NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Slams Republican Attempt to Ban Abortion Nationwide, Defund Basic Health Care in Big Ugly Betrayal Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ***VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAY’S REMARKS HERE***

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, delivered the following remarks at a press conference on Republicans’ efforts to ban abortion nationwide as part of their One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which they are pushing through Congress via the budget reconciliation process, which only requires a simple majority to pass in each Chamber.

    In addition to kicking 16 million people off their health insurance through massive cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the legislation also seeks to make abortion care impossible to access everywhere by defunding Planned Parenthood—which would threaten the closure of 200 health centers across the country and rip away care from 1.1 million patients—and by banning ACA marketplace health plans from covering abortion services.

    Senator Murray’s full remarks are below and HERE:

    “Well, you know there is a lot to be mad about in Republicans’ big, ugly, betrayal, and I want to make sure one hugely important issue does not get missed.

    “Because I’ve come to know by now there is not a day that ends in Y, where Republicans are nottrying to ban abortion here in Congress. Republicans just can’t help themselves! If they can find a way to attack abortion care—they do it.

    “And wouldn’t you know it? They snuck what essentially amounts to a backdoor abortion ban into the health provisions of this big, ugly, betrayal. That’s right, not only does this Republican monstrosity of a bill make health care more expensive, and harder to get—they are trying to stop health plans from covering abortion care altogether.

    “This bill would effectively ban health insurance on the ACA marketplaces from covering abortion. This would send a shock wave through the country and put abortion care out of reach for countless women.

    “It would be a nightmare for states like mine that require these plans to cover abortion. And it would be yet another blow for women across the country, as abortion access gets pushed farther and farther out of reach by right-wing politicians who think they should get to make deeply personal decisions about women’s health and lives.

    “And the attacks don’t stop there. Because Republicans want to shut the doors of one of the biggest health care providers in the country. They want to defund Planned Parenthood.

    “That is wildly unpopular with the American people. And it is widely dangerous for patients who turn to Planned Parenthood for a wide spectrum of care—including cancer screenings, and pap smears, and birth control.

    “And if it were successful, Republicans would be closing the doors to 200 health centers—and that includes cutting the number of Planned Parenthood health centers in states with abortion access by half—and stripping away people’s access to abortion and other reproductive health care.

    “It is hard to understate how devastating that would be. We are talking clinics shuttering across the country, overwhelmingly in states where abortion is legal. We are talking women left with no options for the care that they need.

    “It doesn’t matter if you are a rape survivor, or you have a medical emergency, or if you simply do not want to become a parent. Whatever your reason—and whatever state you are in—if Republicans get their way, abortion care will be a lot more expensive, and a lot less accessible. For some patients, it will simply be impossible to get the care they need regardless of how badly they need it.

    “We have already seen, with painful clarity, how dangerous abortion bans can be for patients. We have already seen patients pushed to the brink—and even killed—because they could not get the care they needed. And now, Republicans are about to mark the anniversary of the Dobbs decision by taking their extremism to new heights.

    “We are not going to be silent about this big, ugly, betrayal, including what it means for reproductive rights. We are not going to be silent about Republicans’ backdoor efforts to ban abortion nationwide, and we are not going to stop pushing back to make sure this bill goes nowhere—except the garbage bin.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on Canadian Council of Forest Ministers chair appointment

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, has released the following statement on the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM):

    “This week, I met with federal, provincial and territorial forest ministers from across Canada to discuss shared priorities, challenges and emerging opportunities for Canada’s forestry sector.

    “It’s an honour to take on the role of incoming chair of the CCFM for the upcoming year. I want to thank the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Fisheries, Forests and Agriculture for Newfoundland and Labrador, for her leadership over the past year.

    “As British Columbia’s minister of forests, I’ve seen first-hand the importance of working together across jurisdictions to strengthen Canada’s forest sector in the face of persistent and new challenges. From global trade dynamics and U.S. tariffs, to ever-intensifying wildfire seasons and shifting labour markets, these challenges don’t stop at provincial or territorial boundaries, and neither can our solutions.

    “My priority will always be to put people first. Whether it’s protecting their homes from wildfire, adding more local jobs or ensuring forestry continues to be a source of pride and prosperity for our rural, remote and First Nations communities, this work must be rooted in the well-being of people. Together with my colleagues across the country, I look forward to scaling up our wildfire response, including expanded aerial firefighting capacity, and accelerating reforestation efforts, like B.C.’s commitment to planting hundreds of millions of trees.

    “The ongoing threat of U.S. softwood lumber tariffs continues to unfairly impact workers, families and communities in Canada. As the new chair, I’m committed to working with the federal government and my counterparts across Canada to push back against these unjust trade actions and advocate for a long-term deal that will ensure that B.C. and Canadian forestry businesses can compete on a level playing field. We will continue to expand our market access through trade diversification, opening new doors for Canadian wood products, advancing innovation in value-added wood manufacturing and strengthening our global competitiveness.

    “I’m grateful to my provincial and territorial colleagues for their ongoing commitment to this work, and I look forward to building on the CCFM’s legacy of collaboration as we move forward, together.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Reps. Lynch, Courtney and Golden Join IAM Union, Boston Ship Repair to Call for Urgent Investments in U.S. Shipbuilding, Repair

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    BOSTON, June 17, 2025 – U.S. Reps. Stephen F. Lynch (D-Mass.), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) and Jared Golden (D-Maine) joined the IAM Union and Boston Ship Repair leadership to call for urgent investments to save the U.S. shipbuilding and repair industries.

    Joined by IAM Union-represented workers at Boston Ship Repair, the coalition of elected officials, union leaders and shipyard management highlighted the national and economic security risk posed by a dwindling U.S. shipbuilding and repair industry. Currently, about 80 U.S.-flagged ships are engaged in international commerce compared to over 5,500 China-flagged vessels. China recently overtook the U.S. in Navy fleet size.

    The group has backed U.S. Trade Representative penalties on Chinese ships and steps to incentivize the production and purchase of U.S.-built vessels. They are also championing the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act, which would rebuild the U.S. shipyard base and invest in recruitment and training of shipyard workers and mariners. The coalition is highlighting the need to efficiently utilize and grow domestic shipbuilding and repair capacity to increase the workforce at Boston Ship Repair and across the country. 

    “Revitalizing American shipbuilding is critical to our national and economic security. It’s a bipartisan goal in Washington, and we need to use all of our available shipyard capacity to get the job done if we’re going to deliver on it,” said Rep. Courtney. “We must provide American shipyards and shipbuilders, like Boston Ship Repair, with the demand they need to make investments in their future and the future of our domestic shipbuilding industry.”

    “America needs strong shipyards. On the defense front, we are lagging in the production of American warships necessary to meet current and future force needs. We also lack the commercial vessels we need to compete in the global economy,” Rep. Golden said. “The reality is simple: If we aren’t giving work to the men and women who power America’s shipyards, they will find new jobs and we will fall further behind. Congress needs to keep up demand for warships to sustain the world’s greatest Navy and we need to pass the SHIPS Act to strengthen our shipyards, our commercial fleet and our supply chains. Our future demands it.”

    “American national and economic security depends on urgent and long overdue investments in our shipbuilding and repair industry,” said IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “That’s why the IAM Union has led the way toward tougher trade rules on China, much-needed investments in U.S. shipyard workers, and a strong call for the efficient use of our existing shipyards, like Boston Ship Repair. We’re incredibly grateful for our champions in this fight, including Congressmen Lynch, Courtney and Golden.”

    “We’ve invested in Boston Ship Repair because we believe in its potential—not just as a business, but as a critical national asset,” said Boston Ship Repair Owner Jon Cronin. “With a highly skilled union workforce, proven infrastructure, and the experience to deliver, BSR stands ready to be part of the solution to America’s shipyard capacity crisis. But we can’t do it alone. Without consistent work and federal investment, this vital facility—and the hundreds of jobs it sustains—are at risk. We’re calling on Congress and the Navy to recognize BSR not just as a shipyard, but as a strategic pillar of the defense industrial base. With immediate support, we can expand our capacity, modernize our infrastructure, and begin reducing the Navy’s repair backlog today—while preserving American maritime strength for generations to come.”

    “Our IAM Union members at Boston Ship Repair are skilled, dedicated workers who are proud to support our maritime missions,” said IAM Union Local S25 President Andre Lavertue, a 30-year IAM Union member and crane operator at Boston Ship Repair. “But over the years, we’ve seen these jobs become less reliable and too often result in layoffs when work goes away. American shipyard workers are ready to reinvigorate this industry and win the future of global shipbuilding and repair.”

    The IAM Union, which represents workers at Boston Ship Repair and shipbuilding and repair workers across the country, is leading the charge to restore U.S. shipbuilding by investing in American workers, as well as taking on predatory Chinese trade practices through a U.S. Trade Representative’s Office investigation and supporting the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act.

    Boston Ship Repair has provided personalized services for domestic, international and government customers since 1995. It is one of the largest docks on the Eastern and Gulf Coasts and can handle vessels up to 1,000 feet with a 105 foot beam. Boston Ship Repair is committed to provide vessel maintenance, repair, overhaul and conversion services that are unsurpassed in the industry.

    The post U.S. Reps. Lynch, Courtney and Golden Join IAM Union, Boston Ship Repair to Call for Urgent Investments in U.S. Shipbuilding, Repair appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Lunar Rescue System Challenge Supports Astronaut Safety

    Source: NASA

    by Dary Felix Garcia
    NASA is preparing to make history by sending humans to the Moon’s South Pole. There, astronauts will conduct moonwalks for exploration, science experiments, and prepare humanity for the journey to Mars. Missions of this scale require extensive planning, especially when accounting for emergency scenarios such as a crew member becoming incapacitated.  
    To address this critical risk, the South Pole Safety Challenge invited the public to develop a compact, effective device capable of safely rescuing astronauts during emergency situations on the Moon’s surface. Given the harsh and unpredictable conditions of the lunar South Pole, the rescue system must be lightweight, easy to use, and able to transport an incapacitated crew member weighing approximately 755 lbs. (343 kg), representing the crew member and their suit, without the help of the lunar rover. It must also be capable of covering up to 1.24 miles (2 kilometers) across slopes as steep as 20 degrees. 
    “The initiative saved the government an estimated $1,000,000 and more than three  years of work had the solutions been produced using in-house existing resources,” said Ryon Stewart, acting Program Manager of NASA’s Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation. “The effort demonstrated how crowdsourcing provides NASA with a wide diversity of innovative ideas and skills.”
    The global challenge received 385 unique ideas from 61 countries. Five standout solutions received a share of the $45,000 prize purse.  Each of the selected solutions demonstrated creativity, practicality, and direct relevance to NASA’s needs for future Moon missions.
    The global challenge received 385 unique ideas from 61 countries. Five standout solutions received a share of the $45,000 prize purse.  Each of the selected solutions demonstrated creativity, practicality, and direct relevance to NASA’s needs for future Moon missions.  

    First Place: VERTEX by Hugo Shelley – A self-deploying four-wheeled motorized stretcher that converts from a compact cylinder into a frame that securely encases an immobilized crew member for transport up to 6.2 miles (10 kilometers).  

    Second Place: MoonWheel by Chamara Mahesh – A foldable manual trolley designed for challenging terrain and rapid deployment by an individual astronaut.  

    Third Place: Portable Foldable Compact Emergency Stretcher by Sbarellati team – A foldable stretcher compatible with NASA’s Exploration Extravehicular Activity spacesuit. 

    Third Place: Advanced Surface Transport for Rescue (ASTRA) by Pierre-Alexandre Aubé – A collapsible three-wheeled device with a 1.2 mile (2 kilometer) range.
    Third Place: Getting Rick to Roll! by InventorParents – A rapidly deployable, tool-free design suited for functionality in low gravity settings. 

    NASA is identifying how to integrate some features of the winning ideas into current and future mission designs. Most intriguing are the collapsible concepts of many of the designs that would save crucial mass and volume. Additionally, the submissions offered innovative wheel designs to enhance current concepts. NASA expects to incorporate some features into planning for surface operations of the Moon. 
    HeroX hosted the challenge on behalf of NASA’s Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility Program. The NASA Tournament Lab, part of the Prizes, Challenges, and Crowdsourcing program in the Space Technology Mission Directorate, managed the challenge. The program supports global public competitions and crowdsourcing as tools to advance NASA research and development and other mission needs.   
    Find more opportunities at https://www.nasa.gov/get-involved/ 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $6.5 million in stolen goods seized in 2025, California leads in nationwide organized retail crime crackdown

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 17, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced that this year, the state recovered 113,245 stolen items worth nearly $6.5 million. In May alone, arrests were up almost 130%, stolen assets recovered were up 65%, and the value of the items recovered was up nearly 49% from April.

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that from January to May, the state’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force conducted 331 investigations, 629 arrests, and recovered 113,245 stolen items valued at nearly $6.5 million. 

    Spearheaded by the California Highway Patrol, the Organized Retail Crime Task Force, through coordination with local law enforcement agencies and other partners, has been involved in over 3,800 investigations, resulting in the arrest of more than 4,400 suspects and the recovery of nearly 1.4 million stolen goods, valued at over $58 million since 2019.

    In California, we value our public safety and back our business community. Organized retail crimes have no place in our society and I’m proud of the work our CHP officers do up and down the state to protect our families and communities.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Using arresting tools made available in part because of the Governor’s organized retail crime package he passed last year and ongoing commitment to public safety, compared to April, organized retail crime enforcement has gone up in all areas in May:

    • 120 Investigations: Up 131% 
    • 246 Arrests – Up 130%
    • 72,454 stolen assets recovered – Up 66%
    • $2,046,084 in assets recovered – Up 49% 

     Leading the nation

    As part of the coordinated national organized retail crime blitz, from May 26 to 30, the CHP conducted high-visibility enforcement operations throughout the state – arresting 90 individuals, recovering nearly $153,000 worth of stolen merchandise, and identifying multiple suspects linked to organized crime rings operating in and beyond California. 

    The CHP joined more than 100 law enforcement agencies and major retailers for this multi-day effort to investigate and intercept criminal activity in shopping centers, malls, and high-traffic retail areas throughout California.

    “Retail theft doesn’t stop at state lines—and neither do we,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “By working together with our law enforcement partners and retailers nationwide, we are sending a clear message: if you come to California to steal, we will be here to stop you.”

    The blitz, coordinated out of the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, coordinated an effort across 28 states to seize stolen vehicles, narcotics, weapons and other goods. 

    These efforts reinforced the importance of intelligence sharing, real-time coordination, and proactive enforcement in deterring retail theft.

    Crime dropped significantly last year

    According to an analysis of Real Time Crime Index data by the Public Policy Institute of California, violent crime dropped by 4.6% and property crime dropped by 8.5% in 2024, compared to 2023. Overall, the decreases in violent and property crimes in California were similar to those seen by law enforcement agencies in other states – property crime went down by 8.5% in California and 8.4% elsewhere. 

    Stronger enforcement. Serious penalties. Real consequences.

    California has invested $1.1 billion since 2019 to fight crime, help local governments hire more police, and improve public safety. In 2023, as part of California’s Public Safety Plan, the Governor announced the largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime in state history, an annual 310% increase in proactive operations targeting organized retail crime, and special operations across the state to fight crime and improve public safety.

    Last August, Governor Newsom signed into law the most significant bipartisan legislation to crack down on property crime in modern California history. Building on the state’s robust laws and record public safety funding, these bipartisan bills offer new tools to bolster ongoing efforts to hold criminals accountable for smash-and-grab robberies, property crime, retail theft, and auto burglaries. While California’s crime rate remains at near historic lows, these laws help California adapt to evolving criminal tactics to ensure perpetrators are effectively held accountable.

    As part of the state’s largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime, Governor Newsom announced last year the state distributed $267 million to 55 communities to help local communities combat organized retail crime. These funds have enabled cities and counties to hire more police, make more arrests, and secure more felony charges against suspects. 

    Saturating key areas 

    Working collaboratively to heighten public safety, the Governor tasked the CHP to work with local law enforcement areas in key areas to saturate high-crime areas, aiming to reduce roadway violence and criminal activity in the area, specifically vehicle theft and organized retail crime. Since the inception of this regional initiative, there have been over 7,300 arrests, more than 5,000 stolen vehicles recovered and over 350 firearms confiscated across Bakersfield, San Bernardino and Oakland.

    Recent news

    Jun 17, 2025

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Military Leaders to Trump: End LA’s occupation. We aren’t a domestic police force

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 17, 2025

    What you need to know: As Governor Newsom’s motion to block the Trump Administration’s illegal militarization of downtown Los Angeles heads to the Ninth Circuit, former military leaders agree – Trump’s takeover poses grave risk to both servicemembers and civilians and to our country’s constitutional norms.

    Sacramento, California – As Governor Gavin Newsom’s lawsuit to block the Trump Administration’s illegal militarization of downtown Los Angeles heads to the Ninth Circuit, a powerful new amicus brief from retired four-star generals, admirals, and former Army and Navy secretaries backs the state’s position. Their message is clear: Trump’s takeover poses a grave risk to our servicemembers, our civilians, and our constitutional norms.

    Our members of the military deserve the highest praise and honors for their service to our nation. But with one swift stroke of a pen 3,000 miles away, Trump has put them all on the frontlines of an unneeded military activation.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Amicus brief

    Retired four-star admirals and generals and former secretaries of the Army and Navy filed another amicus brief outlining the grave risks of the state’s emergency request to revert control of the CalGuard back to the Governor. Read the amicus brief here.

    Hear it from former military leaders why Trump’s move is wrong:

    Diverts soldiers from critical missions

    California relies heavily on the rapid response capabilities of its National Guard, especially during wildfire season, which begins in June and poses a threat of fast-moving, large-scale fires. The CalGuard is vital to the state’s disaster preparedness and emergency response. Diverting California Guard personnel from these critical state missions risks degrading the state’s emergency preparedness.

    Poses a danger to the safety of all 

    U.S. military personnel are not extensively trained for domestic law enforcement, particularly in emotionally charged situations or civil unrest. This is a specialized skill set that law enforcement officers train for continually. Ordering troops to act against fellow Americans places them in an operationally difficult position, potentially leading to irreparable harm.

    Politicizes the military

    The U.S. military’s apolitical nature is jeopardized by the President’s actions, which have “overtly pitted the military against his professed political opponents.” For example, he suggested Governor Newsom be arrested, requested military personnel cheer as if at a political rally, and stated protesters at his birthday party in Washington, D.C. over the weekend would be met with “very big force.” Involving the military in domestic political controversies risks undermining its ability to recruit and retain servicemembers, garner broad public support, and ultimately achieve its core mission of protecting the nation.

    What they’re saying

    Recently, several veterans and veteran rights’ groups came together to decry Trump’s militarization of California, read their excerpts below:

    • Kyle Bibby, former U.S. Marine Infantry Captain, Co-CEO of Black Veterans Project: “President Trump’s deployment of the National Guard and Marine Corps infantry units on US soil is a dangerous power grab that will escalate the situation rather than help it. Any commander worth his rank knows to empower the leaders on the ground to accomplish their mission.
    • James Espinoza, US Army Veteran, retired first responder, Veteran Nonprofit President: “Our brave young men and women in the Marine Corps are best utilized protecting our nation as a whole. We do not need shock troops in our cities. We need peaceful collaboration between community members and protectors who are also our community members.
    • Janessa Goldbeck, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Senior Advisor of VoteVets: “American taxpayers are now footing the bill for a militarized spectacle meant to send a message of dominance, not security. When a president uses the military to police his own people, we are no longer in the realm of democratic governance—we are witnessing the rehearsal of authoritarian rule.” 
    • Libby Jamison, U.S. Navy family member: “This isn’t what our loved ones in uniform signed up to do, and activating them against our fellow citizens breaks the trust with military families who sacrifice every day on behalf of our nation.”
    • Chef Basil Kimbrew, Chair of the CDP Veterans Caucus: “Our active duty soldiers did not sign up to fight against our own communities. We signed a blank check to defend our country, not to hurt our own people.”
    • Andy Kopp, U.S. Navy Veteran, San Diego, CA: “As a Navy veteran, I know that these service members deployed to American streets, will hold steadfast to their core values and demonstrate the restraint our entire country needs, in order to move forward from the unbridled impulses of a president without conviction.
    • Chris Purdy, U.S. Army, Iraq War Veteran, CEO of The Chamberlain Network: “Deploying the National Guard and active-duty Marines into American communities is a dangerous and unnecessary escalation. These forces are trained for national defense—not for policing American neighborhoods.
    • Naveed Shah, U.S. Army Veteran, Political Director of Common Defense: “The deployment of National Guard and active duty Marines on the streets of Los Angeles goes against everything America stands for. As a veteran, the military’s role is to defend our nation, not police our streets.
    • Shawn VanDiver, U.S. Navy veteran, Founder of the San Diego Chapter of the Truman National Security Project: “Asking the U.S. military to take up arms against American citizens is a betrayal of everything we swore to defend. This isn’t about public safety—it’s about political control, and it puts our service members in an impossible position.” 
    • Akilah Templeton, President & CEO of Veterans Village of San Diego; Vice President of the California Association of Veteran Service Agencies, Native of Los Angeles: “We’ve seen from history, most notably Vietnam, how an entire generation can become wounded when a nation is divided. Above all, we owe it to our service members to ensure that their sacrifices are in service of missions they can stand behind with pride. These are our future veterans. Caring for them begins now.

    Read their entire quotes here.

    Recent news

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Coalition in Submitting a Comment Letter Opposing Offshore Oil, Gas Drilling

    Source: US State of California

    Tuesday, June 17, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta joined a coalition of 10 attorneys general in filing a comment letter with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management opposing offshore oil and gas drilling in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. In the letter, the coalition urges the federal government to exclude all planning areas in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans from the upcoming 11th National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program. The final program will determine which ocean areas could be opened to lease sales for oil and gas activity during the current five-year planning period, which covers the period 2024-2029. 

    “President Trump is once again taking action to line the pockets of his Big Oil friends. This time, he’s expanding oil and gas development by attempting to drill in our coastal communities,” said Attorney General Bonta. “We won’t stand idly by as the President continues to ignore science. That’s why I, alongside attorneys general nationwide, are calling on the federal government to consider the environmental and public health risks of offshore oil and gas drilling and protect our coastal communities.” 

    There is no compelling need to risk our marine and coastal resources for the limited supplies of fossil fuels off of our coasts. The United States already produces more oil and gas than any other country and exports more than it uses. Demand for gasoline has been dropping since 2019, especially on the East and West coasts. As the comment letter states: “Existing uses of these marine and coastal areas are essential parts of our state economies, national energy needs do not require drilling in these environmentally important areas, and drilling would be inconsistent with laws passed by our state opposing offshore oil and gas activity and promoting reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.” 

    The coalition’s comment letter also further details the devastating impacts of past oil spills, including the Deepwater Horizon disaster that killed 11 workers, spilled 134 million gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico, and caused billions of dollars of losses to fishing and tourism industries along the Gulf, as well as oil spills in California that resulted in massive losses of wildlife and harm to local fisheries. Currently, California’s law prohibits offshore drilling in state waters and holds drilling companies strictly liable for spills.

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington in submitting this comment letter. 

    A copy of the comment letter can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Togo: Authorities must investigate allegations protesters were tortured and end crackdown on dissent

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Togolese authorities must investigate allegations that protesters were subjected to torture, following protests earlier this month, and respect their commitments to protect the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression, Amnesty International said today.

    Dozens of people were arrested on 5 and 6 June in Lomé after taking to the streets to protest against a government crackdown on dissent, the cost-of-living crisis and changes to the constitution that could allow the current President of the Council of Ministers Faure Gnassingbé to remain in power indefinitely.

    Fifty-six people were released on 9 June, according to the public prosecutor. Three protesters are still detained as of 17 June, according to several sources.

    By banning protests and repressing them with force, the authorities are in breach of international law.

    Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa

    While detained, several protesters were subjected to torture or other ill-treatment, according to testimonies gathered by Amnesty International.   

    “These Togolese protesters are being harshly punished solely for expressing their opinions. By banning protests and repressing them with force, the authorities are in breach of international law which protects the right to protest. They have also failed to respect the commitments they made during the last Universal Periodic Review, including the prohibition of torture in all its forms; and the investigation of alleged acts of torture,” said Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa. “The crackdown on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly must end immediately.”

    In a statement read out on television on 9 June, the public prosecutor referred to ‘individuals [who] in groups noisily occupied the public thoroughfares […], orchestrating raucous noises and erecting barricades’, even though ‘no declaration of a public demonstration had been registered’, which in his view constituted ‘aggravated disturbance of public order’.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: Crime and policing bill an attack on our ‘proud legacy of protest’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International stages powerful ‘human timeline’ highlighting over 100 years of protest  

    From suffragettes to Bristol Boycott: a legacy of defiant movements  

    The Crime and Policing Bill seeks to further erode right to protest    

    Amnesty International has organised a ‘human timeline’ outside Parliament to highlight Britain’s ‘proud history of defiant movements’, ahead of the Report stage debate on the Crime and Policing Bill on the 17th June. It is the fourth anti-protest bill introduced in Parliament in just four years.  

    The proposed legislation would give police sweeping new powers, including the ability to ban face coverings at protests, impose restrictions on protests based on vague rules around being in the ‘vicinity’ of religious buildings, and compel people, including protesters, on limited visas to leave the country if they receive a police caution.   

    The bill follows last year’s Criminal Justice Bill, part of the former government’s sustained crackdown on peaceful protest. Protesters now face increasing criminalisation, with some receiving prison sentences for nonviolent action that exceed those given for serious violent crimes. 

    The protest outside Parliament today features real-life activists and actors representing key historical movements and holding placards: 

    • The Suffragettes  

    “They told us to stay at home, but we won women the right to vote” 

    “They called us ‘terrorists’ but we helped bring about a fairer society” 

    “They called us naive, but we advocated for a safer world” 

    “They called us ‘irresponsible’, but we helped to make racial discrimination in employment unlawful” 

    “They called us “deviants”, but we won equal rights and respect” 

    “They called us annoying but we tackled discrimination against people with disabilities” 

    “They called us powerless, but we continue to expose the injustice of housing in the UK” 

    “They called us eco-mobs, but we made it impossible to ignore the plight of our planet” 

    • Black Lives Matter  

    “They called us ‘thugs’ but we continue to uncover institutional racism” 

    “They call us hate marches, but we won’t stop campaigning against apartheid and genocide” 

    By demonstrating the breadth of protest over the past 100 years, and the rights and freedoms that were won, the stunt shows their true power in making the world a better, more equitable place. 

    Kerry Moscogiuri, Amnesty International UK’s Director of Campaigns, said:  

    “The UK has a legacy of defiant movements – where demonstrations both large and small, have shaped a fairer and more just society. 

    “From the Suffragettes  and the Anti-Apartheid Movement to the Bristol Bus Boycott or the UK’s first Pride march, these protesters faced fierce resistance in their time. Yet today, we celebrate the rights and freedoms they fought so hard to win. 

    “The new Crime and Policing Bill is the fourth piece of legislation in as many years aimed at clamping down on our right to protest. It’s yet another example of the Government attacking our ability to hold them to account beyond the ballot box – undermining our freedom of speech. Had such laws existed in the past, many of the historic protests we now celebrate might not have been possible. 

    “We have a proud history of protest and we must continue on that path, not follow the tide of authoritarian laws that’s undermining freedom globally.” 

    A spokesperson for Grenfell United, said:  

    “The power of protest should never be forgotten. Our Silent walks serve both to remember those we lost, and to show that Grenfell issues are not localised, they are a national problem. Building safety affects thousands of people across the country, whether leaseholder, private or social housing tenant, and our gatherings show those responsible the pace of change is too slow, and the risk to life too high. 

    “The Crime and Policing Bill is part of a growing trend on the crackdown of the right to protest. This is a deeply concerning trend for communities who turn to protest as a result of the grave injustices they have faced. By walking in our thousands each year, we show those in power we will never forget what was done to us, what needs to happen, and that the nation is behind us in our fight for Justice” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran – B10-0296/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Evin Incir, Chloé Ridel
    on behalf of the S&D Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0296/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran

    (2025/2753(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran;

     

    – having regard to its rule of procedure 150(5);

     

    A. whereas since 1 October 2024 over 1000 individuals have been executed in Iran, including political activists, women protesters, and minority group members;

     

    B. whereas Iran systematically denies detainees due process, including access to counsel, use of torture, forced confessions, and extended solitary confinement;

     

    C. whereas Iranian authorities engage in hostage diplomacy by arbitrarily detaining dual and EU citizens;

     

    D. whereas Professor Ahmadreza Jalali, a Swedish-Iranian academic specialist in disaster medicine, has been detained since April 2016, sentenced to death following a grossly unfair trial, denied legal representation and essential healthcare, and remains at imminent risk of execution despite international appeals;

     

    1. Expresses its grave concern over the case of Ahmadreza Jalali; condemns his sentence to death penalty based on a coerced confession obtained under torture, and demands his immediate, unconditional release; calls for his immediate and unconditional release and, in the meantime, for his urgent and permanent transfer to a hospital or clinic where he can receive specialised and regular medical care that is not available in Evin prison;

     

    2. Reiterates its strong opposition to death penalty in all circumstances, urges Iran to introduce an immediate moratorium as a first step toward its abolition, and demands cessation of all executions;

     

    3. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all EU and dual‐citizens detained in Iran, as part of an end to hostage diplomacy;

     

    4. Deplores ongoing practices of torture, including solitary confinement, forced confessions, and denial of legal defence, and urges Iran to uphold its international human rights obligations ;

     

    5. Urges the Council to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, and to expand targeted sanctions under the EU human rights sanctions regime against individuals responsible for abuses, including in Jalali’s case;

     

    6. Demands that Iran grant full access to UN human rights mechanisms, including the UN Special Rapporteur and fact-finding mission, to investigate abuse cases such as Jalali’s;

     

    7. Calls on the High Representative and Member States to intensify diplomatic efforts to secure Jalali’s release, including through raising his case in bilateral negotiations and EU-Iran human rights dialogue;

     

    8. Commends Iran’s women-led “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement, and encourages the EU to increase humanitarian and civil society funding aimed at empowering women, minorities, and independent academics;

     

    9. Emphasises that demonstrable human rights improvements and the release of political prisoners must be central to all elements of EU-Iran engagement;

     

    10. Instructs its President to transmit this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the High Representative, the government and Supreme Leader of Iran, UN Secretary-General, and the UN Human Rights Council.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The case of Ahmadreza Jalali – B10-0286/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Sebastiaan Stöteler, Marieke Ehlers, António Tânger Corrêa, Nikola Bartůšek, Pierre‑Romain Thionnet, Gerolf Annemans, Hermann Tertsch
    on behalf of the PfE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0286/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0286/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0286/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the case of Ahmadreza Jalali

    (2025/2753(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to previous resolutions on Iran,

    –  having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

    1. whereas Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali, a Swedish-Iranian lecturer and researcher at the Vrije Universiteit in Brussels (VUB) Belgium and Universita degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale in Italy, was arrested on 25 April 2016 in Tehran while attending academic workshops on disaster medicine in Tehran, Iran; whereas Ahmadreza Djalali was accused for spying for Israel and after a mock trial, was sentenced to death; whereas Ahmadreza Djalali has been arbitrarily detained in the notorious Evin prison and pressured into false confessions under torture;
    2. whereas his situation has been described as inhumane; whereas he suffered a heart attack in May 2025, leading to increased international calls for his release given that his health has sharply deteriorated and described as life-threatening; 
    3. whereas the human rights situation in Iran is increasingly deteriorating, and experts have pointed to a well-documented pattern of unlawful and arbitrary detentions in Iran of dual and foreign nationals or residents, including citizens of EU Member States; whereas European-Iranian dual nationals continue to be arrested, receive unfair trials, are placed in solitary confinement and sentenced on the basis of false and vague espionage charges; whereas Iran routinely uses hostage diplomacy as a foreign policy tool, including in the cases of European citizens, notably Dr Ahmedreza Djalali;
    4. whereas Iranian courts, particularly revolutionary courts, regularly fail to provide fair trials and accept confessions obtained under torture as evidence in court; whereas the authorities also routinely restrict detainees’ access to legal counsel, particularly during the investigation period; whereas the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is included in the US sanctions list for their involvement in grave human rights violations;
       
    1. Calls on Iran to immediately and unconditionally release Ahmadreza Djalali;
    2. Strongly condemns Iran’s policy of hostage diplomacy; expresses grave concern about Ahmadreza Djalali’s situation and firmly calls on the Iranian authorities to ensure that his rights are protected at all times, including access to adequate medical care and full access to his family and lawyers of his own choice;
    3. Reminds the Iranian authorities of their obligation to treat Ahmadreza Djalali in line with human rights standards and that they are ultimately responsible for providing humane conditions of detention and healthcare; 
    4. Strongly condemns the ongoing deterioration of human rights in Iran and condemns the Iranian regime’s use of the death penalty as a means of political repression;
    5. Reiterates its call on the Council to expand the EU sanctions list to all those responsible for human rights violations in Iran;
    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the relevant parties.

     

    Last updated: 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The case of Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali’s illegal arrest and detention in Iran – B10-0285/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Abir Al‑Sahlani, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Bart Groothuis, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0285/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0285/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0285/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the case of Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali’s illegal arrest and detention in Iran

    (2025/2753(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran,

    –  having regard to the Third Geneva Convention and the Basic Principles for the Treatment of Prisoners,

    –  having regard to Articles 32, 37, 38 and 39 of the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI),

    –  having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. whereas Iranian regime widely practices a hostage taking policy against foreign nationals and currently holds in detention dozens of innocent EU nationals;

     

    1. whereas on April 25, 2016, Dr. Ahmad Reza Djalali, a Swedish-Iranian disaster-medicine expert, was arrested by the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence;

     

    1. whereas Djalali has been denied adequate medical care despite severe physical deterioration and the risk to his life, including a recent heart attack that he suffered while being held at Evin prison; whereas Iran has continued to threaten the implementation of his death sentence, including in apparent response to recent developments.
    2. whereas international bodies and human rights organisations have warned that Iranian authorities are holding Djalali hostage and threatening to execute him as a means to put pressure on foreign Governments;

     

    1. Whereas we note a horrific rise in executions in Iran; whereas hundreds of individuals have already been executed in 2025, and in 2024, at least 972 individuals were executed – a 14% increase since 2023;

     

    1. whereas the Iranian government refuses to recognise. Djalali’s legitimate Swedish citizenship;

     

    1. whereas the defence of human rights, democracy and the rule of law should be a priority in EU-Iran relations;
    1. Strongly condemns the brutal treatment of  Djalali by the Iranian authorities, amounting to torture and other ill-treatment, as he was arbitrarily detained, subjected to months of interrogation in solitary confinement, and then sentenced to death, following a sham trial based on coerced confessions of espionage extracted under torture;
    2. Calls on the Iranian authorities to immediately halt any plans to carry out the death sentence and to release Djalali to his home country of Sweden without delay;
    3. Urges Iran to provide Djalali with immediate and unrestricted access to necessary specialised medical care at an external hospital, legal representation, and regular contact with his family;
    4. Urges the Iranian authorities to immediately release, safely repatriate and drop all charges against EU nationals;
    5. Calls on Sweden and other EU Member States and the EEAS to intensify diplomatic efforts and consider targeted measures in response to Iran’s continued detention of EU nationals including Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris,  in violation of international law;
    6. Reiterates its call on the Council to designate the IRGC a terrorist organisation and to extend EU sanctions to all those responsible for taking EU nationals hostages, massive executions of opposition voices, and other human rights violations;
    7. Requests the VP/HR to publicly raise Djalali’s case and in all engagements with Iranian counterparts;
    8. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the government of Iran, the VP/HR, the Commission, the Member States and the United Nations;

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The case of Ahmadreza Jalali – B10-0284/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Alice Kuhnke, Maria Ohisalo, Mounir Satouri, Nicolae Ștefănuță, Mélissa Camara, Ville Niinistö, Hannah Neumann
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0284/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  The case of Ahmadreza Jalali

    (2025/2753(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

      having regard to Rules 144 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas Ahmadreza Djalali, a Swedish national, is at medical doctor and academic, is at immediate risk of execution;

    B. whereas Mr Djalali was arrested in April 2016, sentenced to death for “corruption on earth,” in a sham trial relying on “confessions” obtained through torture and other ill-treatment and remains arbitrarily detained in Evin prison in inhumane conditions;

    C. whereas Mr Djalali´s health situation is gravely deteriorating. Whereas due to a heart attack in prison, severe physical and psychological ill-treatment and high stress, he is at risk of sudden cardiac death;

    D. whereas there is an alarming surge in executions in Iran, with at least 972 persons killed in 2024 which according to Amnesty International is the highest figure since 2015. Whereas particularly following the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ uprising, authorities have used the death penalty to spread fear and strengthen control;

     

    1. Firmly denounces the Iranian regime’s unrestrained repression of human rights, including the excessive use of the death penalty;

    2. Demands the immediate unconditional release of Ahmadreza Djalali and all other arbitrarily detained foreign and dual nationals, including Olivier Grondeau, Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris; strongly denounces the Iranian government´s hostage diplomacy;

    3. Urges the Iranian government to halt any plans to execute Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali and put a moratorium on all executions and release and retrial persons threatened with execution in a due process, particularly for charges that under international law never result in capital punishment; calls on Iranian authorities to respect their international obligations under the ICCPR;

    4. Expresses its solidarity with Mr. Djalali´s family and friends who have not seen him in 9 years, and to others arbitrarily detained in Iran and their loved ones;

    5.  Reiterates its condemnation of the execution of Jamshid Sharmahd. Urges the Iranian government to provide details on the circumstances of his death and return his remains to his family;

    6. Urges Iranian authorities to provide the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran and the UN Fact-Finding Mission with full, unimpeded access to enact their mandates; calls on the EU and Member States to fully support the mission and the renewal of its mandate;

    7. Calls on the HR/VP to denounce the Iranian authorities’ use of the death penalty and raise the case of Mr Djalali, and other detained EU citizens, publicly and bilaterally in all interactions with their Iranian interlocutors;

    8. Calls on the Council to continue identifying and sanctioning perpetrators responsible for serious human rights violations and hostage diplomacy. Reiterates its call to add the IRGC to the EU list of terrorist organisations;

    9. Calls on EU member states to initiate criminal investigations against Iranian officials accountable for serious human rights violations, notably under universal jurisdiction;

    10. Calls on the European Commission to increase financial, technical and capacity support to Iranian civil society;

    11. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to EU institutions, HRVP, the Member States, and Iran;

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali – B10-0281/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Merja Kyllönen
    on behalf of The Left Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0281/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0281/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0281/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali

     

    (2025/2754(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. whereas the Military Junta, in power for five years, has recently dissolved all political parties and organizations and banned political gatherings; whereas it came after opposition groups and human rights organizations condemned the National Conference’s recommendation to extend President Goïta’s term until 2030; whereas political parties had called on the authorities to respect the Transition Charter and organize elections;

     

    1. whereas these measures are part of a broader trend of restrictions on civic space, including the arrest of opposition figures; whereas since 2024 the military authorities have intensified repression; whereas between April and July 2024, the authorities suspended the activities of political parties and political associations;

     

    1. whereas the constitution enacted in 2023 by the transitional authorities, guarantees the existence of political parties and asserts their right to ‘form and operate freely under the conditions determined by law’;

     

     

    1. Supports the aspirations of the Malian people for democracy and changes and strongly rejects the repression of demonstrators and the crackdown on the opposition;
    2. Condemns the dissolution of the political parties and the suspension of political gatherings; highlights that these measures odd with the constitution and are incompatible with Mali’s international human rights obligations including under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights;
    3. Calls on the transitional authorities to refrain from extending the transition period again and to organise credible, free, and fair elections;
    4. Invites to the Malian transitional authorities to engage in peaceful and truly inclusive dialogue with all actors involved in legal reform processes;
    5. Requests to the transitional authorities, to end the escalating crackdown on civic space and to allow the full exercise of freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, association and the media, as well as the right to participate in public affairs, including by ceasing the harassment of critical media, journalists and peaceful dissents; urges them to release those who have been arrested on politically motivated grounds;
    6. Denounces the presence of the Wagner Group and the Africa Corps and urges to hold them accountable as well as members of the Malian security forces, for their abuses against civilians;
    7. Notes the growing rejection of the former colonial power and of European diplomacy on the continent without ignoring attempts to manipulate information by third parties including Russia; insists that the only way to regain the confidence of citizens is to replace relations of domination at military, economic, monetary and political level with relations of equals, respecting international law and the principles of non-interference in internal affairs;
    8. Condemns the economic, social and political interference implemented through the Structural Adjustment Plans of the World Bank and the IMF; reminds that making assistance contingent on general spending cuts have undermined Malian  people’s economic, social and cultural rights; calls on the IMF and  World Bank to cancel the external debt of African countries;
    9. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the EU institutions, Member States, and the Malian authorities.

     

     

    Last updated: 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli – B10-0295/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Adam Bielan, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Reinis Pozņaks, Rihards Kols, Alexandr Vondra, Mariusz Kamiński, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Assita Kanko, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0295/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0295/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0295/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli

    (2025/2752(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to Rule 150 (5) of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. whereas the democratic backsliding in Georgia has dramatically accelerated since the flawed parliamentary elections of 26 October 2024; whereas the de facto Georgian Dream authorities systematically subject civil society and independent media to pressure, legal restrictions, and physical violence; whereas at least 138 incidents of media freedom violations have been documented in the context of pro-European protests or related events since November 2024, and a total of 174 media professionals have been the target of state repression; whereas at least 30 reporters have suffered repeated violations, including physical assaults, damage to professional equipment, administrative fines, criminal charges and legal harassment; whereas Georgia’s media landscape is highly politically polarised and characterized by widespread manipulation and disinformation;

     

    1. whereas Mzia Amaglobeli, co-founder and director of the media outlets Batumelebi and Netgazeti, was arrested on 12 January 2025 in Batumi during a protest against Georgian Dream and detained on charges of insulting a police officer; whereas her criminal trial is expected to resume soon, in which she could face up to seven years imprisonment;

     

    1. Urges Georgia’s authorities to release Mzia Amaglobeli immediately and to drop all criminal charges against her;

     

    1. Calls on the authorities to immediately cease the intimidation, threats, politically motivated prosecutions and physical assaults against journalists and media workers in Georgia;

     

    1. calls for the Georgian authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safety and freedom of journalists and to investigate all instances of violence and misconduct by law enforcement agencies; emphasises the importance of fostering a democratic environment where media can operate freely without fear of retaliation or censorship;

     

    1. Regrets that media and information space is suppressed and dominated by Georgian Dream supported TV and media outlets, spreading false narratives about the EU integration and thus emulating and playing into Russian-inspired propaganda and facilitating polarisation in the society;

     

    1. Is worried by the Georgian Dream government’s clear alignment with Kremlin-backed narratives, its growing economic and political ties with Russia, and its deliberate obstruction of Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration, which fundamentally contradicts the country’s constitutional and strategic priorities;

     

    1. Calls for the EU and its Member States to impose individual sanctions on the officials and political leaders in Georgia who are responsible for the democratic backsliding, including Irakli Kobakhidze, Kakha Kaladze, Shalva Papuashvili and Irakli Garibashvili and to extend these sanctions to judges passing politically motivated sentences, as well as to financial enablers supporting the regime and the owners of regime-aligned media outlets for their role in spreading disinformation and seeking to manipulate public discourse;

     

    1. Reiterates its urgent demand for the immediate and unconditional release of former President Mikheil Saakashvili on humanitarian grounds so he can seek medical treatment abroad; emphasises that the Georgian Dream authorities bear full responsibility for his life, health, safety and well-being and must be held fully accountable for any harm that befalls him;

     

    1. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Parliament and Government of Georgia.
    Last updated: 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION the situation of media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli – B10-0290/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Sebastião Bugalho, David McAllister, Željana Zovko, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Tomas Tobé, Miriam Lexmann, Andrey Kovatchev, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Dariusz Joński, Loránt Vincze, Danuše Nerudová, Mirosława Nykiel, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Liudas Mažylis, Inese Vaidere, Rasa Juknevičienė
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0290/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0290/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0290/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the situation of media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli

    (2025/2752(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to its previous resolutions on Georgia,

    –  having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    1. whereas since 2024, Georgia has faced a dangerous acceleration of democratic backsliding, marked by the ruling Georgian Dream party’s systematic persecution of political opponents and aggressive crackdowns on civil society and independent media;

     

    1. whereas the adoption of draconian legislation – such as the Foreign Agents Registration Act, amendments to the Law on Broadcasting, Code of Administrative Offences, Law on Grants – constitutes a deliberate authoritarian strategy to silence critical voices and mirror Russian-style governance;

     

    1. whereas the parliamentary elections of 26 October 2024 were deeply flawed and marked by grave irregularities,

     

    1. whereas, on 28 November 2024, Irakli Kobakhidze announced the decision to not pursue EU accession negotiations until 2028 and refuse EU budgetary support, kicking off street protests that have persisted to this day;

     

    1. whereas Mzia Amaglobeli, a respected journalist and co-founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, two independent online publications, was arrested during pro-European protests on 12 January 2025 and now faces four to seven years in prison for a provoked incident involving a police officer;

     

    1. whereas in Amaglobeli’s case, authorities ignored procedural safeguards, imposed pre-trial detention without a clear legal basis, and assigned a presiding judge lacking qualifications in criminal law;

     

    1. whereas Lithuania has imposed personal sanctions on Georgian officials responsible for human rights violations, including police officers that gave false testimonies against Mzia Amaglobeli in court;

     

    1. Strongly condemns the Georgian Dream regime’s systemic assault on democratic institutions, political opposition, independent media, civil society, and judicial independence;

     

    1. Denounces the politically motivated arrest and prosecution of Mzia Amaglobeli and demands her immediate and unconditional release, along with the withdrawal of all charges connected to her journalistic and civic activities;

     

    1. Expresses concern over the increasing use of arbitrary detentions, fines, smear campaigns, legal harassment, and police violence against journalists, which constitute serious breaches of fundamental rights;

     

    1. Denounces the alleged violent abduction of UNM Chair Tina Bokuchava’s husband and the reported threats to the safety of her children; calls for an immediate and effective investigation to address these acts and prevent a climate of impunity; 
    2. Denounces the sentencing of 21-year-old activist Mate Devidze to four years and six months in prison and demands his immediate and unconditional release, as well as that of Zurab “Girchi” Japaridze, NIka Melia and Nika Gvaramia;

     

    1. Reiterates its calls for the immediate repeal of all repressive legislation, the restoration of democratic norms, and the full protection of media freedom and civil liberties;

     

    1. Reiterates its call on the EU Member States to impose coordinated bilateral sanctions against the Georgian Dream regime and its enablers, including those responsible for politically-motivated arrest, detention, and trial of Mzia Amaglobeli;

     

    1. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the VP/HR, the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Council of Europe, the OSCE, and the self-appointed authorities of Georgia.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli – B10-0289/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0289/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli

    (2025/2752(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to its previous resolutions on Georgia,

     

    – having regard to the joint statement by High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas and Commissioner Marta Kos of 2 April 2025 on latest developments in Georgia;

     

    – having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure.

     

    1. whereas Georgian journalist Mzia Amaglobeli was arrested on 12 January 2025, held in pre-trial detention over four months and now faces the threat of a prison sentence of several years;
    2. whereas during her detention Mzia Amaglobeli reportedly suffered from inhumane treatment and undertook a 38-day hunger strike;
    3. whereas the detention of Mzia Amaglobeli is part of a broader crackdown by the ruling party Georgian Dream on dissenting voices in civil society, opposition and media;
    4. whereas the personal attacks against Mzia Amaglobeli, including by the Prime Minister, government officials and other prominent members of the ruling party, and her stigmatisation as a ‘foreign agent’ appear as a deliberate fabrication of a prominent case of media persecution that would deter further independent media reporting in Georgia;

    1. Urges the Georgian authorities to immediately release Mzia Amaglobeli and to withdraw any fabricated charges against her;

    2. Calls on the EEAS and the Member States to closely monitor the legal process and thereby contribute to establishing transparency about this and similar cases against Georgian journalists and media organisations, especially in the light of concerns about the lack of judicial independence;

    3. Urges Georgian authorities to end the harassment of independent media and journalists and reminds the Georgian authorities of their obligations to uphold media freedom and freedom of expression under the Georgian constitution and in accordance with the country’s international commitments;

    4. Expresses it solidarity with the people of Georgia in their protest against the escalating repression of civil liberties, and in particular with persons such as Mzia Amaglobeli who has come to symbolize the struggle for preserving Georgia’s democratic and European future;

    5. Underlines that the new pieces of legislation, such as the Foreign Agents Registration Act and amendments to the Law on Broadcasting, unduly restrict fundamental freedoms, erode democracy and therefore, unless repealed, would make Georgia’s future EU membership impossible;

    6. Reiterates its calls on the ruling party to end the repression against citizens, release all persons unduly detained, suspend and repeal all repressive legislation and return to the path of democracy;

    7. Calls for the EU to continue supporting Georgia’s civil society, human rights defenders and independent media despite the increasingly hostile environment marked by repressive laws such as the ‘Foreign Agents Registration Act’;

    8. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission/ High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Council of Europe, the OSCE and to the self-appointed authorities of Georgia.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli – B10-0288/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Petr Bystron, Tomasz Froelich, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell
    on behalf of the ESN Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0288/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli

    (2025/2752(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to Rule 150 (5) of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    A. whereas, on 12 January 2025 Mzia Amaglobeli, journalist, was arrested on 12 January 2025

     after slapping Batumi police chief Irakli Dgebuadze in the face, which was classified as a criminal offense of “assaulting a police offer” under Article 353 of the Criminal Code of Georgia;

     

    B. whereas the Batumi City Court hearings in the trial have been attended by diplomats from different EU Member States;

     

    C.  whereas Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk is pushing the EU to suspend or limit Georgia’s visa-free travel; 

     

    1. Emphasises that the arrest of Amaglobeli happened within the context of the street protests of the opposition, demanding a re-run of the parliamentary elections of October 2024 and that the trial is taking place against the background of a very polarised political environment;

     

    2. Affirms that the parliamentary elections of 26 October 2024 were free and fair, conducted in broad compliance with national and international legal standards and that the Georgian people made a clear choice regarding the composition of their new government;

     

    3. Is concerned about the active involvement of foreign actors in actions of the opposition, aimed at overthrowing the elected government through street power and other extra-constitutional means; warns the EU that by supporting efforts to overturn a legitimate election result because of dissatisfaction with its outcome, it is undermining democracy in Georgia and fuelling polarisation and instability;

     

    4.  Considers that decisive in the conflict between civil society organisations (CSOs) and the ruling Georgian Dream party, is the partisan role that many opposition-linked CSOs have taken, agitating for the overthrow of the government; notes, furthermore,  that there is a lack of public trust in CSOs  due to a mismatch between the issues CSOs work on and the economic concerns of the majority of the population;

     

    5. Calls on the EU to end its confrontational approach and to avoid a black-and-white contrast between the different parties; urges the EU to recognise the complexity of the situation in Georgia and not to continue its current policy, which only increases the polarisation of  Georgian society and politics;

     

    6. Notes that the online media environment in Georgia is diverse and that content on a wide range of topics is available; notes that the online environment is free due to strong internet access and limited website blocking; notes that there are few explicit restrictions on internet access and online content; notes that, in general, online content is not subject to deletion, and government requests to remove online content are relatively rare;

     

    7.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the European External Action Service, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, and the President, government and parliament of Georgia.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The situation of media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli – B10-0287/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Urmas Paet, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Eugen Tomac, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas, Olivier Chastel
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0287/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the situation of media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli

    (2025/2752(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. Whereas Mzia Amaglobeli, prominent journalist and co-founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, has been held in pre-trial detention since 12 January 2025 and faces a prison sentence of four to seven years; 
    2. whereas Georgia’s Public Defender  has contested Amaglobeli’s pre-trial detention, citing insufficient evidence and procedural violations contrary to Georgian law and international standards; whereas Mzia Amaglobeli has endured a 38-day hunger strike since arrest and her health has deteriorated;
    3. whereas this case demonstrates the authorities’ abuse of the justice system to punish Mzia Amaglobeli for exposing corruption and for reporting on election fraud during the  2024  elections;
       

    1. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Mzia Amaglobeli, dropping of all charges against her, and impartial investigation into the circumstances of her detention and ill-treatment endured during arrest;

    2. Reiterates its call for the immediate release of peaceful demonstrators, media representatives and opposition leaders, including former President Mikheil Saakashvili, Zurab Japaridze, Nika Melia, Nika Gvaramia, and Mate Devidze, and to end all political persecution; urges authorities to respect citizens’ right to freedom of expression and assembly, and refrain from using unwarranted force against protesters;

    3. Strongly condemns the use of violence and degrading treatment against journalists and protesters in detention facilities and calls for independent investigations to bring those responsible to account; 

    4. Reiterates its demand to repeal recently adopted repressive legislation; strongly urges to end the weaponisation of legislation to silence independent media and civil society;

    5. Regrets that the media and information space is dominated by ruling party-backed TV and media outlets spreading false narratives about EU integration and pro-democracy actors; condemns the Government’s pressure on digital media, bloggers and online platforms, using cyberattacks, internet shutdowns, and harassment against independent voices; 

    6. Reiterates calls on the EU and Member States to impose  personal sanctions, including suspension of visa-free travel and asset freezes, on the Georgian officials, political leaders, including Bidzina Ivanishvili, judges, and security forces responsible for democratic backsliding; 

    7. Reiterates that, until authorities demonstrate a credible commitment to democratic principles and new parliamentary elections are held under improved electoral conditions with strong international presence, the EU will maintain its policy of non-recognition of the current President and one-party parliament; calls on EEAS, remaining EU institutions and Member States to limit diplomatic engagement with Georgian officials;  

    8. Reiterates its support for the Georgian people’s legitimate European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations; calls on the Commission to increase financial support for civil society and independent media broadcasting impartial news towards Georgia, and accelerate the provision of grants, such as financing and advertising activists travelling to the EU, notably through the European Endowment for Democracy; calls on Member States to support Georgian independent media and civil society, including those working in exile;

    9. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, Commission, HR/VP, Member States, President Salomé Zurabishvili and self-appointed current Georgian authorities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The situation of media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli – B10-0283/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0283/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  The situation of media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case  of Mzia Amaglobeli

    (2025/2752(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    -having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

     

     

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

     

    B. whereas Georgia, as a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights, has committed itself to the principles of democracy, the rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights;

     

    C. whereas UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk recently called on the Georgian authorities to respect and protect the rights to freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly;

     

    D. whereas several international NGOs are expressing growing concern over the media freedom situation in the country, in particular for the amendments introduced to the Law on Broadcasting;

     

    E. whereas Georgian journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli, founder and director of the online newspapers Batumelebi and Netgazeti, is facing charges of assaulting a police officer—carrying a sentence of up to seven years in prison;

     

     

    1. Emphasises that the rights to freedom of expression and assembly and to peaceful protest are fundamental freedoms and must be respected in all circumstances; expresses concern over reports of the unnecessary and disproportionate use of force against demonstrators; condemns the arrest of the journalist Mzia Amaglobeli;

     

    2. Calls on the Government of Georgia to respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights, in particular freedom of press and political rights;

     

    3.  Call for the release of Mzia Amaglobeli and call the Georgian authorities to fully guarantee independent journalists freedom of expression and media pluralism, according to its own constitution and its international obligations; 

     

    4. Stresses that Georgia’s future must be determined by the will of its people, free from external pressure or interference; emphasises that Georgia’s sovereignty and political trajectory should reflect the aspirations of its citizens; condemns any attempts, whether foreign or domestic, to undermine Georgia’s democratic institutions;

     

     

    5. Recalls that the EU accession process is based on objective criteria; regrets the European Council’s decision to suspend financial assistance to Georgia; underlines the benefits of the visa facilitation agreement and the need to maintain it; emphasises the need for a constructive dialogue between the Government of Georgia and the EU;

     

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the VP/HR, the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the UN as well as the President, Government and Parliament of the Georgia.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobel – B10-0282/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Lena Schilling, Mélissa Camara, Mounir Satouri, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Mārtiņš Staķis, Nicolae Ștefănuță, Markéta Gregorová
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0282/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0282/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0282/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  Media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli

     

    (2025/2752(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to its previous resolutions on Georgia,

     

    – having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

     

    1. whereas Mzia Amaglobeli, renowned figure in independent journalism and the director of the independent news websites “Batumelebi” and “Netgazeti“, was detained on the night of 11-12 January and ordered to pre-trial detention on January 14; whereas she faces up to seven years in prison; whereas Amaglobeli’s case is considered emblematic for the unrelenting campaign of repression unleashed by the ruling Georgian Dream party against independent journalists, civil society, and peaceful protesters;

     

    1. whereas on during her arrests Amaglobeli was subjected to sexist abuse by police, with Batumi Police Chief Irakli Dgebuadze allegedly spitting on her and threatening violence; whereas police in Georgia are increasingly using gender-based violence, including degrading strip searches, against women involved in protests; whereas the authorities to date, have failed to investigate any police officers who allegedly ill-treated and otherwise abused her and other protesters;

     

    1. whereas Georgian independent media is expected to be left decimated following the entry into force of the new Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) on 1 June, which grants the state authority to criminally prosecute media for failing to register as a “foreign agent”;

     

    1. whereas the response from the EU and Member States to Georgian Dream’s crackdown against dissenters has been seriously lacking, with only few Member States imposing targeted sanctions on those responsible; whereas HRVP Kallas’ recent proposal for a Black Sea Strategy to boost mutual partnerships in the region also presents plans for enhanced cooperation with Georgia;
    1. Condemns the illegal arrest and politically motivated prosecution of prominent Georgian journalist Mzia Amaglobeli and calls for her immediate and unconditional release; urges the Georgian authorities to halt its harassment of peaceful protesters and release all political prisoners and others illegally detained without delay;

     

    1. Expresses deep concern over reports, including in the case of Amaglobeli, of the systematic use of gender-based violence by the Georgian police to intimidate and punish peaceful protesters;

     

    1. Regrets the persistent lack of action on behalf of the EU and Member States to ensure that their condemnation of Georgian Dream’s actions is not just stated, but felt by those responsible; reiterates its call on the EU and Member States to take coordinated action to surmount the political obstacles to adopting EU-wide sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili; calls similarly for sanctions against public officials and law enforcement that responsible for implementing repressive measures against peaceful protesters;

     

    1. Expresses concern about the extent to which the EU’s plans within the Black Sea Strategy will entail a normalisation of relations with the Georgian authorities;

     

    1. Calls on the EU to step up support for Georgia’s independent media following the entry into force of FARA, including by facilitating operations from EU Member States as needed;

     

    1. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the VP/HR, the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, and to the Georgian authorities.

     

    Last updated: 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran – B10-0300/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Adam Bielan, Reinis Pozņaks, Rihards Kols, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Mariusz Kamiński, Alexandr Vondra, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Alberico Gambino, Carlo Fidanza, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Assita Kanko, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Cristian Terheş, Diego Solier, Nora Junco García, Michał Dworczyk, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Marion Maréchal
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0300/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran

     

    (2025/2753(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    —  having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran,

    —  having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. whereas Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali, a Swedish-Iranian lecturer and researcher at the Vrije Universiteit in Brussels (VUB) Belgium and Universita degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale in Italy, was arrested in April 2016 after he visited Iran to attend workshops on disaster medicine and sentenced to death in October 2017 on false charges of espionage, after being severely pressured into false confessions under torture;

     

    1. whereas Djalali has been detained in the Evin prison since 2016 in violation of international law; whereas his health situation has further deteriorated and resulted in a heart attack last month; whereas his case remains under an active death sentence, with no execution date set, and execution threats continue to loom amid political back-and-forth;

     

    1. whereas Iranian courts, and particularly revolutionary courts, regularly fall short of providing fair trials and use confessions obtained under torture as evidence in court; whereas authorities also restrict detainees’ access to legal counsel, particularly during the investigation period;

     

    1. whereas European-Iranian dual nationals continue to be arrested, receive unfair trials, are placed in solitary confinement and sentenced based on false and vague espionage charges;

     

    1. whereas Iran uses arbitrary detentions of dual and foreign nationals or residents as bargaining tools to put pressure on foreign Governments and in prisoner exchanges;

     

     

    1. Calls on Iran to immediately and unconditionally release Ahmadreza Djalali and all others imprisoned on false charges or for solely exercising their rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly and human rights activities;

     

    1. Expresses grave concern about the situation of Ahmadreza Djalali and all others unlawfully imprisoned in Iran; firmly calls on the Iranian authorities to ensure that the rights of prisoners are protected at all times, including access to proper medical care, family visits, and chosen legal representation; 

     

    1. Condemns Iran’s hostage diplomacy; calls on Iran to immediately and unconditionally release all detained EU and dual EU nationals; urges the EU and its Member States to develop a comprehensive strategy to counter hostage diplomacy, including with a dedicated task force on Iran to better assist detainees’ families and effectively prevent further hostage-taking;

     

    1. Firmly denounces the Iranian authorities’ weaponization of the death penalty as a tool of intimidation against the population, aimed at silencing dissent and disproportionately targeting women, political opponents, and persecuted ethnic and religious groups;

     

    1. Is deeply concerned by the increasing and systematic repression of ethnic and religious minorities, women and dissidents in Iran – that face arbitrary arrest and detention, unfair trials and lengthy imprisonment – through laws and regulations that severely restrict their freedoms and rights;

     

    1. Reiterates its call on the Council to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation, noting that the Düsseldorf Higher Regional Court’s ruling on the 2022 Bochum synagogue attack provides the necessary legal grounds;

     

    1. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Parliament and Government of Iran.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Key Issues in the European Council – State of play in June 2025 – 13-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This EPRS publication, ‘Key issues in the European Council’, seeks to provide an overview of the institution’s activities on major EU issues. It analyses nine broad policy areas, which have been identified as priorities in the European Council’s Strategic Agenda 2024-2029, outlining the main orientations defined by the European Council, the legal and political background, and the results of its involvement to date in each policy field. It is updated every half a year before the June and December regular meetings of EU Heads of State or Government.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Deal on new rules for European political parties and foundations

    Source: European Parliament

    On Tuesday, Parliament and Council negotiators agreed on revised rules for the statute and funding of European political parties and foundations.

    The new rules for European political parties and foundations will boost transparency, cut red tape, and equip them to fight foreign interference more effectively This way, they can keep contributing “to forming European political awareness and to expressing the will of citizens of the Union” while operating in an increasingly complex landscape.

    Preventing foreign interference and promoting transparency

    According to the agreed text, associated member parties and foundations from neighbouring or candidate countries will continue to participate in the work of their pan-European umbrella organisations, as this cooperation is key in promoting European values and maintaining cross-border dialogue. However, their votes can never be used to secure a majority and they cannot pay membership fees.

    To increase transparency, co-legislators agreed on a simplified due-diligence mechanism that obliges parties to collect full ID data for donors above €3 000. A common online repository managed by the Authority for European Political Parties and Foundations will publish real-time data on donations and contributions.

    Provisions for European values

    To be formally recognised and be granted funding, European political parties and foundations will have to submit a declaration that member parties or organisations from outside the EU subscribe to values aligning with Article 2 TEU. This will be reviewed if their membership changes. They also must adopt internal rules promoting gender balance, implement anti-harassment protocols, and produce annual reports on representation gaps.

    While maintaining the ban on the direct or indirect funding of national parties and candidates by European political parties and foundations, the new rules provide additional clarity on how European political parties can publicly support and engage with their member parties and organisations, including through joint activities, ending years of legal uncertainty for cross-border collaborations.

    Long-term financial stability for Europe’s cross-border political organisations

    The co-financing rate (i.e. the percentage of their budget that can be financed by the EU) has been harmonised at 95%, a five-point increase. Furthermore, self-generated resources (e.g. conference fees and publication sales) have been introduced as a new category of income, capped at 3% for parties and 5% for foundations, giving them some room to diversify revenues without jeopardising oversight.

    Cognisant of the challenges specific to European political foundations, the EU institutions have committed to revisit conditions related to their financing, on the earliest possible opportunity under applicable rules.

    Quotes

    “European political parties and foundations have for a long time faced uncertainty regarding collaboration on projects with their members. This agreement changes that. By formally introducing joint political activities into the regulation, we are giving parties and foundations the legal certainty and confidence to act together as truly European political families. At the same time, the regulation improves financial sustainability, reduces administrative burden, and strengthens safeguards against foreign interference. These are thoughtful, balanced reforms that will make democratic engagement atthe European level more effective” co-rapporteur Loránt VINCZE (EPP, RO) said.

    Co-rapporteur Charles GOERENS (Renew, LU) added: “After years of intense negotiations, I warmly welcome the conclusion of an agreement on the reform of the financing of European Political Parties and Foundations. While the result is not perfect and some key elements of the Parliament’s mandate — such as participation in national referenda and full voting rights for non-EU members — were not retained, the final text still represents meaningful progress. These proposals remain important for fostering a more democratic and inclusive European political space, both within and beyond the EU. Europe must move beyond timidity and embrace greater ambition in shaping its democratic future”.

    Next steps

    The provisional deal now needs formal endorsement by both Parliament and Council in order to enter into force. Most provisions are expected to start being applicable as of 1 January 2026.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – New EU economic security doctrine – 17-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    ISSUES AT STAKE • The EU’s 2023 economic security strategy has not proved sufficient to face an increasingly confrontational geopolitical environment. A key priority for the current European Commission is therefore to advance EU policy addressing potential harms coming from Europe’s global economic links, to boost resilience and reduce dependencies. • The next step is to adopt a new doctrine by the end of 2025, switching up a gear from risk identification to risk mitigation, and providing clarity on the strategic and coherent use of the many possible instruments already in the EU toolbox, including guidelines on how and when to deploy them in response to specific risks. The Commission is currently in the crucial phase of identifying gaps, deciding which tools to include, and whether new instruments are needed. • While the new doctrine will be non-legislative, it presents an important opportunity for the European Parliament to shape the debate and articulate its position at an early stage: once adopted by the Commission, the doctrine will link and guide many policies over which the Parliament has legislative powers.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Joint Russian-Belarusian military exercise ‘Zapad 2025’ – P-002423/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002423/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Liudas Mažylis (PPE)

    According to information from various countries’ defence authorities, a joint Russian-Belarusian military exercise ‘Zapad 2025’ is scheduled to take place this autumn. Previous ‘Zapad’ exercises were characterised by significant build-ups of military forces near NATO’s eastern borders, including direct simulations of attacks on the Baltic states and Poland. According to official sources, around 13 000 troops are expected to take part in ‘Zapad 2025’. However, experts and intelligence analysis suggest that the actual numbers could be significantly higher. In view of the current geopolitical situation, this year’s exercise could feature even more brazen provocations, including scenarios involving the use of tactical nuclear weapons and ‘accidental’ incursions by military forces into EU territory. At the same time, there is a risk that the exercise could be used as cover for an actual military escalation.

    Could the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.Is the Commission closely monitoring the situation and plans for the upcoming ‘Zapad 2025’ exercise?
    • 2.What preventive measures are planned to ensure the security of the EU’s external borders and reduce the risk of military incidents at the eastern border?
    • 3.How does the Commission intend to bolster the EU’s resilience to attacks against information systems stemming from the ‘Zapad 2025’ exercise, in particular in Eastern European countries, where the risk of exposure to disinformation is heightened?

    Submitted: 16.6.2025

    Last updated: 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – EU REFORM WITH A VIEW TO FUTURE ENLARGEMENT – TUESDAY, 24 JUNE 2025 10:00 – 12:30 – Committee on Constitutional Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    The AFCO committee and its counterpart committees in the national Parliaments of the EU Member States and Candidate Countries will hold an exchange of views on the internal groundwork and reforms necessary to make the EU fit for the future enlargement. The Interparliamentary Committee Meeting will take place in ROOM ANTALL 6Q2

    During this meeting, the rapporteur Mr Sandro Gozi (Renew) will present the draft of the AFCO own-initiative report on the ‘Institutional consequences of the EU enlargement negotiations’, which aims to convey Parliament’s key political messages on the possible ways to improve the functioning of the enlarged EU. This presentation will be followed by an in-depth exchange of views with national Parliaments.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – King Abdullah II of Jordan: “A shameful version of humanity is unfolding in Gaza”

    Source: European Parliament

    On Tuesday, the King of Jordan, His Majesty Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, addressed MEPs during a formal sitting in Strasbourg.

    Welcoming King Abdullah II of Jordan to the hemicycle, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said: “Jordan is not only a great friend to this Parliament but an important partner for the European Union. Europe is grateful to Jordan’s commitment to stability and peace in the Middle East. The European Parliament appreciates Jordan’s critical efforts in reducing regional tensions, in pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza and for the return of hostages whilst also facilitating so much urgently needed humanitarian aid, as well as for the unwavering support for Palestinian and Syrian refugees and a two-State solution as a path to lasting peace.”

    Referring to the array of conflicts taking place around the world, the King said that “our world feels untethered – like it has lost its moral gravity”.

    He reminded MEPs that it is precisely at these junctures of history that “we must recommit to our values (…) Because when the world loses its moral bearings, we lose our shared sense of right and wrong – of what is just, and what is cruel. And when that happens, conflict is never far behind”.

    “Today that world is in moral decline, he added, saying that “a shameful version of our humanity is unfolding before our eyes in real time (…) Nowhere is that clearer than in Gaza”.

    Talking about the Israeli attacks and raids in Gaza, the King asked MEPs: “How is it that what was considered an atrocity just 20 months ago is now so commonplace it barely registers? What version of our humanity allows the unthinkable to become routine? Permits weaponising famine against children? Normalises the targeting of health workers, journalists, and civilians seeking refuge in camps?”

    “We are at another crossroads in our history (…) This is not just about Gaza. And it is not just another political moment. It is a struggle over who we are as a global community, and who we will become.”

    Concluding his address, King Abdullah II said that “this year is likely to be a time of pivotal decisions for our entire world. Europe’s leadership will be vital in choosing the right course. And you can count on Jordan as your staunch partner.”

    The King outlined two essential areas for action: first, supporting development, because a thriving Middle East creates opportunities that benefit us all; second, strong, coordinated action to ensure global security.

    “Our mutual security won’t be assured until our global community acts, not only to end the three-year war in Ukraine, but also the world’s longest and most destructive flashpoint, the eight-decade-long Palestinian-Israeli conflict.”

    King Abdullah II added: “Palestinians, like all people, deserve the rights to freedom, sovereignty, and, yes, statehood (…) The path to peace has been walked before. It can be again, if we have the courage to choose it, and the will to walk it together.”

    You can watch the speech here (17.6.2025).

    Background

    This was King Abdullah II’s sixth plenary address to the European Parliament, following his previous speeches in 2002, 2007, 2012, 2015 and 2020.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Languages Bill passed

    Source: Scottish Government

    Growing Gaelic and Scots

    Plans to boost and encourage the use of Gaelic and Scots have been passed by the Scottish Parliament.

    The Scottish Languages Bill will enable parents to ask for a Gaelic school to be established in their area. Local authorities would then be required to assess if the request was practical and affordable. After taking advice, ministers could direct local authorities to proceed with the establishment a new Gaelic school if the authority’s assessment considers it to be viable. 

    Other measures include:

    • introducing educational standards for Gaelic and Scots
    • establishing Gaelic and Scots as official languages
    • supporting the creation of areas of linguistic significance in Gaelic communities so that ministers can better target policies to support the language’s growth
    • enabling parents in every part of Scotland to apply for Gaelic nursery and early years places for their children
    • ensuring that more qualifications are available in Gaelic
    • introducing targets on the number of people speaking and learning Gaelic

    Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic Kate Forbes said:

    “This legislation will introduce powers to accelerate the growth of Gaelic and Scots. It will establish them as official languages, introduce new educational standards and support the creation of areas of linguistic significance in Gaelic communities.

    “While there has been an encouraging increase in the number of Gaelic speakers across Scotland, we recognise that more support is needed in communities where the language is traditionally spoken.

    “That’s why the Scottish Government is providing an additional £5.7 million to promote Scotland’s languages. We are also working to drive growth in Gaelic communities so that more people who speak the language continue to live in those areas.” 

    Background.

    Census statistics show that 130,161 people in Scotland had some Gaelic skills in 2022, an increase of 43,105 from 2011. The census shows that 2,444,659 people in Scotland had some Scots skills in 2022, an increase of 515,215 from 2011.

    The latest version of the Scottish Languages Bill is available online.

    Chaidh aontachadh ri Bile nan Cànan Albannach

    A’ leasachadh Gàidhlig agus Albais

    Tha Pàrlamaid na h-Alba air aontachadh ri planaichean gus cleachdadh na Gàidhlig agus na h-Albais a mheudachadh agus a bhrosnachadh.

    Tro Bhile nan Cànan Albannach, faodaidh pàrantan iarraidh gun tèid sgoil Ghàidhlig a stèidheachadh anns na sgìrean aca. Dh’fheumadh ùghdarrasan ionadail measadh a dhèanamh an uair sin air so-dhèantachd agus reusantachd cosgaisean an iarrtais. Às dèidh dhaibh comhairle a ghabhail, dh’fhaodadh ministearan iarraidh air ùghdarrasan ionadail a dhol air adhart le stèidheachadh sgoil Ghàidhlig ùr, ma cho-dhùineas measadh an ùghdarrais gun gabh a dhèanamh. 

    Am measg cheumannan eile:

    • thèid bun-inbhean foghlaim a thoirt a-steach do Ghàidhlig agus do dh’Albais
    • thèid Gàidhlig agus Albais a stèidheachadh mar chànain oifigeil
    • thèid taic a chumail ri cruthachadh sgìrean cànain sònraichte ann an coimhearsnachdan Gàidhlig, airson ’s gum faod ministearan poileasaidhean a thaghadh nas fheàrr leis an gabh an cànan a leasachadh
    • faodaidh pàrantan ann an gach ceàrn na h-Alba tagradh a chur airson àitichean sgoil àraich agus tràth-ìre Gàidhlig fhaighinn dhan cuid chloinne
    • nithear cinnteach gu bheil barrachd theisteanasan rim faotainn ann an Gàidhlig
    • thèid targaidean a thoirt a-steach a thaobh àireamh nan daoine a tha a’ bruidhinn agus ag ionnsachadh na Gàidhlig

    Thuirt an Leas-Phrìomh Mhinistear agus Rùnaire a’ Chaibineit airson na h-Eaconamaidh agus na Gàidhlig, Ceit Fhoirbeis:

    “Bheir an reachdas seo cumhachdan a-steach gus fàs na Gàidhlig agus na h-Albais a luathachadh. Bidh e gan stèidheachadh mar chànain oifigeil, a’ toirt a-steach bun-inbhean foghlaim ùra agus a’ cumail taic ri cruthachadh sgìrean cànain sònraichte ann an coimhearsnachdan Gàidhlig.

    “Ged a thathar air àrdachadh brosnachail fhaicinn ann an àireamh luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig air feadh Alba, tha sinn mothachail gu bheil barrachd taic a dhìth ann an coimhearsnachdan dham buin an cànan gu traidiseanta.

    “Sin an t-adhbhar a tha Riaghaltas na h-Alba a’ toirt seachad £5.7 millean a bharrachd gus cànain na h-Alba a bhrosnachadh. Tha sinn cuideachd ag obair gus leasachaidhean a bhrosnachadh ann an coimhearsnachdan Gàidhlig, airson ’s gum bi barrachd dhaoine aig a bheil an cànan fhathast a’ fuireach anns na sgìrean sin.”

    Cùl-fhiosrachadh

    Tha àireamhan a’ chunntais-shluaigh a’ sealltainn gun robh beagan sgilean Gàidhlig aig 130,161 neach ann an Alba ann an 2022, àrdachadh de 43,105 neach bho 2011. Tha an cunntas-sluaigh a’ sealltainn gun robh beagan sgilean Albais aig 2,444,659 neach ann an Alba ann an 2022, àrdachadh de 515,215 neach bho 2011.

    Tha an dreachd as ùire de Bhile nan Cànan Albannach ri fhaotainn air loidhne.

    Scottish Languages Bill passed

    Forderin Gaelic and Scots

    Plans tae forder and uphaud the uise o Gaelic and Scots hae been passed by the Scots Pairliament.

    The Scottish Languages Bill will allou parents tae speir for a Gaelic schuil tae be set up whaur they bide. It wad then be necessar for local authorities tae luik intae gin the speirin wis practical and affordable. Efter takkin advice, ministers micht caw upon local authorities tae gang forrit wi the settin up o a new Gaelic schuil if the authority’s ettles shaw it tae be daeable.

    Ither meisures include:

    • bringin in educational staunards for Gaelic and Scots
    • settin forrit Gaelic and Scots as official leids
    • uphaudin the settin oot o areas o muckle linguistic mense in Gaelic communities sae that ministers can better ettle at policies tae uphaud the growin o the leid
    • allouin parents in ilka pairt o Scotland tae speir efter Gaelic nursery and early years places for their bairns
    • makkin siccar that mair qualifications can be taen in Gaelic
    • settin forrit targets on the nummer o fowk spikkin and lairnin Gaelic

    Depute First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic Kate Forbes said:

    “This legislation will set oot pouers tae forder forrit wi the growth o Gaelic and Scots. It will set them oot as official leids, bring in new educational staunards and uphaud the settin oot o areas o muckle linguistic mense in Gaelic communities.

    “For aw that there has been a hertenin increase in the nummer o Gaelic spikkers aw ower Scotland, we ken that mair uphaudin is necessar in communities whaur the leid is traditionally spikken.

    “Thon’s whit wey the Scots Government is pittin forrit an extra £5.7 million tae uphaud Scotland’s leids. We’re wirkin forby tae spur growth in Gaelic communities sae as mair fowk that spik the leid will haud forrit wi bidin in thon pairts.” 

    Backgrund.

    Census statistics report that 130,161 fowk in Scotland had some Gaelic skills in 2022, an increase o 43,105 fowk syne 2011. The census reports that 2,444,659 fowk in Scotland had some Scots skills in 2022, an increase o 515,215 syne 2011.

    The latest version o the Scottish Languages Bill is set furth online.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Eliminating the bureaucratic vortex in hospitals

    Since Alberta’s government announced plans to refocus the health care system in November 2023, a consistent message has emerged from patients, front-line health care workers and concerned Albertans alike about the flaws of the prior system. Alberta Health Services’ current zone-based leadership structure is overly complex and bureaucratic. It lacks the flexibility and responsiveness needed to effectively support facilities and staff – particularly when it comes to hiring, securing supplies and adopting necessary technologies.

    That’s why Alberta’s government is changing to a hospital-based leadership structure. On-site leadership teams will be responsible for hiring staff, managing resources and solving problems to effectively serve their patients and communities. Hospitals will now have the flexibility to respond, freedom to adapt and authority to act, so they can meet the needs of their facilities, patients and workforce in real time.

    “What works in Calgary or Edmonton isn’t always what works in Camrose or Peace River. That’s why we’re cutting through bureaucracy and putting real decision-making power back in the hands of local hospital leaders, so they can act fast, hire who they need and deliver better care for their communities.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “Hospital-based leadership ensures decisions on hiring, supplies and services are made efficiently by those closest to care – strengthening acute care, supporting staff and helping patients get the timely, high-quality care they need and deserve.”

    Matt Jones, Minister of Hospital and Surgical Health Services

    “By rethinking how decisions are made, we’re working to improve health care through a more balanced and practical approach. By removing delays and empowering our on-site leaders, we’re giving facilities the tools to respond to real-time needs and ultimately provide better care to Albertans.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services

    AHS’ health zones will be eliminated, and acute care sites will be integrated into the seven regional corridors. These sites will operate under a new leadership model that emphasizes site-level performance management. Clear expectations will be set by Acute Care Alberta, and site operations will be managed by AHS through a hospital-based management framework. All acute care sites will be required to report to Acute Care Alberta based on these defined performance standards.

    “Standing up Acute Care Alberta has allowed AHS to shift its focus to hospital-based services. This change will enable the local leadership teams at those hospitals to make site-based decisions in real and tangible ways that are best for their patients, families and staff. Acute Care Alberta will provide oversight and monitor site-level performance, and I’m confident overall hospital performance will improve when hospital leadership and staff have more authority to do what they know is best.”

    Dr. Chris Eagle, interim CEO, Acute Care Alberta

    “AHS is focused on reducing wait times and improving care for patients. By shifting to hospital-based leadership, we’re empowering hospital leaders to make real-time decisions based on what’s happening on the ground and respond to patient needs as they arise. It also means leaders can address issues we know have been frustrating, like hiring staff where they’re needed most and advancing hospital operations. This change enables front-line teams to act on ideas they see every day to improve care.”

    Andre Tremblay, interim president & CEO, Alberta Health Services

    The Ministry of Hospital and Surgical Health Services, Acute Care Alberta and Alberta Health Services will work collaboratively to design and establish the new leadership and management model with an interim model to be established by November 2025, followed by full implementation by summer 2026.

    Quick facts

    • Countries like the Netherlands and Norway, and parts of Australia have already made the shift to hospital-based leadership.
    • The interim hospital-based leadership model will be implemented at one site before being implemented provincewide.
    • Hospital-based leadership, once implemented, will apply only to AHS acute care facilities. Other acute care organizations will not be affected at the time of implementation.

    Related information

    • Hospital-based Leadership
    • Refocusing health care in Alberta

    Multimedia

    Related news

    • Ensuring a successfully refocused health system (Nov. 18, 2024)

    MIL OSI Canada News –