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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – The democratic backsliding and threats to political pluralism in Georgia – P10_TA(2024)0017 – Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to its previous resolutions on Georgia,

    –  having regard to the statement by the High Representative and the Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement of 17 April 2024 on the adoption of the ‘transparency of foreign influence’ law,

    –  having regard to the statement by the High Representative of 18 September 2024 on the Georgian law on ‘family values and protection of minors’,

    –  having regard to the statement by the European External Action Service Spokesperson of 4 April 2024 on the draft law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’,

    –  having regard to the European Council conclusions of 14 and 15 December 2023 and of 27 June 2024,

    –  having regard to the Commission communication of 8 November 2023 entitled ‘2023 Communication on EU Enlargement Policy’ (COM(2023)0690),

    –  having regard to Resolution 2561 (2024) of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe entitled ‘Challenges to democracy in Georgia’,

    –  having regard to the Bucharest Declaration adopted by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) at the thirty-first annual session from 29 June to 3 July 2024,

    –  having regard to the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part(1),

    –  having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

    –  having regard to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR),

    –  having regard to the joint statement by the Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Chair of the Delegation for relations with the South Caucasus and the European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur on Georgia of 18 April 2024 on the reintroduction of the draft law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ in Georgia,

    –  having regard to Rule 136(2) and (4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A.  whereas the past months have seen significant attacks on democracy in Georgia, which have been characterised by the hasty adoption of anti-democratic legislation criticised by the UN, the Venice Commission and the EU, concurrent with attacks on civil society and independent media, prolonged mass protests and the subsequent violent suppression of those peaceful protests, and deep political and societal tensions and polarisation;

    B.  whereas the exercise of freedom of opinion, expression, association and peaceful assembly is a fundamental right enshrined in the Georgian Constitution;

    C.  whereas Georgia, as a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights, as well as a member of the Council of Europe and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, has committed itself to the principles of democracy, the rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights;

    D.  whereas Article 78 of the Georgian Constitution provides that ‘the constitutional bodies shall take all measures within the scope of their competence to ensure the full integration of Georgia into the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’;

    E.  whereas the EU expects Georgia, a candidate country for EU accession, to abide fully by the Association Agreement and other international commitments it has made and, in particular, to fulfil the conditions and take the steps set out in the Commission’s recommendation of 8 November 2023; whereas the European Council decided to grant candidate status to Georgia solely on the understanding that these steps would be taken, including combating disinformation and interference against the EU and its values, engaging opposition parties and civil society in governance, and ensuring freedom of assembly and expression, as well as meaningfully consulting civil society and involving it in legislative and policymaking processes and ensuring that it can operate freely;

    F.  whereas civil society in Georgia has traditionally been very vibrant and active and played a pivotal role in soliciting and promoting democratic changes in the country, as well as in safeguarding and watching over their implementation;

    G.  whereas on 20 February 2024, the Parliament of Georgia passed amendments to the Electoral Code changing the procedure for the election of chair and so-called professional members of the Central Election Commission and abolishing the post of deputy chair, which is filled by a representative of the opposition;

    H.  whereas on 4 April 2024, less than a year before the elections, the Georgian Parliament adopted amendments to the country’s Electoral Code that modified fundamental aspects of the country’s electoral legislation, abolishing mandatory parliamentary quotas for women, which required that at least one out of four candidates on a party list be of a different gender than the majority;

    I.  whereas on 28 May 2024, the Georgian Parliament adopted the so-called transparency of foreign influence law, after overriding the veto of President Salome Zourabishvili and despite mass protests by Georgian citizens and repeated calls from Georgia’s European partners to withdraw the draft law which, in spirit and content, contradicts EU norms and values; whereas adopting this law has effectively frozen Georgia’s accession process and led to the suspension of EU financial assistance for Georgia;

    J.  whereas the law was adopted in a procedure which, according to the Venice Commission, left no space for genuine discussion and meaningful consultation, in open disregard for the concerns of large parts of the Georgian population; whereas the restrictions set by that law to the rights to freedom of expression and freedom of association and the right to privacy are incompatible with the strict test set out in Articles 8(2), 10(2), and 11(2) of the ECHR and Article 17(2), 19(2) and 22(2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights as they do not meet the requirements of legality, legitimacy, necessity and proportionality in a democratic society, and they are also incompatible with the principle of non-discrimination set out in Article 14 of the ECHR;

    K.  whereas this legislation comes at a time of increasing and ongoing attacks against civil society in Georgia in a seeming effort to narrow civic space by starving independent groups of funds; whereas this legislation is modelled on the foreign agent legislation in Russia;

    L.  whereas on 6 June 2024, the US imposed visa restrictions on dozens of Georgian officials over the adoption of the ‘foreign agents law’;

    M.  whereas the European Council, in its conclusions of 27 June 2024, called on Georgia’s authorities to ‘clarify their intentions by reversing the current course of action which jeopardises Georgia’s EU path, de facto leading to a halt of the accession process’;

    N.  whereas on 11 July 2024, the US Congress Committee on Foreign Affairs adopted Georgia sanctions legislation known as the Megobari Act, which imposes sanctions against Georgian officials responsible for undermining the country’s democratic system;

    O.  whereas on 17 September 2024, the Georgian Parliament passed a law on ‘family values and the protection of minors’, which aims to ban reliable information about sexual orientation and gender identity;

    P.  whereas the Georgian authorities have not taken into account a single recommendation of the Venice Commission regarding the annulment or modification of the above-mentioned laws on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ and ‘family values and the protection of minors’, the abolition of gender quotas in local and parliamentary elections, and the formation of the Central Election Commission;

    Q.  whereas there is growing anti-Western and hostile rhetoric from the ruling Georgian Dream party against Georgia’s democratic partners, as well as promotion of Russian disinformation, manipulation and conspiracy theories; whereas that hostile rhetoric also targets Ukraine, as the ruling party uses despicable political banners depicting Ukrainian cities destroyed by Russia, thus capitalising on the suffering of brave Ukrainians; whereas the Georgian Dream party is pursuing a narrative of the West as a ‘global war party’ which is trying to push Georgia back into a war with Russia;

    R.  whereas an increasing number of incidents indicate that Georgia is experiencing an insecure media environment, which poses a threat to its democracy; whereas Reporters Without Borders’ annual index on press freedom ranks Georgia 103rd out of 180 countries, a drop of 26 places from the previous year;

    S.  whereas on 28 August 2024, the leader of Georgian Dream, Bidzina Ivanishvili, at the inauguration of his party’s electoral campaign, spoke of his intention to ban democratic opposition parties; whereas he was seconded by the Prime Minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, who stated that, if the party received a majority in the Georgian Parliament, it would ban certain opposition parties, and referred to the opposition as a ‘criminal political force’;

    T.  whereas the Russian Foreign Minister’s statement expressing his readiness to help Georgia normalise its relations with ‘the neighbouring … states of Abkhazia and South Ossetia’ was praised by the leaders of the ruling party, demonstrating the Georgian Government’s departure from its policy of non-recognition of the occupied regions of Georgia;

    U.  whereas parliamentary elections will take place in Georgia on 26 October 2024; whereas the law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ has effectively blocked the requirement to have domestic observers, whose presence, according to OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights principles, would contribute to an increase in the transparency of and trust in the electoral process;

    1.  Expresses its deep concern about the democratic backsliding in Georgia, which has occurred exponentially throughout this year and especially ahead of the parliamentary elections on 26 October 2024; strongly condemns the adoption of the law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ and the law on ‘family values and protection of minors’, as well as the changes to the Electoral Code; considers that the above are tools used by the government to violate freedom of expression, censor media, impose restrictions on critical voices in civil society and the NGO sector or to discriminate against vulnerable people; underscores that the foregoing are also incompatible with EU values and democratic principles, run against Georgia’s ambitions for EU membership, damage Georgia’s international reputation and endanger the country’s Euro-Atlantic integration; strongly underlines that unless the above-mentioned legislation is rescinded, progress cannot be made in Georgia’s relations with the EU; regrets that Georgia, once a champion of democratic progress with Euro-Atlantic aspirations, has been in a democratic backsliding free fall for a considerable period;

    2.  Calls on the Commission and the Member States to investigate the consequences of the democratic backsliding that these laws represent for their donor role in Georgia and to communicate this possible impact to the Government and Parliament of Georgia; calls for all EU funding provided to the Georgian Government to be frozen until the above-mentioned undemocratic laws are repealed and for strict conditions to be placed on the disbursement of any future funding to the Georgian Government;

    3.  Expresses its concern about the climate of hatred and intimidation fuelled by statements by Georgian Government representatives and political leaders, as well as by the government’s attacks on political pluralism; condemns comments by oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili and leading figures of the government threatening to ban opposition parties and referring to the opposition as a ‘criminal political force’; notes that such intimidation seriously undermines the political process and the freedom of expression, and contributes to an environment of fear;

    4.  Calls for a thorough investigation of police brutality against peaceful protestors during the spring protests against the law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ in Georgia;

    5.  Reiterates its calls on the Commission to promptly assess how Georgia’s ‘transparency of foreign influence’ and ‘family values and protection of minors’ laws, its abolition of gender quotas and other changes in its electoral legislation, the implementation of the Venice Commission’s recommendations in general and the conduct of the elections in line with accepted international standards, affect Georgia’s continuous fulfilment of the visa liberalisation benchmarks, in particular the fundamental rights benchmark, which is a crucial component of the EU visa liberalisation policy;

    6.  Reiterates its unwavering support for the Georgian people’s legitimate European aspirations and their wish to live in a prosperous country, free from corruption, that fully respects fundamental freedoms, protects human rights and guarantees an open society and independent media; underlines that the decision to grant Georgia EU candidate country status was motivated by the wish to acknowledge the achievements and democratic efforts of Georgia’s civil society, as well as the overwhelming support for EU accession among its citizens, with over 80 % of the Georgian people consistently in favour; appreciates the efforts made by Georgia’s President Salome Zourabishvili to return Georgia to the democratic and pro-European path of development and strongly condemns the Georgian Dream party’s effort to silence her through impeachment procedures on unwarranted grounds;

    7.  Deplores the personal role played by Georgia’s oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili, who returned to active politics on 30 December 2023 when he became ‘honorary chairman’ of the Georgian Dream party, in the current political crisis and in yet another attempt to undermine the Euro-Atlantic orientation of the country in favour of pivoting towards Russia; reiterates its call on the Council and the EU’s democratic partners to impose immediate and targeted personal sanctions on Ivanishvili for his role in the deterioration of the political process in Georgia as well as other activities benefiting the Russian Federation;

    8.  Calls for the EU and its Member States to hold to account and impose personal sanctions on all those responsible for undermining democracy in Georgia, who are complicit in the violence committed against political opponents and peaceful protesters and who spread anti-Western disinformation; welcomes the personal sanctions imposed by the US on Georgian Dream officials;

    9.  Expresses concern about the fact that many recent legislative proposals adopted by the Georgian Dream majority in the Georgian Parliament betray the aspirations of the large majority of the Georgian people to live in a democratic society, continue democratic and rule of law reforms, pursue close cooperation with Euro-Atlantic partners and commit to a path towards EU membership;

    10.  Emphasises that the rights to freedom of expression and assembly and to peaceful protest are fundamental freedoms and must be respected under all circumstances, particularly in a country aspiring to join the EU;

    11.  Underlines that the public watchdog role exercised by civil society and independent media is essential to a democratic society and crucial in advancing EU accession-related reforms and therefore calls on the Georgian authorities to do their utmost to guarantee an enabling environment in which civil society and independent media can thrive;

    12.  Recalls that the European Council of 14 and 15 December 2023 granted Georgia candidate country status on the understanding that the relevant steps set out in the Commission recommendation of 8 November 2023 would be taken; stresses that recently adopted legislation clearly goes against this ambition and has effectively put on hold Georgia’s integration into the EU;

    13.  Reiterates its call on the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement and the President of the Commission to remind the Georgian Government of the commitments it made and the values and principles it subscribed to when it applied for EU membership;

    14.  Reiterates the tangible opportunities that Georgia would take advantage of once the accession negotiations begin, such as pre-accession assistance that would improve the standard of living of Georgian citizens, as well as support the institutions, infrastructure and social services;

    15.  Urges the Georgian authorities to ensure that the upcoming parliamentary elections in October 2024 adhere to the highest international standards, guaranteeing a transparent, free and fair process that reflects the democratic will of the people; presses for the abolition of the ingrained practice of misusing public resources and administrative capacity for the benefit of the ruling party; urges the Georgian authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure that all respected civil society organisations involved in election observation can observe these elections without hindrance or interference in their work;

    16.  Shares the concerns raised by the Venice Commission about the adoption of amendments to the legal framework for elections in Georgia and the Electoral Code, agreeing that these changes to the Electoral Code will have a major impact on the stakeholders’ perceptions of and trust in the impartiality and fairness of the election administration;

    17.  Expresses alarm at the decision to open only a limited number of polling stations abroad, despite numerous requests from the Georgian diaspora, thereby depriving the majority of Georgians living abroad of the right to vote; is deeply concerned by reports that the Government of Georgia is creating obstacles for the coalition of 30 NGOs and Transparency International Georgia in their efforts to conduct the ‘Go Out and Vote’ campaign; considers these obstacles to be an attempt to undermine democracy in the country;

    18.  Notes that, amid significant international backlash questioning the legitimacy of the upcoming elections, the Prime Minister of Georgia ‘recommended’ that the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) revoke its decision of 24 September 2024 designating Transparency International Georgia as having ‘declared electoral goals’, and the ACB did revoke it on 2 October 2024; recalls that the initial decision, if enforced and not revoked, would deprive one of Georgia’s leading civil society organisations of access to foreign funding, severely hindering its ability to continue operations, including election observation, as well as raise concerns about the political neutrality of the ACB;

    19.  Deplores the use by Georgian Dream of violent images of the war in Ukraine as a means of manipulating opinions and spreading disinformation and pro-Russian and anti-Ukrainian sentiment in its campaign ahead of the October 2024 elections;

    20.  Expects Georgian Dream to respect the will and free choice of the Georgian people in the upcoming parliamentary elections and ensure a peaceful transfer of power; demands that Georgian Dream and its leaders immediately stop the violence, intimidation, hate speech, persecution and repression that it is committing against the opposition, civil society and independent media;

    21.  Strongly believes that the upcoming elections will be decisive in determining Georgia’s future democratic development and geopolitical choice, as well its ability to make progress with its EU member state candidacy; recognises that it is still possible to consolidate Georgia’s democratic future as an EU candidate country with a young, engaged generation of leaders, which was exemplified by the spontaneous protests against the foreign agent law that took place during 2024;

    22.  Expresses deep concern about the increased influence of Russia in Georgia, including increased immigration from Russia, increased trade ties with Russia and Georgia’s willingness to pursue reconciliation with Russia despite Russia’s war in Ukraine and its occupation of a fifth of Georgian sovereign territory; calls on the Government of Georgia to impose sanctions against Russia in response to its war of aggression against Ukraine, continue its previous policy of non-recognition of the occupied territories and honour its commitment to enforce effective measures to avoid the circumvention of European sanctions; encourages the Government of Georgia to align fully with the EU’s foreign policy and the EU’s strategy towards Russia;

    23.  Strongly reiterates its urgent demand for the immediate and unconditional release of former President Mikheil Saakashvili on humanitarian grounds for the purpose of seeking medical treatment abroad; emphasises that the Georgian Government bears full and undeniable responsibility for the life, health, safety and well-being of former President Mikheil Saakashvili and must be held fully accountable for any harm that befalls him;

    24.  Notes that the Georgian Government has further worsened access to public information, including Soviet-era archives, using the EU General Data Protection Regulation to falsely justify draconian restrictions to archive access, and that some of Georgia’s most important Soviet-era archives (including the archives of the former KGB and the former Central Committee of the Communist Party) have been completely closed since October 2023 without any explanation; highlights Russia’s manipulation and falsification of history, including Soviet history, as part of its war of aggression against Ukraine and its military threats against other countries; regrets the growing cult of Stalin and the related increase in Soviet nostalgia in Georgia, supported by the ruling government, which underscores its closer alignment with Russia;

    25.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Council of Europe, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and the President, Government and Parliament of Georgia.

    (1) OJ L 261, 30.8.2014, p. 4, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/agree_internation/2014/494/oj.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak held the 35th meeting of the Federal Headquarters for Gasification

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Alexander Novak held the 35th meeting of the Federal Headquarters for Gasification

    October 11, 2024

    Alexander Novak held the 35th meeting of the Federal Headquarters for Gasification

    October 11, 2024

    Alexander Novak held the 35th meeting of the Federal Headquarters for Gasification

    October 11, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Alexander Novak held the 35th meeting of the Federal Headquarters for Gasification

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held the 35th meeting of the Federal Headquarters for Gasification. The event was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Energy, Gazprom Mezhregiongaz LLC, the Federal Antimonopoly Service, the Federal State Budgetary Institution REA of the Ministry of Energy, regional headquarters for gasification and the Government Coordination Center.

    According to the Ministry of Energy, since the start of the pre-gasification program, more than 1.85 million applications have been submitted from households for gas supply. 1.32 million contracts have been concluded, which is 96% of the number of applications accepted. The rate of contract conclusion in the third quarter increased by 6% compared to the second quarter, and compared to the first quarter, the growth was 37.4%. Under more than 1 million contracts (81% of those concluded), gas has been supplied to the boundaries of plots, 656 thousand households have received gas in their homes, with 174 thousand of them since the beginning of 2024.

    In addition, work is being systematically carried out to connect gas to social, educational and medical institutions. 944 applications have been received from them, 820 contracts have been concluded. According to 459 of them, gas has been brought to the boundaries of the site.

    In Russia, according to Gazprom Mezhregiongaz, as of October 3, 10,810 garden non-profit partnerships (SNT) were identified during the inventory that meet the criteria for additional gasification. This work continues. In these SNT, more than 932 thousand households are not gasified, more than 340 thousand houses are defined as residential. Additional gasification will be carried out by 2030 in those SNTs where technical conditions will allow gas pipelines to be connected and where the owners of residential buildings at general meetings give consent to the work on public lands.

    Aleksandr Novak drew the special attention of the headquarters participants to the need to speed up the work on bringing gas both to the boundaries of the plots and to residential buildings. And he asked to intensify the work on informing citizens about the possibilities of receiving a comprehensive gas connection service by gas distribution organizations, and not by private companies, where the service may cost more. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed to consider the advisability of changing part of the regulatory documentation on gasification based on the proposals of Gazprom Mezhregiongaz.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://government.ru/nevs/52966/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Students discover UK Parliament on Learn with the Lords Day | House of Lords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Learn with the Lords Day brought students from across the country to Parliament to learn more about the role and work of the House of Lords and meet a Lords member.

    Hear from the students who took part about what they learned.

    Find out more and apply for a session in your school https://learning.parliament.uk/en/learn-with-the-lords/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb8NMbhKkYI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Inside ‘Learn with the Lords Day’: teachers share their stories | House of Lords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Did you know you can apply for a free Learn with the Lords session for your school? A member of the House of Lords will visit your class to deliver a presentation and answer questions from pupils.

    The Learn with the Lords programme brings @UKParliament to life for students and helps them develop a better understanding of the vital role of the UK Parliament’s second chamber.

    Hear from teachers who took part in a special Learn with the Lords Day, which brought students from across the country to Parliament to learn more about the role and work of the House of Lords and meet a Lords member.

    Find out more and apply for a session in your school https://learning.parliament.uk/en/learn-with-the-lords/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-t4qE_0q83s

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 11/10/2024 Meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Vice-President of the International Committee of the Red Cross

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Vice-President of the International Committee of the Red Cross11/10/2024On Thursday, October 10, Mrs. Henryka Mościcka-Dendys met in Warsaw with Mr. Gilles Carbonnier, Vice-President of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

    Poland attaches great importance to the activities of the Committee and to compliance with international humanitarian law. During the meeting, representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross informed about the tasks being carried out and the challenges they face during the current armed conflicts. Deputy Minister Mościcka-Dendys presented the guests with copies of the 5th Report on the implementation and dissemination of international humanitarian law in the Republic of Poland in the years 2019-2023, a cyclical publication resulting from the cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with other ministries and non-governmental entities. On this occasion, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the purpose of the Report is to continue the review of national legislation and practice in the field of compliance with the norms of international humanitarian law.

    ***The International Committee of the Red Cross – ICRC (ing. Comité Internacional de la Cruz Roja – CICR) is an independent, neutral organization providing protection and humanitarian assistance to victims of war and other armed conflicts. The organization was founded in 1863 and is headquartered in Geneva.

    Photo: Sebastian Indra/Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Photos (2)

    MILES AXIS

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s development assistance for global health and SRHR makes a difference and saves lives

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden’s development assistance for global health and SRHR makes a difference and saves lives – Government.se

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    Press release from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    Sweden is an active force for child and maternal care, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and other health care around the world. Support to health care in Ukraine, access to SRHR, and fundamental health and vaccination campaigns are important focus areas. Cooperation with civil society is also being strengthened. The annual development assistance for health report, published today, 11 October, outlines all of this and much more.

    “Investments in global health lead to a safer and healthier world, in which more people are given the conditions to live and shape their own prosperity. Sweden’s broad efforts for global health and SRHR are often critical – not least operations to get vaccines and medicines to those most in need, but also our efforts to strengthen health and medical care in low- and middle-income countries,” says Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa.

    Last year, Sweden’s development assistance for health totalled approximately SEK 5.7 billion. The annual development assistance for health report outlines Sweden’s overall support to global health and SRHR. It has been published every year since 2012 and is based on statistics from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). 

    In 2023, bilateral health assistance to Ukraine increased, helping to ensure access to basic and life-saving care – an area that has been hard-hit following Russia’s full-scale invasion. The Government’s drive to support civil society organisations has contributed to preventive measures in low- and middle-income countries, including against sexual and gender-based violence. 

    Press contact

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Venezuela: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on post-election developments

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Venezuela: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on post-election developments – Government.se

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    Statement by Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    The European Union continues to follow developments in Venezuela with great concern. Reports from international election observation missions clearly state that the presidential elections on 28th July did not meet international standards of electoral integrity.

    Despite its own commitment, the National Electoral Council of Venezuela (CNE) has not yet published the official voting records (“actas”) of polling stations. Without evidence to support them, the results published on 2nd August by the CNE cannot be recognised. Any attempt to delay the full publication of the official voting records will only cast further doubt on the credibility of the officially published results.

    Copies of the electoral voting records published by the opposition, and reviewed by several independent organisations, indicate that Edmundo González Urrutia would appear to be the winner of the Presidential elections by a significant majority.

    The European Union thus calls for further independent verification of the electoral records, if possible by an internationally reputed entity.

    At this critical time, it is important that demonstrations and protests remain peaceful. The European Union calls for calm and restraint. Venezuelan authorities, including security forces, must fully respect human rights, including freedom of expression and of assembly.

    The European Union is seriously concerned about the growing number of arbitrary detentions and the continued harassment of the opposition. The European Union calls on Venezuelan authorities to put an end to arbitrary detentions, repression and violent rhetoric against members of the opposition and civil society, and to release all political prisoners.

    The European Union welcomes the efforts of regional partners, with whom it remains in close contact, to promote dialogue and a negotiated solution to the crisis.

    Respecting the will of the Venezuelan people remains the only way for Venezuela to restore democracy and to solve the current humanitarian and socio-economic crisis.

    The statement published on the website of the European Council

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s development assistance for health 2023

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden’s development assistance for health 2023 – Government.se

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    Report from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    In 2023,Sweden’s development assistance for health totalled approximately SEK 5.7 billion. Support to health care in Ukraine, access to SRHR, and fundamental health and vaccination campaigns are important focus areas.

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    Sweden’s development assistance for health amounted to approximately
    SEK 5.7 billion in 2023, accounting for 10.4 per cent of Sweden’s total
    development assistance, excluding deductions for asylum costs. Approximately SEK 3.4 billion (equivalent to 61 per cent) of this was channelled via the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The remaining funds, just over SEK 2.2 billion (corresponding to 39 per cent), were channelled via Sida’s bilateral, regional and global strategies.

    The total amount of development assistance for health has varied over the years. In 2020–2021, it was record high in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Percentage-wise, total development assistance for health in 2023 decreased slightly compared to pre-pandemic levels. During the period 2019–2023, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs managed a larger financial share of Sweden’s development assistance for health than Sida.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California’s new, cutting-edge dashboards map the progress of wildfire resilience work that protects communities

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 10, 2024

    What you need to know: California rolls out new dashboards showing a ramp up in fuels management to help protect California communities from wildfires and improve forest health.

    SACRAMENTO – California unveiled newly updated, first-of-their-kind dashboards that will help Californians track the state’s wildfire prevention work. Along with these new tools, state officials announced that 700,000 acres of land were treated for wildfire resilience in 2023, and that prescribed fire more than doubled between 2021 and 2023. For the first time, all fuels management projects are being tracked in one place, on one map, delivering valuable information for project planning and wildfire response.

    “Everything we do to protect California from wildfires is connected, and nowhere else has as many tools to show the full picture while improving land management and supporting firefighters. We’re embracing the technology and best practices that will help us fight wildfires, and making sure Californians see the tireless work in their communities.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    New tools to track fire-prevention progress

    The updated Interagency Treatment Dashboard, led by the Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force, now covers data from 2021 to 2023, showing the acres of completed wildfire resilience (or “treatments”) work. The dashboard combines data from federal, state, tribal, local, and private entities, creating a comprehensive hub for wildfire prevention information.

    Showing how wildfire resilience projects protect communities
    CAL FIRE also launched the Fuel Treatment Effectiveness Dashboard, which tracks how wildfire prevention projects have helped shield communities and landscapes from wildfires. Utilizing real-time data, this tool allows officials to measure how fuel treatments have impacted fire behavior, evacuation routes, and firefighting efforts during recent fires.

    Over 700,000 acres of wildfire prevention work

    In 2023, 700,000 acres were treated to help protect against wildfires, with many protected acres receiving multiple treatments such as thinning, prescribed fire, or other practices to improve forest health and community resilience. The Task Force is tracking both “activity acres” (more than 1,000,000) – which reflect the level of effort conducted through various state, federal, and private programs – and “footprint acres” (nearly 700,000) which show the total geographic area treated in a calendar year. 

    The 2023 data shows a significant increase in acres treated since 2021, largely due to a significant expansion of prescribed fire treatments, which more than doubled since 2021. The increase in pace and scale of wildfire resilience projects has been led by the Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force, and its work to implement the Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan. The Dashboard is part of the strategy to connect the various statewide entities committed to this monumental task.

    • Investing in wildfire resilience. Governor Newsom and the legislature maintained $2.6 billion in funding over seven years, in addition to new investments of $200 million per year going forward, for healthy forest and fire prevention programs, including prescribed fire and other fuel reduction projects.
    • More boots on the ground than ever before. The administration is implementing shorter workweeks for state firefighters to prioritize firefighter wellbeing, while  adding 2,400 additional state firefighters to CAL FIRE’s ranks over the next five years.
    • Expanding the world’s largest aerial firefighting fleet. Governor Newsom has overseen the expansion of California’s aerial firefighting fleet, including the addition of more than 16 helicopters with several equipped for night operations, expanded five helitack bases, and assumed ownership of seven C-130 air tankers, making it the largest fleet of its kind globally. The state also adds to its world-leading air attack capacity through recent new funding to contract 24 additional non-state owned firefighting aircraft.
    • Cutting-edge drone technology. CAL FIRE has doubled its use of drones for critical tasks like aerial ignition during prescribed burns, wildfire containment, and real-time assessments.
    • Artificial intelligence and real-time data tools. The state is leveraging AI-powered tools to spot fires quicker and the Fire Integrated Real-Time Intelligence System (FIRIS) to provide real-time mapping of wildfires.
    • Advanced mapping and satellite technology. California has partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense to use satellites for wildfire detection and invested in LiDAR technology to create detailed 3D maps of high-risk areas, helping firefighters better understand and navigate complex terrains.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: For Immediate Release: GOVERNOR GREEN ESTABLISHES HISTORIC INAUGURAL HAWAIʻI STATE LGBTQ+ COMMISSION

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    For Immediate Release: GOVERNOR GREEN ESTABLISHES HISTORIC INAUGURAL HAWAIʻI STATE LGBTQ+ COMMISSION

    Posted on Oct 10, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES 

    KA ʻOIHANA MĀLAMA LAWELAWE KANAKA 

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    RYAN I. YAMANE

    DIRECTOR 

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    JOSEPH CAMPOS II 

    DEPUTY DIRECTOR 

    KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE 

       

     TRISTA SPEER 

    DEPUTY DIRECTOR 

    KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    October 10, 2024

    GOVERNOR GREEN ESTABLISHES HISTORIC INAUGURAL HAWAIʻI STATE

    LGBTQ+ COMMISSION

     

    HONOLULU — The state of Hawaiʻi has established an advisory body to develop and improve the state’s interaction with its lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus (LGBTQ+) citizens in accordance with HRS 369. The commission, one of few in the country, is comprised of eight voting members.

    • Commission Chair – Kathleen O’Dell, Ph.D. (she/her) – representing the City and County of Honolulu
    • Michael Golojuch Jr. (he/him) – representing the City and County of Honolulu
    • Secretary (temporary) Joe Tolbe (he/him) – representing Maui County
    • Finance Director Shanda Brack (she/her) – representing the Hawai‘i Sexual and Gender Minority working group out of the Department of Health
    • Sandy Harjo-Livingston, Ph.D. (he/him/they/them) – representing the City and County of Honolulu
    • Philip Steinbacher, Ph.D. (he/him) – representing Kaua‘i County
    • Joseph “Rocco” Vick (he/him) – representing Hawai‘i County
    • Richard Velasquez (he/him) – representing the City and County of Honolulu

    The commission operates administratively under the Department of Human Services.

    “The eight commissioners come to the table with a wide range of diverse and relevant experience and history,” stated commission Chair O’Dell. “It’s easy to feel how committed the members are and how enthusiastically they honor the responsibilities they are charged to take on.”

    The commissioners were sworn in on June 28, 2024. by Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke. June 28 was selected by the commissioners as it commemorates the 55th Anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, a significant date in LGBTQ+ history and efforts toward equality.

    Powers and duties of the commission include creating public awareness and understanding of the responsibilities, needs, potentials and contributions of Hawai’i’s LGBTQ+ community; maintaining contacts with appropriate federal, state, local and international agencies concerned with the status of Hawaiʻi’s LGBTQ+ community; recommending legislative and administrative action on equal treatment and opportunities for members of Hawai’i’s LGBTQ+ community, and submitting to the governor and legislature an annual report with recommendations.

    In addition to the eight voting members, the commission includes six ex officio, nonvoting members or their designees, including the superintendent of the Department of Education, the president of the University of Hawai‘i system, the director of Labor and Industrial Relations, the director of Human Resources Development, the director of Human Services; and the director of the Department of Health.

    Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi invited members of the commission to attend the ceremony for Honolulu Pride Month to raise the Pride flag above the Frank F. Fasi Civic Center Grounds and to proclaim the Wilhelmina Tenney Rainbow Shower Tree as the “Official Pride Tree of Honolulu.” This took place on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 in front of the Frank F. Fasi Municipal Building. Commissioners also helped to celebrate the beginning of Pride Month at the Aliʻiōlani Hale that evening and attended a round table discussion featuring current Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Justice Sabrina McKenna,and former Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Justices Steve Henry Levinson and Daniel R. Foley. They discussed Hawaiʻi’s entrance onto the marriage equality stage. The evening concluded with the debut of a traveling exhibition “Kaulike No Nā Mea A Pau: Toward Queer Justice in Hawaiʻi.”

     

    Additionally, the commission will be participating in the Honolulu Pride Parade at 4:00 pm, Saturday, October 19, 2024, down Kalākaua Avenue. Honolulu Pride is celebrated in October to coincide with LGBTQ+ History Month, National Coming Out Day and Spirit Day.

    Commission Contact:

    Commission Chair – Kathleen O’Dell, Ph.D. (she/her)

    [email protected]

    Media Contact:

    Amanda Stevens

    Public Information Officer

    Department of Human Services

    [email protected]

    Photos courtesy of the State of Hawaiʻi LQBTQ+ Commission

    NOTICE: This information and attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be punishable under state and federal law. If you have received this communication and/or attachments in error, please notify the sender via email immediately and destroy all electronic and paper copies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Gradual trade recovery underway despite regional conflicts, policy uncertainty

    Source: World Trade Organization

    The October update of the WTO’s Global Trade Outlook and Statistics largely reaffirms the April forecast, pointing to a gradual recovery in merchandise trade despite widening regional conflicts and increasing policy uncertainty. However, at the regional level, we have seen weaker-than-expected European trade and stronger-than-expected Asian exports.

    Since the last report, inflation has fallen, as expected, in advanced economies, prompting central banks to begin lowering interest rates. We expected these developments to boost consumption and investment, thereby increasing demand for imports. In particular, we projected that Asian economies would lead the trade recovery, while North America, Europe and other regions would contribute more modestly, yet positively.

    Broadly speaking, these expectations have materialized. As shown in Chart 1, we now anticipate a 2.7% increase in global merchandise trade volume in 2024, slightly up on our previous estimate of 2.6%. However, the forecast for 2025 has been revised downward, from 3.3% to 3.0%. Trade growth in 2024 and 2025 will likely be accompanied by real global GDP growth of 2.7% at market exchange rates, both this year and next.

    While the overall figures for global trade and output have remained stable, notable shifts in regional trade growth are emerging. Downside risks to the forecast have also intensified, particularly with the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, which could further disrupt trade flows.

    Two key differences stand out between the current forecast and the previous one. First, trade growth in European economies has been weaker than expected, affecting both imports and exports. Second, export growth in Asian economies has been stronger than expected.

    As illustrated in Chart 2, Asia is expected to contribute more than any other region to global export growth in 2024, adding 2.8 percentage points to the projected 3.3% growth in exports. The region is also expected to contribute 1.4 percentage points to the 2.0% import growth foreseen for this year. Meanwhile, North America is expected to contribute 0.6 percentage points to import growth in 2024, partly offsetting Europe’s negative contribution of -0.8 percentage points. Regional trade contributions should stabilize in 2025, aligning more closely with medium-term trends.

    The stronger-than-expected export performance in Asia has been driven by increased exports of electronics, automotive products and other manufactured goods from China, with other Asian economies such as India, Viet Nam and Singapore also reporting robust export growth. On the downside, Europe’s export decline has been led by a contraction in the automotive and chemicals sectors, both of which are concentrated in Germany.

    The outlook for services trade remains more positive than for goods, with the value of global commercial services trade in US dollars rising 8% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024. More comprehensive services data will be released later this month, but continued strong growth is anticipated for the second quarter.

    Returning to merchandise trade, we are seeing increasing evidence of trade fragmentation driven by geopolitical concerns. Trade is increasingly conducted among like-minded economies, a trend accelerated by the war in Ukraine. However, we have yet to observe a broader shift towards regionalization or near-shoring on a global scale.

    The full report is available here.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK government seals further £225 million investment in Teesside renewables industry with financing deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    One of the largest factories in the global offshore wind sector will expand and support even more jobs after UK Export Finance worked with Korean investors to secure new financing.

    • UK Export Finance and Korea Trade Insurance Corporation have guaranteed new financing for a major South Korean investment into Teesside.

    • This has unlocked new £225 million in financing from Standard Chartered Bank and HSBC UK for SeAH Steel Holding’s construction of a wind tech factory near Redcar. 

    • The financing supports an additional investment which will help the mega-factory to produce wider range of components for the offshore wind sector and meet latest industry demands.

    Based in Teesside, one of the world’s largest offshore wind technology factories will become even bigger after new government support for a South Korean investor. 

    Supported by backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF), SeAH Wind UK has now made an additional £225 million investment into wind technology manufacturing in Teesside. This brings their total investment into the site at Teesworks Freeport up to £900 million. 

    This was made possible after SeAH Steel Holding received financial guarantees from UKEF and Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure) – the UK and South Korean export credit agencies – meaning that it could access £225 million in new financing for its ongoing factory build. 

    UKEF and K-Sure first supported the project in 2023. New support brings their joint backing for this project up to £590 million, with Standard Chartered Bank and HSBC UK providing the finance. 

    Wind monopiles act as the foundation for most offshore wind turbines and are critical to the growth of the global renewable energy sector. Upon completion of the factory, SeAH Wind UK will export to US and European markets. 

    New financing means that the factory will be able to produce even bigger monopiles and a wider range of products to meet industry demands, supporting the UK’s place in the global offshore wind supply chain. 

    The project will create up to 750 jobs by 2027 – a milestone in the development of a thriving offshore wind and renewables industry in North-East England.  

    Chris Sohn, Chief Executive of SeAH Wind UK, said: 

    With the proactive support of UKEF, our project is progressing smoothly. As we approach the completion of the factory construction, we are committed to ensuring its successful finalisation. We aim to become the first monopile manufacturing company in the UK and make a significant contribution to the UK economy.

    Tim Reid, CEO of UK Export Finance, said: 

    This investment shows that there is international confidence in the UK economy and its ability to support the industries of tomorrow.

    UK Export Finance is helping to secure overseas investment in Teesside and around the UK through its financing offer. By working with HSBC UK, Standard Chartered and K-Sure to support investment into this project, the government is bolstering North-East England’s position as a leader in renewable energy expertise.

    Ian Stuart, CEO of HSBC UK, said: 

    We are delighted to provide our continuing support to SeAH Group for its new offshore wind monopile manufacturing factory in Teesside, North-East England. Through its expanded manufacturing capabilities, the factory will significantly contribute to the needs of the offshore wind industry and play an essential role in addressing the growing demand for renewable energy. This project underscores the importance of export finance in helping our clients grow their operations globally and facilitating their journey to net zero.

    Yoshi Ichikawa, Head of Structured Export Finance for Europe, Standard Chartered, said:  

    We are proud to build on our previous financing provided in November 2023, to support SeAH Group’s additional investment and enhancement of the UK supply chain in the wind sector. It is an example of the important role we play in helping our clients and sectors to make credible progress on their net zero ambitions, while supporting economic development across our markets.

    SeAH Wind UK, a subsidiary of South Korean steel company SeAH Steel Holding, announced its decision to invest and broke ground at Teesworks Freeport in 2022.  

    The ongoing construction has already created major contracts for the UK supply chain in manufacturing, construction and logistics, including a £100 million contract for British Steel. 

    UKEF’s support was provided under the Export Development Guarantee (EDG) product, which is available for overseas companies investing in new UK exporting opportunities and has also secured a major investment into Welsh paper manufacturing at Shotton Mill, Deeside.

    Notes to editors

    • UKEF’s Export Development Guarantee (EDG) helps companies who export from or plan to export from the UK access high-value loan facilities for general working capital or capital expenditure purposes. 

    • Of the new financing, UKEF guaranteed over £157 million whilst K-Sure guaranteed over £67 million.  

    • This follows previous financing worth £367 million in 2023, of which £257 million was guaranteed by UKEF and £110 million by K-Sure.

    Contact

    Media enquiries:

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s Opening Remarks at the 14th ASEAN-UN Summit [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

     
     
    Mr. Chair, Prime Minister Siphandone, thank you for your warm welcome and congratulations on your leadership of ASEAN this year. 
     
    Distinguished leaders of ASEAN,
     
    Excellencies,
     
    Ladies and gentlemen,
     
    For nearly six decades, the family of South-East Asian countries has blazed a path of collaboration.
     
    Every day, you grow more integrated, dynamic and influential.
     
    And our ASEAN-UN partnership is growing ever stronger, too and it is today a strategic partnership from the UN point of view.
     
    The ASEAN-UN Plan of Action is making important progress across the political, security, economic and cultural fronts.
     
    I am particularly grateful for the important contribution of ASEAN members to our peacekeeping operations.
     
    Allow me to express my total solidarity with the Indonesian delegation. Two Indonesian peacekeepers [serving in Lebanon] were wounded by Israeli fire. We are together with you and the Indonesian people at this time.
     
    I also welcome your work on the preparation of the Community Vision 2045.
     
    This region has always been about looking ahead.
     
    And so is the Pact for the Future, adopted last month at the United Nations.
     
    We need to keep looking ahead.  
     
    Let me point to four key areas. 
     
    First, connectivity — your theme for the year.
     
    We start with a fundamental objective: technology should benefit everyone.
     
    Across Southeast Asia, broadband and mobile internet connectivity has soared. Yet the digital divide persists. 
     
    And a new divide is now with us — an Artificial Intelligence divide. 
     
    Every country must be able to access and benefit from these technologies.
     
    And every country should be at the table when decisions are made about their governance.
     
    The Pact for the Future includes a major breakthrough — the first truly universal agreement on the international governance of Artificial Intelligence that would give every country a seat at the AI table.
     
    It also calls for international partnerships to boost AI capacity building in developing countries.
     
    And it commits governments to establishing an independent international Scientific Panel on AI and initiating a global dialogue on its governance within the United Nations.
     
    Second, finance. 
     
    International financial institutions can no longer provide a global safety net – or offer developing countries the level of support they need.
     
    The Pact for the Future says clearly: we need to accelerate reform of the international financial architecture.
     
    To close the financing gap of the Sustainable Development Goals. 
     
    To ensure that countries can borrow sustainably to invest in their long-term development. 
     
    And to strengthen the voice and representation of developing countries.
     
    This includes calling on G20 countries to lead on an SDG Stimulus of $500 billion a year.
     
    Substantially increasing also the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks.
     
    Recycling more Special Drawing Rights.
     
    And restructuring loans for countries drowning in debt.
     
    Third, climate.
     
    ASEAN countries are feeling the brunt of climate chaos – disasters like Super Typhoon Yagi – while the 1.5 degree goal is slipping away.
     
    We need dramatic action to reduce emissions.
     
    The G20 is responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions – they must lead the way.
     
    I welcome the pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships in Indonesia and Vietnam.
     
    By next year, every country must produce new NDCs aligned with limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
     
    Developed countries must keep their promises to double adaptation finance.
     
    And we need to see significant contributions to the new Loss and Damage Fund.
     
    Every person must be covered by an alert system by 2027, through the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All Initiative. 
     
    We must secure also an ambitious outcome on finance at COP29.
     
    Fourth and finally, peace.
     
    I recognize your constructive role in continuing to pursue dialogue and peaceful means of resolving disputes from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea. 
    And I salute you for doing so in full respect of the UN Charter and international law – including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
     
    Meanwhile, Myanmar remains on an increasingly complex path.
     
    Violence is growing.
     
    The humanitarian situation is spiralling.
     
    One-third of the population is in dire need of humanitarian assistance.  Millions have been forced to flee their homes. 
     
    Seven years after the forced mass displacement of the Rohingya, durable solutions seem a distant reality.
     
    I support strengthened cooperation between the UN Special Envoy and the ASEAN Chair on innovative ways to promote a Myanmar-led process, including through the effective and comprehensive implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus and beyond.
     
    The people of Myanmar need peace. And I call on all countries to leverage their influence towards an inclusive political solution to the conflict and deliver the peaceful future that the people of Myanmar deserve.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    ASEAN exemplifies community and cooperation.
     
    You are far more than the sum of your parts.
     
    In a world with growing geopolitical divides, with dramatic impacts on peace and security and sustainable development, ASEAN is a bridge-builder and a messenger for peace.
     
    Peace that is more necessary than ever, when we see the immense suffering of the people in Gaza, now extended to Lebanon, not forgetting Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and so many others.
     
    Allow me to tell you that the level of death and destruction in Gaza is something that has no comparison in any other situation I have seen since I became Secretary-General.
     
    I am extremely grateful for your constant efforts to keep our world together.
     
    You play a key role in shaping a world that is prosperous, inclusive and sustainable with respect for human rights at its heart.
     
    And you can always count on my full support and that of the United Nations in this essential effort.
     
    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Samantha Power Speaks with Strive Masiyiwa

    Source: USAID

    The below is attributable to Spokesperson Benjamin Suarato:

    Today, Administrator Samantha Power spoke with business leader and philanthropist Strive Masiyiwa about opportunities to catalyze progress on critical development challenges. Administrator Power recognized Mr. Masiyiwa for his support for childhood health and education as well as economic development efforts in Africa. They discussed the importance of investments in digital connectivity and areas of agricultural potential, as well as USAID’s work to increase financing for small-and medium-sized agricultural businesses in Africa. Administrator Power highlighted USAID’s commitment to working with partners in Africa and around the world on tackling lead poisoning, including through the launch of the Partnership for a Lead-Free Future, a growing coalition of more than 65 partners across governments, philanthropies, and businesses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Paddy Tyre Tribute Concert Planned for the Guildhall

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Paddy Tyre Tribute Concert Planned for the Guildhall

    11 October 2024

    The life and music of Derry man Paddy Tyre will be celebrated at a special concert in the Guildhall on December 5th.

    Paddy, well-known throughout the City and District, passed away suddenly on July 8th, just hours after he and his family met with the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr. The family had requested the meeting to seek the mayor’s support for a charity walk organised by Paddy’s daughters, Rosin Hamill, Aoife Tyre and granddaughter Kirstie Hamill, to raise funds for the Foyle Down Syndrome Trust. Rosin and Aoife’s children, Zara and Tiernan, were both born with Down Syndrome just 11 days apart 

    Tragedy struck after their visit with the mayor, as Paddy passed away suddenly that evening. In honour of Paddy’s memory, Mayor Barr committed to hosting a concert – it is planned for the day before Paddy would have celebrated his 76th birthday.

    Reflecting on the day, Mayor Barr said: “Paddy was such a warm, engaging man, and we shared a wonderful afternoon in the Mayor’s Parlour. He spoke with so much love for his family and music. We even laughed about his ‘famous’ bacon and egg pub breakfast, which he promised to make for me. His passing that same evening was such a shock, and my heart broke for his family. Organising this concert to honour Paddy feels like a fitting way to remember someone who brought so much joy through music.”

    Helping to organise the concert on behalf of the Tyre family is Paddy’s daughter Rosin, she explained: “We were brought up with music, it was such an integral part of our family and our daily lives, so this concert is a very fitting way to remember our daddy. After Zara and Tiernan were born music became even more important to us as we have seen the effect music has on them. It has helped their social skills, their language skills, their mobility… everything really. Zara was her Granda’s princess, and he waited patiently on her each day to play one of her many favourite nursery rhymes that was always jazzed up using a bass guitar, we had nursery rhyme time like no other. Tiernan loved to watch his Granda play the guitar and has now started to play himself, following in his Granda’s footsteps. With the proceeds from this concert going to charity this is their Granda’s last way of supporting the charity that has and will continue to support both his grandchildren. We are obviously all dealing with losing our dad so suddenly, but planning this concert is really helping us. Music was so important to daddy, and we are getting such strength from it now.” 

    Paddy’s wife Evelyn added: “Paddy’s love for music has always been there, and I remember buying him his first guitar in 1970 from local music shop Deery’s. The first band he played in was The Saints, and music has always been a massive part of our marriage, family and home.” 

    In his heyday Paddy Tyre was a member of the Derry Showband scene and even performed in a play that was written about the Showbands in the Rialto, after this he made his living gigging and playing in venues all around the country. As he settled into retirement it was the Strabane-based Music to Your Ears Group where Paddy found a new home. Made up of men who love to sing and perform together, Paddy found a camaraderie which he cherished. He performed regularly with the group bringing back to life many of the tunes he had enjoyed in his showband days. 

    Fittingly, it is now the Music to Your Ears Group who will lead this tribute to Paddy. Led by Eamon Lynch and Mickey Joe Harte the group will perform on the Guildhall stage and will also provide the backing for other musicians on the night. Performers confirmed so far include many who Paddy played with over the years including, Legacy, Jim McDermott, Damian McAdams, Martin McColgan and Son, along with a special performance from the Foyle Down Syndrome Group. 

    Paddy’s children will also be performing on the night in a very personal tribute to their dad. There will also be pre-recorded performances from young Zara and Tiernan. 

    Rosin added, “We had so much support already, from the musicians and bands which Daddy worked with over the years and have agreed to perform on the night, and from local people already asking where they can get tickets. 

    “All proceeds from the concert will be split between the Foyle Down Syndrome Group and the Mayor’s charity – The Bud Club. My mum Evelyn, and all of us as a family, are very grateful to the mayor for giving us the opportunity to host an event like this in our daddy’s memory, we hope people come along to support the charities and enjoy the music.” 

    Tickets are £10 and are available from Foyle Down Syndrome Trust, Thrift Charity Shop in Northside Shopping Centre, from any family member or by contacting [email protected].

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IBCA Newsletter, 10 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s newsletter that was circulated on 10 October 2024.

    Documents

    IBCA Newsletter, 10 October 2024

    HTML

    Details

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s newsletter that was circulated on 10 October 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China willing to jointly promote Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence — Chinese premier

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China willing to jointly promote Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence — Chinese premier

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 11 — China is willing to work with all parties to further promote the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and focus on building a community with a shared future for mankind, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Friday.

    Li made the remarks when addressing the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane.

    He called on all parties to uphold peace and tranquility, pursue mutual benefit and win-win results, and firmly promote opening up and cooperation.

    He also called for speeding up the building of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific, advancing regional economic integration, and avoiding turning economic and trade issues into political and security issues.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Equifax Canada Appoints Ramon Yarde as Chief Data Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Equifax Canada has announced the appointment of Ramon Yarde as Chief Data Officer (CDO) as part of Equifax Canada’s commitment to market-leading data, analytics and unparalleled insights for Canadian consumers and businesses.

    Yarde has served as interim CDO since February 2024. A trusted leader at Equifax Canada since 2006, he has held several leadership roles during his tenure, including oversight of the Project Management Office, and the Data Engineering and Data Operations teams.

    Equifax Canada has underscored its commitment to driving further financial inclusion by including non-traditional data like rental payment information in credit scores as an important step to ensuring credit and mainstream financial services are more accessible for qualifying Canadians. As Chief Data Officer, Yarde will lead critical work to expand the depth and predictiveness of the company’s insights, working to help increase access to credit and financial inclusion for more Canadians.

    “Equifax differentiated data helps customers make critical decisions, and Ramon’s deep understanding of our business, as well as our data assets and the opportunities they can unlock, make him the ideal fit to lead our CDO team,” said Sue Hutchison, President and CEO of Equifax Canada. “Ramon has been instrumental in advancing our data strategy, as well as the exploration of new data sets and capabilities that can help our customers and consumers.”

    “It’s critical that we continuously expand the breadth, depth and predictiveness of our data, with a commitment to best-in-class security and responsible governance,” explained Yarde. “Unique Equifax data enables innovation, maximizes our AI performance, and helps customers innovate faster. And, it helps create more effective insights into the people, businesses and communities we serve, to enable, empower, and unlock new opportunities in this space.”

    This appointment reflects the Equifax commitment to data excellence and its focus on leveraging data-driven innovation to help Canadians. “I know that with Ramon leading these efforts, Equifax will continue to drive innovation and deliver exceptional value to our clients and Canadian consumers,” concluded Hutchison.

    About Equifax
    At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta and supported by nearly 15,000 employees worldwide, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit Equifax.ca.

    Contact:

    Andrew Findlater
    SELECT Public Relations
    afindlater@selectpr.ca
    (647) 444-1197

    Angie Andich
    Equifax Canada Media Relations
    MediaRelationsCanada@equifax.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: Alaa Abdel Fattah’s family to hold in-conversation event ahead of jailed activist’s book launch

    Source: Amnesty International –

    On Tuesday 22 October (7-9pm), Amnesty International UK will host an in-conversation event at its east London offices with the family of Alaa Abdel Fattah, the UK national arbitrarily detained in Egypt.

    Mona Seif, Abdel Fattah’s sister, will be in conversation with Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK’s Chief Executive. 

    The event comes shortly before the publication of a new edition of Abdel Fattah’s acclaimed book You Have Not Yet Been Defeated: Selected Works 2011-2021, which is set to be republished in a special new edition on 24 October by Fitzcarraldo Editions.

    There will be readings from the book by the British-Palestinian writer Selma Dabbagh, as well as an audience question-and-answer session.

    Abdel Fattah, 42, a prominent blogger and writer who has been in detention in Egypt since September 2019, has already served his five-year jail sentence on trumped-up charges of “spreading false news” after a grossly unfair trial. Recently, the family was told by the Egyptian authorities that they will not consider releasing Abdel Fattah until January 2027. 

    The in-conversation event and publication of a new edition of You Have Not Yet Been Defeated are part of an ongoing campaign to secure Abdel Fattah’s release.

    You Have Not Yet Been Defeated comprises a selection of Abdel Fattah’s speeches, interviews, social media posts and essays since the Egyptian revolution in January 2011, many written from his jail cell. The book, which has a foreword by Naomi Klein, will be available for sale on the evening.

    The event will be followed by an informal drinks reception. Attendance is free but booking is required via Eventbrite.  

    Event details

    What: in-conversation event with family of Alaa Abdel Fattah and Sacha Deshmukh ahead of a new edition of You Have Not Yet Been Defeated, with readings from the book by Selma Dabbagh

    Where: Amnesty International UK’s office, 17-25 New Inn Yard, London EC2A 3EA

    When: Tuesday 22 October 2024, 19:00-21:00

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Recommitting to advance gender equality in politics, in focus of ODIHR event

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Recommitting to advance gender equality in politics, in focus of ODIHR event

    Participants at the annual Women’s Power Breakfast organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) at the margins of the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference. (OSCE/Piotr Dziubak) Photo details

    Recommitting to advance gender equality in politics was the topic of discussion at the annual Women’s Power Breakfast organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) at the margins of the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference this week. ODIHR also presented the latest gender-responsive governance toolkit.
    “We urgently need men’s involvement to advance women’s political participation,” said ODIHR Director’s Alternate, Tea Jaliashvili. “They play a fundamental role in creating an environment where women are listened to and empowered to bring change, and so are the political parties – gatekeepers of democracy.”
    The event was joined by representatives of OSCE governments, European umbrella NGOs and international experts, who agreed that equal political participation of women and men is a precondition for further developing democratic institutions and gender-responsive governance.
    “Today, many people see the presence of 60 per cent of young women among university students as ‘female dominance’, while 60 per cent of men among members of parliament are seen as gender equality obtained. This leads me to the conclusion that, for many, male-dominated institutions are still seen as ‘natural’,” said Drude Dahlerup, professor at Stockholm University.
    ODIHR has been active in promoting the political participation of women across the OSCE region over the last thirty years. The Office has developed numerous tools to assist political parties, parliaments, governments and civil society in advancing gender equality.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Concludes Visit to The Gambia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 11, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • IMF staff and the Gambian authorities conducted productive discussions on economic policies to conclude the second review of the program under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement.
    • Economic recovery is strengthening while inflation has decelerated to single digits.
    • The Gambia’s reform agenda is advancing despite challenges to fiscal policy.
    • The IMF remains committed to supporting The Gambia and discussions will continue remotely and in Washington D.C. over the coming weeks to finalize agreement.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Ms. Eva Jenkner, conducted productive discussions with the Gambian authorities in Banjul from September 30 to October 11, 2024, on the second review of the program supported under the 36-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement, which was approved in January 2024 for total access of SDR 74.64 million (about US$99.5 million). Discussions will continue remotely and in Washington D.C. over the coming weeks to finalize agreement. Subject to later approval by the IMF’s Executive Board, the completion of the review will enable a disbursement of SDR 8.29 million (about US$11.05 million), bringing the total disbursement under the arrangement to about US$33.2 million.

    At the conclusion of the discussions, Ms. Jenkner issued the following statement:

    “The authorities remain committed to their reform agenda and program objectives. Despite significant revenue collection efforts, fiscal outturns of the first half of 2004 were weaker than expected, mainly reflecting strong spending pressures stemming from the OIC Summit, accelerated infrastructure projects and emergency support to the national utility NAWEC. Regardless, ten out of eleven quantitative performance criteria and indicative targets under the ECF-supported program were met. Also, progress was made on significant structural benchmarks, such as audits of large taxpayers and improvements in public financial management, and the public debt-to-GDP ratio remains on a downward trajectory.

    “Economic activity is strengthening. Economic growth is estimated at 5.8 percent for 2024, supported by agriculture, services, telecom, and construction sectors. Tourist arrivals continued to recover, reaching a level closer to the pre-pandemic peak levels. Remittance inflows also strengthened. Inflation declined to 9.8 percent at end-August 2024, from a peak of 18.5 percent at end-2022.

    “Policy discussions focused on the implementation of the National Development Strategy for 2023-27 and further support for the structural transformation of the economy.

    “The Central Bank of The Gambia is committed to maintaining a monetary policy stance consistent with a convergence of the inflation rate towards its medium-term objective of 5 percent. It will also remain vigilant to ensure a market-determined exchange rate, a smooth functioning of the foreign exchange market, as well as a strong financial position.

    “While fiscal policy in 2024 remains largely anchored on the parameters of the budget approved by the National Assembly, the strong spending pressures from the OIC Summit and emergency support to NAWEC entailed major reallocations across budget lines, putting pressure on social spending. Staff advised the authorities to maintain fiscal responsibility and vigorously pursue their domestic resource mobilization and reform of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to increase the room for responding to large social and developmental needs and protecting the most vulnerable. Structural reforms under the program cover domestic revenue mobilization, public financial management, governance and transparency, management of SOEs, the business environment, and addressing climate-related risks and vulnerabilities. The medium-term fiscal framework aims to further reduce debt vulnerabilities.

    “We reaffirm our commitment to supporting The Gambia and the IMF team and the Gambian authorities will continue their constructive dialogue to conclude the second review of the ECF in time for the expected Board approval at end-December.

    “The mission would like to thank the Gambian authorities for their kind hospitality and candid discussions.”

    The mission met with His Excellency President of the Republic Barrow; His Excellency Vice-President Jallow; Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Seedy Keita; Minister of Public Service, Administrative Reforms and Policy, Baboucarr Bouy; Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia, Buah Saidy; Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority, Yankuba Darboe; National Auditor General, Modou Ceesay; and senior government and central bank officials. The mission team also had fruitful discussions with representatives of the private sector, civil society, and development partners.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Julie Ziegler

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/11/pr-24367-the-gambia-imf-staff-concludes-visit-to-the-gambia

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/ERITREA – Egypt, Eritrea, Somalia leaders hold Tripartite Summit in Asmara

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 11 October 2024 wars  

    Asmara (Agenzia Fides) – A joint tripartite committee of the Foreign Ministers of Egypt, Eritrea and Somalia will work to promote strategic cooperation in all areas. This was agreed by the presidents of the three countries during their meeting yesterday, October 10, in the Eritrean capital Asmara. The Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki welcomed his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his Somali counterpart Hassnan Sheikh Mohamud, who hosted the meeting. In a joint statement, the heads of state of the three countries stressed the need to respect the fundamental principles of international law, in particular the greatest possible respect for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the countries in the region. They agreed to increase and deepen cooperation and coordination in order to improve the capacity of the Somali authorities to face the various internal and external challenges and to enable the Somali army to fight terrorism in all its forms and protect its territory and maritime borders.A position that is particularly aimed at Ethiopia, which signed an agreement with the separatist Somali region of Somaliland on January 1 of this year (see Fides, 9/1/2024). According to this agreement, in exchange for the transfer of a naval base and a stretch of coast from Ethiopia, Somaliland will be recognized as an autonomous state separate from the rest of Somalia. To date, no state has recognized Somaliland’s independence. The government in Mogadishu responded to this agreement first by strengthening relations with Turkey (see Fides, 22/2/2024) and later by establishing a strategic partnership with Egypt (see Fides, 30/8/2024), which has now been extended to Eritrea, another historical adversary of Ethiopia. On the sidelines of the meeting, the presidents of Somalia and Egypt also issued a joint statement reaffirming their support for the unity, independence, integrity and sovereignty of Somalia over its entire territory and rejecting unilateral measures that threaten the unity and sovereignty of the State. In addition to the situation in Somalia, the Asmara Summit also addressed the crisis in Sudan and its regional implications, security and cooperation between the countries bordering the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the establishment of coordination mechanisms between the three countries. All these issues are of crucial importance for the three states, but above all for Egypt, which must, on the one hand, defend navigation to and from the Suez Canal, an important source of income for its treasury, and, on the other, prevent Ethiopia from gaining control over the flow of the Nile water through the famous dam on the Blue Nile (Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam). For this reason, Egypt is also active in the Sudanese civil war, where it supports the Sudanese armed forces led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan against the “Rapid Support Forces” (RSF) of Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemeti). The latter accused the Egyptian Air Force of bombing some of their units near the capital Khartoum. These accusations were denied by Cairo. But various powers are directly and indirectly involved in the Sudanese civil war (see Fides, 15/4/2024). The Horn of Africa risks being affected by local conflicts (between Somalia, Eritrea and Ethiopia), regional conflicts (war in Sudan, rivalry between Ethiopia and Egypt) and tensions in the Middle East (involvement of the Yemeni Houthis in the war against Israel). (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 21/10/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PHILIPPINES – Mindanao Relgious Leaders Conference: “We are peacemakers”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Mindanao Religious Leaders Conference

    Davao (Agenzia Fides) – “We are peacemakers. Peace based on justice is our duty,” emphasize the members of the Mindanao Religious Leaders Conference, gathered on 8 and 9 October in Davao, in the south of the Philippines, in a final declaration in which they commit themselves to “working for peace and sustainable development”: a commitment “guided by the values of love, justice, harmony, respect, integrity, unity, reconciliation, spirituality and humanity,” says the document sent to Fides.This commitment, the text states, “is concretely manifested in the revitalization of our role in building peace through our platform ‘Mindanao Religious Leaders Conference’”. The religious leaders emphasize their responsibility and “moral obligation” to be “a dynamic peace movement” that can contribute to governance and peace in the Autonomous Province of Bangsamoro (with an Islamic majority), on the island of Mindanao and throughout the country. The declaration reaffirms the belief that interreligious dialogue can give a significant boost to peace in Muslim, Christian and indigenous communities by promoting “interreligious cooperation in a spirit of solidarity”. The religious representatives are also addressing the challenges in the south of the Philippines, such as “the marginalization of the Sulu Islands, environmental injustice, extremism and terrorism”. But it is precisely for this reason that they are able to assert the urgency of “peace dialogues and discussions” at all levels. These are to take place with politicians, with representatives of youth groups, with associations of indigenous peoples. An important element in this effort is also prayer, which is to take place in the various communities and also at joint meetings.The “Mindanao Religious Leaders Conference” is a continuation of the “Bishop-Ulama Forum” founded in Mindanao in 1996, which was later renamed the “Bishop-Ulama Conference” (BUC). The body brings together Christian and Islamic leaders in Mindanao to promote dialogue and peace initiatives. The BUC is made up of 24 Catholic bishops, 26 ulama and 18 Protestant bishops and pastors. The idea of bringing Christian and Islamic leaders together was conceived by Catholic Archbishop Fernando R. Capalla, then Archbishop of Davao, and Muslim religious leader Mahid M. Mutilan. After the peace agreement signed in the Philippines in 1996 between the government and the rebel group Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), there was a desire to stabilize the conference and put the common moral and spiritual values of Christians, Muslims and other religions at the service of harmony and peace between the communities. The conference held in Davao these days, convened after a series of preparatory seminars, aims to renew this spirit and revitalize the original initiative. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 11/10/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s Opening Remarks at the 14th ASEAN-UN Summit [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong> 
     
    Mr. Chair, Prime Minister Siphandone, thank you for your warm welcome and congratulations on your leadership of ASEAN this year. 
     
    Distinguished leaders of ASEAN,
     
    Excellencies,
     
    Ladies and gentlemen,
     
    For nearly six decades, the family of South-East Asian countries has blazed a path of collaboration.
     
    Every day, you grow more integrated, dynamic and influential.
     
    And our ASEAN-UN partnership is growing ever stronger, too and it is today a strategic partnership from the UN point of view.
     
    The ASEAN-UN Plan of Action is making important progress across the political, security, economic and cultural fronts.
     
    I am particularly grateful for the important contribution of ASEAN members to our peacekeeping operations.
     
    Allow me to express my total solidarity with the Indonesian delegation. Two Indonesian peacekeepers [serving in Lebanon] were wounded by Israeli fire. We are together with you and the Indonesian people at this time.
     
    I also welcome your work on the preparation of the Community Vision 2045.
     
    This region has always been about looking ahead.
     
    And so is the Pact for the Future, adopted last month at the United Nations.
     
    We need to keep looking ahead.  
     
    Let me point to four key areas. 
     
    First, connectivity — your theme for the year.
     
    We start with a fundamental objective: technology should benefit everyone.
     
    Across Southeast Asia, broadband and mobile internet connectivity has soared. Yet the digital divide persists. 
     
    And a new divide is now with us — an Artificial Intelligence divide. 
     
    Every country must be able to access and benefit from these technologies.
     
    And every country should be at the table when decisions are made about their governance.
     
    The Pact for the Future includes a major breakthrough — the first truly universal agreement on the international governance of Artificial Intelligence that would give every country a seat at the AI table.
     
    It also calls for international partnerships to boost AI capacity building in developing countries.
     
    And it commits governments to establishing an independent international Scientific Panel on AI and initiating a global dialogue on its governance within the United Nations.
     
    Second, finance. 
     
    International financial institutions can no longer provide a global safety net – or offer developing countries the level of support they need.
     
    The Pact for the Future says clearly: we need to accelerate reform of the international financial architecture.
     
    To close the financing gap of the Sustainable Development Goals. 
     
    To ensure that countries can borrow sustainably to invest in their long-term development. 
     
    And to strengthen the voice and representation of developing countries.
     
    This includes calling on G20 countries to lead on an SDG Stimulus of $500 billion a year.
     
    Substantially increasing also the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks.
     
    Recycling more Special Drawing Rights.
     
    And restructuring loans for countries drowning in debt.
     
    Third, climate.
     
    ASEAN countries are feeling the brunt of climate chaos – disasters like Super Typhoon Yagi – while the 1.5 degree goal is slipping away.
     
    We need dramatic action to reduce emissions.
     
    The G20 is responsible for 80 per cent of total emissions – they must lead the way.
     
    I welcome the pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships in Indonesia and Vietnam.
     
    By next year, every country must produce new NDCs aligned with limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
     
    Developed countries must keep their promises to double adaptation finance.
     
    And we need to see significant contributions to the new Loss and Damage Fund.
     
    Every person must be covered by an alert system by 2027, through the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All Initiative. 
     
    We must secure also an ambitious outcome on finance at COP29.
     
    Fourth and finally, peace.
     
    I recognize your constructive role in continuing to pursue dialogue and peaceful means of resolving disputes from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea. 
    And I salute you for doing so in full respect of the UN Charter and international law – including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
     
    Meanwhile, Myanmar remains on an increasingly complex path.
     
    Violence is growing.
     
    The humanitarian situation is spiralling.
     
    One-third of the population is in dire need of humanitarian assistance.  Millions have been forced to flee their homes. 
     
    Seven years after the forced mass displacement of the Rohingya, durable solutions seem a distant reality.
     
    I support strengthened cooperation between the UN Special Envoy and the ASEAN Chair on innovative ways to promote a Myanmar-led process, including through the effective and comprehensive implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus and beyond.
     
    The people of Myanmar need peace. And I call on all countries to leverage their influence towards an inclusive political solution to the conflict and deliver the peaceful future that the people of Myanmar deserve.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    ASEAN exemplifies community and cooperation.
     
    You are far more than the sum of your parts.
     
    In a world with growing geopolitical divides, with dramatic impacts on peace and security and sustainable development, ASEAN is a bridge-builder and a messenger for peace.
     
    Peace that is more necessary than ever, when we see the immense suffering of the people in Gaza, now extended to Lebanon, not forgetting Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and so many others.
     
    Allow me to tell you that the level of death and destruction in Gaza is something that has no comparison in any other situation I have seen since I became Secretary-General.
     
    I am extremely grateful for your constant efforts to keep our world together.
     
    You play a key role in shaping a world that is prosperous, inclusive and sustainable with respect for human rights at its heart.
     
    And you can always count on my full support and that of the United Nations in this essential effort.
     
    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada announces support to keep Canadians safe near railway crossings

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Investing in railway safety is crucial for reducing risks, preventing accidents, keeping Canada’s rail corridors running, and connecting Canadians. The Government is committed to ensuring the highest levels of safety and security, across the country.

    October 11, 2024                 London, Ontario                   Transport Canada

    Investing in railway safety is crucial for reducing risks, preventing accidents, keeping Canada’s rail corridors running, and connecting Canadians. The Government is committed to ensuring the highest levels of safety and security, across the country.

    Today, the Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport, announced over $45 million for projects to improve railway safety across Canada.

    This includes over $44 million for 231 rail safety projects under the Rail Safety Improvement Program. This funding improves safety at grade crossings and along rail lines by supporting infrastructure upgrades and educating Canadians on the importance of safe behaviour around trains and tracks.

    Today’s announcement also includes nearly $1.2 million under the Program to Enhance Rail Safety Engagement. This program supports Indigenous and local communities develop rail safety awareness campaigns, data collection practices, educational resources, and engage with Transport Canada to improve safety practices.  

    With both the Program to Enhance Rail Safety Engagement and the Rail Safety Improvement Program, the Government is helping to empower communities across the country, address ongoing safety concerns, and keep Canadians safe.

    • Operation Lifesaver is one of the recipients of the Rail Safety Improvement Program support announced today. With $1.2 million, they will be able to enhance their current tools and initiatives. This funding will support the development of new content, website optimization, expanded outreach to Indigenous communities, and collaboration with partners to advance research on suicide and mental health.

    • The Rail Safety Improvement Program provides financial support to provinces, territories, municipalities and local governments, Indigenous communities and organizations, road and transit authorities, crown corporations, for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, academia, and individuals/private landowners. It aims to help improve rail safety and reduce injuries and fatalities related to rail transportation.

    • Since the inception of the Rail Safety Improvement Program in 2016, it has supported more than 1,000 projects across Canada, for a total investment of more than $230 million.

    • The call for proposals for the Program to Enhance Rail Safety Engagement was launched on December 15, 2022.

    • With contribution funding of up to $150,000 per project, the Program to Enhance Rail Safety Engagement aimed to support larger-scale activities and projects.

    Laurent de Casanove
    Press secretary
    Office of the Honourable Anita Anand
    Minister of Transport, Ottawa
    laurent.decasanove@tc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on the International Day of the Girl

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day of the Girl:

    “Every girl deserves a chance to learn and grow; to succeed without barriers; to live without limits to their success. But in too many parts of the world, women and girls are still undervalued and kept isolated from opportunity.

    “Canada firmly believes that a fairer world with greater equality is also a better one.

    “At home, we are improving access to safe, inclusive, and quality education and skills training for women and girls. Since 2018, we have invested more than $433 million in over 930 projects to advance gender equality across Canada. We introduced the Menstrual Equity Fund pilot project, which has increased access to menstrual health products for over 3.5 million people in need. Earlier this year, we announced the National School Food Program, which will get healthy school meals to kids across the country. With Canada’s gender-based violence strategy, we are supporting initiatives to prevent youth dating violence, family violence, and child abuse.

    “On the global stage, as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, we are breaking down barriers that limit opportunities for women and girls around the world. Just last month, at the United Nations General Assembly, we announced over $112 million to help protect the comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls worldwide – so they’re able to make choices about their bodies, their lives, and their own futures.

    “Girls can be anything they want to be. Our role, as government leaders, is to break down barriers so they get that fair chance to succeed. On this International Day of the Girl, let’s keep moving forward on our progress.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Creating good-paying jobs and growing the economy alongside ASEAN partners

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Canada is investing in progress, prosperity, and fairness for every generation. At home, we are attracting billions of dollars in manufacturing to our communities and putting Canadians at the forefront of opportunity. But in the global economy, shared challenges require shared solutions. That’s where Canada’s partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comes in.

    For over half a century, ASEAN has worked with Dialogue Partners, like Canada, to make life better for people on both sides of the Pacific. Our relationship is built on shared priorities – from climate action to peace and security to good-paying jobs. Since 2015, Canada’s trade with ASEAN has nearly doubled. Last year, ASEAN Member States represented Canada’s fourth largest merchandise trading partner, with increased partnerships in agriculture, agrifood, and digital trade. With Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, we are building on this partnership with closer ties and shared prosperity.

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today concluded his participation at the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos. As the first Canadian Prime Minister to visit Laos, the Prime Minister strengthened ties with ASEAN partners and expanded Canada’s footprint in one of the world’s fastest growing economic regions.

    In Vientiane, Prime Minister Trudeau announced that Canada will be upgrading its offices in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Vientiane, Laos, to embassies with resident ambassadors, meaning that Canada will be represented by full embassies in all 10 ASEAN Member States. He also noted the upcoming Team Canada Trade Mission to Indonesia and the Philippines later this year and announced new missions to Thailand and Cambodia in 2025. Building on our Indo-Pacific Strategy, these efforts will help forge even stronger ties between Canada and ASEAN, create good jobs for Canadians and peoples of ASEAN countries, and expand Canada’s presence in the Indo-Pacific.

    In a joint statement, Canada and ASEAN partners reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing dialogue on global challenges, advancing efforts on shared priorities, and building a people-centred ASEAN region that is connected, inclusive, and resilient. The Prime Minister emphasized that Canada will continue to be a partner in promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the region.

    In support of these efforts, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, highlighted an over $128 million package of measures to deepen ties with ASEAN.

    The effects of climate change are being felt more than ever, and this is having a devastating impact on countries around the world, including ASEAN Member States. That’s why the federal government is investing over $84 million in the region to fight climate change, support innovation, and protect the environment. Our investments aim to:

    • Advance clean growth and conservation initiatives, such as Laos’ Monsoon Wind Power Project, the Lao Landscapes and Livelihoods Project, and the Mekong River Commission.
    • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in some of the world’s highest-emitting developing countries.
    • Improve resilience to natural disasters through enhanced disaster preparation and management.

    The challenges posed by transnational organized crime and international terrorism affect citizens of ASEAN Members States and Canadians alike. The federal government is investing $21.3 million in initiatives to:

    • Strengthen partnerships between Canadian and Indo-Pacific law enforcement agencies.
    • Crack down on human and drug trafficking, including synthetic drugs, smuggling, and money laundering.
    • Counter international terrorist threats, including terrorist financing and terrorist fighter travel, and address the impacts on children.
    • Help local governments prevent illegal logging and deforestation.
    • Address online cyber scams.
    • Bolster aviation and border security.

    Stability in the Indo-Pacific is a key priority for Canada. We are bolstering peace and security efforts in the region, including by investing $11.9 million in various initiatives to:

    • Build up critical nuclear regulatory infrastructure.
    • Fight malicious cyber actors and strengthen cyber resilience.
    • Support demining and arms control efforts.

    In support of the rights of women and children in ASEAN countries, Canada is investing over $9 million to:

    • Uphold women’s labour rights and improve their participation in underrepresented sectors.
    • Help eliminate forced and child labour.
    • Increase access to prosthetic, orthotic, and rehabilitation services for women and girls with physical disabilities.

    At the ASEAN Summit, the Prime Minister announced an additional $2 million for scholarships and educational exchanges with ASEAN countries, as well as Canada’s intention to seek participation in the ASEAN Digital Track, which will help ensure that Canada has a seat at the table on regional matters ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to democratic and online rights.

    As work toward a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement continues, the Prime Minister noted progress on last year’s ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership and emphasized his commitment to further strengthen Canada-ASEAN trade and investment.

    The ASEAN region offers unparalleled economic opportunity for Canada. Together, the 10 ASEAN member states represent the fifth largest economy in the world and the third largest population in the world. With the measures announced today, Canadians and Canadian businesses can capitalize on the rapid industrialization and growth of this region. Greater Canadian investment in the region and greater investment from the region into Canada will mean more jobs, more innovation, and more growth. As we create good-paying jobs, fight climate change, and grow our economies, Canada and ASEAN stand united to make life better for people in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

    Prime Minister Trudeau thanked the Prime Minister of Laos, Sonexay Siphandone, for hosting a very productive ASEAN Summit. He reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to further strengthening ties between our countries – and with all ASEAN partners. As Canada hosts the G7 Presidency in 2025, ASEAN will be a central part of our work ahead.

    Quote

    “Canada is a proud Indo-Pacific nation. During my visit to this year’s ASEAN Summit, we increased our footprint in this dynamic region – securing trade, investment, and good-paying jobs. As we fight climate change, defend peace and security, and grow our economies, we are putting Canadians at the forefront of global opportunity.”

    Quick Facts

    • ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising 10 member states. The objectives of ASEAN are to:
      • Speed up economic growth, social progress, and cultural development.
      • Promote regional peace and stability and respect for justice and the rule of law.
      • Increase collaboration across a range of economic, social, cultural, technical, scientific, and administrative spheres.
    • Together, ASEAN as a regional bloc represents Canada’s fourth-largest trading partner, with over $38.8 billion in bilateral trade in 2023.
    • Last year, Canada and ASEAN launched a strategic partnership to further advance collaboration in strategic areas of mutual interest, including peace and security and economic and socio-cultural co-operation.
    • Canada became an ASEAN dialogue partner in 1977 and is one of 11 partners with this designation.
    • ASEAN Dialogue Partners co-operate on political and security issues, regional integration, economic interests, inter-faith dialogue, transnational crime and counterterrorism, disaster risk reduction, and other areas. Other Dialogue Partners include: Australia, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.
    • Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy advances and defends Canada’s interests by supporting a more secure, prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Indo-Pacific region while protecting Canada’s national and economic security at home and abroad.

    Related Products

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada supporting solutions and rapid responses to the substance use and overdose crisis

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    The government is launching call for proposals for urgent community support to help municipalities and First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities

    October 11, 2024 | Ottawa, ON | Health Canada

    No community has been left untouched by the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Its tragic impacts are felt among friends, families and neighbours. Too many Canadians have lost their lives to this public health crisis. Canada’s approach is focused on providing access to a full continuum of health care services and leveraging every tool at our disposal to save lives, connect people to care, and keep communities safe.

    Today, the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, announced the launch of the first call for proposals for Health Canada’s Emergency Treatment Fund (ETF). The fund will invest $150 million to help municipalities and First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities address their urgent needs and support rapid responses to the toxic drug use and overdose crisis.

    The ETF will provide short-term support to rapidly mobilize and build capacity for enhanced access to trauma-informed, evidence-based substance use treatment, harm reduction and integrated services, such as naloxone distribution and drug checking equipment. The fund will work to be responsive and adaptive to allow communities to address their urgent needs in the way that best addresses their unique needs.

    Applications will be accepted until November 08, 2024.

    There is no one-size fits all approach to solving this crisis and no community can solve it alone. Our government is committed to doing everything we can with all partners and communities to save lives.

    Quotes

    “Communities across the country have asked for our help, and with the Emergency Treatment Fund we are stepping up to ensure they have the supports they need to respond to their unique needs. By providing the ETF directly to communities, we are ensuring they have another tool to meet the urgent and emerging needs of their communities. We need to try everything we can to get people the help they need and to keep our communities safe.”

    The Honourable Ya’ara Saks
    Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health

    “We are using every tool at out disposal to address this tragic overdose crisis. The Emergency Treatment Fund will help direct support to where it will make the most impact in addressing urgent needs. As this crisis evolves, we will continue to adapt our approach to address what is happening in communities.”

    Yasir Naqvi
    Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health

    “All levels of government must work together to ensure health and social supports are available—so people get the help they need, no matter where they live. We must ensure that support can get to communities and municipalities to quickly address their unique needs relating to the toxic drug and overdose crisis. This funding, along with the dedicated work of those working on the frontlines, will make a real difference in communities right across the country.”

    Élisabeth Brière
    Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and to the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health

    Quick facts

    • Budget 2024 earmarked $150 million over three years of one-time funding to municipalities and Indigenous communities to provide rapid responses to emergent, critical needs related to the substance use and overdose crisis.

    • The funding breakdown allocates $25 million in 2024-2025, $75 million in 2025-26 and $50 million in 2026-27.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Yuval Daniel
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Honourable Ya’ara Saks
    Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
    819-360-6927

    Media Relations
    Health Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government invests to prevent and reduce Veterans homelessness in Prince Edward Island

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    Summerside, Prince Edward Island, October 11, 2024 – The federal government is partnering with the John Howard Society of Prince Edward Island and investing $493,560 to support Veterans struggling with homelessness in the province.

    This funding was announced by MP Bobby Morrissey, Mayor Dan Kutcher, and Conor Mullin and is coming through the Service and Supports Stream of the Veteran Homelessness Program.

    The John Howard Society will provide wrap-around supports and housing initiatives to address the unique needs of Veterans and their families. The project will match Veterans in need with suitable housing, provide rental supplements, and offer extensive case management to help clients overcome barriers and develop additional skills. The project includes prevention measures such as immediate intervention in housing loss and support for Veterans transitioning from active duty.

    Quotes

    “Canadian Veterans have dedicated their lives to our country’s service, making significant sacrifices, and we want to stand by them. The John Howard Society of Prince Edward Island project is one of many initiatives we’re undertaking across Canada to ensure that our Veterans receive the care and stability they deserve. As we work with our partners to eliminate chronic homelessness, our unwavering commitment is to be part of the solution.”

    Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont, Prince Edward Island, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Summerside is proud to stand with the federal government and the John Howard Society of Prince Edward Island in supporting our Veterans. They have given so much to serve our country, and it is essential that we provide them with the stability, care, and housing they deserve. This initiative will help ensure that Veterans in our community have access to safe and supportive environments as they transition to the next chapter of their lives.”

    His Worship Dan Kutcher, Mayor of Summerside

    “The John Howard Society of Prince Edward Island is proud to partner with the Government of Canada to provide services to Veterans who  need our support.”

    Conor Mullin, President of The John Howard Society of PEI

    Quick facts

    • The Veteran Homelessness Program supports Veterans who are at-risk of or experiencing homelessness in securing and maintaining housing and addressing underlying issues. 

    • The Veteran Homelessness Program is funding projects under two streams:

      • Services and Supports Stream – $72.9 million for rent supplements and wrap-around services such as counselling and treatment for substance use.
      • Capacity Building Stream – $6.2 million for research and improved data collection; increase capacity of organizations to deliver tailored programs.

    • According to Census 2021, there were an estimated 461,240 Canadian Veterans. It is estimated there are about 2,600 Veterans experiencing homelessness. 

    • The Veteran Homelessness Program is a part of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS), a 10-year, $115-billion-plus plan that will give more Canadians a place to call home.

      • NHS is built on strong partnerships between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, and continuous engagement with the public and private housing sectors. This includes consultations with many different Canadians, including people with lived experience of housing need.

    • Through Budget 2024 the government is providing an additional $6 million over three years, starting in 2024-25, to Veterans Affairs Canada for the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund. A portion of the funding will focus on projects for Indigenous, women, and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    Sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Infrastructure Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    City of Summerside
    Communications & Public Relations
    publicrelations@summerside.ca

    Conor Mullin
    President
    John Howard Society of PEI
    cjmullin@gov.pe.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: African Countries Commit to Strengthen Cooperation to Better Protect Migrants

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Addis Ababa, 11 October 2024 – Over 300 representatives from African member states, stakeholders, the UN system, and the African Union Commission, gathered for the second Africa review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM). Co-convened by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UN ECA) on behalf of the UN Migration Network, the discussions from the three-day event will help inform the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) in 2026. 

    At a time of worsening global tensions around migration, the gathering underscored the commitment of African countries to the GCM. The conference focused on concrete steps to address migration challenges and opportunities. Key outcomes included stronger commitments to improve migrant protection, enhance data for evidence-based policymaking and reshape narratives to highlight migration as an opportunity for development.
    “This review marks a significant step in turning migration commitments into action, ensuring that migrants are recognized as catalysts for positive change and economic growth,” said IOM Director General and Coordinator of the UN Network on Migration, Amy Pope. 

    There is an urgent need for regular migration pathways and stronger international cooperation to ensure migration is safe, orderly, and humane. The GCM’s Capacity Building Mechanism has already supported 16 UN country teams and four governments in Africa, while the Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund has financed eight Joint Programmes on the continent.  Recent efforts have also been bolstered by new funding pledges, including £4 million from the United Kingdom and the first contributions from sub-Saharan Africa, with Eswatini and Kenya stepping forward.
    “Since Africa is a hub for dynamic and complex human mobility characterized by mixed and irregular migration, the GCM offers an important opportunity for Member States to address all aspects of their migration governance in a comprehensive manner,” stated the Minister of Justice of Ethiopia, Dr. Gedion Timothewos.

    In her opening remarks, H.E. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development at the African Union Commission, said: “Migration is an opportunity for the African continent, both for the countries of origin of migrants and for transit and destination countries. We need to intensify our cooperation if we want to unlock the potential of migration and achieve the objectives of the GCM. The recommendations of this review meeting will be brought to the table of Heads of State at the next African Union Summit so that action can be taken.” 

    Claver Gatete, ECA Executive Secretary, outlined five priorities to harness migration’s potential: “To make migration a dynamic force for sustainable development across Africa, we must address the barriers impeding its positive impact through five priorities: prioritize the mutual recognition of skills and qualifications across African borders; allow the portability of social benefits such as pensions and healthcare; accelerate the African Continental Free Trade Area for greater labour mobility; integrate climate-induced displacement; and include migration data into national censuses and facilitating cross border collaboration for data collection.”
     

    Note To Editor:
    The GCM Champion countries — numbering 15 in Africa — released a statement recommitting to the GCM; five African Regional Economic Communities were present to brief on the outcomes of their sub-regional GCM Reviews, as well as four African Union specialized migration centres. 
     

    For more information, please contact:
    IOM: ethiopiapsucommunications@iom.int  
    ECA: Denekews.uneca@un.org 
    UN Network on Migration: fkim@iom.int 
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –