NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Hungary’s Pride ban – 27-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    On 18 March 2025, a law was adopted in Hungary restricting the freedom of assembly, by connecting it to a previous controversial law from 2021 that prohibited the public portrayal to children of ‘divergence from self-identity corresponding to sex at birth, sex change or homosexuality’. An amendment to the Hungarian Constitution adopted on 14 April 2025 further reinforced this. On the basis of this law, Budapest police decided to ban Budapest Pride. While at first some of the police’s decisions were annulled by the Hungarian Supreme Court on procedural grounds and required new decisions, the Supreme Court later upheld these decisions and refused to check the law against the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) or make a preliminary reference to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). The Supreme Court considered that this case is not within the CJEU’s jurisdiction. The mayor of Budapest announced that Budapest Pride will be held as a municipal event, but the Budapest police have issued a decision prohibiting this.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – 30 June – 3 July: Committees and Political Groups

    Source: European Parliament

    In the week of 30 June, Members’ work is split between meetings in Parliamentary Committees and political groups. During this week, a Committee on Development will send a delegation to the 4th Financing for Development Conference (FfD4) in Seville to exchange views with stakeholders and support reforms of the international financial architecture. Meanwhile, the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development will discuss draft reports on the livestock and wine sectors, focusing on a sustainable future for the EU livestock sector and on structural support measures in the wine sector. Follow the links below to discover this week’s highlights.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Africa – 26-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    EU cooperation with African countries and the African Union (AU) is based on two distinct frameworks: namely (a) the Partnership Agreements with the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states and (b) the Joint Africa-EU strategy.The legal basis for the political, economic and development aspects of the partnership between the EU and the ACP states was established by the Cotonou Agreement in 2000. This was replaced, on 15 November 2023, by the Samoa Agreement, which was negotiated to modernise and upgrade the partnership.The Joint Africa-EU strategy has been implemented through multiannual roadmaps and action plans adopted at each EU-AU summit, which traditionally takes place every three years. At the EU-AU summit held in February 2022 in Brussels, EU and AU leaders agreed on ‘A Joint Vision for 2030’, which aims to consolidate a renewed partnership based on solidarity, security, peace, sustainable development and shared prosperity. The third EU-AU ministerial meeting took place on 21 May 2025, with the participation of the new AU leadership. This meeting reviewed progress on the Joint Vision for 2030, and paved the way for the seventh EU-AU summit, which is set to take place in Africa in 2025, marking 25 years of the partnership since the Cairo summit in 2000.The EU is Africa’s most significant donor of official development assistance. This is mainly funded by the EU’s general budget through the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) – Global Europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Bank Approves Health Resilience Project to Protect Lives and Strengthen Emergency Response in Mozambique


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    The World Bank has approved the Mozambique Health Emergency Preparedness, Response and Resilience Project, an initiative to strengthen the health system’s ability to deliver essential services consistently and equitably. The project targets underserved and climate-vulnerable areas by investing in human resources, infrastructure, and systems that ensure continuity of care during emergencies. This project is part of a regional program to strengthen health security across Eastern and Southern Africa.  

    Mozambique faces frequent floods, cyclones, disease outbreaks, and other emergencies that disrupt health services and put lives at risk. Many communities lack sufficient and trained health workers, access to essential medicines, and the tools to detect and respond quickly to crises. The project seeks to address these gaps by:

    • Strengthening the health workforce capacity, particularly in high-risk areas, by improving recruitment, training, and retention systems;
    • Improving pharmaceutical supply chains by supporting the regulatory agency in bringing more transparency and speed to procurement processes, lowering and standardizing prices of health commodities to ensure access to medicines, particularly during crises; and
    • Enhancing disease surveillance and laboratory capacity to improve early warning and response systems to quickly detect and respond to health emergencies like cholera outbreaks or heatwaves.

    The project also supports the development of climate-adaptive infrastructure and emergency preparedness plans, recognizing the growing health risks posed by climate change.

    “Mozambique is already experiencing the health impacts of shocks and emergencies,” noted Luc Lecuit, World Bank Acting Division Director in Mozambique. “The program supports the government’s efforts to strengthen core health service delivery by investing in preparedness and resilience, ensuring services remain operational during floods, storms, and epidemics.”

    Financed through a $201 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA)*, the initiative will be implemented over five years, concluding in September 2030.

    “By prioritizing practical investments in the foundational pillars of the health sector, the Government of Mozambique is driving greater efficiency across the system and strengthening its emergency response capacity to protect lives,” said João Pires, World Bank Senior Health Specialist and Task Team Leader. “These efforts are paving the way for bold reforms to ensure the health system remains resilient and responsive, even under pressure.”

    In parallel, the World Bank, together with other development partners, is increasing its support to the Mozambique health sector through a $63.7 million top-up to the ongoing District and Community Health Services Revitalization Project. This additional financing—comprising $8.7 million from IDA, $5 million from the Global Financing Facility, and $50 million from a multi-donor trust fund supported by Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland—will expand the project’s impact across the most vulnerable 63 districts of Mozambique. The operation focuses on improving access to quality primary health care, particularly for women, children, and adolescents, and strengthening service delivery at the district and community levels.

    Both projects align with the forthcoming Mozambique’s Health Sector Strategic Plan (PESS, 2025-2034)  (PESS 2020–2024) and the National Adaptation Plan (2023), and complement regional efforts to strengthen health security across Eastern and Southern Africa.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO briefing on plans for marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War

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

    中文

    Speakers:

    Mr. Hu Heping, executive deputy director of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee

    Major General Wu Zeke, deputy director of the Leading Group Office of Military Parade and deputy director general of the Operation Bureau of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission

    Chairperson:

    Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

    Date:

    June 24, 2025

    Shou Xiaoli:

    Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. A series of commemorative activities will be held and have drawn widespread public attention across all sectors of society. Today we have invited Mr. Hu Heping, executive deputy director of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and Major General Wu Zeke, deputy director of the Leading Group Office of Military Parade and deputy director general of the Operation Bureau of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission, to brief you on plans for the commemorative activities and take your questions.

    Now, I’ll give the floor to Mr. Hu for his introduction.

    Hu Heping:

    Good afternoon. I am very pleased to introduce the plans for marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Eighty years ago, after 14 years of arduous and heroic struggle, the Chinese people secured a great victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, marking the full triumph in the World Anti-Fascist War. This great victory belonged not only to the Chinese people, but also to the peoples of the world. On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, grand commemorative events will be held to bear history in mind, honor all those who laid down their lives, and carry forward the great spirit of patriotism and resistance against aggression. These efforts carry profound and lasting significance. In March this year, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council issued a special notice, making overall arrangements for the commemorative activities. Now, let me give you a brief overview.

    First, on the morning of Sept. 3, in the name of the CPC Central Committee, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and the Central Military Commission, a grand ceremony to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War will be held at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing, including a military parade. General Secretary Xi Jinping will deliver an important speech. At noon on Sept. 3, a reception will be held in Beijing, and General Secretary Xi Jinping will deliver an important speech. On the evening of Sept. 3, a commemorative gala will be held in Beijing, to be attended by Party and state leaders.

    Second, in the name of the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission, the “80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression” commemorative medals will be awarded to surviving veterans, comrades and generals of the war or their surviving family members. Authorities across all regions and relevant departments will organize commemorative visits to honor surviving veterans, comrades and generals of the war, their bereaved families, and the relatives of martyrs.

    Third, on July 7, a ceremony commemorating the 88th anniversary of the beginning of China’s whole-nation resistance war against Japanese aggression will be held at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in the name of the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission. The event will concurrently inaugurate a themed exhibition titled “For National Liberation and World Peace: Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.”

    Fourth, around Sept. 3, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, symposiums will be held with compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, as well as overseas representatives. An international academic conference will also be convened.

    Fifth, on Sept. 18, a bell-tolling and siren ceremony to remember September 18 Incident will be held at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, Liaoning province, in the name of the CPC Liaoning provincial committee and the Liaoning provincial government.

    Sixth, around Oct. 25, a gathering will be held to mark the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s recovery from Japanese occupation. Overseas Chinese will be supported in organizing related commemorative activities locally.

    Seventh, on Dec. 13, a national memorial ceremony for the victims of the Nanjing Massacre will be held at the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders in Nanjing, in the name of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council.

    Eighth, the fourth batch of national-level anti-Japanese aggression war memorial facilities and sites, and a new list of renowned martyrs and heroic groups from the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression will be officially released. Restoration and preservation efforts will be undertaken to repair and protect war memorial facilities, sites and relics. And a batch of high-quality war-themed exhibitions will be promoted.

    Ninth, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, a series of cultural works and themed publications will be produced and released, while academic research will be intensified with the establishment of priority research projects. In addition, commemorative coins and stamps will also be issued.

    Tenth, local authorities and departments will organize community-based commemorative activities tailored to their specific contexts. Hong Kong and Macao will also organize a series of commemorative activities.

    These events make up the main schedule. The CPC Central Committee has clearly required that all commemorative activities must strictly comply with the Party Central Committee’s eight-point decision on conduct and its rules for implementation, rigorously enforce the Regulations on Practicing Thrift and Opposing Waste in Party and Government Organs, prevent formalism and avoid extravagance, ensuring that the events are both solemnly conducted and pragmatically modest.

    That is all from me. Thank you.

    Shou Xiaoli:

    Now, let’s invite Mr. Wu to give his introduction.

    Wu Zeke:

    Good morning everyone, and welcome all our friends from the media. It’s my pleasure to present the details of the military parade to you all.

    The CPC Central Committee and the Central Military Commission have decided that a grand military parade will be held at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing on Sept. 3. General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission Xi Jinping will inspect the troops at the military parade.

    This parade is an important part of the activities commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The theme is to commemorate the great victory and promote the great spirit of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The purpose is to highlight the historical significance of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression as the main theater in the East during the Global War against Fascism and its significant contribution to victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, to underscore the pivotal role of the CPC during the war, to demonstrate China’s firm commitments to safeguarding the fruits of World War II and upholding international fairness and justice, as well as its active efforts in building a community with a shared future for mankind. It also aims to fully demonstrate the firm political awareness and practical actions of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in absolute loyalty to the core leadership of the CPC Central Committee, as well as the excellent conduct through enhancing its political loyalty, the new structure of military strength, new progress in its modernization, and the new achievements in its training under combat conditions. It further demonstrates China’s strong will and capabilities to resolutely safeguard its national sovereignty, security and development interests, and to firmly maintain world peace. All of this is intended to inspire the entire Party, army, and people of all ethnic groups in the country to unite more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, strive to achieve the centenary goal of building a strong military on schedule, accelerate the building of the PLA into a world-class military, and to strive for the comprehensive promotion of the great cause of building a strong country and national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization.

    The military parade will consist of foot formations, equipment formations and aerial formations. In its overall design, the parade has made well-coordinated arrangements for the participation of units from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the People’s Armed Police Force, with each formation and echelon carefully organized. It features three main characteristics: First, it highlights both historical legacy and contemporary features. On the one hand, by showcasing the historical designations, honors and unique spirit of the wartime units, the parade will pay tribute to fallen heroes, honor military merits and carry forward the indomitable spirit of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. It reflects the enduring legacy forged by the sacrifice and blood of heroes, a legacy that remains deeply rooted in the hearts of the Chinese people and continues to inspire the armed forces to resolutely safeguard the nation and national dignity. On the other hand, the parade will highlight the PLA’s new organizational structure, enhanced capabilities and fresh image, showcasing the historic achievements and transformative progress of the military in the new era, as well as its firm strides toward becoming a world-class military. Second, it reflects the distinctive features of various military branches while demonstrating integrated joint operations. The foot formations will focus on presenting the new structure and composition of military branches following reforms, as well as the integration of standing forces, reserve forces and militia. The equipment formations will highlight the latest advances in China’s weapons systems, and the integration of multiple platforms and units will showcase new models of joint command, joint operations and joint support, demonstrating the PLA’s capability for independent innovation in defense technologies. The aerial formations will display the systematic strength and rapidly improving combat capabilities of China’s air-based combat capabilities. Third, the parade will feature both traditional mainstay combat forces and emerging strategic forces. All weapons and equipment on display are domestically developed and currently in service. In addition to showcasing the new generation of conventional weaponry, the parade will also feature emerging forces, including unmanned and intelligent systems, undersea combat units, cyber electronic operations and hypersonic weapons, demonstrating the PLA’s strong capacity to adapt to technological advances, the evolution of warfare and the demands of future battlefields. In addition, the design of the review procedures, the ceremonial atmosphere and the integration of elements commemorating the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression will feature several innovative touches. For example, a joint military band has been formed to perform classic songs popular during the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, as well as military pieces rich in contemporary and combative spirit. These arrangements aim to evoke historical memory, pay tribute to the fallen heroes and experience the powerful, uplifting atmosphere of the parade, creating a solemn and grand commemorative occasion.

    At present, preparations are being carried out in an orderly manner in accordance with the overall plans approved by the CPC Central Committee and the Central Military Commission. The relevant work has received strong support from central Party and government departments as well as the Beijing municipal government. This parade upholds the principle of building the military in a diligent and thrifty manner. It makes full use of existing resources and conditions to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

    We firmly believe that under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and General Secretary Xi Jinping, and through the joint efforts of all the officers and soldiers participating in the parade, we will present a grand military parade that promotes the great spirit of resisting aggression, embodies the characteristics of the times and has the demeanor of a major country to both Chinese people and people all over the world. 

    That’s all for my introduction. Thank you.

    Shou Xiaoli:

    Now, the floor is open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking your question.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SFO and DOJ affirm commitment to joint working to tackle crime

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    SFO and DOJ affirm commitment to joint working to tackle crime

    The Director of the Serious Fraud Office met with the Head of the Criminal Division at the US Department of Justice this week.

    The Director of the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) met with the Head of the Criminal Division at the US Department of Justice (DOJ) this week as part of strengthening their important partnership in tackling financial crime.

    The meeting covered the DOJ’s latest white collar crime policies and the SFO and DoJ’s shared commitment to encouraging voluntary self-disclosure from companies as well as positive action to reduce the length of complex investigations to deliver swifter justice.    

    The meeting comes soon after the DOJ published its new white collar crime enforcement plan.   

    Director of Serious Fraud Office, Nick Ephgrave QPM, said:

    I was delighted to meet with Matthew Galeotti, Head of Criminal Division at the US Department of Justice. 

    Fraud, bribery, and corruption have a deeply damaging impact on people’s lives and our respective economies. This week we re-affirmed our long-standing commitment to working together wherever possible to tackle this threat.   

    This meeting marks a significant milestone for us as we continue to strengthen our international approach to fighting financial crime with key partners. Together, we can more effectively pursue criminals and deliver justice.

    Head of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, Matthew Galeotti, said:

    This week, I met with Nick Ephgrave, Director of the UK’s Serious Fraud Office, and we discussed the strategies and tools available to combat fraud and restore the integrity of our markets and bring justice to victims. 

    The Criminal Division and SFO have been partners in this fight for many years, and I look forward to strengthening our cooperation and our shared commitment to root out insidious white-collar crime.

    Press Office

    Email news@sfo.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number +44 (0)7557 009842

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar will return for Festive Derby 2025

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council and the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) are delighted to announce that the city’s popular ice rink will return this Christmas – and tickets are on sale now.

    Following its huge popularity in 2024, which saw over 11,800 people enjoy the ice, the undercover Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink will once again be the centrepiece of festive fun in Derby Market Place. It will be open from November 29 right up until New Year’s Eve.

    Whether you’re an ice-skating pro or just finding your feet, it’s the perfect way to embrace the Christmas spirit. Skaters of all ages and abilities are welcome to enjoy hour-long sessions, with skate hire included in the price. Plus, for those who need a little extra stability, free skate aids will be available.

    Accompanying the ice rink will be the fantastic Nordic Bar, with its eye-catching tipis making a welcome return thanks to Sami Tipi and Mambo Bars. It’s the ideal spot to warm up and relax, with stunning festive foliage, disco balls, twinkling lights, and cosy firepits creating a magical atmosphere.

    This year’s festivities also include the return of the Festive Derby Light Trail, and the newly reopened Derby Market Hall will be joining in the city-wide celebrations.

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said: 

    The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink has become a beloved part of Christmas in Derby, and its return, along with the fantastic Nordic Bar, is highly anticipated! I’m really excited to see our stunning Market Hall be a part of this year’s celebrations too.

    Festive Derby gets bigger and better every year and 2025 is no exception. We can’t wait to welcome everyone into the city centre to enjoy it.

    Just like last year, the Nordic Bar will be serving up a tempting selection of drinks, including steaming speciality hot chocolates, mulled wine, and festive cocktails. You’ll also find more tasty treats from our on-site food vendors.

    The tipis will once again host a fantastic programme of entertainment, featuring live music, children’s shows and more! The combined appeal of the ice rink and Nordic Bar proved more popular than ever in 2024, attracting almost 7,500 more visitors compared to the previous year.

    Craig Bidder, founder of The Nordic Bar Co, said:

    Derby’s incredible welcome always blows us away! We’re so excited to return, bringing our tipis to create another magical season. Prepare for even more festive sparkle under the tipis!

    Brad Worley, Manager for the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, said:

    We’re thrilled to be sponsoring the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink once again, in partnership with Derby City Council. The rink has become a real centrepiece of Festive Derby, bringing families into the heart of the Cathedral Quarter and supporting our fantastic local businesses. 

    We’re proud to play a part in creating a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the season and everything Derby has to offer.

    The Nordic Bar will once again host a fantastic programme of entertainment

    The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar will open on Saturday 29 November, as Festive Derby is officially launched with our Christmas Lights Switch-On event, with our media partner Smooth Radio. Festive light installations will lead you through the city centre to the magical Cathedral Quarter, where there’ll be festive entertainment to enjoy on selected weekends.

    Last year’s visitors were left feeling truly festive:

    An incredible day for young and old celebrating in the heart of the city that yule love… What’s Good To Do

    Whether you’re here for the dazzling lights, festive drinks, or simply to soak in the Christmas spirit, Festive Derby offers something for everyone… Derby Days Out

    Tickets for the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink are on sale now so if you want to secure the date for a festive group get-together, plan a work event or simply want something exciting to look forward to – you can book now. The rink is popular for group bookings and is also available for private hire, so if you’re planning an event, get in touch! 

    Standard tickets priced at £12 during peak sessions and £10 for off-peak sessions. Under 16s tickets are £10 during peak sessions and £8 during off-peak sessions. 

    There are family and group discounts available, starting at groups of 4+, with larger discounts available for bigger group bookings. There will also be special sessions for toddlers and their parents/carers. The rink is wheelchair accessible. Check the Derby LIVE website for opening times and booking information.

    Of course, the festive season wouldn’t be complete without Derby’s annual panto spectacular at Derby Arena. This year we’re teaming up with Morgan Brind and the multi award-winning Little Wolf Entertainment  again to present Dick Whittington from Friday 5 – Wednesday 31 December.

    You can also see a brand-new festive tale from the Lost Boys, Merry Elwin The Adventurous Elf, at Chapel Street Arts Centre from Thursday 11 until Tuesday 23 December. This heartwarming show is perfect for families and festive enthusiasts alike, offering a delightful blend of humour, heart, and holiday cheer. 

    Tickets for all shows and attractions can be purchased on the Derby LIVE website, at the Sales and Information Centre,19 Chapel Street, Derby, DE1 3GU, or by calling 01332 255 800.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich: 27 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Appointment of Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich: 27 June 2025

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Dr Joanne Woolway Grenfell, Area Bishop of Stepney, in the Diocese of London, for election as Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich.

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Dr Joanne Woolway Grenfell, Area Bishop of Stepney, in the Diocese of London, for election as Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, in succession to The Right Reverend Martin Alan Seeley, following his retirement.

    Background

    Joanne Grenfell was educated at Oriel College, Oxford and the University of British Columbia, Vancouver. She trained for ministry at Westcott House, Cambridge.  She has a DPhil from Oxford and was Lecturer in English at Oriel College before ordination. 

    She served her title in the Kirkby Team Ministry in the Diocese of Liverpool and was ordained Priest in 2001.  In 2003, Joanne was appointed joint Priest-in-Charge of Manor Parish in the Diocese of Sheffield with responsibility for Ripon College Cuddesdon’s urban theology placement programme. In 2006, Joanne became Diocesan Director of Ordinands and Residentiary Canon of Sheffield Cathedral, and in 2008 she took on the additional role of Dean of Women’s Ministry. 

    From 2013, Dr Grenfell served as Archdeacon of Portsdown in the Diocese of Portsmouth.  In 2019, she took up her current role as Area Bishop of Stepney, in the Diocese of London.  She has been the lead Bishop for safeguarding since May 2023.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace activists rebrand NZ bottom trawler “ocean killer” at sea

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace Aotearoa activists have confronted a bottom trawler on the Chatham Rise, rebranding it “ocean killer”, after bearing witness to it hauling in a net straining with marine life.
    Launching from the Greenpeace vessel Rainbow Warrior, activists came alongside the New Zealand-flagged ship, Talley’s Amaltal Atlantis, on the Chatham Rise on Friday afternoon, and painted the message on its hull with non-toxic paint.
    Speaking from onboard the Rainbow Warrior, Greenpeace Aotearoa spokesperson Juan Parada says:
    “Appalled by the most recent evidence of destruction, people defending the oceans rebranded this Talley’s vessel today to expose the bottom trawling industry for what they are: ocean killers. When Talley’s bottom trawlers drag their heavy trawl nets across the seafloor and over seamounts, they bulldoze everything in their path, including killing precious marine life from coral to fur seals, dolphins and seabirds.”We’ve all seen the shocking footage of bottom trawling in David Attenborough’s film Ocean, and it’s happening right here, right now.”
    “Faced with a fishing industry that profits from trashing the ocean, and a government that condones bottom trawling, we’re proud of the peaceful action taken today to call out this destruction and demand that bottom trawling stop.
    “The Amaltal Atlantis trawls in the waters of Aotearoa, and has previously received permits to trawl in the High Seas of the South Pacific. Their trail of destruction is wide and long-lasting,” says Parada.
    Talley’s vessels have a long history of carrying out bottom trawling destruction. In 2018, the Amaltal Apollo trawled in a protected area on the Lord Howe Rise, in the international waters of the Tasman Sea. The Amaltal Mariner was also convicted of trawling in a marine reserve off Kaikōura in 2019.
    The company also has a documented history of health and safety issues, with multiple injuries and even a fatality reported to WorkSafe.
    In 2022, Greenpeace activists blocked the Amatal Atlantis from leaving Port Nelson for nearly 10 hours.
    The at-sea action comes just weeks after it was revealed a New Zealand vessel dragged up six tonnes of coral in a single trawl on the Chatham Rise, known for being a hotspot for coral life.
    In March, Greenpeace Aotearoa documented swathes of destroyed coral in areas of the Tasman Sea intensively trawled by New Zealand bottom trawlers. The Tasman Sea has been earmarked for one of the first high seas ocean sanctuaries, using the Global Ocean Treaty.
    New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the High Seas of the Tasman.
    Parada says, “As the rest of the world moves towards more comprehensive ocean protection for international waters, New Zealand is standing in the way of progress by continuing to advocate for the bottom trawling industry.”It’s time Talley’s, the trawling industry, and the government listened to the tens of thousands of New Zealanders who want ocean health valued over industry profits.
    “From depleted fish numbers to smashed coral, dead sharks and seabirds, the cost of bottom trawling is too high. To protect the ocean for the future and safeguard the ocean we all love, bottom trawling must stop.”
    In response to the activist’s painting activity, Talley’s responded saying they would seek legal action which “may include the arrest of the Rainbow Warrior.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Japan: Cruel execution a stain on country’s human rights record – Amnesty International

    Source: Amnesty International

     

    In response to today’s execution in Japan of a man convicted of the murder of nine people, Chiara Sangiorgio, Death Penalty Advisor at Amnesty International, said:

     

    “The execution of Takahiro Shiraishi – the first in Japan in nearly three years – is the latest callous attack on the right to life in Japan and a major setback for the country’s human rights record.

     

    “Last year’s acquittal of Hakamada Iwao, formerly the world’s longest-serving death row prisoner, laid bare the unfairness of Japan’s criminal justice system and use of the death penalty and was an ideal opportunity to change course. 

     

    “But instead of moving to reform and ensure full protection of human rights, the government has chosen to resume executions. This is a significant setback to efforts to end the use of the death penalty in Japan.

     

    “As of today, 113 countries worldwide have completely abolished the death penalty in law, and more than 144 have abandoned it in law or practice, yet Japan continues to use this inhuman punishment.

     

    “The secrecy that continues to surround the notification of executions make the use of this punishment in Japan additionally cruel. The Japanese authorities must immediately introduce a moratorium on executions as a first step toward abolishing the death penalty entirely —and commute all death sentences to terms of imprisonment.”

     

     

    Background

     

    According to Japan’s Ministry of Justice, the execution of Takahiro Shiraishi was carried out on 27 June 2025.

    Shiraishi was convicted in 2020 of the killing of nine people in 2017 by Tokyo District Court and sentenced to death.

    This is the first execution under Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who came to power in October 2024, and the first since July 2022.

     

    Executions in Japan are shrouded in secrecy, with prisoners typically given only a few hours’ notice and given no warning at all before their death sentences are carried out. Their families are usually notified about the execution only after it has taken place.

     

    Japan is one of a small group of countries that has carried out executions in recent years. Amnesty International recorded 1,518 executions in 15 countries in 2024 (excluding the thousands believed to have been carried out in China), an increase by 32% from the 1,153 recorded in 2023 largely driven by a spike in three countries in the Middle East – Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.  

     

    On 26 September 2024, a long-awaited ruling was delivered by Shizuoka District Court to acquit Hakamada Iwao, described as the world’s longest-serving death row prisoner.

     

    Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception regardless of the nature or circumstances of the crime, guilt, innocence or other characteristics of the individual, or the method used by the state to carry out the execution.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 2024-03-25 at 19h24 First Council of Ministers at the new Government headquarters The President of the Republic was invited to preside in a gesture intended to “emphasize the importance of Institutional cooperation”

    Source: Government of Portugal (PM)

    The last Council of Ministers of António Costa’s third government was held on Monday 25 March at the Government’s new headquarters in the Caixa Geral de Depósitos building in Lisbon. In a meeting presided over by the President of the Republic Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa the new National Strategy for the Inclusion of the . <. the new government is free to appraise reappraise and not start from scratch rather point where we are now2 ant costa claimed.>

    Institutional solidarity and cooperation

    The meeting was presided over by the President of the Republic Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa – a tradition that began with the Prime Minister António Costa at the last council of Ministers of the last term of the former President of the Republic Aníbal Cavaco Silva on 3 March 2016. 

    “More than an act of courtesy, this is a way of emphasizing the importance of institutional cooperation, of institutional solidarity between the Government and other sovereign bodies, particularly the President of the Republic” said the Prime Minister after the meeting ended.

    “If will be hard to find another period in our constitutional experience where the relations between the Government and the President of the Republic flowed so easily, in such a cooperative and solidary manner as what happened in the essential part of these eight years”, António Costa went on to say.

    The President of the Republic Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa further acknowledged that the institutional solidarity has worked over the last eight year, with three different Governments. “At crucial times, institutional solidarity became national solidarity. And that is highly positive. The relationship between the Head of State and the Head of Government should be like this as much as possible, even if they have different starting points and ways of thinking and differences as to concrete modes of action in day-to-day”, he said.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 2024-03-27 at 16h49 The four crises and seven structural shifts of the last eight years Prime Minister António Costa took stock of the last years in government

    Source: Government of Portugal (PM)

    António Costa took stock of the government’s action in the last eight years, where he was Prime Minister, during a press conference held in the official residence.<.>

    António Costa also referred to the financial system’s greater stability. “The state-owned bank, which many felt should be privatised and that it would be impossible to capitalise, is today not only solvent, but also generated due revenue for the Portuguese economy and citizens”, the Prime Minister claimed. 

    The wildland fires crisis 

    The second crisis noted by the Prime Minister was that of wildland fires, the answer to which included restructuring the civil protection system and a budget reform, which offered prevention a clear priority over fighting. As a result, “if we were to add up the entire area burnt down in the six years between 2018 and 2023 [the result] is 60.7% of the area burnt down in 2017 alone”, he stressed.

    The Covid-19 pandemic 

    The country’s response to this third crisis was “worthy of note”, claimed the Prime Minister. “We were the first country in the world to reach a vaccination coverage of 85%. And the efforts to support the economy and households allowed us to be one of the countries that best came out of the pandemic”, he added. 

    The inflationist crisis

    The fourth crisis arose from the effects of the pandemic, which was still felt, and the war between Russia and Ukraine. This conflict “worsened a situation that came from the pandemic, with the breakdown in supply chains, which led us to the greatest inflationist crisis of the last 30 years”. 

    The rises in interest rates by the European Central Bank to respond to rising inflation “in a society such as hours where mortgages have a high significance and the variable rates are clearly dominant”, together with rising food costs, shot up household costs. 

    “From the start of 2022 to October 2022, inflation soared. We hit 10.1% inflation in October 2022 and since then we have been on a slow, yet sure, trajectory to lower inflation, until we hit 2.1% last February and the forecast is we will remain on that lowering trajectory”, said the Prime Minister.

    SEVEN STRUCTURAL SHITS

    Higher growth

    The Prime Minister stated that between 2000 and 2015 the country alternated between recession and stagnation. “Only in one year of these 15 did we grow above the European average: in 2009. From 2016 onwards, the reality has been quite different “, he said. “In these eight years, the country grew ten times more than what it had grown in the previous 15”, he signalled, noting the 2.1% growth, including in the two pandemic years, “where product naturally fell drastically”. 

    More jobs and more income

    The creation of jobs and improvement in employment conditions contributed to this economic growth. “Today, we have a record number of people working in Portugal: 5 million people. That is an additional 629 thousand jobs than in 2015. And in a context where it was possible to not just to have minimum wages grow 62%, but also average wages having grown 27.7%”, the Prime Minister indicated.

    In addition to the rise in the minimum wage, the Prime Minister also noted rising pensions and improvement in net income. 

    Always in line with the Social Security Basis Law, in these eight years, average pensions rose 23.3%, “with all the rises set down in the law, as well as extraordinary rises to counter inflation”. 

    The improvement in net income came from the “successive drops in income tax IRS” and the “successive measures of non-monetary transfers that cut household expenses”, such as making school books free, reforming the costs of public transports, increasing the number of households that benefit from energy social rates and the “significant” cut in pubic university fees, that went from more than one thousand euros to 697 euros per annum.

    A more qualified country

    This was the shift the Prime Minister considered “perhaps brings the greatest consequences for the future”. António Costa mentioned the “highly significant” drop in early dropouts, where this year we are below the EU average for 2030, and the rise in the number of youths aged 30 to 34 years who completed higher educaiton in 2015, which can only rise, since “if we look at the youths who are 20 years old, 39% attended university in 2015, and today it’s 54%”. 

    A more competitive economy

    “Every year, we beat records in attracting foreign direct investment. Every year, we beat corporate investment records and corporate investment went up 85% between 2015 and 2023”, the Prime Minister stated, advocating that “what offers a modern economy competitiveness is its capacity to have qualified jobs, being more innovative, and this is what enables that innovation”. 

    António Costa also added that the rise in exports, which in 2022 accounted for more than 50% of GDP, and the change in the nature of exports. “Exports of high and medium tech goods increased 71% over these last eight years, which means that complexifying, qualifying, and the added value of our economy have been clearly on the rise”.

    Less inequality

    “Today we have 600 thousand people less in poverty or social exclusion, and especially 226 thousand children less living in poverty or social exclusion”, said the Prime Minister.

    Taking the lead in fighting climate change

    The sixth shift had to do with the country’s position in taking the lead in fighting climate change. “We were the first country in the world, at the2016 Marrakesh COP to undertake the goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. Our Climate Law imposed on us a greater ambition of hitting that target in 2045 rather than 2050”. 

    Since 2017, Portugal has cut back its GHG emissions by 17% “due to the public transport policy and bringing targets such as closing down coal-fuelled power stations forward and increasing the capacity to generate energy using renewables”, the Prime Minister signalled.

    Advances in the State reform 

    The last structural shift mentioned by the Prime Minister had to do with the advances in the State reform, namely concerning the decentralisation of powers, such as transferring the PSP’s traffic tasks to the Lisbon and Porto municipal police, making Carri or STCP (public transport) municipal, or the agreement with the National Portuguese Municipalities Association (ANMP) to transfer powers. Lastly, António Costa referred to the reform of the Regional Development Coordination Committees (CCDR), that are now more democratised and with greater autonomy. 

    View the Prime Minister’s presentation here 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 2024-03-27 at 16h49 The four crises and seven structural shifts of the last eight years Prime Minister António Costa took stock of the last years in government

    Source: Government of Portugal (PM)

    António Costa took stock of the government’s action in the last eight years, where he was Prime Minister, during a press conference held in the official residence.<.>

    António Costa also referred to the financial system’s greater stability. “The state-owned bank, which many felt should be privatised and that it would be impossible to capitalise, is today not only solvent, but also generated due revenue for the Portuguese economy and citizens”, the Prime Minister claimed. 

    The wildland fires crisis 

    The second crisis noted by the Prime Minister was that of wildland fires, the answer to which included restructuring the civil protection system and a budget reform, which offered prevention a clear priority over fighting. As a result, “if we were to add up the entire area burnt down in the six years between 2018 and 2023 [the result] is 60.7% of the area burnt down in 2017 alone”, he stressed.

    The Covid-19 pandemic 

    The country’s response to this third crisis was “worthy of note”, claimed the Prime Minister. “We were the first country in the world to reach a vaccination coverage of 85%. And the efforts to support the economy and households allowed us to be one of the countries that best came out of the pandemic”, he added. 

    The inflationist crisis

    The fourth crisis arose from the effects of the pandemic, which was still felt, and the war between Russia and Ukraine. This conflict “worsened a situation that came from the pandemic, with the breakdown in supply chains, which led us to the greatest inflationist crisis of the last 30 years”. 

    The rises in interest rates by the European Central Bank to respond to rising inflation “in a society such as hours where mortgages have a high significance and the variable rates are clearly dominant”, together with rising food costs, shot up household costs. 

    “From the start of 2022 to October 2022, inflation soared. We hit 10.1% inflation in October 2022 and since then we have been on a slow, yet sure, trajectory to lower inflation, until we hit 2.1% last February and the forecast is we will remain on that lowering trajectory”, said the Prime Minister.

    SEVEN STRUCTURAL SHITS

    Higher growth

    The Prime Minister stated that between 2000 and 2015 the country alternated between recession and stagnation. “Only in one year of these 15 did we grow above the European average: in 2009. From 2016 onwards, the reality has been quite different “, he said. “In these eight years, the country grew ten times more than what it had grown in the previous 15”, he signalled, noting the 2.1% growth, including in the two pandemic years, “where product naturally fell drastically”. 

    More jobs and more income

    The creation of jobs and improvement in employment conditions contributed to this economic growth. “Today, we have a record number of people working in Portugal: 5 million people. That is an additional 629 thousand jobs than in 2015. And in a context where it was possible to not just to have minimum wages grow 62%, but also average wages having grown 27.7%”, the Prime Minister indicated.

    In addition to the rise in the minimum wage, the Prime Minister also noted rising pensions and improvement in net income. 

    Always in line with the Social Security Basis Law, in these eight years, average pensions rose 23.3%, “with all the rises set down in the law, as well as extraordinary rises to counter inflation”. 

    The improvement in net income came from the “successive drops in income tax IRS” and the “successive measures of non-monetary transfers that cut household expenses”, such as making school books free, reforming the costs of public transports, increasing the number of households that benefit from energy social rates and the “significant” cut in pubic university fees, that went from more than one thousand euros to 697 euros per annum.

    A more qualified country

    This was the shift the Prime Minister considered “perhaps brings the greatest consequences for the future”. António Costa mentioned the “highly significant” drop in early dropouts, where this year we are below the EU average for 2030, and the rise in the number of youths aged 30 to 34 years who completed higher educaiton in 2015, which can only rise, since “if we look at the youths who are 20 years old, 39% attended university in 2015, and today it’s 54%”. 

    A more competitive economy

    “Every year, we beat records in attracting foreign direct investment. Every year, we beat corporate investment records and corporate investment went up 85% between 2015 and 2023”, the Prime Minister stated, advocating that “what offers a modern economy competitiveness is its capacity to have qualified jobs, being more innovative, and this is what enables that innovation”. 

    António Costa also added that the rise in exports, which in 2022 accounted for more than 50% of GDP, and the change in the nature of exports. “Exports of high and medium tech goods increased 71% over these last eight years, which means that complexifying, qualifying, and the added value of our economy have been clearly on the rise”.

    Less inequality

    “Today we have 600 thousand people less in poverty or social exclusion, and especially 226 thousand children less living in poverty or social exclusion”, said the Prime Minister.

    Taking the lead in fighting climate change

    The sixth shift had to do with the country’s position in taking the lead in fighting climate change. “We were the first country in the world, at the2016 Marrakesh COP to undertake the goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. Our Climate Law imposed on us a greater ambition of hitting that target in 2045 rather than 2050”. 

    Since 2017, Portugal has cut back its GHG emissions by 17% “due to the public transport policy and bringing targets such as closing down coal-fuelled power stations forward and increasing the capacity to generate energy using renewables”, the Prime Minister signalled.

    Advances in the State reform 

    The last structural shift mentioned by the Prime Minister had to do with the advances in the State reform, namely concerning the decentralisation of powers, such as transferring the PSP’s traffic tasks to the Lisbon and Porto municipal police, making Carri or STCP (public transport) municipal, or the agreement with the National Portuguese Municipalities Association (ANMP) to transfer powers. Lastly, António Costa referred to the reform of the Regional Development Coordination Committees (CCDR), that are now more democratised and with greater autonomy. 

    View the Prime Minister’s presentation here 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 27 June 2025 Departmental update New digital toolkit to improve family planning content on apps, chatbots and digital spaces

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO with expertise from the United Nation’s Special Programme in Human Reproduction (HRP), has introduced a new resource aimed at helping developers and health professionals improve the quality of digital tools that provide family planning information. The Toolkit and content repository for digital client-facing platforms: family planning offers a collection of simplified, evidence-based messages that can be used in apps, social media, chatbots, and other digital platforms.

    The toolkit is designed to support a wide range of users – from ministries of health and nongovernmental organizations to social media influencers and software developers – who are involved in creating or managing digital content related to contraception and reproductive health. The aim is for this toolkit to be adapted by local implementers who can contextualize the information for local relevance. 

    Filling gaps in digital health content

    Digital platforms are increasingly used to share health information, but the quality of content can vary widely. WHO’s new toolkit responds to concerns about misinformation and inconsistent messaging by offering a centralized, vetted source of family planning content based on its clinical guidelines.

    “This toolkit is a practical resource for anyone looking to ensure their digital content aligns with WHO recommendations and a step in addressing misinformation.” said Tigest Tamrat, Scientist at WHO and HRP and one of the project leads. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it provides a solid foundation that can be adapted to different contexts.”

    This toolkit is a practical resource for anyone looking to ensure their digital content aligns with WHO recommendations and a step in addressing misinformation.

    Tigest Tamrat / Scientist at WHO and HRP

    What’s inside the toolkit?

    The toolkit includes four main components:

    • health interventions and recommendations – a summary of WHO’s guidance on family planning;
    • user scenarios – examples of how different users might apply the toolkit in real-world settings;
    • content repository – a downloadable spreadsheet of simplified messages and myth-busting facts; and
    • performance metrics – suggested indicators for tracking user engagement and tool effectiveness.

    The content is intentionally generic, allowing users to tailor it to local languages, cultural norms, and digital habits.

    Practical use cases

    The toolkit provides sample scenarios to illustrate how it might be used. For example, a programme manager might use it to update the content of an existing mobile app, while a social media influencer could use it to fact-check posts or respond to common questions from followers.

    In one scenario, a fictional influencer named Aisha uses the toolkit to create a video series addressing common myths about contraception. Her content helps viewers like Miriam, a 19-year-old follower, feel more confident in making informed decisions about reproductive health.

    Looking ahead: AI integration

    While the toolkit currently focuses on scripted content, it could also support more advanced applications. For instance, artificial intelligence tools like chatbots could use the content repository to provide accurate, real-time responses to user questions. The document also highlights the potential of AI to personalize content based on user demographics and preferences.

    A flexible resource

    Rather than being a prescriptive solution, the toolkit is meant to be a flexible resource that can be adapted to different needs. It encourages collaboration with local experts and communities to ensure content is relevant and respectful.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: European Council

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Council is the EU institution that defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union. It is composed of the heads of state or government of the 27 EU member states, the European Council President and the Commission President.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: European Council

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Council is the EU institution that defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union. It is composed of the heads of state or government of the 27 EU member states, the European Council President and the Commission President.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Meeting of the European Political Community

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Political Community is a platform for political coordination among the European countries. It aims to foster political dialogue and cooperation to address issues of common interest, and to strengthen the security, stability and prosperity of the European continent.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Plenary session of the European Committee of Regions

    Source: European Union 2

    Chaired by the CoR’s President, the main purpose of the plenary sessions is to:

    • vote on opinions, reports and resolutions
    • adopt the CoR’s political programme at the beginning of each term
    • elect a President, First Vice-president and the remaining members of the Bureau
    • set up policy commissions within the institution
    • approve the CoR’s draft estimates for expenditure and revenue
    • revise and agree on the CoR’s Rules of Procedure.

    The relevant CoR commission will appoint one of its members – known as the rapporteur – to draft an opinion on the legislative proposal which is then voted on during one of the CoR plenaries. If the opinion receives a majority of votes in its favour (simple majority), it is adopted and handed over to the other EU institutions for further scrutiny.

    The CoR may also proactively adopt a position on a particular issue through an own-initiative opinion.

    ​If you would like to follow a plenary session in person you can apply for an observer badge by registering through the observer registration form at least 5 days before the start of the given plenary.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa’s development banks are being undermined: the continent will pay the price

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    Ghana and Zambia’s official creditors are pressing them to default on loans to two African multilateral financial institutions: the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the Trade and Development Bank (TDB).

    These creditors, in effect, are demanding that the two countries prioritise repayments to themselves over payments to these two banks.

    As academics who have worked on the challenges of financing sustainable development in Africa, we believe this action is short-sighted.

    The action by Ghana and Zambia’s official creditors has two significant implications.

    First, they are demanding that the two countries treat Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank as commercial creditors. This would undermine the banks’ credit ratings and increase their borrowing costs. It would also reduce their capacity to finance sustainable development in Africa.

    Second, pressing Ghana and Zambia to default, rather than supporting pragmatic restructuring aligned with their strong growth prospects, exacerbates Ghana and Zambia’s financial vulnerability. Either they would have to use scarce resources to pay these debts or default on their obligations, in which case, the banks might well sue them.

    Quotes from Ghana and Zambia’s ministries of finance suggest the decision to default is their own. However, they faced intense pressure from their official creditors to treat the two African multilateral financial institutions differently from all their other multilateral creditors.

    Why does this differential treatment matter?

    Preferred creditor status

    Multilateral financial institutions, including the World Bank and African Development Bank, have a preferred creditor status. This is in recognition of the special role they play. They are expected to provide relatively low-cost funding for public investment, economic stability and long-term sustainable development in low- and middle-income countries.

    Their preferred creditor status ensures that, when countries experience debt distress, their development mandate is prioritised over the concerns of commercial creditors. Commercial creditors normally only fund commercially viable transactions. They charge high interest rates to compensate for the risk of default on these transactions.

    Both Afreximbank and Trade and Development Bank were created to fill a gap in Africa’s access to critical development finance. They provide financing for projects and transactions that commercial institutions and other multilateral financial institutions cannot – or will not – provide, because of capital limits, regulations or perceptions of risk.

    For example, Afreximbank’s charter notes that

    the decline in African exports has impacted adversely on the economies of African states and hindered their ability to achieve a self-reliant development.

    It further recognises that stimulating economic development

    can best be achieved through the creation of a trade financing international institution whose principal purpose is to provide and mobilise the requisite financial resources.

    Historically, it has enjoyed preferred creditor status to support its role in meeting this purpose.

    Why preferred creditor status is being challenged

    The two countries’ official creditor committees, the rating agency Fitch and other commentators are challenging the preferred creditor status of the two African institutions. They argue that the two banks are different from multilateral financial institutions like the World Bank and the African Development Bank that only have states as shareholders. They suggest that the private shareholders in the two African banks should not benefit from preferred creditor status. Instead, they should receive the same status as commercial creditors.

    Read more: Ghana and Zambia have snubbed Africa’s leading development bank: why they should change course

    This view ignores the reason that Afreximbank’s and the Trade and Development Bank’s member states authorised them to have private shareholders. It was a deliberate, pragmatic measure designed to fill a gap in Africa’s access to affordable development finance.

    The idea was to create new multilateral institutions that could raise capital flexibly and quickly on terms that the individual African states could not match on their own. Several other regional development banks have this hybrid model, including CAF, a highly rated development bank in Latin America.

    It is perverse that this creative and pragmatic approach to filling a gap in the global financial system is now being used against the two African banks.

    The consequences

    The cost of capital for the two African financial institutions will increase if they are treated like commercial creditors. This will reduce their capacity to lend and their financing will become more expensive. It will also deepen inequality in the global financial system. Lastly, it will increase the risk of future African sovereign debt defaults.

    In other words, downgrading their status risks undermining the very stability that official creditors claim to safeguard. It will also create another obstacle to Africa’s efforts to access stable, predictable and affordable flows of development finance.

    The eventual outcome of the official creditors’ action will ultimately depend on negotiations between Ghana and Zambia and their creditors. This will include the two African institutions. It will also be influenced by how these different groups of creditors behave in other African sovereign debt restructurings.

    However, the international community can seek to influence the outcome by taking actions in appropriate international settings.

    Global leaders are searching for ways to scale up and strengthen the capacity of regional and subregional development banks like Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank. This requires respecting their preferred creditor status and increasing their access to affordable capital.

    This is precisely the opposite of what is unfolding.

    There is still time for the creditor governments to change course by demonstrating their support for African multilateral financial institutions.

    – Africa’s development banks are being undermined: the continent will pay the price
    – https://theconversation.com/africas-development-banks-are-being-undermined-the-continent-will-pay-the-price-259404

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Russia advocates for multilateralism and stronger UN at G20 Sherpa meeting

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Russia advocates for multilateralism and stronger UN at G20 Sherpa meeting

    Russia’s G20 Sherpa, Svetlana Lukash, has highlighted the importance of multilateralism for ensuring global stability and sustainability, calling for ongoing dialogue and the strengthening of the United Nations.

    “Multilateralism is the only thing that can keep the world together today and save us from collapse, save the economy from complete fragmentation, and ensure global growth and sustainability,” she said. 

    Despite the current challenges of economic fragmentation and geopolitical tensions, Lukash said she remained optimistic.

    “We must continue dialogue, no matter what divisions exist in our minds and policies.“

    Lukash was speaking on the sidelines of the G20 Sherpa meeting on Thursday, where the world’s largest economies and organisations are convening at Sun City Resort in the North West.

    Lukash is the Deputy Head of the Presidential Expert Directorate within the Presidential Executive Office of Russia. 

    “I think the G20 is very well placed to keep multilateralism as a flag for all humanity. But indeed, what we always keep in mind is that we have the United Nations, and that is the main platform that we need to cherish and need to strengthen.“

    She also cast the spotlight on South Africa’s groundbreaking G20 Presidency as a pivotal moment for inclusive international dialogue.

    Lukash believes that the strategic vision of multilateralism extends beyond traditional diplomatic frameworks.

    By inviting diverse stakeholders and opening dialogue with African neighbours and Global South representatives, Lukash said South Africa aims to create a more representative international platform.

    “I think just having the Presidency in Africa for the first time and putting the interests of Africa and of the Global South on the top of the G20 agenda already gives the strongest signal to the world community that the time has changed.” 

    She is of the view that the G20 should not be a closed forum where only 20 economies discuss issues that matter to the entire world.

    “What South Africa’s Presidency did is help open the G20 in the interests of the global majority. That is amazing. So, I really praise what the Presidency is doing this year.”

    The Sherpa said the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November represents a critical opportunity to demonstrate how multilateral approaches can address complex global economic challenges.

    Lukash also recognised the ongoing geoeconomic fragmentation and geopolitical tensions, which include sanctions and tariff wars. 

    However, she believes that the key multilateral priorities should focus on reforming global institutions such as the World Trade Organisation (WTO), addressing geopolitical tensions, and developing more inclusive mechanisms for economic cooperation.

    Despite geoeconomic fragmentation and tensions, Lukash said Russia sees the G20 as crucial for global economic cooperation, particularly in trade, energy, and finance.

    She told journalists that Russia’s key priorities for the G20 agenda align with South Africa’s goals, focusing on inclusive global growth, job creation, artificial intelligence governance, and critical minerals. 

    The Sherpa also praised the bilateral relations between South Africa and Russia, particularly in economic cooperation and investments, and expressed full support for South Africa’s G20 priorities.

    She said she was also grateful that South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile recently attended the St Petersburg International Economic Forum during his working visit to Russia. 

    “We, as Russia, tried to ensure that he spent that time very productively, ensured a lot of discussions with all the government of the Russian Federation, aimed at increasing our cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations by ensuring investments and common economic cooperation between all countries. 

    “[The Deputy President] very rightly points out the main issues that the investments need to be shifted to the countries of the Global South, and that’s what our President and the Deputy President discussed.”

    Lukash has assured the South African government that Russia will support them “completely” in all their priorities and goals.

    “We will do our best to make your G20 Leaders’ Summit a success.” – SAnews.gov.za

    Gabisile

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney

    Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images for Lumix

    In just four days, one-third of the population of Tuvalu entered a ballot for a new permanent visa to Australia.

    This world-first visa will enable up to 280 Tuvaluans to move permanently to Australia each year, from a current population of about 10,000. The visa is open to anyone who wants to work, study or live in Australia. Unlike other visa schemes for Pacific peoples, a job offer in Australia is not required.

    While the visa itself doesn’t mention climate change, the treaty that created it is framed in the context of the “existential threat posed by climate change”. That’s why when it was announced, I described it as the world’s first bilateral agreement on climate mobility.

    The Australian government, too, has called it “the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world, providing a pathway for mobility with dignity as climate impacts worsen”.

    The high number of ballot applications may come as a surprise to many, especially given there were multiple concerns within Tuvalu when the treaty was first announced. Even so, some analysts predicted all Tuvaluans would apply eventually, to keep their options open.

    Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest countries, covering just 26 square kilometres.
    Hao Hsiang Chen, Shutterstock

    Grabbing the chance

    The visa highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to move in the context of climate change and disasters. The dangers of rising sea levels are clearly apparent, including coastal flooding, storm damage and water supplies. But there is a lot more at play here.

    For many, especially young families, this will be seen as a chance for education and skills training in Australia. Giving people choices about if, when and where they move is empowering and enables them to make informed decisions about their own lives.

    For the government of Tuvalu, the new visa is also about shoring up the economy. Migration is now a structural component of many Pacific countries’ economies.

    The money migrants send back to their home countries to support their families and communities is known as remittances. In 2023, remittances comprised 28% of GDP in Samoa and nearly 42% of GDP in Tonga – the highest in the world. Currently, Tuvalu sits at 3.2%.

    A long time coming

    Well before climate change became an issue of concern, Tuvalu had been lobbying Australia for special visa pathways. Demographic pressures, combined with limited livelihood and educational opportunities, made it a live policy issue throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. In 1984, a review of Australia’s foreign aid program suggested improved migration opportunities for Tuvaluans may be the most useful form of assistance.

    By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to the existential threats posed by climate change. In 2006, as then-shadow environment minister, Anthony Albanese released a policy discussion paper called Our Drowning Neighbours. It proposed that Australia create Pacific migration pathways as part of a neighbourly response. In 2009, a spokesperson for Penny Wong, then minister for climate change, stated permanent migration might eventually be the only option for some Pacific peoples.

    When combined with other Pacific pathways to Australia and New Zealand, nearly 4% of the population could migrate each year. This is “an extraordinarily high level”, according to one expert. Within a decade, close to 40% of the population could have moved – although some people may return home or go backwards and forwards.

    How will the new arrivals be received?

    The real test of the new visa’s success will be how people are treated when they arrive in Australia.

    Will they be helped to adjust to life here, or will they feel isolated and shut out? Will they be able to find work and training, or will they find themselves in insecure and uncertain circumstances? Will they feel a loss of cultural connection, or will they be able to maintain cultural traditions within the growing Tuvaluan diaspora?

    Ensuring sound and culturally appropriate settlement services are in place will be crucial. These would ideally be co-developed with members of the Tuvaluan community, to “centralise Tuvaluan culture and values, in order to ensure ongoing dialogue and trust”.

    It has been suggested by experts that a “liaison officer with Tuvaluan cultural expertise and language skills could assist in facilitating activities such as post-arrival programs”, for instance.

    Learning from experience

    There are also many important lessons to be learned from the migration of Tuvaluans to New Zealand, to reduce the risk of newcomers experiencing economic and social hardship.

    Ongoing monitoring and refinement of the scheme will also be key. It should involve the Tuvaluan diaspora, communities back in Tuvalu, service providers in Australia, as well as federal, state/territory and local governments.

    By freeing up resources and alleviating stress on what is already a fragile atoll environment, migration may enable some people to remain in Tuvalu for longer, supported by remittances and extended family networks abroad.

    As some experts have suggested, money sent home from overseas could be used to make families less vulnerable to climate change. It might help them buy rainwater tanks or small boats, or improve internet and other communications. Remittances are also beneficial when they are invested in services that lift the level of education of children or boost social capital.

    Australia is offering ‘climate visas’ to 280 residents of Tuvalu (10 News First)

    Delaying a mass exodus

    It is difficult to know when a tipping point might be reached. For instance, some have warned that if too few people remain in Tuvalu, this could constrain development by limiting the availability of labour and skills. A former president of Kiribati, Teburoro Tito, once told me migration was “a double-edged sword”. While it could help people secure employment overseas and remit money, “the local economy, the local setup, also has to have enough skilled people” – otherwise it’s counterproductive.

    With visas capped at 280 a year – and scope to adjust the numbers if concerns arise – we are still a long way from that point. Right now, the new visa provides a safety net to ensure people have choices about how they respond to climate change. With the visa ballot open until July 18, many more people may yet apply.



    Read more:
    Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains

    Jane McAdam receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and is the Director of the ARC Evacuations Research Hub at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney.

    – ref. 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying – https://theconversation.com/1-in-3-tuvaluans-is-bidding-for-a-new-climate-visa-to-australia-heres-why-everyone-may-ultimately-end-up-applying-259990

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Africa’s development banks are being undermined: the continent will pay the price

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    Ghana and Zambia’s official creditors are pressing them to default on loans to two African multilateral financial institutions: the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the Trade and Development Bank (TDB).

    These creditors, in effect, are demanding that the two countries prioritise repayments to themselves over payments to these two banks.

    As academics who have worked on the challenges of financing sustainable development in Africa, we believe this action is short-sighted.

    The action by Ghana and Zambia’s official creditors has two significant implications.

    First, they are demanding that the two countries treat Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank as commercial creditors. This would undermine the banks’ credit ratings and increase their borrowing costs. It would also reduce their capacity to finance sustainable development in Africa.

    Second, pressing Ghana and Zambia to default, rather than supporting pragmatic restructuring aligned with their strong growth prospects, exacerbates Ghana and Zambia’s financial vulnerability. Either they would have to use scarce resources to pay these debts or default on their obligations, in which case, the banks might well sue them.

    Quotes from Ghana and Zambia’s ministries of finance suggest the decision to default is their own. However, they faced intense pressure from their official creditors to treat the two African multilateral financial institutions differently from all their other multilateral creditors.

    Why does this differential treatment matter?

    Preferred creditor status

    Multilateral financial institutions, including the World Bank and African Development Bank, have a preferred creditor status. This is in recognition of the special role they play. They are expected to provide relatively low-cost funding for public investment, economic stability and long-term sustainable development in low- and middle-income countries.

    Their preferred creditor status ensures that, when countries experience debt distress, their development mandate is prioritised over the concerns of commercial creditors. Commercial creditors normally only fund commercially viable transactions. They charge high interest rates to compensate for the risk of default on these transactions.

    Both Afreximbank and Trade and Development Bank were created to fill a gap in Africa’s access to critical development finance. They provide financing for projects and transactions that commercial institutions and other multilateral financial institutions cannot – or will not – provide, because of capital limits, regulations or perceptions of risk.

    For example, Afreximbank’s charter notes that

    the decline in African exports has impacted adversely on the economies of African states and hindered their ability to achieve a self-reliant development.

    It further recognises that stimulating economic development

    can best be achieved through the creation of a trade financing international institution whose principal purpose is to provide and mobilise the requisite financial resources.

    Historically, it has enjoyed preferred creditor status to support its role in meeting this purpose.

    Why preferred creditor status is being challenged

    The two countries’ official creditor committees, the rating agency Fitch and other commentators are challenging the preferred creditor status of the two African institutions. They argue that the two banks are different from multilateral financial institutions like the World Bank and the African Development Bank that only have states as shareholders. They suggest that the private shareholders in the two African banks should not benefit from preferred creditor status. Instead, they should receive the same status as commercial creditors.



    Read more:
    Ghana and Zambia have snubbed Africa’s leading development bank: why they should change course

    This view ignores the reason that Afreximbank’s and the Trade and Development Bank’s member states authorised them to have private shareholders. It was a deliberate, pragmatic measure designed to fill a gap in Africa’s access to affordable development finance.

    The idea was to create new multilateral institutions that could raise capital flexibly and quickly on terms that the individual African states could not match on their own. Several other regional development banks have this hybrid model, including CAF, a highly rated development bank in Latin America.

    It is perverse that this creative and pragmatic approach to filling a gap in the global financial system is now being used against the two African banks.

    The consequences

    The cost of capital for the two African financial institutions will increase if they are treated like commercial creditors. This will reduce their capacity to lend and their financing will become more expensive. It will also deepen inequality in the global financial system. Lastly, it will increase the risk of future African sovereign debt defaults.

    In other words, downgrading their status risks undermining the very stability that official creditors claim to safeguard. It will also create another obstacle to Africa’s efforts to access stable, predictable and affordable flows of development finance.

    The eventual outcome of the official creditors’ action will ultimately depend on negotiations between Ghana and Zambia and their creditors. This will include the two African institutions. It will also be influenced by how these different groups of creditors behave in other African sovereign debt restructurings.

    However, the international community can seek to influence the outcome by taking actions in appropriate international settings.

    Global leaders are searching for ways to scale up and strengthen the capacity of regional and subregional development banks like Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank. This requires respecting their preferred creditor status and increasing their access to affordable capital.

    This is precisely the opposite of what is unfolding.

    There is still time for the creditor governments to change course by demonstrating their support for African multilateral financial institutions.

    Danny Bradlow, in addition to his position at University of Pretoria, is Senior G20 Advisor to the South African Institute of International Affairs and co-chair of the T20 sask force on sustainable financing.

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

    – ref. Africa’s development banks are being undermined: the continent will pay the price – https://theconversation.com/africas-development-banks-are-being-undermined-the-continent-will-pay-the-price-259404

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sir David Calvert-Smith reappointed as judicial member of the Parole Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Sir David Calvert-Smith reappointed as judicial member of the Parole Board

    The Secretary of State has reappointed Sir David Calvert-Smith as a judicial member of the Parole Board.

    The Secretary of State has reappointed Sir David Calvert-Smith as a judicial member of the Parole Board.

    Sir David Calvert-Smith’s reappointment is for a third term and will run from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2027.

    The Parole Board is a non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the MOJ. It works with is criminal justice partners to risk assess prisoners to decide whether they can be safely released into the community.

    Biography

    Retired as a Judge from the High Court Bench in 2013. Previously been 1st Senior Treasury Counsel, Panelled Counsel to the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), Chairman of the Criminal Bar Association and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). He also served as the Parole Board Chair from 2012 to 2016.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Financial case study: commercial woodland over 100 hectares

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Financial case study: commercial woodland over 100 hectares

    Find out how creating a commercial woodland over 100 hectares stacks up with income through grants, timber, and carbon credits

    Understanding woodland financials 

    Woodland creation is a long-term commitment that can diversify your income. Planting the right tree in the right place, can provide new and reliable income streams and far-reaching benefits for your land, your local community and the environment. 

    Potential income from a new woodland is dependent on several factors. This includes species, how quickly trees grow, spacing, how long before harvesting occurs (rotation length), woodland size, and the location of your woodland – all of which can vary considerably resulting in several possible combinations and outcomes.  

    This case study shows how a real landowner created productive woodland. All figures are rounded to the nearest £100 and accurate as of September 2024. 

    Creating a commercial woodland that benefits nature recovery 

    A landowner in the north east of England had large area of semi-improved grass land. To meet their management and financial objectives, they created a large-scale productive woodland across approximately 100 hectares of this land. This woodland will also provide wider benefits to society.  

    The landowner applied for the Woodland Creation Planning Grant (WCPG) and the England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) to help fund the project. Over time, the new woodland will: 

    • increase biodiversity 
    • sequester carbon 
    • develop productive stands of broadleaf and conifer species  

    Additionally, the landowner could benefit from private finance through the Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) and timber markets.

    A treemap chart shows the income breakdown of EWCO and WCPG grants. Maintenance: £614,800. Standard costs: £426,800. Woodland infrastructure: £117,700. WCPG: £30,500. Additional contributions – nature recovery: £17,000.

    Woodland Creation Planning Grant (WCPG)  

    Designing new woodland requires bringing together your objectives with the site’s context, suitability; and environmental, economic, and social factors into a UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) compliant plan. This plan helps secure regulatory approval for converting land to woodland.  

    WCPG provides funding to help cover the cost of producing a UKFS compliant woodland creation design. This project received £30,500 in WCPG grant payments. 

    England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) 

    EWCO supports the establishment of new woodland by offering financial support for capital costs to plant and protect young trees, costs for maintaining those trees for up to 15 years after planting and installing infrastructure to manage your woodland.  

    The grant recognises the public and environmental benefits that woodlands bring through stackable payments called Additional Contributions. These encourage planting the right tree in the right place for the right reason. 

    This 100+ hectare woodland project will receive £1,206,300 (£11,800 per hectare) in EWCO grant payments over 15 years following initial capital work. This includes standard costs, maintenance payments, Additional Contributions and infrastructure payments. 

    Standard costs for capital work 

    This project received a payment of £426,800 for capital items needed to make the woodland happen – this covers the cost of buying trees and tree tubes, fencing, gates and other essentials, which offsets most of the establishment costs for this woodland. The highest expenses were deer fencing, purchasing and planting a total of 550,000 trees. 

    Maintenance payments 

    The landowner will receive maintenance payments of £400 per hectare for 15 years after planting, totalling £614,800. These payments help with the cost of tree replacement, weeding around the trees and the management of open space within the woodland.  

    Land managers should expect some tree losses in the early years of planting and plan for replacements. Appropriate maintenance and protection will help minimise these losses. For a project of this scale, up to 165,000 replacement trees might be needed in the first few years. 

    Additional contributions 

    EWCO provides extra stackable payments for woodland projects that provide wider benefits to people and the environment. Eligibility depends on the woodland’s design and location.  

    Woodland projects focused on timber production can deliver a range of public benefits. This new woodland qualified for an Additional Contribution for nature recovery benefits. 

    The landowner planted approximately 15 hectares of native woodland within the scheme. Converting semi-improved grassland to native woodland in these areas will improve biodiversity, which qualified for a one-off low nature recovery payment of £17,000.

    Income from timber 

    The demand for wood products in the UK hugely outweighs domestic production. We import over 73% of our timber, which was valued at £9.0 billion in 2022, making the UK the second largest net importer of forest products in the world1. This strong market demand for timber creates income opportunities for woodland owners. 

    This new woodland could generate income from timber in two ways:  

    1. the sale of standing trees, usually via an agent, that is harvested by the buyer 
    2. the sale of timber harvested by the woodland owner and sold as accessible from the roadside 

    This case study focuses on sale of standing timber over a 50-year period. The woodland is expected to produce 115,400m3 of timber through: 

    • regular thinning every 5-years (starting year 14) 
    • a clear fell of 27 hectares of conifer woodland (in year 34) 

    Using an average standing price of £35/m3 for conifer timber, the present value from timber income is estimated to be £1,426,704 (£13,900 per hectare).

    Price assumptions 

    We used £35/m³ based on the average timber price over the last 5 years. Timber prices have the possibility to be higher than assumed in this case study due to the following reasons: 

    • conifer timber prices have increased 200% over the past 20 years 
    • future UK timber demand is expected to remain strong 

    For simplicity, this case study doesn’t account for increasing maintenance costs over time. 

    Income from carbon 

    Carbon markets present an opportunity for landowners to generate more income from their land, by selling the additional carbon that new woodlands will sequester to help mitigate the impacts of climate change.  

    The Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) is the quality assurance standard for UK-based woodland creation projects hoping to generate carbon credits. Woodland creation projects can sell two types of carbon units under the Code:  

    Pending Issuance Units (PIUs)

    These represent estimated future carbon capture. They’re not guaranteed, so can’t be used to report against emissions, but instead allow companies to plan for future offsetting. PIUs convert into WCUs in vintages and at certain points in time, when this occurs the ‘promise’ of future carbon has been verified as converted into actual carbon storage in the woodland. 

    Woodland Carbon Units (WCUs)

    WCUs are verified units that represent one tonne of carbon dioxide that has been sequestered from the atmosphere. Companies purchasing WCUs make statements about their carbon neutrality as soon as they own them. This often results in a higher price per unit than PIUs. These units are independently verified in vintages after planting. 

    Projects under the code must meet a set of requirements, including a financial additionality test. This test must show carbon finance is necessary to make the project viable, and woodland income (without carbon credits) doesn’t exceed current land use income.  

    In this case study, the financial additionality test was passed, woodland creation would generate less income than the existing land use without carbon finance. So, the opportunity to join the voluntary carbon market could be taken up. To find out more about woodland and carbon, read our woodland creation fact sheet.  

    For this case study it has been assumed that all carbon units will be sold upfront as PIUs however, landowners can choose when to sell these units possibly speculating on future carbon price rises.  

    The project was registered and validated under the code and the landowner will verify its progress every 10 years from year 5 onwards, selling all its PIUs up front in Year 5. While landowners can hold credits to potentially benefit from future price increases, this case study assumes all units will be sold upfront as PIUs. 

    Over the first 35 years, the new woodland is likely to deliver over 30,000 WCUs. Using the average price of successful bids at the Woodland Carbon Guarantee auction in 2024 of £25 and assuming upfront sale in year 5 the estimated income from the carbon market is £768,100 (£7,500 per hectare).

    A bar chart shows estimated woodland carbon units (WCUs) for various years. Year 5 estimates 70 WCUs. Year 15: 16,610 WCUs. Year 25: 10,230 WCUs. Year 34: 3,020 WCUs. The total estimates 30,730 WCUs.

    How does this compare to agricultural income?  

    As with any change, there will be some costs associated with the establishment of woodland. For this landowner, who previously used the land for various crops, the main cost is foregone agricultural income. 

    While it’s impossible to predict agricultural income with certainty over a 50-year period, this case study uses the 5-year average Farm Business Income from the annual Farm Business Survey (FBS) for England and Wales to estimate the income foregone.

    An infographic showing the comparison of net income (including agricultural income foregone) and net income (excluding agricultural income foregone).

    Description of Income Income Description of Costs Costs
    WPCG £30,500    
    EWCO standard costs and maintenance payments £884,500 Planting, establishment, and maintenance costs £1,999,700
    EWCO additional contributions £16,500    
    Carbon income £646,700 Woodland Carbon Code costs £4,600
    Net timber income £1,426,700    
        Miscellaneous costs such as insurance £84,100
        Agricultural income forgone 523,000
    Total income £3,004,900 Total costs £2,088,400

    When will this income be seen? 

    While EWCO payments are made up front once planting is completed, followed by 15 years of maintenance, income from timber is realised at different time periods.  

    The table below displays the timeline of net income over a 50-year period. When looking at net income over time it can be determined that this productive forestry site is likely to break even between year 31 and 35 when the highest amount of timber income is received.

    Period Income Costs Net Income
    0-10 £1,560,700 £1,985,000 -£424,300
    10-20 £366,300 £35,600 £330,700
    20-30 £378,300 £25,100 £353,200
    30-40 £800,200 £372,100 £428,000
    40-50 £13,000 £12,300 £700

    Wider benefits of woodland creation  

    Well-managed woodlands can not only offer an additional income stream, but they can also help you cut costs, for example, you could choose to heat buildings with wood fuel harvested from your woodland. Trees offer much more than just commercial benefits and carbon capture: woodlands can support our health and well-being, improve air and water quality, boost biodiversity, protect crops and livestock, prevent nutrient loss and soil erosion, and alleviate flooding.  

    Discover the benefits of planting trees and learn about the positive impact trees can have on your business in our fact sheet: woods mean business.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI in education: how schools and further education colleges are making it work

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    AI in education: how schools and further education colleges are making it work

    A new report published today by Ofsted shares insights into how ‘early adopter’ schools and further education (FE) colleges across England are integrating generative artificial intelligence (AI) into teaching, learning, and administration.

    The research was conducted through 21 interviews with schools, FE colleges and multi-academy trust leaders who have been embedding and using AI for at least 12 months. The findings add to existing knowledge about leadership, governance and practical applications of AI in schools and FE colleges.  

    The key findings are: 

    • AI champions are playing a crucial role in creating a buzz around AI and supporting staff.  

    • Leaders highlighted the benefits of using AI to reduce teacher workload, particularly for lesson planning, resource creation, and administrative tasks. 

    • Interviewed leaders were keen to emphasise they were prioritising safe, ethical and responsible use of AI for staff, pupils and learners. 

    Read the full report: AI in schools and further education: findings from early adopters.

    The research found that nearly all the providers visited had an ‘AI champion’ – typically teachers with technology expertise who could demystify AI for colleagues and demonstrate its potential. Champions play crucial roles in building staff confidence and demonstrating practical applications of AI for specific teaching needs. 

    School and FE college leaders said their main reason for introducing AI was to reduce workload for both teaching and administrative staff, with common applications including lesson planning, resource creation, and drafting communications to parents. 

    Leaders were also keen to emphasise that they were prioritising safe, ethical and responsible use of AI. They had all taken time to research and understand the risks and challenges and had developed mechanisms to address risks related to bias, data protection, intellectual property and safeguarding. 

    However, the research has identified that more needs to be done to understand effective strategies for using AI in the classroom. Some leaders have not yet thought systematically about how, or where, AI could be integrated into teaching and learning, and the curriculum.  

    When talking about the challenges, schools discussed the pace of change in AI, as well as the fact that there are not many AI tools tailored to school and college contexts and the specific needs of their pupils and learners.  

    Ofsted’s report also found that robust and reliable evidence of AI’s impact on educational outcomes is limited. The report notes that most is “explorative, short-term and in limited domains”. 

    Sir Martyn Oliver, Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, said:  

    As the use of AI in education increases, we need to better understand how schools and colleges are using this technology to take advantage of its potential, as well as manage the risks it poses for pupils, learners and staff. 

    While we don’t directly evaluate the use of AI during inspections, we can consider the impact a provider’s use has on the outcomes and experiences of children and learners. 

    Notes to editors

    This research was commissioned by the Department for Education.

    Press office

    8.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday 0300 013 0415

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI Airlock, CERSIs and a new global AI network for health regulators

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    AI Airlock, CERSIs and a new global AI network for health regulators

    Med Tech Regs blog, June 2025: A focus on Software and AI.

    Marinos Ioannides, Head of Software and AI Medical Devices, at the London Healthcare Innovation Forum earlier this year.

    Marinos Ioannides, Head of Software and AI Medical Devices:

    If you’re anything like me, Summer in Britain is a season of transformation and hope. Gone are the frozen, damp morning dog walks in darkness. Coats and jackets are locked away, half-empty half-forgotten tubes of sun cream emerge from deep cupboards, radiators are joyfully turned off.

    The same feeling suffuses the Software and AI team here at the MHRA. Our recent AI Airlock webinar and this week’s opening of our new call for applications boldly announces a new year of inspiration, exploration and progress in innovative regulation. Building on the successes of last year’s excellent pilot programme, we’re eager to unlock and expand insights with industry and see first hand how innovative products and teams can help identify regulatory challenges in the Software as Medical Devices space.

    The Centres of Excellence for Regulatory Science and Innovation (CERSIs) are further enhancing MHRA delivery. RADIANT announced their Innovator Support Programme, giving companies the opportunity to trial open-source tools, educational materials and workshops to demystify regulations and make sure that regulatory complexity does not stand between patients and life-changing technologies.

    For clarity, the two programmes deliver subtly different changes “behind the scenes” here at MHRA. The direct engagement MHRA has with members of the AI Airlock allows the findings to inform our foundational thinking for the regulation of Software and AI Medical Devices. The information and detail delivered by RADIANT is downstream of this – augmenting what tools, educational material and guidance is provided to help innovators navigate the broader regulatory landscape.

    Not to be outdone, CERSI-AI have also ramped up their productivity, coordinating key meetings between academics, clinicians and MHRA to unpick the nuances of AI regulation, now and in the future. With a clear path to sustainability and deliverables already being met, both CERSIs continue to improve and inform this rapidly developing space.

    This is part of a broader perspective at MHRA – that innovation and patient safety are not in opposition. Rather, innovation, driven by competition, delivers better products which make patients safer. Demands for patient safety, through clear documentation and proportionate regulation that provides a level playing field and secure, protective framework, create a more transparent market ensuring innovative products excel.

    In the spirit of Summer, our work alongside Health AI presents a real growth opportunity. This week we were proud to announce that we became the first country in the world to join Health AI’s new global network of health regulators focussed on the safe and effective use of AI in healthcare. As a founding pioneer nation, we will work with regulators around the world to share early warnings on safety, monitor how AI tools perform in practice, and shape international standards together – helping make AI in healthcare safer and more effective for patients around the world.

    Our work in the Digital Mental Health space continues to bear fruit. As we progress and deliver key, actionable insights through our specific guidance, we continue our engagement with experts to direct and augment our publications. If you’re attending the Royal College of Psychiatrists International Conference in Newport this week, you’ll see MHRA representatives there, eager to hear how we can enhance our work to deliver useful insights in this essential HealthTech space.

    Just as no good summer holiday is possible without a translation phrasebook, we will shortly be publishing our Good Machine Learning Practice (GMLP) guidance to ease translation between regulatory frameworks. By transparently outlining our logic, we hope that industry, users and other regulators will be reassured of our alignment with international principles in this emergent space and get insights into our thinking and processes. As we refine this piece of keystone guidance, we also continue to progress our CyberSecurity and AI development and deployment guidance and we look forward to publishing that soon.

    Beyond software, the innovative devices team moves from success to success with a clear, tangible deliverable from our accelerated Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP). Revolutionary technologies like HistoSonics’ ultrasound device, which breaks up tumours without surgery or radiation, is the sort of thing once considered science fiction. Yet, thanks to the excellent work of IDAP partners and MHRA colleagues, patients now have access to a game changing treatment for liver cancer – an example of smart, agile regulation in action.

    And, of course, no Summer would be complete without London Tech Week. It’s a genuine pleasure to see the wonders that innovators continue to create. The opportunity to exchange ideas, debate economics and regulations, and get hands-on experiences with new developments is a real privilege. Presenting our regulatory strategy alongside leaders like David Lawson from the Department of Health and Social Care and Richard Phillips from the Association of British HealthTech Industries at Australia House was an opportunity only surpassed by a chance to see the Lord Mayor of the City of London in the flesh – bedecked with full ceremonial chain and garb!

    Whether you’re out in a park turning red while trying to get a year’s supply of Vitamin D, or gritting your teeth as your laptop overheats, don’t curse the season of the sun. The MHRA are here learning, innovating and applying international best practices to maximise patient safety today and tomorrow, whatever the weather!

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK boosts Women, Peace and Security in Philippines and Indonesia

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    UK boosts Women, Peace and Security in Philippines and Indonesia

    The UK is supporting academic collaboration to advance the Women, Peace and Security agenda across Southeast Asia.

    Through its Indo-Pacific Governance Fund and in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UK is supporting academic collaboration between Mindanao State University (MSU) – Maguindanao and Indonesian universities to advance the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda across Southeast Asia.

    A Philippine delegation including representatives from MSU – Maguindanao, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity – Centre for Excellence on WPS, the Philippine Centre for Islam and Democracy (PCID), the Bangsamoro Women Commission, the Ministry of Public Order and Safety, and the Development Academy of the Bangsamoro recently participated in a four-day international learning exchange in Yogyakarta. The programme featured panel discussions and immersive activities that fostered regional dialogue and co-developed WPS strategies informed by the Philippine and Indonesian experiences.

    MSU – Maguindanao Chancellor Dr. Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona said:

    These learning exchanges spark the curiosity that drives meaningful research and action – exactly what we need to not only mainstream the WPS agenda, but to truly transform the challenging situations facing our women, communities and families.

    The exchange concluded with the signing of Memoranda of Understanding between MSU – Maguindanao and three Indonesian universities: Gadjah Mada University, Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta and Ahmad Dahlan University. The MOU aims to strengthen cooperation on gender education, research, and community engagement.

    Prof. Dr. Wening Udasmoro of Universitas Gadjah Mada stated:

    The purpose of this MOU is to establish a partnership between our universities – based on the principles of mutual equality and reciprocal benefit. We have many similarities in our diversity and there are several areas we can work on together.

    This initiative builds upon the success of MSU – Maguindanao’s Diploma Course on WPS, the first of its kind in Asia. This was launched in 2024 with support from the British Embassy Manila, UNDP and PCID.

    The partnerships will contribute to the development of new teaching modules, collaborative research, and regional coordination on shared peace and gender challenges, including violent extremism and climate insecurity. 

    Nazra Abdi of the British Embassy Manila emphasised the UK’s commitment to support pioneering efforts in advancing the WPS agenda. She stated:

    The UK recognises the profound impact of women in peacebuilding, and this initiative underscores our ongoing support to institutionalising WPS across governance, civil society and education in Southeast Asia.

    As Southeast Asia prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and the Philippines looks ahead to its ASEAN Chairpersonship in 2026, the initiative underscores the UK’s long-term support for gender-responsive peacebuilding across the region.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands of children with SEND to benefit from assistive tech

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Thousands of children with SEND to benefit from assistive tech

    Government launches innovative pilot with up to £1.7m available to help children with SEND achieve and thrive at their local school.

    Thousands of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will benefit from more support in the classroom, as government launches an innovative, new pilot to trial assistive technology in up to 4,000 schools.  

    Backed by up to £1.7m, ‘lending libraries’ will be set up in up to 32 local authorities and will enable schools in the area to borrow and trial a range of devices to suit their pupils’ needs. 

    The lending libraries will be stocked with a range of tools, including reading pens to scan text and read it aloud, dictation tools which convert spoken word into text, and tablets which leverage images to help non-verbal pupils communicate. 

    This will help schools support a wide range of needs, including dyslexia, autism and ADHD, as well as increasing independence and belonging and helping achieve the government’s mission of excellence everywhere for every child. 

    The lending libraries model adopts a ‘try before you buy’ approach. This gives schools the opportunity to measure the impact of different devices before making an upfront investment – building confidence in what works and reducing the risk of wasted expenditure. 

    The impact is clear among schools which have already introduced assistive technology alongside staff training, with 86% of school staff surveyed identifying a positive impact on behaviour and 89% witnessing greater confidence amongst pupils with SEND. 

    Minister for School Standards, Catherine McKinnell said: 

    We’re committed to reforming the SEND system to break down barriers to learning and achieve excellence everywhere for every child.  

    Assistive technology can play a key role in this and unlocks learning for so many children – so that attention difficulties, communication issues or struggles with literacy don’t stand in the way of children learning with their friends at their local school. 

    We’re committed to driving inclusivity across all schools and this pilot is a brilliant step towards making that happen, supporting teachers and giving all children the tools they need to achieve and thrive.” 

    The investment comes as new government statistics reveal that the number of children with EHCPs has increased by 11% to 638,700, clearly highlighting that needs are not being met early enough.  

    The government is committed to turning this around by ensuring schools are able to identify needs at the earliest point and have the expertise and resources to deliver the support that’s needed and reassure parents that their children can achieve and thrive in mainstream education.   

    Bryony Herbert, parent of a pupil at Leo Academy Trust, said:

    My son, Archie, has dyslexia and always used to struggle getting his thoughts down onto paper without getting frustrated and upset. He often found his homework too difficult as he did not understand certain words or what they meant, making him incredibly emotional.

    Now, he has access to a chrome book laptop provided by his school with talk to text functions. These functions allow him to have pieces of text read out to him, and he can respond back with the laptop noting his responses – massively benefitting him as he no longer relies on reading to access information.  

    Archie is now willing to sit down and do his homework whilst actually enjoying what he is learning because he doesn’t have to struggle anymore. He is also generally much happier as a result of the resources he has been given as he can properly express himself and his thoughts are no longer stuck in his head.

    The impact also extends to the workforce, with assistive technology helping free up teacher and support staff time. Pupils will still receive the additional assistance they need, while staff can focus on what they do best – the face-to-face teaching that transforms pupils’ life chances. 

    The pilot will help address the gap in awareness around assistive technology, with only 13% of mainstream school leaders surveyed having heard of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices – which enable a child to click images or words on a touchscreen that the device reads aloud – and only 6% having introduced them. 

    Julaan Govier, Curriculum Lead and Digital Champion & Cheryl Shirley, Director of Digital Learning, at LEO Academy Trust schools, said:

    Assistive technology has been a fantastic way to promote innovative and creative ways to access learning.

    Before using assistive technology, we were recognising many challenges children were facing in being able to fully access the curriculum. A handful of our students with dyslexic tendencies often felt frustrated as they were unable to vocalise themselves and found it really difficult to communicate through traditional methods.

    The integration of assistive technologies, which offer screen masks, screen readers, picture dictionaries, and translators, along with voice-to-text features, has profoundly transformed student learning and well-being. These tools enable students to increase their focus by eliminating distractions and reducing cognitive overload, and to communicate and demonstrate their understanding in ways that best suit their individual preferences. All our students are now able to integrate into their classrooms, with their peers, giving them dignity and confidence by working privately and in ways that work best for them.

    The pilot builds on the recent extension of the PINS and ELSEC programmes, which upskill the teacher workforce and embed specialist support in mainstream settings, to ensure children with autism, ADHD or speech and language difficulties don’t go unnoticed.  

    These are critical steps on the government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity for children with SEND and ensure all children have the support they need to thrive in a mainstream setting. More details of the government’s intended approach to SEND reform will be set out in a Schools White Paper in the autumn. 

    Annamarie Hassall MBE, Chief Executive at Nasen said:

    At nasen we have seen the benefit of technology in the classroom. It’s useful for all and particularly beneficial for pupils with learning differences and SEND needs.

    Assistive technology (AT) tools are increasingly built into everyday technology, ready to be enabled, and likewise there is a growing range of tailored AT products and resources available.

    From our work on AT with schools, colleges and settings, we know that having an opportunity to test out resources would build confidence. That’s confidence of classroom staff and pupils alike, ensuring the best match of resources for the learning or access need.

    This is supported by wider investment to get more classes online and improve digital infrastructure, including £25 million to upgrade wireless networks this year and £20 million to complete delivery of fibre upgrades to 833 schools. Providing connectivity for more than 1.3 million pupils in 3,700 schools so far, as part of the government’s wide-reaching Digital Inclusion Action Plan which will give the most digitally excluded groups the confidence and skills to benefit from digitisation.   

    Assistive technology lending libraries form one part of the government’s work testing SEND reforms through a reformulated Change Programme, focused on early intervention and support in mainstream schools.  

    Local authorities participating in the pilot will be confirmed over the Summer, with pupils set to benefit from the start of the new school year. 

    The delivery partner CENMAC will work closely with the Department for Education and participating local authorities to bring the lending library model to life, drawing on over 50 years of experience in assistive technology and inclusion.

    Notes to editors  

    1. Assistive Technology Test and Learn evaluation IFF Research 

    2. School and college voice: April 2024 – GOV.UK

    DfE media enquiries

    Central newsdesk – for journalists 020 7783 8300

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • From innovation to inclusion: India celebrates MSME Day with a focus on sustainability

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    MSME Day, observed on June 27, honours the vital role that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises play in driving innovation, employment, and inclusive economic growth. From local artisans to emerging tech startups, MSMEs are the backbone of resilient economies. This day highlights their achievements and challenges, while underscoring the critical need for policy support, financial inclusion, and digital transformation to help them thrive in an increasingly competitive world.

    Designated by the United Nations in 2017, the day serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering small businesses as engines of resilience and development—particularly in a post-pandemic, digitally evolving world.

    Globally, MSMEs account for 90% of all businesses, contribute 60–70% of employment, and generate half of the world’s GDP, according to UN estimates. In India, the sector holds even greater relevance—contributing nearly 30% to GDP, 45% of exports, and ranking second only to agriculture in employment generation.

    This year, the Ministry of MSME is celebrating ‘Udyami Bharat – MSME Day.’ The theme for 2025 focuses on “Enhancing the role of MSMEs as drivers of Sustainable Growth and Innovation.”

    Key government schemes

    The Ministry reported that India is home to over 6.3 crore MSMEs, spanning manufacturing, trade, and services. Several flagship initiatives are underway to support the sector’s growth.

    PM Vishwakarma, launched in September 2023 with an outlay of ₹13,000 crore, aims to enhance the skills and market access of traditional artisans and craftspeople. As of June 26, 2025, more than 2.71 crore applications had been submitted under the scheme, with nearly 30 lakh beneficiaries registered.

    The Udyam Registration Portal, introduced in July 2020, provides free, paperless registration for MSMEs. To extend formal benefits to informal businesses, the Udyam Assist Platform was launched in January 2023.

    Job creation and credit access

    The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), a credit-linked subsidy scheme, continues to promote self-employment by supporting the setup of micro-enterprises. Since its launch in 2008, it has aided more than 9.87 lakh units, generating over 80 lakh jobs with subsidies exceeding ₹26,000 crore. In FY 2024-25 alone, 58,028 new units were set up, creating employment for over 4.6 lakh people.

    Support for traditional industries

    The Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI), which clusters artisans for competitiveness and sustainable income, has approved 513 clusters, of which 376 are functional. In 2023-24, 18 new clusters benefited nearly 12,000 artisans across 11 states.

    The Khadi and Village Industries sector has also seen rapid expansion. Sales have grown from ₹33,135 crore in 2014-15 to ₹1.55 lakh crore in 2023-24. Production has tripled in the same period, reaching over ₹1.08 lakh crore last fiscal.

    Boosting public procurement

    To enhance market access, the Public Procurement Policy mandates that 25 per cent of procurement by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) be sourced from MSEs, including 4 per cent from SC/ST-owned and 3 per cent from women-owned businesses. In FY 2024-25 (as on December 5), CPSEs and departments procured goods worth ₹37,190 crore from 1.15 lakh MSEs—well above the target.

    Global outreach and partnerships

    The Ministry also focused on strengthening international partnerships. In 2024, India signed MoUs with Japan, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Egypt, and the US to support MSME development, training, and technology exchange. Key engagements included a Joint Working Group with Japan, collaboration with the US EXIM Bank, and a partnership with Taiwan’s ITRI.

    New initiatives and digital campaigns

    A series of 2024 campaigns and programmes targeted MSME digitisation and inclusion. The Special Campaign 4.0 in October cleared backlogs, freed up 43,342 sq ft of space, and generated ₹21.84 lakh through disposal of obsolete materials.

    The MSME-TEAM Scheme, launched on June 27, 2024, has an outlay of ₹277 crore to support five lakh micro and small enterprises, half of them led by women, with digital onboarding, logistics, and packaging support.

    The Yashasvini Campaign, also launched this June, aims to formalise and support women-led enterprises in partnership with NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Rural Development.

    The MSME Hackathon 4.0, launched in September 2024, is providing funding of up to ₹15 lakh to 500 young innovators. Additionally, the new Centre for Rural Enterprise Acceleration through Technology (CREATE) was inaugurated in Leh to support enterprise in the Himalayan region.

    MSMEs are transforming India’s growth by driving innovation, creating jobs, and empowering local communities—especially in rural and semi-urban areas. With policy support, digital tools, and new market access, they are key to sustainable, inclusive development.

    MSME Day is not just a celebration; it’s a reflection of how small businesses are shaping a self-reliant and future-ready India.

  • Trump accuses Democrats of leaking intelligence report on Iran strikes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    US President Donald Trump accused the Democratic Party of leaking a classified intelligence report that contradicts his administration’s claims that recent US airstrikes had “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities.

    “The Democrats are the ones who leaked the information on the PERFECT FLIGHT to the Nuclear Sites in Iran. They should be prosecuted!,” Trump said on Truth Social on Friday.

    The accusation followed after the report by the US Defence Intelligence Agency disclosed by two American media outlets CNN and New York Times mentioned that strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities have delayed the nuclear programme only by a few months, while much of Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium was moved before the strikes.

    Trump on Wednesday took to his social media slamming both media outlets for leaking the information.

    “Fake news CNN, together with the failing New York Times, have teamed up in an attempt to demean one of the most successful military strikes in history. The nuclear sites in Iran are completely destroyed! Both the Times and CNN are getting slammed by the public,” Trump said on Truth Social.

    Meanwhile, addressing a press briefing on Thursday White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said those who leaked the preliminary assessment on the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities “need to be held accountable for that crime.”

    “This administration wants to ensure that classified intelligence is not ending up in irresponsible hands and that people who have the privilege of viewing this top secret classified information are being responsible with it,” said Leavitt.

    “Clearly, someone who had their hands on this, and it was a very few people, very few people in our government who saw this report. That person was irresponsible with it. And we need to get to the bottom of it. And we need to strengthen that process to protect our national security and protect the American public,” she added.

    CIA Director John Ratcliffe asserted that the agency had gathered “a body of credible evidence” suggesting that Iran’s nuclear infrastructure suffered extensive damage in recent US airstrikes, reinforcing the White House’s narrative that Tehran’s atomic ambitions have been drastically curtailed.

    Ratcliffe, without divulging specifics, stated on Wednesday (local time), stating that the intelligence came from “a historically reliable source/method” and indicated that “several key Iranian nuclear facilities were destroyed and would have to be rebuilt over the course of years.”

    While Ratcliffe did not clarify whether his remarks represented a formal agency assessment or his personal interpretation of the data, the statement underscored the intelligence community’s ongoing review of the impact of Saturday’s coordinated US strikes on Iran’s Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan sites.

    The CIA’s remarks came as a counterpoint to an earlier preliminary analysis by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), which suggested that the airstrikes had not completely destroyed crucial components of Iran’s nuclear program.

    (IANS)