecting the environment, their consumers, and financial resilience.  

    • Automatic penalties: Automatic penalties will be introduced for a range of offences, allowing regulators to issue penalties more quickly without redirecting resources to lengthy investigations.   

    • Independent monitoring: Every emergency sewage outlet will be monitored, with data independently scrutinised and made publicly available within an hour of sewage spills occurring. This will ensure transparency and direct further investment to improving sewage infrastructure.   

    • Pollution Incident Reduction Plans (PIRPs): Water companies in England will be required to publish annual Pollution Incident Reduction Plans and report regularly on their progress, enabling the public and regulators to hold companies accountable for reducing pollution incidents.   

    The Act marks a major milestone in the government’s long-term approach to tackling the systemic issues in the water sector – helping to meet the challenges of the future, such as climate change, and driving economic growth.   

    Further legislation aimed at fundamentally transforming how our entire water system operates will be guided by the findings of the Independent Water Commission, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, which is currently conducting the largest review of the industry since privatisation.   

    Action taken so far 

    Immediate steps:   

    In his first week, the Secretary of State for Environment Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed announced a series of initial steps towards ending the crisis in the water sector: 

    • After writing to Ofwat, the Secretary of State secured agreement that funding for vital infrastructure investment is ringfenced and can only be spent on upgrades benefiting customers and the environment not diverted for bonuses, dividends or salary increases.    

    • Water companies will place customers and the environment at the heart of their objectives. Companies have agreed to change their ‘Articles of Association’ – the rules governing each company – to make the interests of customers and the environment a primary objective.   

    • Consumers will gain new powers to hold water company bosses to account through powerful new customer panels. For the first time in history, customers will have the power to summon board members and hold water executives to account.   

    • Strengthen protection and compensation for households and businesses when their basic water services are affected. We have now doubled the compensation customers are legally entitled to when key standards are not met. The payments will also be triggered by a wider set of circumstances including Boil Water Notices.   

    Independent Commission:   

    • We have launched an Independent Commission into the water sector and its regulation, in what is expected to form the largest review of the industry since privatisation.  

    • Former Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, Jon Cunliffe, has been appointed as the chair of the Commission. With several decades of economic and regulatory experience, his appointment demonstrates the Government’s serious ambitions. The Commission will draw upon a panel of experts from across the regulatory, environment, health, engineering, customer, investor, and economic sectors.   

    • A set of recommendations will be delivered to the Defra Secretary of State, and Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs.   

    • These recommendations will form the basis of further legislation to attract long-term investment and clean up our waters for good – injecting billions of pounds into the economy, speeding up delivery on infrastructure to support house building and addressing water scarcity, given the country needs to source an additional 5 billion litres of water a day by 2050.

    Further information:   

    Please see further details on the Water (Special Measures) Act here.

    Stakeholder quotes: 

    Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said:   

    “The passing into law of the Water (Special Measures) Act is a crucial step in making sure water companies take full responsibility for their impact on the environment.  

    “The increased regulatory powers introduced by this legislation will allow us to close the justice gap, deliver swifter enforcement action and ultimately deter illegal activity.   

    “Alongside these reforms, we are undertaking the biggest ever transformation to the way we regulate. By investing in additional resources, training and updated digital assets, we are ensuring the water system better meets the needs of both people and the environment, now and in the future.” 

    Huw Irranca-Davies, Wales’s Deputy First Minister for Wales with responsibility for Climate Change, said:  

    “Restoring our rivers and improving water quality is a key priority for us.  

    “We’ve been working in partnership with the UK Government to tackle pollution in our rivers, lakes, and seas, and to make sure the water industry is properly regulated.  

    “Today’s Royal Assent of the Special Measures Bill is another step forward and shows what we can achieve working together.” 

    Helen Campbell, Ofwat’s Senior Director for Sector Performance, said: 

    ‘’We welcome today’s Royal Assent of the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025, which provides a clear signal to create a water sector that delivers for all customers and the environment.   

    “The Act gives Ofwat new powers to set requirements for companies on remuneration and governance, including prohibiting performance-related executive pay. These rules are an important step towards rebuilding public trust within the water sector, while also prompting water companies to focus on delivering a change in their culture that better meets the expectations of their customers. 

    “We are working at pace to implement these new rules and intend to launch consultations on the final proposals later this year.” 

    Mike Keil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), said: 

    “Repairing people’s fractured trust in the water sector requires not only a vast improvement in environmental performance, but also a sea change in water company culture so customers’ priorities are put before profit.  

    “It will take time to transform the water sector, but these new legal powers mark an important step in tackling two issues which make people’s blood boil – water company executives being rewarded for failure and pollution in our rivers, lakes, and seas.  

    “Water companies will be placing much bigger demands on billpayers’ finances over the next five years, so people have a right to expect far more for their money.” 

    Mark Lloyd, Rivers Trust CEO, said:   

    “The Water Special Measures Bill is a welcome first step from the government towards building a water system which restores nature, builds resilience to drought and flooding, and tackles the widespread issues of pollution.  

    “We welcome the improvements made to the bill in its passage through the Lords and the Government’s acceptance of amendments strengthening the environment duty of Ofwat and a greater emphasis on Nature Based Solutions.   

    “We are engaging closely with the current Independent Water Commission which we see as a once in a generation opportunity to take several more, and bolder steps towards a more integrated and catchment-based approach to managing water.” 

    “We welcome Royal Assent of the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025, an important step toward cleaning up the freshwater environment. Regulators must make decisive use of new enforcement powers wherever companies continue to pollute, and Ofwat should make the most of new financial disclosure rules to ensure that funds that ought to be spent cleaning up rivers are never again siphoned off for profit.  

    “As the Government has recognised, the Act is just a first step. It must be followed promptly by further legislation and action to clamp down on pollution and ramp up environmental investment across whole catchments and across all the sectors responsible for polluting our rivers.” 

    Ali Morse, Water Policy Manager at the Wildlife Trusts, said:  

    “It’s encouraging to see The Water (Special Measures) Act bringing welcome powers and resourcing for regulators, as well as protections for the environment, with additional sewage spill monitoring and a focus on reducing pollution. These are topics that customers really care about. It lays important groundwork for the future legislative changes which are vital to ensure that the water sector can achieve what it needs to in the interests of its customers, and the rivers, lakes, and seas which people cherish. 

    “The work of the Independent Water Commission offers a once in a generation opportunity to reshape the way that we secure the improvements our waters desperately need, across catchment and sectors, and we’ll continue to work with the Commission and Government to ensure that these vital changes are driven forward.” 

    Jamie Cook, Angling Trust CEO, said:  

    “We welcome the government’s early action on water pollution with this bill. The behaviour of water companies is a national scandal, and illegal sewage pollution must result in prosecutions.  

    “The Angling Trust’s network of water-testing volunteers regularly exposes horrendous pollution in waterways and damage done to fisheries. The Environment Agency must use its powers to prosecute any law-breaking water bosses and address any illegal sewage spills uncovered in its long-standing investigation into potential permit breaches.  

    “This bill is a first step toward cleaning up waterways and fixing the regulatory system. The Independent Water Commission must now drive systemic reform, leading to a stronger water bill later in this Parliament—one that transforms water management and safeguards rivers, lakes, seas, and the fish that depend on them.” 

    Ben Seal, Head of Access and Environment at Paddle UK, said: 

    “Paddle UK and The Clean Water Sports Alliance welcomes the Water (Special Measures) Act receiving Royal Assent today. This legislation is a shot across the bows of polluting companies. Banning bonuses for failures and issuing tougher penalties is a very welcome first step by the Government – a down payment on the promised future reform that our broken system so desperately needs” 

    “Enjoying time in, on, or alongside water is vitally important in supporting the health and wellbeing of millions of people. Our community has campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness of the impact pollution is having on both people and nature. We will be watching closely to ensure that these new powers are used to their fullest, to hold polluters to account and begin to restore our precious blue spaces”. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province Contributes $6.5 Million To Ronald Mcdonald House In Regina

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on February 24, 2025

    Saskatchewan Families with Sick Kids to Benefit From Home-Away-From-Home

    Today, the Government of Saskatchewan announced $6.5 million in funding to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). The funding will go toward the building of the first ever Ronald McDonald House in Regina.  

    “I am thrilled that Saskatchewan families will now have the option of staying at a Ronald McDonald Home when they come to Regina seeking medical care for their children,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “At a very stressful time in their lives, families will know they can rely on an affordable place where they feel welcome and cared for, while their child is undergoing medical treatment.” 

    The Ronald McDonald Home in Regina will provide a “home-away-from-home” for families whose children are undergoing treatments at nearby health care facilities. The design includes 20 bedrooms, a children’s playroom, outdoor play space and communal kitchen.

    “The government’s financial support to the house in this province is a historic moment for RMHC – SK and Saskatchewan families,” RMHC Saskatchewan Chief Executive Officer Tammy Forrester said. “We are beyond thrilled that this first ever provincial government contribution, into keeping families together during their child’s critical health care journey, will enable RMHC – SK to provide wrap around Family Centered Care. The capital investment will ensure that all Saskatchewan families will receive the support they need when they need it the most.”

    The new facility will be built on the corner of Scarth Street and 15th Avenue, keeping the facility centrally located and close to the Regina General Hospital.

    Families across the province have stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Saskatoon. The Slobodian family have experienced firsthand what the home offers. 

    “Ronald McDonald House does not make the family’s journey easy, but it does make it easier,” Craig Slobodian said. “The Saskatoon House has helped many Saskatchewan families with mental and financial support. Adding a house in Regina will help more Saskatchewan families.”

    Ronald McDonald House Charities Saskatchewan was founded in 1985. RHMC currently operates two programs in Saskatchewan with Ronald McDonald House in Saskatoon and Family Room in Prince Albert. Approximately 29,800 Saskatchewan families have been served by these programs. 

    Construction of the Ronald McDonald House Charities Regina will begin March 2025 and is expected to be completed in early 2027. 

    This chapter in family care excellence reflects government’s dedication to ensuring all Saskatchewan residents have access to compassionate care and essential support services.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Capital Bancorp, Inc. Completes Operational Conversion of Integrated Financial Holdings, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROCKVILLE, Md., Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Capital Bancorp, Inc. (“CBNK”) announced that it had completed the conversion of Integrated Financial Holdings, Inc. (“IFH”) into its operations and systems. This conversion integrates IFH customer accounts into CBNK’s products and services.

    West Town Bank & Trust and Windsor Advantage previously operated as subsidiaries of IFH. In connection with the merger completed on October 1, 2024, West Town Bank & Trust merged with and into Capital Bank, N.A. and Windsor Advantage became a subsidiary of Capital Bancorp, Inc.

    “While Capital and IFH have already been effectively operating as one company, this conversion marks a major milestone,” said Ed Barry, Chief Executive Officer of CBNK. “Now that the conversion is complete, we are well positioned to better serve our customers and continue to execute on the meaningful synergies that we expect to accrue in the merger.”

    CBNK completed the conversion between the close of business on February 21st and reopening on February 24th. IFH customers – including customers of its North Riverside, IL branch – now have access to a wide selection of CBNK products and services. In addition, they can bank at any CBNK location, through digital banking or ATM. In connection with the merger, CBNK also anticipates opening a branch in Raleigh, NC on March 3, 2025.

    Information about the conversion and transition to CBNK was mailed to these customers on October 1, 2024. Since then, we have maintained ongoing communications to support a smooth transition.

    ABOUT CAPITAL BANCORP, INC.

    Capital Bancorp, Inc., Rockville, Maryland is a registered bank holding company incorporated under the laws of Maryland. Capital Bancorp has been providing financial services since 1999 and now operates bank branches in six locations including Washington D.C., Reston, VA, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Rockville, MD, Columbia, MD and N. Riverside, IL. Capital Bancorp had assets of approximately $3.2 billion at December 31, 2024 and its common stock is traded in the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “CBNK.” More information can be found at the Company’s website www.CapitalBankMD.com under its Investor Relations page.

    Capital Bank, N.A.
    Media Contact:
    Bryon Stevens
    Investor Relations
    Email: bstevens@capitalbankmd.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Rising house prices don’t just make it harder to become a homeowner – they also widen the racial wealth gap

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Joe LaBriola, Research Assistant Professor, Survey Research Center, University of Michigan

    Homeownership – long a cornerstone of the “the American dream” – is increasingly out of reach for the average American. Over the past four decades, U.S. house prices have risen by 75% in real terms, pushing the costs of homeownership for the typical first-time homebuyer to a record high. At the same time, these rising prices have significantly boosted the wealth of existing homeowners.

    As a sociologist who studies inequality in America through the lens of housing, I’ve spent the past few years looking into how rising house prices have affected the wealth gap between white and Black households, which has widened significantly over the past four decades. White families had about US$90,000 more wealth – in 2021 dollars – than their Black counterparts in 1984, an alarmingly wide gap. But by 2021, the gap had widened to almost $160,000.

    My recent peer-reviewed research, published in the journal Social Problems, found that the rise in house prices between 1984 and 2021 accounted for most of this widening gap. Using data from the University of Michigan’s Panel Study of Income Dynamics, which tracks a nationally representative group of American families over time, I explored how homeowners’ wealth trajectories would have differed if they hadn’t benefited from rising house prices.

    I found that housing market appreciation widened the median wealth gap between white and Black households by nearly $50,000 between 1984 and 2021. Given that home prices have continued to rise since 2021, it’s fair to assume that this gap has widened further over the past few years.

    Why a rising tide doesn’t lift all boats

    I also investigated why rising house prices widened the wealth gap by so much. The most important cause is the long-standing disparity in homeownership rates. White households had a homeownership rate of 74% at the end of 2021, compared with only 43% for Black households. As a result, they were much more likely to have benefited from rising home values, which directly increased their home equity.

    White homeowners also tend to own more expensive homes than Black homeowners. While this is a less important factor, it means that they saw greater absolute gains in home equity than Black homeowners from the same percentage rise in the housing market.

    However, I also found an interesting exception: Black homeowners benefited more from neighborhood-level housing market trends. One possible explanation is that the gentrification of Black neighborhoods in recent decades led to outsize housing market appreciation in these neighborhoods – which disproportionately boosted the home equity of existing Black homeowners.

    The impact of history – and ideas for the future

    I became interested in housing and wealth inequality when I attended graduate school in the San Francisco Bay Area, one of the least affordable housing markets in the world. Many homeowners who had bought their homes in the 1970s for tens of thousands of dollars were now sitting on millions of dollars in home equity. Meanwhile, buying a home in this area seemed out of reach for all but the highest-earning families, effectively locking renters out of the wealth-building effects of rising house prices.

    My curiosity about rising house prices led me to explore how they shape wealth inequality – not just between homeowners and renters, but also between racial groups. The more I read, the more I learned about the many legal, political and social barriers that have kept Black families from becoming homeowners.

    These include exclusionary zoning policies and racial covenants that locked Black families out of many neighborhoods, reduced access to mortgage lending in historically Black neighborhoods, and persistent hiring and workplace discrimination that have kept Black families from accumulating wealth.

    Addressing these inequities will require thoughtful policy solutions. As a sociologist studying these issues, I have some recommendations on contemporary policies that can increase access to homeownership for less affluent households. Given racial disparities in wealth, these policies would also help to reduce racial gaps in homeownership:

    • Reform local housing regulations: By easing restrictions on housing development, cities can help alleviate the housing shortage that’s helping to drive up home prices. Austin, Texas, is an example of a city that has successfully curbed rising home prices by dramatically increasing its housing construction. Lower house prices would then allow a greater range of families to own homes.

    • Implement land value taxes: Traditional property taxes can discourage residential development because landowners pay higher taxes after they develop their land. In contrast, land value taxes are only assessed on the value of the land, which encourages landowners to put their land to the most productive use. Over time, land value taxes would lead to greater residential development in areas that need it most, which would then reduce upward pressures on house prices.

    • Subsidize homeownership: While using federal funds to subsidize homeownership would come with the risk of inflating prices, this could help more low-income households enter and maintain homeownership and thereby benefit from future housing market appreciation.

    Future directions for research

    I am currently extending this work in several directions. In collaboration with Ohio State University sociologist Chinyere Agbai and Stone Center for Inequality Dynamics Student Associate Nils Neumann, I am examining how the home mortgage interest deduction has affected the wealth gap between white and Black households over time. Introduced in 1913, this deduction is one of the largest tax breaks available to American households, but Black households are much less likely than white households to benefit from it, in part due to lower rates of homeownership.

    Our preliminary findings suggest the home mortgage interest deduction has substantially widened the wealth gap between white and Black households over the past several decades.

    I’m also investigating the role of parental wealth in helping children buy homes in increasingly unaffordable housing markets. My findings suggest that young homebuyers in expensive areas come from much wealthier backgrounds and receive more financial assistance when buying their homes than first-time homebuyers in other neighborhoods. I also found that family help makes young adults substantially more likely to become first-time homeowners.

    If Americans want to work toward creating a more equitable society, understanding the connections between housing, wealth and racial inequality is an important place to start.

    In conducting this research, Joe LaBriola received support from the James M. and Cathleen D. Stone Center for Inequality Dynamics at the University of Michigan, the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the UC Berkeley Opportunity Lab, the Horowitz Foundation for Social Policy, and the UC Berkeley Institute for Governmental Studies.

    – ref. Rising house prices don’t just make it harder to become a homeowner – they also widen the racial wealth gap – https://theconversation.com/rising-house-prices-dont-just-make-it-harder-to-become-a-homeowner-they-also-widen-the-racial-wealth-gap-250020

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Roman society integrated people who altered their bodies and defied gender norms

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Tom Sapsford, Assistant professor of Classical Studies, Boston College

    A relief showing a gallus making sacrifices to the goddess Cybele and Attis. Sailko via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    A few weeks into his second term, President Donald Trump signed two executive orders restricting the rights of trans workers in the federal government. The first was a renewal of the ban on transgender people joining the U.S. military – initially signed in 2017 and later repealed by President Joe Biden in 2021. The second was a more sweeping memo that recognizes only two sexes in federal records and policies.

    In the ancient Roman world, which I study, biological sex and gender expression did not always line up as neatly as the president is demanding to see in today’s government.

    In antiquity, there were masculine women, feminine men and people who altered their bodies to match their gender expression more closely. In particular, two figures – the cinaedus and the gallus – provide examples of men whose effeminate behavior and modified anatomies were striking yet still integrated into Roman society.

    The cinaedus and the commander in chief

    In ancient Rome, some men who did not fit neatly within gender categories were called “cinaedi.” They were usually adult males singled out for their extreme effeminacy and nonnormative sexual desires.

    The cinaedus was already a recognizable figure in ancient Greece and was first mentioned in the fourth century B.C. by Plato. He says little more than that a cinaedus’ life was terrible, base and miserable. Later Roman authors provide more detail.

    Martial, a Roman poet writing in the first century A.D., for instance, describes a cinaedus’ dysfunctional penis as like a “soggy leather strap” in one epigram. In the same century, the Roman novelist Petronius has a cinaedus suggest that both he and his fellows have had their genitals removed.

    In a fable by Phaedrus, also written in the first century A.D., a barbarian is threatening the troops of the military leader, Pompey the Great. All are afraid to challenge this fierce opponent until a “cinaedus” volunteers to fight.

    The cinaedus is described as a soldier of great size but with a cracked voice and mincing walk. After pleading permission in a stereotypically lisping manner from Pompey the Great, his commander in chief, the cinaedus steps into battle. He quickly severs the barbarian’s head and, with army agog, is summarily rewarded by Pompey.

    In Phaedrus’ fable, the cinaedus is untrustworthy. He is described as having stolen valuables from Pompey early on in the tale and then later swears on oath that he hasn’t.

    Yet the moral of Phaedrus’ fable of the soldier-cinaedus is that such deceptive appearances and actions might actually be strategically successful in military matters. The cinaedus has an edge over Pompey’s other soldiers precisely due to his disarming effeminacy. In the tale, this doesn’t at all diminish his skills as a lethal fighter. Rather, the cinaedus’ effeminacy combined with his martial valor ultimately lead to the barbarian’s defeat.

    Trans priests and the safety of the Roman state

    The galli, another group that lived in the heart of the city of Rome, also blurred gender roles. They were males who had castrated their genitalia in dedication to the Great Mother goddess Cybele, who was their protector.

    As reported by several ancient sources, including Cicero and Livy, in 204 B.C. the Roman state consulted a set of prophetic scrolls called the Sibylline Oracles on how best to respond to the pressures it faced as a result of the Second Punic War – Rome’s prolonged conflict with Carthage and its fierce military general, Hannibal.

    The oracles’ answer – and Rome’s subsequent action – was to import a strange and foreign religious order from Asia Minor into the heart of Rome, where it would remain for the next several hundred years.

    The temple of Cybele was located on the Palatine Hill, next to several important shrines, monuments and later even the residence of the Emperor Augustus. As the poet Ovid tells us, each year during Cybele’s festival the galli would proceed through the streets of Rome carrying a statue of the goddess, while ululating wildly in time with the sound of wailing pipes, banging drums and crashing cymbals.

    More so than the figure of the cinaedus, ancient literary sources present the galli’s gender difference similarly to modern-day trans women, often using feminine pronouns when describing them.

    For instance, the poet Catullus details the origin story of the galli’s founder figure, Attis, who was Cybele’s mythical consort and chief priest. Notably, Catullus switches from using masculine adjectives to feminine ones at the very moment of Attis’ self-castration.

    Attis.

    Similarly, in his novel, “The Golden Ass,” the second century A.D. writer Apuleius has one gallus address his fellow devotees as “girls.”

    While several ancient sources mock these figures for their gender-nonconforming appearance and behaviors, it is nevertheless evident that the galli held a sacred place within the Roman state. They were viewed as being important to Rome’s continued safety and prominence.

    For example, Plutarch in his “Life of Marius” relates that a priest of the Great Mother came to Rome in 103 B.C. to convey an oracle that the Romans would be triumphant in war. Though believed by the Senate, this priest, Bataces, was mocked mercilessly in the plebian assembly. However, when the individual who had insulted Bataces swiftly died of a terrible fever, the plebians too gave this oracle and the goddess’s prophetic powers their backing.

    Today’s trans issues

    Behind Trump’s executive orders are two assertions: first, that transgender identity is a form of ideology: a modern invention created to justify deviance from one’s sex as assigned at birth; second, that transgender identity is both a form of disease and of dishonesty.

    The reissued military ban doubles down on the perceived dishonesty of trans folk, contrasting it with the ideals and principles needed for combat. The order states that the “adoption of a gender identity inconsistent with an individual’s sex conflicts with a soldier’s commitment to an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle.”

    Taking a long view of gender diversity across millennia has shown me that many individuals in antiquity certainly lived lives outside of the clear-cut formula that the Trump administration has stated, namely that “women are biologically female and men are biologically male.”

    Gender diversity is not simply a late 20th- or early 21st-century phenomenon. However, the fear that gender-diverse people are diseased and devious likewise arises in several ancient sources. In the classical world, these fears seem limited to the realms of satire and fantasy; in our current time, we are seeing these fears being harnessed for government policy.

    This article incorporates material from a story originally published on Aug. 1, 2017.

    Tom Sapsford is affiliated with the Lambda Classical Caucus.

    – ref. How Roman society integrated people who altered their bodies and defied gender norms – https://theconversation.com/how-roman-society-integrated-people-who-altered-their-bodies-and-defied-gender-norms-248726

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivery driver who spent Covid funds on drugs and gambling also withdrew cash for home renovations just before he went bankrupt

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Delivery driver who spent Covid funds on drugs and gambling also withdrew cash for home renovations just before he went bankrupt

    Bounce Back Loan fraudster handed suspended sentence and curfew

    • Amraiz Mahmood secured more than £20,000 in Covid support funds by falsely declaring he had a turnover of £81,000 as a self-employed delivery driver and courier  
    • Mahmood spent the money on drugs and gambling and also used a separate non-Covid related loan for almost £40,000 worth of renovations to his home just before he filed for his own bankruptcy 
    • Insolvency Service investigations have resulted in Mahmood being given a suspended prison sentence and 12-month curfew 

    A delivery driver who spent Covid support funds he was not entitled to on drugs and gambling has been sentenced. 

    Amraiz Mahmood fraudulently secured a £20,250 Bounce Back Loan from his bank in 2020 by overstating his 2019 turnover by more than £65,000. 

    The 31-year-old then claimed to have assets of only £100 despite withdrawing almost £40,000 in cash for home improvements in the weeks before he filed for his own bankruptcy.  

    Mahmood, of Booker Lane, High Wycombe, was sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years, when he appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court on Friday 21 February. 

    He is also now subject to a 12-month daily curfew between 9pm and 7.45am which will be monitored with an electronic tag. 

    Mark Stephens, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Amraiz Mahmood hugely inflated his turnover to secure taxpayers’ money he did not deserve. He then clearly failed to use the loan as it was intended.  

    Bounce Back Loans were designed to support small businesses through the pandemic. They were not intended to be used for personal gain and the Insolvency Service will not hesitate to take action when we identify such blatant abuse of the scheme. 

    Mahmood also concealed tens of thousands of pounds in assets from the Official Receiver when he was declared bankrupt.

    Mahmood fraudulently applied for his Bounce Back Loan in May 2020, claiming his turnover as a self-employed courier and delivery driver was £81,000. 

    His self-assessment return for 2018-19 however showed an income of only £15,018. 

    Mahmood said that he spent the majority of the money he claimed on recreational drugs and gambling. 

    In May 2021, one year on from fraudulently securing the Bounce Back Loan, Mahmood applied for bankruptcy, stating he had assets of just £100 and liabilities of more than £200,000. 

    However, just one month before his bankruptcy, Mahmood had secured a non-Covid related loan from his bank worth £25,000 having also withdrawn £2,000 from his account in the days and weeks before. 

    He then withdrew a further £37,950 in cash across several transactions before being declared bankrupt. 

    Mahmood said he withdrew the money as he needed to make repairs to his home and he knew the assets would be frozen once the bankruptcy order was made. 

    Invoices for the house renovations were dated after Mahmood’s bankruptcy however, meaning he was in possession of the funds when he told the Official Receiver he only had £100 in assets. 

    Mahmood signed an eight-year Bankruptcy Restrictions Undertaking in March 2022, restricting him from being able to borrow more than £500 without disclosing his bankrupt status. 

    Efforts are now being made to recover the funds from Mahmood. 

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to Apple pulling data protection tool for UK users

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on Apple removing their advanced data protection tool for UK users. 

    Dr Rameez Asif, Associate Professor of Cyber and Blockchain, University of East Anglia, said:

    “iCloud users are the most affected by this news, as the removal of Advanced Data Protection (ADP) weakens the encryption for their cloud-stored data.”

    “Apple has announced that it will remove its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature in the UK due to new regulations that would require tech companies to provide government access to encrypted data. This move comes in response to the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016, which the UK government is seeking to amend, further tightening rules on end-to-end encryption and requiring companies to notify authorities of any security feature changes before rolling them out.

    “Apple’s ADP is its highest level of iCloud encryption, offering end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups, photos, and more, meaning that not even application layer Apple can access the data. The UK government’s demand for access to such encrypted user data has led Apple to pre-emptively withdraw the feature from UK users rather than compromise its security policies.”

    How significant is the removal of this data protection tool?

    “The removal of Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the UK is highly significant, as it weakens the strongest level of encryption available to iCloud users, making their backups, photos, and sensitive data more vulnerable to government access and potential cyber threats. This move highlights the growing tension between user privacy and government surveillance, setting a precedent that could influence other countries to demand similar access. It also raises concerns about digital sovereignty, as companies may choose to limit security features in regions with restrictive laws rather than compromise global encryption standards.”

    Are there other data protection in place that protects UK populations data on apple devices?

    “Yes, despite the removal of Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the UK, Apple still implements several robust security and privacy measures on its devices. End-to-end encryption remains in place for sensitive data such as iMessage, FaceTime, Health data, passwords stored in iCloud Keychain, and Apple Pay transactions. Additionally, on-device encryption ensures that data stored locally on iPhones, iPads, and Macs is protected by user passcodes and biometric authentication (Face ID/Touch ID). Apple’s App Tracking Transparency (ATT) and Privacy Labels provide users with greater control over app data collection.”

    What does this mean for security of our data on apple devices in the UK / how much less secure is our data now?

    “The removal of Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the UK reduces the overall security of data stored in iCloud, as it removes end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups, photos, and other cloud-based data. Without this protection, Apple can be compelled to comply with government demands for access to user data, potentially making it more vulnerable to surveillance or unauthorized access. However, local data stored on devices (such as messages, contacts, and health information) is still protected by on-device encryption and remains secure, as long as the user has strong passcodes and biometric authentication enabled. While this change affects cloud-stored data, device-level security and other privacy measures like App Tracking Transparency still offer significant protections, but overall, users in the UK face slightly diminished data privacy compared to other regions with ADP still active.”

    Does the idea the UK Government suggests of a “backdoor” in encryption really work because surely it undermines the whole idea behind end-to-end encryption?

    “The concept of a “backdoor” in encryption, as suggested by some governments, undermines the very foundation of end-to-end encryption by intentionally introducing a method for third parties, such as law enforcement, to access encrypted data. While the idea is that a backdoor would allow authorized access to encrypted content when necessary, it inherently creates vulnerabilities, as any method that can be used by one party can potentially be exploited by malicious actors. This weakens the security of the system and increases the risk of unauthorised access, either through hacking or misuse.”

     

    Dr Junade Ali, Fellow at the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and cyber security expert, said:

    “It’s important to remember that the most useful built-in cybersecurity tools remain available to Apple users. This development largely affects UK Apple device users who require the most significant levels of protection for data stored in Apple’s iCloud service.

    “However, users should be aware that other features like ‘Stolen Device Protection’ mode (protection where someone steals your device and knows your password) and ‘Lockdown’ mode (an extreme protection mode for those under the most sophisticated threats) still appear to be available. These are the built-in tools which are most useful to Apple device users who need higher levels of protection.

    “At the Institution of Engineering and Technology, we recommend basic steps for most users which can radically reduce the risk of most cyberattacks. This includes using a password manager to generate long, unique passwords for each website, using Two-Factor Authentication to generate login codes, installing the latest updates and backing up key data. 

    “Cybersecurity tools, like almost any form of engineering, can be used for good as well as bad. Addressing the challenges posed by technological development requires policy makers, engineers and society to work together. In isolation, policy solutions or technical solutions will never suffice.”

     

    Professor Oli Buckley, a Professor in Cyber Security at Loughborough University, said:

    “Apple removing their Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the UK is a significant move because it takes away the strongest form of security on iCloud, which offered true end-to-end encryption. This meant that not even Apple had any means of viewing your files and photos.

    “There is still encryption on Apple devices, things like iMessage and other on-device data encryption still exist, but now data specifically stored in iCloud (which has a huge number of users) will be accessible to Apple and potentially government agencies through legal requests.

    “Whenever a ‘backdoor’ exists for one purpose, like law enforcement, there’s always a risk it will be exploited for more malicious purposes. A key factor of end-to-end encryption is that only the communicating parties have the ability to decrypt the content and introducing any special access not only weakens trust in the system, it can also provide an attack vector for cybercriminals.

    “Ultimately, once a door exists, it’s only a matter of time before it’s found and used maliciously. Removing ADP is not just a symbolic concession but a practical weakening of iCloud security for UK users.”

    Prof Alan Woodward, Visiting Professor of Computing, University of Surrey, said:

    What is the protection tool being removed and what is its function?

    “The extra protection that Apple have added is rather like End to End Encryption where only the participants in a dialogue have the ability to decrypt messages.  In the case of iCloud only the user had the keys: Apple did not.  Previously, and for those who have not opted in to the feature, Apple could also read whatever you placed or backed up to the iCloud. Apple have now said that they are removing the option to use this extra security for UK users only.”

     

    How significant is the removal of this data protection tool?

    “It is very significant for anyone interested in security and privacy.  By trying to mandate to Apple that they withdraw this security option globally the UK government have succeeded in weakening security in one corner of the Internet for UK based users.  It was naive of the UK government to think telling Apple what to do globally would work: the UK users now have the worst of all worlds.”

    Are there other data protection in place that protects UK populations data on apple devices?

    “All the other security features previously on Apple devices remain.  All that is being removed is the ability to secure data in the iCloud so that only the user can access it.”

    What does this mean for security of our data on apple devices in the UK / how much less secure is our data now?

    “Users data is no less secure on the devices.  This applies only to the iCloud.  However, anyone who wants to ensure the long term security an privacy of their data will not be using the iCloud.  What users do need to be aware of is that some data on your mobile device can be backed up to the iCloud, including iMessages.  Users will need to ensure this is not enabled if they do not want their data in the iCloud.”

    Does the idea the UK Government suggests of a “backdoor” in encryption really work because surely it undermines the whole idea behind end-to-end encryption?

    “Ever since the Encryption Debate began security professionals have said that if you weaken encryption (or security in general) for your enemies you also do so for your friends. What the UK government is weakened the security of the corner of the Internet, in spectacular fashion, for the UK users alone.  What has been done is not so much a back door as it is removing the door altogether.  Apple had put this feature in place precisely because they knew that users did not like the idea that if compelled to do so Apple could read their iCloud data. Hence, ADP meant that only the user could access their won data.  The UK government has caused UL users to take a step backward so that Apple could once again be required to read the iCloud data.”

    Declared interests

    For all experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Wrap Acquires W1 Global: Expands Managed Services with Former FBI, DEA, and DoD Leadership to Accelerate Made-in-America End-to-End Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    This news follows: Wrap Unveils Managed Safety and Response (MSR) Connected Ecosystem in Virginia

    TEMPE, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”) today announced it has completed the acquisition of W1 Global, LLC (“W1”) a preeminent professional services and consulting firm led by an executive team of former high-ranking law enforcement and U.S. Intelligence Community professionals, with deep competencies in complex international criminal investigation, regulatory matters and compliance issues.

    The acquisition of W1 is expected to increase Wraps access to the skill and experience of this distinguished group, as well as expand the international reach of its MSR Connected Ecosystem. It is also expected to support a tech-enabled enhancement of the suite of professional and consulting services that W1 has provided to its clients all over the world.

    Wrap’s acquisition has now assembled a deep team of senior leaders from both the public sector and national security agencies:

    • Professional Services will be led by Bill McMurry, a career law enforcement and intelligence professional. Mr. McMurry is a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent who served in the FBI’s New York Office for twenty-four years. Mr. McMurry worked closely with the US DOJ, DEA, ATF, HSI, OFAC, DOD and the USIC to develop a national strategy to implement a whole of government response to combat the threat posed by Transnational Organized Crime.
    • Managed Safety and Response will be led by Jim DeStefano, former Assistant Special Agent in Charge of a Special Operations Branch responsible for the New York field division’s preparation for, response to, and recovery from all crisis and special events – including training and tactics in response to emotionally disturbed persons. John Penza, adds experience from state and federal corrections, local law enforcement, and as the former New York Division’s Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Violent Crimes and Drug Trafficking Branch.
    • Investigative, Regulatory and Compliance professional services will be supported by Ric Bachour, a former local and state police officer, U.S. Marine, and Purple Heart recipient. His international experience includes leadership roles in the DEA Sensitive Undercover Operations Unit, Special Operations, and DEA’s Foreign and Domestic Field Offices.

    Additional Talent Pipeline and International Go-To-Market

    Wrap anticipates accessing a deep talent pool as individuals transition from long government tenures, marking the first of many strategic talent acquisitions to meet growing market demands.

    The W1 Global transaction is expected to position Wrap for international expansion by leveraging W1’s global network and expertise in investigative services. This in-country support network, consisting of former government personnel, provides valuable entry points for global distribution while aligning with U.S. resources and support systems.

    End-to-End Ecosystem

    The W1 Global transaction creates an end-to-end ecosystem with two key business lines: leveraging top talent to deliver comprehensive Managed Safety and Response (MSR) solutions and expanding tech-enabled professional services to enhance client support. Both companies’ clients demonstrate a strong appetite for each other’s services—Wrap’s international clients show significant interest in investigative services, while W1 Global’s clients are keen on Wrap’s BolaWrap, drones, and expanding cyber solutions within the MSR portfolio. This strategic combination effectively meets the market demand for integrated safety and technology-driven professional services, driving growth and enhancing client support.

    Scot Cohen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wrap, commented, “The acquisition of W1 Global is a transformational step in establishing Wrap as a leader in Managed Safety and Response services. It is expected to drive immediate revenue growth, be accretive, and create synergies with our existing business, including the revamped BolaWrap program, while supporting our expanding global channel system.”

    Bill McMurry, Chief Executive Officer of W1 Global, commented, “W1 and Wrap can now deliver comprehensive MSR solutions with expert consulting, integration, and customization. By combining cutting-edge technology like the BolaWrap with professional services, we hope to ensure seamless implementation and continuous support. Our deep industry expertise is expected to allow us to optimize safety solutions for public safety agencies, effectively addressing complex challenges.”

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) is a leading global provider of advanced public safety solutions, integrating ultramodern technology, cutting-edge tools, and comprehensive services to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations around the world. Guided by a no-harm principle, Wrap is dedicated to developing groundbreaking solutions that empower public safety agencies to safeguard the communities they serve in a manner that fosters stronger relationships, driving safer outcomes, empowering public safety and communities to move forward together.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® solution encompasses an innovative and patented hand-held remote restraint device, strategically engineered with Wrap’s no-harm guiding principle to proactively deter escalation by deploying a Kevlar® tether that safely restrains individuals from a distance. Combined with BolaWrap® training, certified by the esteemed International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), Wrap enables officers from over 1000 agencies across the U.S. and 60 countries around the world, with the expertise to effectively use BolaWrap® as an early intervention measure, mitigating potential risks and injuries, averting tragic outcomes, with the goal to save lives with each wrap.

    Wrap Reality™, the Company’s advanced virtual reality training system, is a fully immersive training simulator and comprehensive public safety training platform that equips first responders with the discipline and practice to prevent escalation, de-escalate conflicts, and apply appropriate tactical use-of-force measures to better perform in the field. By offering a growing range of real-life scenarios, Wrap Reality™ addresses the dynamic nature of modern law enforcement situations for positive public safety outcomes, building safer communities one decision at a time.

    Wrap’s Intrensic solution is a comprehensive, secure and efficient body worn camera and evidence collection and management solution designed with innovative technology to quickly capture, safely handle, securely store, and seamlessly track evidence, all while maintaining full transparency throughout the process. With meticulous consolidation and professional management of evidence, confidence in law enforcement and the justice system soars, fostering trust and reliability in court outcomes. Intrensic’s efficient system streamlines the entire process seamlessly, empowering all public safety providers to focus on what matters, expediting justice with integrity.

    Connect with Wrap:
    Wrap on Facebook
    Wrap on Twitter
    Wrap on LinkedIn

    Trademark Information

    Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality™ and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad.  All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement
    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the expected benefits of the acquisition of W1, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations.

    Investor Relations Contact:

    (800) 583-2652
    ir@wrap.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Transform Your Space with Samsung’s Blue Tag Sale Deals

    Source: Samsung

     
    As part of the Blue Tag Sale, Samsung is proud to present an exciting selection of home technology and appliances designed to transform your living space into a more productive, personalised, and efficient environment. These innovative products provide the perfect opportunity to enhance your home and unlock your creativity.
     
    With a focus on both form and function, Samsung’s latest TVs and monitors bring cutting-edge technology into your home, allowing you to work smarter, play harder, and inspire your creative spirit. Whether you’re seeking the ultimate entertainment experience or a workstation that fosters productivity, Samsung’s products are built to meet the demands of modern living.

    Transforming Lounge Spaces
    Samsung’s TVs offer stunning picture quality, immersive sound, and smart features like streaming services, and gaming capabilities, making them perfect for entertainment and relaxation. The Frame TV, a unique product from Samsung, can be seamlessly be integrated into your space, serving as both a TV and a piece of art when not in use.
     

     
    Transforming Creativity Spaces
    Samsung’s monitors, such as the Odyssey series, provide high-resolution displays and colour accuracy making them ideal for creative work. These monitors feature a sleek, futuristic design that will make your setup the envy of all your friends.

    Discover Samsung’s Transformative Home and Workspace Solutions:
    Samsung 98 Inch Crystal UHD DU9000 4K Tizen OS Smart TV (UA98DU9000KXXA)
    If you want to take your home entertainment to the next level, the 98″ Crystal UHD DU9000 offers excellent image quality and size, creating an awe-inspiring focal point in your living area. Available for R49,999* (save 20,000), this TV is perfect for viewing from any angle and will elevate your creative space to new heights.
     
    Samsung 65″ The Frame Art Mode QLED 4K Smart TV (QA65LS03BAKXXA)
    Bringing art and technology together, The Frame is the ideal addition to any creative home. When not in use as a TV, it displays beautiful artwork in Art Mode. Available for R21,999* (save R3,000), this stylish 65-inch QLED TV helps foster an inspiring atmosphere while blending seamlessly with your home décor.
     
    Samsung The Freestyle 2nd Gen (SP-LFF3CLAXXXA)
    Available for only R9,999* (save R999), the Freestyle 2nd Gen portable projector offers versatility with the ability to project onto almost any surface. Whether you want to create a home cinema experience or present creative ideas to clients, this compact projector can turn any space into a productivity powerhouse.
     
    Colour accuracy, Samsung TVs are Pantone Validated.
     

     
    Samsung 32″ Smart Monitor M70D UHD, USB-C with Speakers & Remote (LS32DM702UAXXA)
    At just R7,999* (save R2,000), this smart monitor doubles as both a workstation and entertainment hub, with USB-C connectivity, built-in speakers, and UHD resolution to bring your projects to life. With a design that complements modern homes, it’s an all-in-one solution for productivity and creativity.
     
    Samsung 32″ Odyssey G55C QHD, 1ms MPRT, 165Hz Gaming Monitor (LS32CG552EAXXA)
    Both gamers and professionals would enjoy the Odyssey G55C, which offers an exceptional 165Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time for a smooth and responsive experience. Now available for R6,499* (save R1,500), this curved monitor helps create an immersive workspace where you can both work and play.
     
    Samsung’s latest collection of home technology not only upgrades the functionality of your space but also adds style, versatility, and inspiration. Get these incredible Blue Tag Sale deals and transform your home into a space that’s truly your own.
     
    The Samsung Blue Tag Sale runs from 13 January – 2 March 2025, in Samsung stores, online, the Samsung Shop App, as well as participating retailers. Don’t miss out!
     
    For more information, visit www.samsung.com/za

    MIL OSI Economics –