NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Phil Mnisi: Enhancing financial inclusion in Eswatini – challenges and opportunities

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    • Programme Director,

    • Dr. Alfred Hannig, CEO of the Alliance for Financial Inclusion,
    • Mr. Vusi Dlamini,PS Finance,
    • Ms. Felicia Dlamini-Kunene, CBE Deputy Governor,
    • Ms. Nomcebo Hadebe, Head of the AFI Africa Regional Office,
    • Ms.Sizakele Dlamini,CEO Eswatini Centre for Financial Inclusion,
    • Mr. Ncamiso Ntsalinthali, CEO FSRA,
    • Ms. Paula Ricaurte,Senior Manager in the CEO’ Office in Malaysia,
    • Mr. Mvuselelo Fakudze, Chairman of the Eswatini Bankers Association,
    • Director SME,
    • CEO SEDCO,
    • Representatives from the Central Bank, government, financial institutions, and development partners,
    • Distinguished Guests,
    • Ladies and gentlemen,Good afternoon to you all.

    It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this important symposium. I assure you that the time you have taken to be present today will not be in vain. I am extremely pleased to also extend a very warm welcome to Dr. Alfred Hannig and the AFI delegation.

    Your visit to Eswatini marks a significant milestone in our ongoing journey toward inclusive finance. It further demonstrates the importance of the deliberations that will be taking place today. We are honoured to host you, and we value the strong partnership between the Central Bank of Eswatiniand the AFI network. We thank you for your continued support.

    As you might all agree, financial inclusion is an essential element of every nation’s development agenda. However, it goes beyond being a developmental goal or policy enabler, it is a necessity. It is about economic empowerment, about resilience, and about ensuring that every citizen, particularly the most vulnerable, has access to tools that enable them to participate meaningfully in the economy. This is especially crucial in our current context, where the dual challenges of limited access and low usage offinancial services continue to persist.

    Over the last decade, Eswatini has made commendable progress in expanding access to financial services. Through the cooperation from the government, financial institutions, and our development partners-financial inclusion within the formal sector increased tremendously from 53% in 2011 to an impressive 87% in 2023.

    However, the recent findings of the 2023 Blended FinScope MSME(Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise)survey remind us that access alone is not enough. The reality that only 5% of MSMEs access credit from banks, and just 4% have any form of insurance coverage, points to deeper systemic issues that we must address collectively.

    Distinguished Guests, the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2023-2028 provides us with a framework to address these challenges. It focuses on developing financial capabilities through financial education, together with creating a healthy MSME sector that can demand and attract financial services, foster growth and create employment opportunities. Additionally, the strategy supports enabling economic participation of the more vulnerable sociodemographic segments of our population.

    The Strategy further prioritiseinterventions that enhance access to and usage of financial services in a way that meaningfully contributes to the intendedoutcomes of the Eswatini National Development Plan and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

    Today’s symposium is not just a conversation-it is a call to action. It is a platform to reflect on how the financial sector can do more to reach the last mile. It is an opportunity to reimagine how data, collaboration, and innovation can help us close the inclusion gap.

    Programme Director, let me highlight three key messages I hope will frame our discussions this afternoon:

    i.First, the financial sector must continue to evolve. From banks and microfinance institutions to fintech innovators, every player has a role to play in developing products and services that are responsive, affordable, and relevant to the needs of our people-especially our MSMEs, women, youth, and those in rural areas.

    ii.Second, data is a critical enabler. We need to invest in data collection, analytics, and reporting mechanisms that give us a deeper understanding of financial behaviours and barriers. Evidence-based policymaking must guide our interventions if we are to be impactful.

    iii.Third, collaboration is the cornerstone of progress. No single institution can achieve financial inclusion in isolation. We must foster partnerships across the financial ecosystem-public and private sector, regulators and innovators, local and international partners. The National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2023–2028 provides us with a solid framework to guide these efforts.

    In closing,Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to reiterate the Central Bank’s commitment to advancing financial inclusion in Eswatini. We remain fully engaged in the AFI network. We are determined to continue learning, sharing, and innovating-to create a more inclusive financial future for all Eswatini citizens.

    Thank you to the organizers and stakeholders here today for your commitment to this important cause. I look forward to the fruitful discussions ahead and the collective impact we will make. Let us work together to build a more inclusive financial system that benefits all our people, ensuring no one is left behind. I wish you all a productive and inspiring symposium.

    I Thank You ALL!

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 59: Sri Lanka Core Group statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s Annual Report

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 59: Sri Lanka Core Group statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s Annual Report

    Sri Lanka Core Group statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s Annual Report. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank you Mr President,  

    This statement is on behalf of the Sri Lanka Core Group comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and the United Kingdom.   

    High Commissioner,

    We are grateful for your office’s work on Sri Lanka.

    We welcome the holding of local elections in Sri Lanka in May and note the more peaceful approach taken this year towards events commemorating the loss of life at the end of the armed conflict in 2009.

    At the same time, we remain concerned by the Government’s limited progress in fulfilling its commitments on human rights, accountability, reconciliation, good governance and constitutional reform.

    We urge the Government to address longstanding impunity and to ensure that journalists, human rights defenders and civil society organisations can operate freely and safely. It is crucial that an inclusive and comprehensive reconciliation and accountability process has the confidence of affected communities.

    We are concerned with the continued application of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, despite the Government’s stated intention to abolish it.

    Furthermore, we urge the Government to address the many unresolved cases of enforced disappearance by reinvigorating the Office on Missing Persons.

    We reaffirm our willingness to work constructively with the Government on these issues.    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Reconstruction work has begun at the Pererva MCD-2 station

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The capital has begun a large-scale reconstruction of the Pererva station of the second Moscow Central Diameter (MCD-2). A modern and convenient station integrated into the urban environment will be created here. The work is being carried out by Russian Railways together with the Moscow Government team.

    “Currently, 4.1 thousand passengers use the station daily. Our goal is to bring the infrastructure to the uniform high standards of Moscow transport, to provide city residents with quality service along the entire travel route. A team of the best specialists is already working on this. We continue large-scale work on the comprehensive renovation of MCD stations on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

    Maxim Liksutov.

    Preparatory work has now begun on the territory of the Pererva station, including the organization of a construction camp and the reconstruction of utility lines.

    MCD stations are being modernized as part of the comprehensive development of the transport system and urban infrastructure. The reconstruction project of the Pererva MCD-2 station is aimed at creating a comfortable infrastructure that meets the high standards of Moscow transport, as well as improving the quality of the urban environment and transforming the territory around it.

    The station reconstruction project provides for a comprehensive upgrade of the passenger infrastructure. Two new pavilions with exits to Ilovaiskaya and Shosseynaya streets will be built here. A safe covered pedestrian crossing about 300 meters long will appear over the railway tracks, which will provide comfortable communication between the Maryino and Pechatniki districts in any weather.

    A significant change will be the replacement of the existing coastal platforms with one island platform equipped with a protective canopy along the entire length. The entrances and exits will be equipped with escalators, and elevators will be installed for people with limited mobility. Ticket offices, terminals and sanitary rooms will be located in the pavilions. After the completion of the work, the total area of the station will be 5.5 thousand square meters.

    Pererva station was opened in 1894. It was named after the village located here, known since the 16th century. Nearby is a motorcar depot of the same name, which is more than 87 years old. Here they inspect and repair the MCD electric rolling stock.

    Today, Pererva connects three districts – Maryino, Lyublino and Pechatniki, where more than half a million city residents live. Construction is actively developing around the station: new residential microdistricts and infrastructure are appearing. Since 2019, the number of city residents living nearby has grown by more than 30 thousand people.

    Sobyanin: Seven Moscow city railway stations will open in Moscow in 2025–2026Sobyanin: 140-meter pedestrian bridge connects two Tekstilshchiki metro stations

    When designing the Moscow city station Pererva MCD-2, the reserve capacity for many years to come was taken into account, taking into account the intensive development of the areas around it.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155361073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £1 million for towns and cities to clean up chewing gum stains

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Over £1 million for towns and cities to clean up chewing gum stains

    52 councils across the UK will receive funding to remove chewing gum stains and clean up our streets

    Chewing gum stains on pavement

    More than 50 councils across the UK will receive a share of £1.2 million to combat the scourge of chewing gum litter on the country’s high streets, thanks to grants handed out today (Tuesday 17 June) by the government and charity Keep Britain Tidy.   

    Residents in Glasgow, Fermanagh and Omagh, Bradford and Cardiff are set to benefit from the fourth round of funding from the Chewing Gum Taskforce, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change to deliver safer and cleaner streets.   

    Chewing gum creates an unsightly mess and incurs huge clean-up costs. Launched in 2021, the partnership between industry, government and funds from gum producers aims to curb anti-social littering and help local councils acquire cutting-edge cleaning equipment to boost street cleaning efforts.  

    Innovative plans will benefit from the latest round of grants. For instance, using the latest technology, Bradford Metropolitan District Council plans to deploy specialist steam cleaners, while Cheshire Council will hire new specialists to undertake intensive cleaning in areas with high public footfall.   

    This initiative not only enhances community pride by improving the cleanliness and appearance of local high streets but also supports regional growth by creating more inviting spaces for residents to visit. Cleaner streets contribute to safer environments and are essential in supporting hospitality businesses and restoring pride in our communities.

    Environment Minister Mary Creagh said:

    Chewing gum litter is a stain on our communities. These grants, funded by gum producers, will empower local councils to tackle this issue head-on, delivering cleaner streets for all.

    This government is committed to ending our throwaway society. That is why we have already banned single-use vapes, and announced a crackdown on waste crime.

    Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, Keep Britain Tidy’s chief executive, said:

    Chewing gum continues to be an unsightly form of litter in our public spaces – though thankfully the scheme is leading to significant reductions. People need to remember that disposing irresponsibly of their gum causes harm to our environment as it takes years to decompose naturally – and, ultimately, costs the public purse to clean it up.

    Naomi Jones, Corporate Affairs Director at Mars Wrigley UK and Ireland, said:

    We are delighted to continue supporting the Chewing Gum Task Force as it enters its fourth year and to see more local authorities join up as well as others returning, having seen the reductions in gum litter and create sustained change through changing behaviours. Chewing gum products are enjoyed around the UK by millions every year, and we want to keep encouraging responsible gum disposal as part of this.

    Hayley Osborne, Communications and Sustainability Manager at Perfetti Van Melle, said:

    We’re really pleased that the Chewing Gum Task Force grants have been able to make such a big impact over the past four years. Whilst the results of the clean-up are immediately obvious, it’s also important to note that the funding is used to educate gum users, nudging them into better habits. Last year the educational posters distributed delivered a 60% reduction in gum litter in just two months. This is fantastic, and we hope that with better education, we can all enjoy cleaner streets as well as our favourite gum.

    Today’s funding marks further momentum by the Chewing Gum Task Force, with the previous three rounds of funding awarding grants worth a total of £4.88 million to 122 councils.

    Last year alone, more than 3.4 million square metres of pavements were scrubbed free of chewing gum due to funding from the grant scheme.

    A full list of the councils receiving funding can be found online.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Big Meade’s big reveal — Shanklin’s new play park opens 17 June 2025 Big Meade’s big reveal — Shanklin’s new play park opens just in time for summer

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    There’s a new reason for little legs to get excited in Shanklin — a sparkling new play park has just swung into action at Big Meade!

    Officially opened today (Tuesday, 17 June), the new playground is the result of a joint effort between the Isle of Wight Council’s Public Realm Team and Shanklin Town Council.

    The centrepiece — a striking play tower — was funded by the Isle of Wight Council, while the ever-popular swings were made possible thanks to a contribution from Shanklin Town Council.

    Shanklin town mayor, Councillor Sara Sheath, said: “This is a fantastic example of how working together as a town council with the Isle of Wight Council can achieve such a positive outcome.

    “Big Meade has always been a special place for families, and this new play area will bring even more joy to local children and visitors alike.”

    Natasha Dix, service director for waste, environment and planning at the Isle of Wight Council, added: “We’re thrilled to see this project come to life.

    “It’s not just about play — it’s about creating safe, sustainable spaces where children can thrive. The use of recycled materials in the equipment reflects our commitment to a greener future.”

    Big Meade has long been a favourite with local families, known for its open green space, duck pond, and peaceful setting just a hop, skip and a jump from Shanklin Old Village. 

    The new playground marks a major upgrade, bringing modern play features to a much-loved community space.

    The previous play area had served generations of children, but the new equipment brings a fresh burst of energy to this much-loved community spot.

    The equipment was chosen not only for its fun factor but also for its green credentials. 

    Many of the materials used are recycled, helping to reduce the park’s environmental footprint while still delivering a top-notch play experience.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making pensions work for Britain – Pensions Investment Review

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    News story

    Making pensions work for Britain – Pensions Investment Review

    We worked closely with HM Treasury as it undertook the Pensions Investment Review, focussed on improving returns for Defined Contribution savers.

    Credit Shutterstock

    GAD’s expertise and insight has supported the government’s work in carrying out the Pensions Investment Review and consultation process.

    The Pensions Investment Review: Final Report and consultation responses was published on 29 May 2025.

    It focused on improving returns for Defined Contribution savers and unlocking investment potential within the LGPS in England and Wales.

    These reforms ensure better outcomes for savers and support the sustainability of the LGPS, as set out in the Pension Schemes Bill which was published on 5 June 2025.

    The report is published together with the responses to the 2 consultations:

    GAD’s support

    GAD provided advice and expertise during the preparation of the Pensions Investment Review report, and provided support through GAD actuary Scott Madden, who was on secondment to HM Treasury throughout the process.

    Working closely with policy colleagues, Scott provided strategic input and policy development, contributing public and private sector pensions expertise. As part of the Whitehall team, he played a pivotal role in extensive engagement with industry and cross-government policy stakeholders and supported a broad range of government functions – from the early stages of drafting legislation to preparing communications for ministerial announcements such as the Chancellor’s Mansion House address.

    Complex, fast-paced and high-profile

    Siobhan Amutharasan, Senior Policy Adviser, from HM Treasury commented: “The pensions investment review has been a complex, fast-paced and high-profile programme of work – timely, expert and insightful actuarial advice has been critical to its delivery.

    “GAD support, particularly through a secondee actuary in the team, has meant every stage of policy development benefitted from a range of perspectives, including those with experience of public and private sector pensions investment.

    “From technical drafting to strategic planning, to stakeholder engagement – support from GAD has brought specialist knowledge, challenge and creativity in support of our policy aims.”

    GAD Actuary Eva Grace was part of the project team and commented: “It has been a privilege to work with government policy officials, combining our pensions investment experience with their policy knowledge.

    “Officials would challenge us to understand how developments can lead to improved outcomes. Some of those challenges have been difficult, but that’s exactly where government can help create solutions. We’re pleased to now be talking with stakeholders and looking at how the impact of new policy can be measured.”

    AI technology as support

    As part of work to support the government policy team with the consultation process, GAD made use of AI technology as a supportive tool to supplement the detailed manual review and analysis of consultation responses carried out by officials. This allowed key themes in the approximately 500 responses received to be identified, aiding understanding and supporting the development of insight into the data.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The historic building on Bolshaya Sadovaya Street has been equipped with architectural and artistic lighting

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An architectural and artistic lighting has appeared on a historical building on Bolshaya Sadovaya Street. It was installed by specialists from the city services complex, said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing and Public Utilities and Improvement Petr Biryukov.

    “We developed a special concept for organizing the lighting of the building located at 14 Bolshaya Sadovaya Street, Building 6. It was built in 1854–1871 as part of the Komissarov Technical School with the St. Alexander Nevsky House Church. The main task was to emphasize the beauty and architectural features of the historical building,” noted Pyotr Biryukov.

    The building has 33 energy-efficient lighting fixtures. They appeared under the upper and interfloor cornices and at the window parapets, highlighting the protruding parts of the two-story building. In accordance with the approved concept of a single light and color environment, a warm or neutral shade of white and moderate brightness are used for architectural lighting.

    Moscow is among the three most illuminated cities in the world — Sergei SobyaninSobyanin: We are equipping another 30 capital buildings with architectural and artistic lighting

    Over the past 13 years, the level of illumination in the capital has doubled, and the number of buildings with architectural and artistic lighting has increased fourfold. In total, there are more than one million lamps in Moscow today, while energy consumption is reduced thanks to the use of energy-efficient LEDs.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155360073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Escalating insecurity forces MSF to close Ulang hospital in South Sudan

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    • After two violence incidents earlier this year, MSF has been forced to close our hospital in Ulang county, South Sudan, and end our support to 13 community-based health facilities.
    • This has left 150,000 people with less access to healthcare, in an area where MSF’s maternal services are a lifeline.
    • All parties to conflict in South Sudan must adhere to international humanitarian law, cease such indiscriminate attacks, and ensure the protection of medical facilities, health workers, and patients.

    People in remote areas of Upper Nile state in South Sudan are suffering from a lack of access to healthcare, since attacks on medical boats and armed looting in medical facilities since the beginning of the year have forced Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) to close our hospital and end our support to 13 community-based healthcare facilities in Ulang county. The closure of MSF’s hospital has left an area of more than 200km from the Ethiopian border to Malakal town without any functional specialised healthcare facility. MSF calls on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, cease such indiscriminate attacks, and ensure the protection of medical facilities, health workers, and patients.

    Since February 2025, South Sudan has experienced its worst spike in violence since the 2018 peace deal. Fighting between government forces and armed youth militias has escalated across multiple states, including Upper Nile, Jonglei, Unity, and Central Equatoria. This has led to mass displacement, widespread civilian casualties, and a total collapse of already fragile public services.

    Despite these closures, MSF remains dedicated to supporting the healthcare needs of displaced and vulnerable people in Ulang and Nasir counties. We have a mobile emergency team assessing needs who are prepared to provide short-term healthcare services wherever security conditions and access allow. MSF continues to provide healthcare services in our other projects in Upper Nile state, including in Malakal and Renk counties.

    An escalating trend of violence against healthcare

    In January 2025, MSF faced an attack by unidentified gunmen near Nasir, shooting at our boats as they returned from delivering medical supplies to Nasir County hospital. This attack forced us to suspend all outreach activities in Nasir and Ulang counties, which included medical referrals by boat along the Sobat River that allowed women to deliver their babies safely.

    Nyamer Kuok holds her newborn baby, Kech Bol, at the maternity ward of the MSF hospital in Ulang, Upper Nile state, South Sudan, October 2024.
    Nasir Ghafoor/MSF

    In April 2025, armed individuals forced their way into the hospital in Ulang where they threatened staff and patients and looted the hospital so extensively that MSF no longer had the necessary resources to continue operations safely and effectively.

    “They took everything: medical equipment, laptops, patients’ beds and mattresses from the wards, and approximately nine months’ worth of medical supplies, including two planeloads of surgical kits and drugs delivered just the week before. Whatever they could not carry, they destroyed,” says Zakaria Mwatia, MSF head of mission for South Sudan.

    Within a month, another MSF hospital was bombed in Old Fangak, a town in the neighbouring Jonglei state, leaving the facility completely non-functional. This is part of a worrying rise in attacks on healthcare facilities in South Sudan.

    Local communities depended on MSF for prenatal care

    “During my third pregnancy, I decided to come to the hospital well in advance before my delivery. I lost my two first children because I did not make it to the hospital on time,” says Nyapual Jok, a young mother from the outskirts of Ulang county.

    Nyapual had been transported to the hospital by one of MSF’s boat ambulances, since she lives in a remote village far away from Ulang hospital. Ulang, a vast flood-prone area, is characterised by spotted remote villages which often suffer severe mobility restrictions during the rainy seasons. MSF ran boat transportation services to ensure access to healthcare to mothers like Nyapual.

    “It’s very hard to access healthcare here. If we had a hospital closer during my previous deliveries, maybe my children would be alive today,” adds Nyapual.

    Nyapual shared her story in November 2024, only two months before the attack on the same boats which helped her deliver her baby safely.

    Facility closures create gaps that are difficult to fill

    The attacks’ effect of stopping medical referrals by boat has had fatal consequences for the people living in remote areas in the region. People in Ulang and Nasir counties had to wait for days, sometimes even weeks, to get a boat to take them to Ulang hospital. In desperate situations, they would walk for days through a muddy landscape – a land that is nearly impossible to cross on foot during rainy season. 

    “She was in labour when she suffered birth complications – she had to get to a hospital as soon as possible,” says Veronica Nyakuoth, an MSF midwife at the Ulang hospital, about a patient she attended to in the maternity ward. “Normally, MSF mobile teams would have been able to pick her up by boat, but since that service was cut off, instead she had to wait two days for a private boat to take her. When she finally made it to Ulang hospital, it was too late: the team could not find a heartbeat from the twins she was carrying in her womb.”

    150,000 people cut off from care

    With the closure of the hospital and the withdrawal of support to the decentralised facilities including transportation of patients, more than 150,000 people will now face even more difficulties accessing healthcare in Ulang county and more might face the tragic fate that Veronica’s patient had to suffer. Over 800 patients with chronic illnesses such as HIV, tuberculosis, and others have lost access to treatment due to the closure of MSF services in the area.

    Nyapual Jok, a young mother from the outskirts of Ulang county We need a hospital nearby that can help mothers and children. Without it, many will suffer and lose their lives.

    Nyapual Jok has her consultation with Veronica Nyakuoth, MSF midwife supervisor, at the MSF hospital in Ulang, Upper Nile state, South Sudan, October 2024.

    “We need a hospital nearby that can help mothers and children. Without it, many will suffer and lose their lives,” says Nyapual.

    MSF in Ulang

    Since 2018, MSF had been providing vital health services in Ulang including trauma, maternal and paediatric care. The teams also supported 13 facilities to offer essential healthcare services. Over the past seven years, MSF teams carried out more than 139,730 outpatient consultations, admitted 19,350 patients, treated 32,966 cases of malaria, and assisted 2,685 deliveries, among other essential services. During this time, MSF also provided support to Nasir County hospital and responded to multiple emergencies and disease outbreaks.

    Nyapual’s story, along with those of many others, serves as a stark reminder that healthcare is a fundamental right and should never be a target. The consequences of attacks to healthcare are more than the damage to a building; it’s the loss of hope, safety, and the chance for a healthier future. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with the Bishops of the Italian Episcopal Conference

    Source: The Holy See

    This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience the bishops of the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI).
    The following is the address delivered by the Pope to those present during the meeting:

    Address of the Holy Father
    Dear brothers and sisters,
    I am truly very pleased to meet you. This Hall, which is between the Basilica and the Square, is filled with the emotions that accompanied recent events. Indeed, the Pope must cross it in order to look out from the central Loggia. Beloved Pope Francis did so for his last Easter Urbi et Orbi Message, which was his extreme, intense appeal for peace for all peoples. And I too, on the evening of the election, wanted to echo the announcement of the Risen Lord: “Peace be with you!” (cf. Lk 24:3; Jn 20:19).
    I thank you for your prayer and for that of your communities: I am in great need of them! I am grateful, in particular, to Cardinal Zuppi, also for the words he addressed to me. I greet the three Vice Presidents, the Secretary General, and every one of you. The history of the Church in Italy shows the particular bond that unites you to the Pope and that – according to the Statutes of the Italian Episcopal Conference – “qualifies in a special way the communion of the Conference with the Roman Pontiff” (Art. 4 § 2). Following the example of my predecessors, I too am aware of the relevance of this “common and particular” relationship, as it was defined by Saint Paul VI, speaking at the first General Assembly of the Italian Episcopal Conference (cf. Address, 23 June 1966).
    In exercising my ministry together with you, dear brothers, I would like to be inspired by the principles of collegiality, which were elaborated by Vatican Council II; in particular, the Decree Christus Dominus, which emphasizes that the Lord Jesus constituted the Apostles in the manner of a college or stable class, of which he placed Peter, chosen from among them (cf. n. 19). It is in this way that you are called to live out your ministry: collegiality among yourselves and collegiality with the successor of Peter.
    This principle of communion is also reflected in a healthy cooperation with the civil authorities. The Italian Episcopal Conference is indeed a space for discussion and the synthesis of the bishops’ thought regarding issues most relevant for the common good. Where necessary, it guides and coordinates the relations between the individual bishops and the regional episcopal Conferences with such authorities at the local level.
    Pope Benedict XVI, in 2006, described the Church in Italy as “a lively reality … which conserves a capillary presence in the midst of people of every age and level” and where “Christian traditions often continue to be rooted and to produce fruit” (Address to participants in the Fourth National Ecclesial Convention, 19 October 2006). Nevertheless, the Christian Community in this country has been facing new challenges for some time, linked to secularism, a certain disaffection with the faith, and the demographic crisis. In this context, Pope Francis observed, “It takes boldness to avoid getting used to situations that are so deeply rooted as to seem normal or insurmountable. Prophecy”, he says, “does not exact wrenches but courageous choices, proper for a true ecclesial community: they lead us to allow ourselves to be ‘troubled’ by events and persons and to enter into human situations, animated by the healing spirit of the Beatitudes” (Address at the opening of the 70th General Assembly of the Italian Episcopal Conference, 22 May 2017).
    By virtue of the special bond between the Pope and the Italian bishops, I would like to indicate some pastoral concerns that the Lord places in our path and which require reflection, concrete action and evangelical witness.
    First of all, there is a need for renewed zeal in the proclamation and transmission of faith. It is a question of placing Jesus Christ at the centre and, following the path indicated by Evangelii gaudium, helping people to live out a personal relationship with Him, to discover the joy of the Gospel. In a time of great fragmentation, it is necessary to return to the foundation of our faith, to the kerygma. This is the first major commitment that motivates all the others: to bring Christ “into the veins” of humanity (cf. Apostolic Constitution Humanae salutis, 3), renewing and sharing the apostolic mission: “What we have seen and heard, we proclaim now to you” (1 Jn 1:3). And it is a question of discerning the ways in which the Good News can be made to reach everyone, with pastoral actions capable of intercepting those who are most distant, and with tools suitable for the renewal of catechesis and the languages of proclamation.
    The relationship with Christ calls on us to develop a pastoral focus on the theme of peace. Indeed, the Lord sends us into the world to bring his same gift: “Peace be with you!”, and to become its creators in everyday life. I am thinking of parishes, neighbourhoods, areas within the country, the urban and existential peripheries. There, where human and social relationships become difficult and conflict takes shape, perhaps subtly, a Church capable of reconciliation must make herself visible. The apostle Paul urges us, “If possible, on your part, live at peace with all” (Rm 12:18); it is an invitation that entrusts a tangible portion of responsibility to every person. I hope, then, that every diocese may promote pathways of education in non-violence, mediation initiatives in local conflicts, and welcoming projects that transform fear of the other into an opportunity for encounter. May every community become a “house of peace”, where one learns how to defuse hostility through dialogue, where justice is practiced and forgiveness is cherished. Peace is not a spiritual utopia: it is a humble path, made up of daily gestures that interweave patience and courage, listening and action, and which demands today, more than ever, our vigilant and generative presence.
    Then there are the challenges that call into question respect for the dignity of the human person. Artificial intelligence, biotechnologies, data economy and social media are profoundly transforming our perception and our experience of life. In this scenario, human dignity risks becoming diminished or forgotten, substituted by functions, automatism, simulations. But the person is not a system of algorithms: he or she is a creature, relationship, mystery. Allow me, then, to express a wish: that the journey of the Churches in Italy may include, in real symbiosis with the centrality of Jesus, the anthropological vision as an essential tool of pastoral discernment. Without lively reflection on the human being – in its corporeality, its vulnerability, its thirst for the infinite and capacity for bonding – ethics is reduced to a code and faith risks becoming disembodied.
    I particularly recommend cultivating a culture of dialogue. It is good for all ecclesial realities – parishes, associations and movements – to be spaces of intergenerational listening, of comparison with different worlds, of caring about words and relationships. Because only where there is listening can communion be born, and only where there is communion does truth become credible. I encourage you to continue on this path!
    The proclamation of the Gospel, peace, human dignity, dialogue: these are the coordinates through which you can be a Church that incarnates the Gospel and is a sign of the Kingdom of God.
    In conclusion, I would like to leave you with some exhortations for the near future. In the first place: go forward in unity, thinking especially of the synodal path. The Lord, Saint Augustine writes that the Lord, in order to keep his body well-composed and in peace, exhorts the Church, through the Apostle Paul: The eye cannot say to the hand, I do not need you, nor again the head to the feet, I do not need you. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? Stay united and do not defend yourselves against the provocations of the Spirit. Synodality becomes a mindset, in the heart, in decision-making processes and in ways of acting.
    Secondly, look to tomorrow with serenity, and do not be afraid to make courageous choices! No-one can prevent you from being close to the people, sharing life, walking with the last, serving the poor. No-one can prevent you from proclaiming the Gospel, and it is the Gospel that we are invited to bring, because it is this that everyone, ourselves first, need in order to live well and to be happy.
    Take care that the lay faithful, nourished with the Word of God and formed in the social doctrine of the Church, are agents of evangelization in the workplace, in schools, in hospitals, in social and cultural environments, in the economy, and in politics.
    Dear friends, let us walk together, with joy in our heart and song on our lips. God is greater than our mediocrity: let us allow ourselves to be drawn to Him! Let us trust in his providence. I entrust you all to the protection of Mary Most Holy: Our Lady of Loreto, of Pompeii and of the countless shrines to be found throughout Italy. And I accompany you with my blessing. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with the Bishops of the Italian Episcopal Conference

    Source: The Holy See

    This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience the bishops of the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI).
    The following is the address delivered by the Pope to those present during the meeting:

    Address of the Holy Father
    Dear brothers and sisters,
    I am truly very pleased to meet you. This Hall, which is between the Basilica and the Square, is filled with the emotions that accompanied recent events. Indeed, the Pope must cross it in order to look out from the central Loggia. Beloved Pope Francis did so for his last Easter Urbi et Orbi Message, which was his extreme, intense appeal for peace for all peoples. And I too, on the evening of the election, wanted to echo the announcement of the Risen Lord: “Peace be with you!” (cf. Lk 24:3; Jn 20:19).
    I thank you for your prayer and for that of your communities: I am in great need of them! I am grateful, in particular, to Cardinal Zuppi, also for the words he addressed to me. I greet the three Vice Presidents, the Secretary General, and every one of you. The history of the Church in Italy shows the particular bond that unites you to the Pope and that – according to the Statutes of the Italian Episcopal Conference – “qualifies in a special way the communion of the Conference with the Roman Pontiff” (Art. 4 § 2). Following the example of my predecessors, I too am aware of the relevance of this “common and particular” relationship, as it was defined by Saint Paul VI, speaking at the first General Assembly of the Italian Episcopal Conference (cf. Address, 23 June 1966).
    In exercising my ministry together with you, dear brothers, I would like to be inspired by the principles of collegiality, which were elaborated by Vatican Council II; in particular, the Decree Christus Dominus, which emphasizes that the Lord Jesus constituted the Apostles in the manner of a college or stable class, of which he placed Peter, chosen from among them (cf. n. 19). It is in this way that you are called to live out your ministry: collegiality among yourselves and collegiality with the successor of Peter.
    This principle of communion is also reflected in a healthy cooperation with the civil authorities. The Italian Episcopal Conference is indeed a space for discussion and the synthesis of the bishops’ thought regarding issues most relevant for the common good. Where necessary, it guides and coordinates the relations between the individual bishops and the regional episcopal Conferences with such authorities at the local level.
    Pope Benedict XVI, in 2006, described the Church in Italy as “a lively reality … which conserves a capillary presence in the midst of people of every age and level” and where “Christian traditions often continue to be rooted and to produce fruit” (Address to participants in the Fourth National Ecclesial Convention, 19 October 2006). Nevertheless, the Christian Community in this country has been facing new challenges for some time, linked to secularism, a certain disaffection with the faith, and the demographic crisis. In this context, Pope Francis observed, “It takes boldness to avoid getting used to situations that are so deeply rooted as to seem normal or insurmountable. Prophecy”, he says, “does not exact wrenches but courageous choices, proper for a true ecclesial community: they lead us to allow ourselves to be ‘troubled’ by events and persons and to enter into human situations, animated by the healing spirit of the Beatitudes” (Address at the opening of the 70th General Assembly of the Italian Episcopal Conference, 22 May 2017).
    By virtue of the special bond between the Pope and the Italian bishops, I would like to indicate some pastoral concerns that the Lord places in our path and which require reflection, concrete action and evangelical witness.
    First of all, there is a need for renewed zeal in the proclamation and transmission of faith. It is a question of placing Jesus Christ at the centre and, following the path indicated by Evangelii gaudium, helping people to live out a personal relationship with Him, to discover the joy of the Gospel. In a time of great fragmentation, it is necessary to return to the foundation of our faith, to the kerygma. This is the first major commitment that motivates all the others: to bring Christ “into the veins” of humanity (cf. Apostolic Constitution Humanae salutis, 3), renewing and sharing the apostolic mission: “What we have seen and heard, we proclaim now to you” (1 Jn 1:3). And it is a question of discerning the ways in which the Good News can be made to reach everyone, with pastoral actions capable of intercepting those who are most distant, and with tools suitable for the renewal of catechesis and the languages of proclamation.
    The relationship with Christ calls on us to develop a pastoral focus on the theme of peace. Indeed, the Lord sends us into the world to bring his same gift: “Peace be with you!”, and to become its creators in everyday life. I am thinking of parishes, neighbourhoods, areas within the country, the urban and existential peripheries. There, where human and social relationships become difficult and conflict takes shape, perhaps subtly, a Church capable of reconciliation must make herself visible. The apostle Paul urges us, “If possible, on your part, live at peace with all” (Rm 12:18); it is an invitation that entrusts a tangible portion of responsibility to every person. I hope, then, that every diocese may promote pathways of education in non-violence, mediation initiatives in local conflicts, and welcoming projects that transform fear of the other into an opportunity for encounter. May every community become a “house of peace”, where one learns how to defuse hostility through dialogue, where justice is practiced and forgiveness is cherished. Peace is not a spiritual utopia: it is a humble path, made up of daily gestures that interweave patience and courage, listening and action, and which demands today, more than ever, our vigilant and generative presence.
    Then there are the challenges that call into question respect for the dignity of the human person. Artificial intelligence, biotechnologies, data economy and social media are profoundly transforming our perception and our experience of life. In this scenario, human dignity risks becoming diminished or forgotten, substituted by functions, automatism, simulations. But the person is not a system of algorithms: he or she is a creature, relationship, mystery. Allow me, then, to express a wish: that the journey of the Churches in Italy may include, in real symbiosis with the centrality of Jesus, the anthropological vision as an essential tool of pastoral discernment. Without lively reflection on the human being – in its corporeality, its vulnerability, its thirst for the infinite and capacity for bonding – ethics is reduced to a code and faith risks becoming disembodied.
    I particularly recommend cultivating a culture of dialogue. It is good for all ecclesial realities – parishes, associations and movements – to be spaces of intergenerational listening, of comparison with different worlds, of caring about words and relationships. Because only where there is listening can communion be born, and only where there is communion does truth become credible. I encourage you to continue on this path!
    The proclamation of the Gospel, peace, human dignity, dialogue: these are the coordinates through which you can be a Church that incarnates the Gospel and is a sign of the Kingdom of God.
    In conclusion, I would like to leave you with some exhortations for the near future. In the first place: go forward in unity, thinking especially of the synodal path. The Lord, Saint Augustine writes that the Lord, in order to keep his body well-composed and in peace, exhorts the Church, through the Apostle Paul: The eye cannot say to the hand, I do not need you, nor again the head to the feet, I do not need you. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? Stay united and do not defend yourselves against the provocations of the Spirit. Synodality becomes a mindset, in the heart, in decision-making processes and in ways of acting.
    Secondly, look to tomorrow with serenity, and do not be afraid to make courageous choices! No-one can prevent you from being close to the people, sharing life, walking with the last, serving the poor. No-one can prevent you from proclaiming the Gospel, and it is the Gospel that we are invited to bring, because it is this that everyone, ourselves first, need in order to live well and to be happy.
    Take care that the lay faithful, nourished with the Word of God and formed in the social doctrine of the Church, are agents of evangelization in the workplace, in schools, in hospitals, in social and cultural environments, in the economy, and in politics.
    Dear friends, let us walk together, with joy in our heart and song on our lips. God is greater than our mediocrity: let us allow ourselves to be drawn to Him! Let us trust in his providence. I entrust you all to the protection of Mary Most Holy: Our Lady of Loreto, of Pompeii and of the countless shrines to be found throughout Italy. And I accompany you with my blessing. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister Hlabisa to visit communities affected by storm in Impendle

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, is set to visit the Impendle Local Municipality after the area was severely affected by recent strong winds.

    According to the department, the visit, scheduled for Tuesday, is in response to the intense weather conditions that have caused widespread damage and hardship for more than 100 families in the municipality, with Wards 1 and 5 being particularly hard hit by the storms. 

    The Minister will be accompanied by the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thamsanqa Ntuli. 

    “The Premier and Minister will conduct on-site assessments, engage with affected residents, and ensure that urgent relief measures are being implemented,” the department said in a statement. 

    This joint visit underscores government’s commitment at both provincial and national levels to respond swiftly and effectively to natural disasters and support vulnerable communities through recovery and rebuilding efforts. 

    On Friday last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa visited Mthatha in the Eastern Cape to offer support and assess the damage following the recent floods that killed about 90 people.

    The floods have caused widespread destruction to homes, government facilities, roads, hospitals, and schools, highlighting the urgent need to tackle climate change. 

    President Ramaphosa highlighted that this is becoming a new reality for South Africa, with both Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal experiencing recurring annual disasters.

    “The Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal are now prone to continuous annual disasters that are causing a lot of pain and suffering amongst our people, where a number of people are dying,” he said then. 

    Government officials pledged continued support to the affected communities, promising to assist families in their time of grief.

    President Ramaphosa also took the time to extend his condolences to the people of KwaZulu-Natal, who are facing significant challenges due to climate change. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Social Development leads relief efforts in flood-stricken OR Tambo District

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has visited the OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape as part of coordinated efforts by government to offer psychosocial support and social relief packages to the communities adversely affected by the recent floods. 

    The Minister was joined by Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta and Speaker of the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality, Nomamfengu Siyo-Sokutu. 

    During the visit, both the Minister and the MEC extended heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured and currently recovering in hospitals and places of safety.

    “SASSA [South African Social Security Agency] and Home Affairs are working very closely to ensure that death certificates are released, so that the agency can assist the families that will not be able to lay to rest their loved ones with financial assistance,” the department said in a statement on Monday. 

    The principals were accompanied by the National Director-General Peter Netshipale, SASSA CEO Themba Matlou, Acting CEO of National Development Agency (NDA) Thabani Buthelezi, SASSA Eastern Cape Regional Manager Bandile Maqetuka, and NDA Provincial Manager, Nokulunga Skeyi. 

    Following the events of the past week, where approximately 90 people lost their lives and thousands displaced, the social development sector with its partners dispatched its personnel to provide assistance to the affected people. 

    SASSA, through its Social Relief of Distress (SRD) programme, has acted swiftly to assist families whose homes were severely affected during the floods. To this end, SASSA has been active on three established sites, where people are served with three nutritious meals a day, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to immediate food security.

    In anticipation of the transition phase, SASSA has developed a disengagement plan aimed at equipping beneficiaries with basic resources to support reintegration and restore a sense of stability. This includes the provision of urgent packs to restore the dignity of the families who have lost everything they had. 

    The department explained that the activation of the Disaster Management Act has enabled SASSA and its partners like the Gift of the Givers and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, to provide urgent needed services to the displaced communities. 

    “The work of the agency has been supervised by the Internal Audit Committee to allow proper accountability at the end of the intervention to avoid and protect the resources of government,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Tax Collection Statistics, 2024-25

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Accredited Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.

    Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released the latest Council Tax Collection Statistics which provides Council Tax collection figures for Scottish local authorities, up to and including the financial year 2024-25.

    In 2024-25 for Scotland as a whole, the total amount of Council Tax billed (after Council Tax Reduction) was £3.077 billion. Of this total, £2.938 billion, or 95.5 per cent, was collected by 31 March 2025. This provisional in-year collection rate is the same as the figure for the previous year.

    Between 1999-00 and 2024-25, the overall total amount of Council Tax billed in Scotland was £54.034 billion, of which £52.531 billion, or 97.2 per cent, was collected by 31 March 2025.   

    Provisional in-year Council Tax collection rates for 2024-25 ranged from 89.5 per cent to 98.2 per cent across the 32 local authorities. In-year collection rates have exceeded 95 per cent over the past decade, except in 2020-21 during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Background

    The full statistical publication is available at: Council Tax Collection Statistics, 2024-25. This publication contains figures on Council Tax, covering the financial years 1999-00 to 2024-25.

    The information published is used by Scottish Government to monitor council’s collection levels relating to council tax. Information is collected relating to the amounts billed and received and the year to which the payment refers.  This information is also required by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for national accounts purposes, and by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA).

    The next annual publication for financial year 2025-26 will be published in June 2026.  

    Further information on Council Tax Collection statistics, including previous publications can be accessed on the Scottish Government’s Local Government Finance statistics pages. 

    Official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff – more information on the standards of official statistics in Scotland can be accessed at: About our statistics – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building positive relationships in schools

    Source: Scottish Government

    Guidance on behaviour and consequences published.

    New guidance setting out a range of approaches for schools to consider when responding to behaviour has been published.

    Developed with input from headteachers, teaching unions, local government and educational psychologists, the guidance promotes building positive relationships and behaviour across the whole school community. It focuses on improving outcomes by reinforcing positive behaviour and working to reduce the likelihood of negative behaviour occurring in future.

    Various approaches are available to schools, ranging from classroom management approaches, to support strategies and the use of exclusion as a last resort.

    The guidance has been developed in collaboration with the Scottish Advisory Group on Relationships and Behaviour in Schools (SAGRABIS), which is jointly chaired with COSLA, to reflect that it is local government who have the responsibility for delivering education in Scotland.

    During a visit to St Brendan’s Primary School in Motherwell, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth met with teachers and parents to understand the importance of building positive relationships within schools.

    Ms Gilruth said:

    The majority of children and young people behave well in school, but where someone needs support with their behaviour, it is important that schools can respond in ways that are appropriate, supportive and respond to the needs of each individual child. Evidence clearly shows young people need structure and boundaries to support their development and having predictable consequences helps them to feel safe.

    “Responding to behaviour in our schools requires all members of the school community – staff, children and young people and parents and carers – to work together to identify the values that underpin school life, how this translates into expectations of behaviour, and to support appropriate responses. We want to create a strong partnership between home and school to help create a consistent, supportive environment where children feel safe, respected, and are better able to learn and thrive. 

    “This guidance takes account of the concerns about behaviour I have heard from teachers, support staff and teaching unions, and will be an important tool in ensuring that they are properly supported in our schools.”

    Maura Oates, headteacher at St Brendan’s Primary school said:

    “Here in St. Brendan’s Primary we consistently work hard to ensure the care and wellbeing needs of children and their families are met with warmth, care and consideration. We feel that this results in a calm, relaxed and nurturing environment where children are respectful, supportive and kind to each other.”

    “Our values are evident across the school as we are committed to ensuring very high standards for all children. We consulted all children, parents and staff when creating our vision, values and aims. Our aims reflect Gospel values and the UNCRC. These shared values are evident across the school and are developed across the curriculum. We have a very good understanding of the socio-economic context of the school and its place within the community.”

    Background

    This is the latest commitment to be delivered through the joint Relationships and Behaviour in schools action plan with COSLA.

    Guidance is clear that exclusion should only be used as a last resort, where proportionate and there is no appropriate alternative.

    Guidance on risk assessments will support schools to consider how they manage the risk of harm occurring, or a pattern of behaviour that causes, or is likely to cause, harm to self or others.

    Guidance on fostering positive, inclusive and safe school environments.

    Risk assessment guidance for violent, aggressive and dangerous behaviour.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scrapping the two child limit to help end child poverty

    Source: Scottish Government

    Shirley-Anne Somerville announces start date for key policy.

    The Scottish Government will effectively scrap the impact of the two-child limit from 2nd March 2026, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has confirmed.

    On a visit to Busy Bees Bellfield parent and toddler group in Portobello, Ms Somerville said the introduction of the Two Child Limit Payment will mean 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27, according to Scottish Government modelling.

    Speaking ahead of a statement to parliament on the publication of the annual report on Best Start, Bright Futures, the Scottish Government’s child poverty strategy, Ms Somerville said:

    “The Scottish Government has consistently called on the UK Government to end the two-child cap. Reports suggest that they are looking at the impact it is having. But the evidence is clear and families and Scotland can’t wait any longer for the UK Government to make up its mind to do the right thing and scrap the cap once and for all.

    “The Two Child Limit Payment will begin accepting applications in March next year. At less than 15 months from when we announced this in the Scottish budget, this will be the fastest that a Scottish social security benefit has been delivered.

    “This builds upon the considerable action we have taken in Scotland, including delivering unparalleled financial support through our Scottish Child Payment, investing to clear school meal debts, and continuing to support almost 10,000 children by mitigating the UK Government’s Benefit Cap as fully as possible.

    “However, austerity decisions taken by the UK Government are holding back Scotland’s progress. Modelling published in March makes clear that if the UK Government act decisively on child poverty, they could help to take an estimated 100,000 children out of poverty this year.”

    Background:

    • On average, households with children in the poorest 10% of households are, this year, estimated to be £2,600 a year better off because of Scottish Government policies. This is projected to grow to an average of £3,700 a year by 2029-30. Child poverty modelling: update – gov.scot
    • Scrapping the Two Child Limit will help keep thousands of children out of poverty and reduce the depth of poverty faced for many more. The Scottish Government’s own modelling suggests 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27 once this payment is introduced and the Scottish Fiscal Commission estimates that overall around 43,000 children in Scotland will benefit from mitigation of the two-child limit in 2026-27.
    • The Scottish Fiscal Commission has estimated the cost of the Two Child Limit Payment to be £155 million in the  financial year 2026-2027.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK rises to third on competitiveness

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Hong Kong’s global competitiveness has risen by two places to third globally, after improving by two places to fifth last year, in the World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) 2025, published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD).

    The ranking marks Hong Kong’s return to the global top three for the first time since 2019.

    WCY 2025 finds that Hong Kong’s competitiveness has improved significantly. The city’s total competitiveness score of 99.2 out of 100 represents an increase of 7.7 points, the largest increase among the top 10 economies.

    In terms of yearbook’s four competitiveness factors, Hong Kong rose to second globally on government efficiency and business efficiency. Its rankings on economic performance and infrastructure also improved to sixth and seventh, respectively.

    With regard to competitiveness sub-factors, Hong Kong tops the rankings on tax policy and business legislation, ranks second globally in international investment, education and finance, and third globally in international trade and management practices.

    Ahead of this morning’s Executive Council meeting, Chief Executive John Lee said Hong Kong’s scores, both in overall terms and in many specific areas, have improved, showing that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s policy course is the right one, with various policies already yielding clear results.

    Highlighting that the city ranks second globally on government efficiency, he said this reflects the inherent excellence and competence of the city’s civil servants, and indicates that policies designed to make the Government more result-oriented are bearing fruit.

    In addition, noting that Hong Kong ranks second globally on business efficiency, Mr Lee said this reflects business leaders’ positive views of Hong Kong’s competitiveness and of its strengths, including the rule of law, a simple tax system and low tax rates, and the free flow of capital, information, goods and talent.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Long awaited judicial review begins in Gogrial East, with support from United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)


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    Women and men in chains approach an improvised justice bench next to the main prison in Lietnhom, the county headquarters of Gogrial East, Warrap. Exhaustion is writ large on their faces. These prisoners have waited a long time for their time in court. Many of them don’t even know why they have been detained.

    “I really don’t know my offense. I don’t know my crime. I was taken from the court side, placed in a container and suddenly I ended up in prison,” one of them shares.

    Another case involves a young woman who found herself imprisoned on charges of adultery—a charge often misused against women—after a tragic incident involving her stepfather and deceased daughter.

    These anecdotes are a stark reminder that in South Sudan, access to justice cannot be taken for granted.

    In Lietnhom, with no resident judge for some five years, customary courts, typically limited to civil disputes, have been handling criminal cases beyond their jurisdiction. This resulted in unjust imprisonment, inadequate judicial procedures, and significant distress for inmates, particularly women and young girls.

    However, this week, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), through its Rule of Law section brought much-needed hope to communities living here by facilitating a two-week case review in collaboration with a judge, public prosecutor and defender sent by the Kuajok High Court to facilitate appropriate court hearings.

    “This judicial vacuum must be addressed immediately,” Judge George Michael explained, while beginning to review cases that had gone unheard for months or even years.

    On the first day, a woman detained for refusing a forced marriage burst into tears as her release was announced. “Today I finally feel my opinion matters,” she said. Her relief was palpable.

    Another compelling moment was when the judge addressed the court while reviewing the case of a teenage girl jailed for choosing a different religion. “We fought for our independence from Sudan to uphold our freedom of beliefs and rights. How can we imprison our own children for exercising these same freedoms?” he questioned.

    Within two days, substantial progress was made. “We found that many people were imprisoned without proper documentation or sufficient evidence,” noted Deng Kuol, the prison director.

    Out of 77 cases reviewed, 41 individuals were immediately freed, significantly reducing prison overcrowding and arbitrary detention. Only nine inmates remained for further legal proceedings.

    “Seeing wrongfully incarcerated people walk free with happiness is one of the most rewarding parts of our work,” smiles Lena Ellen Becker, a Justice Advisor with the UN Peacekeeping mission.

    “Don’t be surprised if overcrowding returns in weeks because of the absence of the permanent prosecutors or judges,” cautions Mr Kuol, however.

    While these initial sessions reveal deeper systemic issues, such as wrongful imprisonment, arbitrary arrests, and procedural negligence, the beginning of a comprehensive effort toward justice reform in Gogrial East is praiseworthy.

    Moving forward, detailed reviews and additional judicial support will continue.

    “Our roles need clarity, procedures must improve, and we must protect the vulnerable, especially women and girls,” stated Ayen Deng, a traditional leader working with the customary court.

    Despite these early victories, challenges remain.

    The woman released from prison faced immediate pressure from her family. They refused to return the cattle received as dowry and insisted she must either marry the man she had originally refused or face imprisonment again. “This shows us that some issues go beyond our courts,” explained a UNMISS officer. “Cultural practices and social pressures require a collective change in mindsets and strong government interventions to ensure true justice and freedom for all.”

    As Judge Michael poignantly reminded the gathering, “Justice delayed is justice denied,” pointing out the urgent need for continued commitment to human rights, fairness, and societal transformation across this young nation.

    While this UNMISS facilitated case review may only be a temporary solution at this point, its success sets the stage for future replications and long-term investments at the state level. Achieving lasting justice in Lietnhom and beyond will ultimately depend on sustained and collective efforts at every level.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five creative universities of the country will perform at the festival “Teatralny Boulevard”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    At the festival “Theatre Boulevard”, which is taking place within the framework of the Summer in Moscow project, this season will feature student groups from five leading creative universities in the country. They have prepared more than a dozen productions in various genres for the audience, said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Culture Alexey Fursin.

    “For young artists, this is an opportunity to try themselves out on an open stage, in front of a large and diverse audience, to offer the festival guests their view of theatrical art and find their audience,” noted Alexey Fursin.

    Performances by students from the country’s leading creative universities are planned: the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS, the Boris Shchukin Theatre Institute, the Moscow Art Theatre School, the Oleg Tabakov Moscow Theatre School and the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts.

    Student groups will present 15 works in different genres, including classical dramatic productions, concerts, a plastic performance, and performances for children.

    Thus, students of Nina Chusova’s workshop of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS presented the production “The Marriage of Balzaminov. Attempt No. 3. Unreal Scenes from Real Life”, and Elena Poldi’s students together with the “Antique Circus” showed “Tatiana’s Dreams, or Alexander Sergeevich is Well!”. Graduates of Vyacheslav Gordeev’s workshop will introduce viewers to the project “Cuba – My Love!”. The Ivan Popovsky Opera and Drama Studio has already performed the diploma performance “Eugene Onegin”.

    Students of the Boris Shchukin Theatre Institute showed the audience “Our Final Concert” (artistic directors of the course Pavel Lyubimtsev and Vladimir Tartakovsky), “Musical Vinaigrette” and “Aibolit” (artistic director of the course Anna Dubrovskaya).

    The Nemirovich-Danchenko School-Studio (Institute) at the A.P. Chekhov Moscow Art Academic Theatre presented two productions at once. Students from the Marina Brusnikina and Sergei Shchedrin workshop, with the participation of the Praktika Theatre, prepared a concert for the audience entitled “Fate, Fates, Fate, Fate, About Fate”, and students from the Evgeny Pisarev workshop presented a plastic performance entitled “The City Where We…”.

    Students of the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts under the artistic direction of Vladimir Norenko presented the production “Who Visits in the Morning?” And students of the Moscow Theatre School of Oleg Tabakov showed the plays “Makers of History: Shalyapin”, and the audience is also awaited by the productions “Forgotten August”, “Illusion Art” and a concert program by the school’s students.

    The “Teatralny Bulvar” festival is organized by the capital’s Department of Culture on the initiative of Sergei Sobyanin. It is held in within the framework of the project “Summer in Moscow”. Information about the festival, including the current program, poster, map of venues and news, is available atofficial website and in the telegram channel “Theater Boulevard”.

    Project “Summer in Moscow”— the main event of the season, uniting the brightest events of the capital. Every day in all districts of the city there are charity, cultural and sports events, most of which are free. The project “Summer in Moscow” is held for the second time, and the new season will be more intense: new festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones — original and colorful.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155343073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A creative evening will be held at the Southern River Terminal as part of the “Art in the Metro” project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On June 20, the Southern River Terminal will host an open cultural event of the Art in the Metro project. From 16:00 to 18:30, guests will be treated to refreshments and a rich program.

    One of the central events will be the creation of a collective painting. The sketch will be prepared by the project artists, and everyone will be able to contribute to the work. The musical part of the event will be presented by the artists of the project “Music in the Metro”.

    Pre-registration is required to participate. You can register at link.

    “As part of the Art in the Metro project, we hold off-site creative events. Such meetings bring together artists, passengers and everyone who appreciates art. We continue to develop the capital’s transport as a cultural venue on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

    Maxim Liksutov.

    The Art in the Metro project was organized by the Moscow Metro in the summer of 2024. Within its framework, regular river electric vessels, metro stations, electric depots and other transport sites are transformed into open spaces for creative expression of artists. This gave passengers the opportunity to enjoy art in everyday life, as well as get acquainted with its directions.

    The project is being implemented Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure of Moscow and the capital’s metro with the support of the Moscow Exhibition Halls association.

    The selection of new participants for the Art in the Metro project has been completed“Art in the Metro”: the project’s artists worked in a tram depot for the first time

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155338073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshops Promote Prosperity and Employment in China’s Rural Areas

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) workshops have become a powerful engine for rural development in China.

    According to official data, there are currently over 11,000 such workshops in the country, which play an active role in preserving and developing traditional crafts, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy.

    These workshops are located in 2,005 county-level administrative areas, including 670 formerly poor counties and 135 key counties that received assistance under the national rural revitalization program, and have provided employment to more than 1.2 million people in related industries.

    Notably, more than 4,300 workshops operate directly in villages, providing flexible working conditions that are particularly suitable for the elderly, women and people with disabilities – they can work from their place of residence and receive daily wages.

    The Chinese government has been actively promoting the role of intangible cultural heritage in cultural preservation and economic development. In December 2021, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China and other central government departments issued a regulation specifically regulating the establishment and operation of ICH workshops, focusing on cultivating talented successors, creating jobs, and supporting the development of traditional crafts.

    At the local level, 18 provincial-level administrative units have put forward similar policies. These policies concern the certification of ICH workshops, the management of these establishments, the provision of financial and marketing assistance to them, and the regulation of the allocation of necessary resources to ensure their development.

    In Zhejiang Province, for example, a “workshop plus farmers” mechanism was established in Xiaoshan District, whereby the provincial-level NCI workshop signed contracts to supply Xiaoshan pickled radish, the craft of which is listed in the NCI register of the said province, with more than 40,000 local farmers, resulting in the production value of this delicacy reaching 300 million yuan (about 42 million US dollars) in 2024.

    As of March 2025, the number of artisans who inherit state-level intangible cultural heritage in China has increased to nearly 4,000. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN hosts lunch for ASEAN Prize Judging Committee

    Source: ASEAN

    In his capacity as Chair of the ASEAN Prize Judging Committee, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, hosted a working lunch with the former Secretaries-General of ASEAN. Dr. Kao underscored the significant roles and steadfast dedication that the former ASEAN Secretaries-General hold in continuing to support regional development through their leadership legacies, institutional knowledge, and ongoing contributions to ASEAN community building. Alongside honouring their contributions in various regional engagements, Dr. Kao highlighted their pivotal roles in guiding the selection of ASEAN’s regional premier award, which continues to catalyse advancing regional integration that promotes excellence, fosters cooperation, and sustains a shared identity across ASEAN Member States.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN hosts lunch for ASEAN Prize Judging Committee appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: As Israeli attacks draw tit-for-tat missile responses from Iran and shuts Haifa refinery, Gaza genocide continues

    Israeli media report that Iranian missile strikes on Haifa oil refinery yesterday killed 3 people and closed down the installation.

    The Israeli death toll has risen to 24, with 400 injured and more than 2700 people displaced.

    Israeli authorities report 370 missiles fired by Iran in total, 30 reaching their targets. Iranian military report they have carried out 550 drone operations.

    224 killed in Iran
    Two hundred and twenty four people have been killed by Israeli attacks on Iran, with 1277 hospitalised.

    The state radio and television building was targeted by Israeli strikes twice — while broadcasting live — with the broadcast back online within 5 minutes despite the attack.

    In response, Iran has issued a warning to evacuate the central offices of Israeli television channels 12 and 14.

    An Israeli attack on a Red Crescent ambulance in Tehran resulted in the deaths of two relief workers.

    Israel’s Finance Minister Belazel Smotrich, who is accused of being a war criminal and the target of sanctions by five countries including New Zealand, claims they have hit 800 targets in Iran, with aircraft flying freely in the nation’s airspace.

    In the West Bank, the tension continues, with business continuing at a subdued level, everyone waiting to see how the situation will unfold.

    Israel’s illegal siege continues, cutting off cities and villages from one another, while blocking ambulances and urgent medical access in several locations today.

    Israeli and Iranian strikes are expected to continue, and potentially escalate, over the coming days.

    Israel’s genocide in Gaza continues.

    Cole Martin is an independent New Zealand photojournalist based in the Middle East and a contributor to Asia Pacific Report.

    Iranian missiles raining down on Tel Aviv as seen from the occupied West Bank. Image: CM screenshot APR

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Coal Ministry achieves milestone with allocation of 200th coal block

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of Coal on Tuesday announced a historic milestone with the allocation of its 200th coal mine under the commercial mining initiative, highlighting the government’s push to transform and liberalize India’s coal sector.

    “The issuance of the allocation order for the Marwatola–II coal block to Singhal Business Private Limited reaffirms the Ministry’s commitment to advancing sectoral reforms, fostering private participation, and bolstering national self-reliance in coal production. With this achievement, the Ministry continues to pave the way for a more resilient, transparent, and future-ready coal ecosystem,” the Coal Ministry said in a statement.

    The Ministry added that it stands steadfast in its commitment to nurturing an environment conducive to investment, reducing procedural impediments, and enabling the expeditious operationalisation of coal blocks across the country.

    “This milestone, reflects the Ministry’s visionary approach – one that seeks not only to enhance domestic coal production but also to rebalance the national energy matrix by reducing dependence on imports and strengthening long-term energy security. The cumulative effect of such initiatives bolsters both economic growth and strategic autonomy,” the Ministry said.

    This achievement also shows the success of recent reforms, including the introduction of commercial coal mining, the single-window clearance system, and the use of digital governance tools. Together, these initiatives have redefined the coal sector’s landscape, creating new opportunities for private enterprises and driving India’s shift toward a more sustainable and secure energy future.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal as further details announced

    • UK aerospace sector to see tariffs removed completely as further progress is made on the UK-US trade deal
    • Benefits of deal to be felt by UK auto sector also, who will be able to export to the US by the end of the month under the newly lowered 10% tariff quota 
    • It will save hundreds of millions annually for plane and car makers with lowered tariffs and protect tens of thousands of jobs across both sectors , delivering on our Plan for Change

    For the first time, the US has committed to reducing tariffs on UK aerospace goods such as engines and similar aircraft parts from the general 10% tariff being applied to all other countries, which is expected to come into force by the end of the month.

    This deal is a huge win for the UK’s world-class aerospace sector currently facing additional 10% tariffs, helping make companies such as Rolls Royce more competitive and allowing them to continue to be at the cutting edge of innovation. 

    British car manufacturers can also breathe a sigh of relief as they will be able to export to the US at a 10% tariff rate as part of the recently agreed landmark UK-US trade deal by the end of the month.  

    The UK is the only country to have secured this agreement with the US which reduces car export tariffs from 27.5%, saves car manufacturers hundreds of millions a year, and protects tens of thousands of jobs, delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    We agreed this deal with the US to ensure jobs and livelihoods in some of our most vital sectors were protected, and since then we have been focused on delivering those benefits to businesses. 

    Bringing trade deals into force can take several months, yet we are delivering on the first set of agreements in a matter of weeks. And we won’t stop there. 

    As part of our Plan for Change, this government is doing all it can to reduce the pressures on businesses by lowering costs, speeding up delivery times and helping them to navigate in a time of global uncertainty.  

    Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Mike Hawes said:

    This is great news for the UK automotive industry, helping the sector avoid the severest level of tariffs and enabling many manufacturers to resume deliveries imminently.

    We wait to see the full details of the deal and how it will be administered but this will be a huge reassurance to those that work in the sector and bolster the confidence of our important US customers.

    The fact the UK has secured a deal, ahead of many competitors, and which makes automotive a priority, should be recognised as a significant achievement.

    Thanks to the UK-US deal, the UK is the only country to be exempt from the global tariff of 50% on steel and aluminium. As the Prime Minister and President Trump have again confirmed, we will continue to go further and make progress towards 0% tariffs on core steel products as agreed.  

    We have agreed reciprocal access to 13,000 metric tonnes beef for both US and British farmers – meaning the UK can export to the US too. We have been clear that any US imports will need to meet UK food safety standards, and that has not changed since we agreed this deal.

    Both countries remain focused on securing significantly preferential outcomes for the UK pharmaceutical sector and work will continue to protect industry from any further tariffs imposed as part of Section 232 investigations. 

    This deal is one of many international agreements this government has secured recently to boost our economy, including a trade deal with India which will add £4.8 billion to the UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year and a renewed EU deal which will add nearly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040 on SPS and emissions measures alone. 

    Today’s announcement is the result of work happening at pace between both governments to lower the burden on UK businesses, especially the sectors most impacted by the tariffs. We will update Parliament on the implementation of quotas on US beef and ethanol, part of our commitment to the US under this deal.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Download the HMRC app for summer job success

    • Young people applying for a job this summer can download the HMRC app for instant access to the tax and salary details they need
    • More than 1.2 million young people aged 25 and under have downloaded the HMRC app to date
    • The HMRC app can be used to access an individual’s National Insurance number, employer history, tax code and pay details

    Young people finishing school, college or university and hoping to earn extra cash after their exams can download the HMRC app to get the details they need to be summer-job ready, says HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

    Jobseekers who use the HMRC app have their employment history to hand to get their job application in promptly. Once they start working, the HMRC app means they will have their tax code and National Insurance (NI) number to give to their employer to ensure they are paid correctly and pay the correct amount of tax, putting more money in the pockets of working people

    Between May and August last year, on average 40,000 additional young people were employed each month compared to September to December. Whether young people are looking for work in the hospitality industry, leisure, retail or fruit picking, downloading the HMRC app makes applying for a job simple, giving them instant access to the tax and salary details they need with minimal fuss.

    Young people make up a fifth of all HMRC app users with more than 1.2 million people aged 25 and under downloading it by April 2025.

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said:

    Earning extra cash is important when young people have down time from studying. Downloading the HMRC app is a simple way to ensure they can apply for their job quickly and get on with earning extra cash.

    One of the most important pieces of information jobseekers need when starting a new job is their NI number. More than 146,000 people called the National Insurance helpline in the 12 months to the beginning of April reporting they had lost or forgotten their NI number.

    It’s quicker and easier for individuals to access their NI number via the HMRC app. They can download it to keep it safely in their phone’s digital wallet to use whenever it’s needed. In the 12 months to April 2025, there were almost 90,000 NI number downloads by app users aged 25 and under.

    Young people should keep their National Insurance number safe in their digital wallets and only share it with people, such as an employer, to help prevent possible identity fraud.

    HMRC is also reminding young people starting a new job to check their payslips regularly to ensure they’re getting paid what they’re entitled to receive under National Minimum Wage requirements. If they have any concerns they are not getting the correct pay, they can contact HMRC or ACAS to make a complaint.

    Further Information

    More information about the HMRC app. 

    People can download the app at the App Store or Google Play. Online reviews for the HMRC app is currently [4.8] stars on the App Store, and [4.6] stars on Google Play. 

    Once a customer has signed into the app for the first time, they can use facial recognition, their fingerprint or a 6-digit pin to get fast and secure access. 

    Customers who don’t have a Government Gateway user ID and password and may need evidence to prove their identity for example photo ID such as a UK passport or UK driving licence. 

    We’re urging customers never to share their Government Gateway user ID and password. Someone using these details could steal from them or make a fraudulent claim in their name.

    The current National Minimum Wage hourly rates, which increased on 1 April 2025, are:

    • Age 21 or over (National Living Wage): £12.21
    • Age 18 to 20: £10.00
    • Age under 18: £7.55

    Further detail and previous rates can be found on GOV.UK

    Latest earnings and employment statistics May 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Namibia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 17, 2025

    • Namibia’s economy faces challenges from heightened global trade policy tensions, increased weather shocks, a structural shift in the global diamond market, and high structural unemployment.
    • Ensuring macroeconomic stability requires maintaining fiscal prudence while creating space for growth-enhancing measures, managing the monetary policy to safeguard the peg, and enhancing the resilience of the financial sector.
    • To generate employment through inclusive private sector-led growth that is weather-shock-resilient, bold structural reforms are essential. Additionally, a comprehensive strategy is needed to leverage the potential opportunities presented by recent oil discoveries.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV Consultation for Namibia.[1] The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Namibia’s economic growth decelerated from 5.4 percent in 2022 to 3.7 percent in 2024 as a decline in production in response to lower diamond prices outweighed momentum stemming from rising gold and uranium prices. Oil exploration plateaued in 2024 following a spike in 2023, while agriculture contracted sharply due to the drought of 2023–24, the most severe in a century. Inflation has fallen, reflecting a drop in food and fuel prices in international markets.

    Looking ahead, growth is projected to remain subdued in the near and medium term. The end of the drought is expected to boost growth in 2025; however, increased global trade policy uncertainty, particularly related to U.S. tariffs, and the weak diamond market will dampen momentum, with growth forecast at 3¾ percent for 2025 and 2026. Over the medium term, growth is projected to be about 3 percent, constrained by structural rigidities despite increased public capital expenditure. Average CPI inflation is projected to ease to 4.1 percent in 2025 and remain around 4.5 percent in the medium term.

    Risks to the outlook are tilted to the downside. Key external downside risks include commodity price fluctuations, further worsening of global trade tensions, a deepening of economic fragmentation, and tighter global financial conditions. Domestic downside risks include social discontent resulting from continued high unemployment and inequality and increased volatility associated with weather shocks. Upside risks include an easing of global trade policy tensions and faster development of oil, gas, and green hydrogen projects.

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They took positive note of Namibia’s economic resilience, with slowing inflation and improved external position, despite the challenging external environment and welcomed the new government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and build resilience to climate shocks. Noting the subdued growth outlook reflecting global trade policy uncertainty and domestic structural rigidities, high unemployment, and inequality, Directors emphasized the need for further efforts to harness Namibia’s economic potential and raise per capita income by promoting a private sector led, inclusive, weather resilient, and diversified economy.

    Directors welcomed the authorities’ commitment to maintaining fiscal discipline and creating space for growth enhancing measures. They called for sustained and larger fiscal consolidation over the medium term to entrench the favorable public debt dynamics and strengthen the external position. Directors stressed the need to accelerate fiscal reforms including enacting a comprehensive civil service reform to contain the wage bill, state owned enterprise reforms, strengthening public financial and investment management, and enhancing tax administration to solidify fiscal consolidation. At the same time, they recommended increasing public investment to enhance growth, expanding social protection, and building resilience to weather shocks. They encouraged the authorities to continue their efforts to establish, with Fund technical assistance, a strong governance framework for the sovereign wealth fund and a natural resource management framework to safeguard long term macroeconomic stability and support economic development.

    In the absence of capital outflows, Directors recommended gradually aligning the policy rate with that of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to safeguard the currency peg, taking advantage of SARB’s rate reductions. They stressed, however, that the Bank of Namibia should remain vigilant to economic conditions.

    Directors welcomed the continued progress in enhancing financial sector resilience, notably through the introduction of the bank resolution policy. They encouraged the authorities to continue to monitor risks including from the sovereign bank nexus and household debt. Directors recommended finalizing additional policy measures, including counter cyclical capital buffers and strengthened cooperation on crisis resolution. Continued efforts to strengthen the AML/CFT framework are crucial to expedite removal from the FATF grey list.

    Directors highlighted that bold structural reforms are essential to fostering sustainable, inclusive, and private sector led growth and improving external competitiveness. They recommended addressing key barriers, including by improving human capital and reducing skill mismatches, enhancing the business climate, strengthening governance, and fostering digitalization. Directors supported developing a set of policies aimed at harnessing prospective oil, gas, and green hydrogen for economic diversification and job creation.

    It is expected that the next Article IV Consultation with Namibia will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.

     

    Namibia: Selected Economic Indicators, 2022–30

    Population (2024, million):                                      3.0                           Per-capita GDP (2024, USD):                                                        4471.8

    Quota (current, millions of SDR, percent of total):  54.6                          Poverty (2015, percent of national poverty line):                         17.4

    Main exports:                                                          Diamonds, Fish, Gold, Uranium, Copper.

    Key export markets:                                                South Africa, Botswana, China, Zambia, and Belgium.

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    Est.

    Proj.
                       

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Output

    		                  

    Real GDP growth

    5.4

    4.4

    3.7

    3.8

    3.7

    2.9

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Nominal GDP growth

    12.2

    11.3

    7.1

    8.8

    9.3

    7.4

    7.6

    7.6

    7.6

    Nominal GDP (billions of USD)

    205.6

    228.9

    245.1

    266.8

    291.7

    313.4

    337.1

    362.5

    389.9

    Nominal GDP per capita (USD)

    4,407

    4,236

    4,472

    4,673

    4,898

    5,037

    5,192

    5,346

    5,513

    GDP Deflator

    6.4

    6.6

    3.3

    4.9

    5.5

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    Prices

    Consumer prices (average)

    6.1

    5.9

    4.2

    4.1

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Consumer prices (end of period)

    6.9

    5.3

    3.4

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Central Government Budget 1/

    Revenue and grants 2/

    30.5

    35.1

    36.5

    33.2

    32.8

    33.1

    33.3

    33.3

    33.3

      of which: SACU receipts

    6.7

    10.5

    11.2

    7.7

    7.9

    8.2

    8.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Expenditure

    36.1

    37.6

    40.4

    38.8

    37.7

    36.8

    36.6

    36.5

    36.5

      Of which: personnel expenditure

    14.9

    13.9

    14.1

    13.5

    12.8

    12.3

    12.2

    12.2

    12.2

      Of which: capital expenditure and net lending

    3.1

    2.9

    3.9

    4.0

    3.9

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    Primary balance

    -1.2

    2.7

    1.2

    -0.5

    0.2

    1.4

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Overall fiscal balance

    -5.7

    -2.4

    -3.9

    -5.7

    -4.8

    -3.7

    -3.3

    -3.3

    -3.3

    Overall fiscal balance ex. SACU

    -12.4

    -12.8

    -15.1

    -13.4

    -12.8

    -12.0

    -11.8

    -11.7

    -11.7

    Public debt, gross

    67.5

    66.0

    66.2

    62.3

    62.2

    62.0

    61.1

    60.1

    59.3

    Investment and Savings

    Investment

    20.1

    27.3

    25.6

    22.1

    19.0

    17.8

    16.8

    16.8

    16.8

      Public

    2.6

    2.4

    2.4

    2.6

    2.5

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    14.1

    23.7

    21.3

    19.5

    16.5

    15.5

    14.5

    14.5

    14.5

      Change inventories

    3.4

    1.2

    2.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Savings

    7.3

    12.0

    10.3

    6.6

    5.4

    5.2

    4.6

    5.1

    5.5

      Public

    -3.2

    -0.2

    0.1

    -1.3

    -1.1

    -0.4

    0.1

    0.2

    0.2

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    10.6

    12.2

    10.2

    7.9

    6.5

    5.6

    4.5

    4.8

    5.3

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Money and Credit

    Broad money

    0.0

    10.7

    9.7

    9.1

    8.6

    7.9

    8.4

    7.7

    7.6

    Credit to the private sector

    4.2

    2.8

    3.5

    4.9

    6.2

    4.1

    5.4

    5.5

    5.5

    BoN repo rate (percent) 3/

    6.75

    7.75

    7.00

    6.75

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
     

                                                                                       Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Balance of Payments

    		                    

    Current account balance

    -12.6

    -15.3

    -15.3

    -15.5

    -13.7

    -12.6

    -12.1

    -11.7

    -11.3

    Financial account balance

    -13.3

    -15.9

    -17.2

    -9.3

    -15.4

    -13.6

    -12.3

    -11.8

    -11.8

    Gross official reserves

    22.3

    23.2

    25.1

    18.4

    20.1

    21.2

    21.5

    21.6

    22.2

    Reserves (in months of imports)

    3.9

    3.8

    4.4

    3.4

    3.8

    4.1

    4.2

    4.2

    4.5

    External debt

    71.7

    76.0

    74.6

    68.0

    67.5

    66.8

    65.5

    63.6

    61.8

    of which: public (incl. IMF) 4/

    17.5

    16.6

    14.7

    7.9

    7.3

    6.8

    6.4

    6.0

    5.5

    Exchange rate

    REER (percent, yoy)

    -3.6

    -6.3

    2.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Average exchange rate (Namibian dollar per USD)

    16.4

    18.5

    18.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Namibian authorities; and IMF staff calculations.

    1/ Figures are for the fiscal year as a percent of GDP. The fiscal year runs from April 1 to March 31.

    2/ Revenue excludes the line “transactions in assets and liabilities” classified as part of revenue in budget documents. It captures proceeds from asset sales, realized valuation gains from holdings of foreign currency deposits, and other items which are not classified as revenue according to the IMF’s Government Finance Statistics Manual 2010.

    3/ Figure for 2025 is as of April 16, 2025.

    4/ The ratio is calculated by dividing the stock as March 31 by nominal GDP for the fiscal year.
                                           

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/Namibia page.

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/13/pr-25198-namibia-imf-executive-board-concludes-2025-art-iv-consult

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces second batch of projects supported by RAISe+ Scheme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government announces second batch of projects supported by RAISe+ Scheme 
    The projects supported by the Scheme cover a wide range of innovation and technology (I&T) fields, including health and medical sciences, new materials and new energy, AI and robotics, electrical and electronic engineering, advanced manufacturing, Chinese medicine, and computer science/information technology (see Annex). These projects showcase Hong Kong’s robust research and development (R&D) capability and the diverse development of its I&T ecosystem.
     
    The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, welcomed the second batch of projects supported by the RAISe+ Scheme. He said, “The successful approval of the second batch of projects marks the Government’s continued commitment to promote commercialisation of local R&D outcomes through the RAISe+ Scheme. The Scheme fosters effective collaboration among the Government, industry, academia and research sectors, injecting new momentum into local innovation and technology development which in turn expedites the development of Hong Kong into an international I&T centre.”
     
    The ITC will continue to work closely with the universities and industry for the smooth implementation of the projects supported by the RAISe+ Scheme, with the aspiration of nurturing more I&T projects and start-ups with potential through the Scheme, thereby further driving Hong Kong’s high-quality development.
     
    With a funding allocation of $10 billion, the RAISe+ Scheme was launched in 2023 and aims to fund at least 100 research teams, which are from universities funded by the University Grants Committee and have good potential to become successful start-ups on a matching basis. Funding support from $10 million to $100 million will be provided to each approved project. Assessment criteria include the I&T component of the project, the commercial viability of project outcomes, the technical and management capability of the team, relevance of the project with government policies or in the project’s overall interest to the community, as well as the financial considerations of the project. The ITC announced the first batch of 24 projects supported by the RAISe+ Scheme in May 2024 with the total funding amounting to over $1 billion.
     
    Details of the scheme are available on its dedicated website (www.itf.gov.hk/en/raiseplusIssued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Foot-and-mouth disease detected in the North West

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, specifically within the JB Marks Local Municipality.

    In the first case, the department was alerted by a private veterinarian, who visited a farm and noted suspicious signs. 

    A State veterinarian then collected samples, which were sent to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) for testing.

    Another incident of FMD was detected at an abattoir in Madibeng.

    “The clinical signs of the affected  animals were missed at ante-mortem inspection but were detected on the slaughter line during the meat inspection process. 

    “Tissue samples were sent to the laboratory, and the results came back confirming both SAT 2 and SAT 3 types of the virus. 

    “The unslaughtered animals were escorted back to the farm of origin, a feedlot in Ventersdorp, through a Red Cross permit,” the statement read. 

    The department has placed both farms associated with the outbreak under quarantine, which prohibits the movement of animals and animal products. 

    In addition, the department has identified all farms connected to the Gauteng outbreak and is conducting tests to determine whether any of them are positive for the infection.

    “All such farms have also been put under precautionary quarantine until the test results are back.” 

    The department stated that any suspected case of FMD in susceptible animals must be reported to the local state veterinarian immediately.

    FMD is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals and can impact some other species as well. 

    The main clinical signs of the disease include fever, lameness, and the appearance of blisters and sores in the mouth, feet, and teats.

    In recent months, outbreaks have occurred in five of the nine provinces in South Africa, with KwaZulu-Natal experiencing the most significant impact.

    Early this month, Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, announced that the department has ordered 901 200 doses of vaccines at a value of over R70 million. 

    The national department said this means that over 900 000 animals will be vaccinated in all areas that the department has prioritised.

    The department stated that Limpopo and Mpumalanga will also conduct their routine vaccinations, which are conducted three times a year, with some of the vaccines going to Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. 

    Meanwhile, last week, Cabinet announced plans to establish a biosecurity council that will bring together the South African Police Service, veterinarians, scientists, the Border Management Authority (BMA) and captains of industry to better respond to future outbreaks and manage the related risks. 

    READ | Government on top off foot-and-mouth disease response. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Equatorial Guinea’s Golden Swan Sets Regional Benchmark for Greener Oil and Gas Practices


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    The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) proudly supports the recent visit of Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema to Equatorial Guinea’s Golden Swan industrial complex, marking a defining moment for Africa’s oil and gas sector. As the continent intensifies efforts to industrialize responsibly, Golden Swan – and Equatorial Guinea, under the leadership of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, whose commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship has been instrumental – is demonstrating that environmental protection and energy development can and must go hand in hand.

    During the visit, President Oligui Nguema and his delegation witnessed first-hand how Equatorial Guinea has achieved self-sufficiency in treating industrial and hazardous waste. Golden Swan’s advanced infrastructure includes industrial incinerators, a wastewater treatment plant, a medical waste processing unit and recycling systems for waste oil, plastics, batteries and metals. Presentations showcased the company’s household waste system, which reduces landfill use by up to 90% through sorting and recycling, and its production of critical industrial gases like medical oxygen and nitrogen.

    The Golden Swan model directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing Africa’s hydrocarbons sector: the management of hazardous and industrial waste generated by upstream and downstream operations. By achieving self-sufficiency in this area, Equatorial Guinea not only protects its ecosystems and communities, but also strengthens its position as a responsible, forward-looking energy producer. The AEC believes that facilities like Golden Swan can serve as blueprints for governments and companies aiming to build energy industries that are both profitable and sustainable.

    The visit also sets the stage for tangible collaboration between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, beyond high-level dialogue. Opportunities now exist for technical cooperation, joint ventures and knowledge sharing that could see similar waste management infrastructure developed across the region. The Chamber encourages both governments to formalize this cooperation and take decisive steps to turn this vision into reality.

    “This is a defining example of how African oil and gas producers can lead on environmental issues rather than follow,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Golden Swan shows what is possible when governments and industry come together with a clear purpose. It sets the bar higher, and it invites others on the continent to match or exceed that standard. This is good for our industry, good for our people, and good for Africa’s future.”

    Golden Swan’s success underscores a broader truth: Africa’s energy sector can drive industrialization while respecting the environment. As more nations follow this path, the continent will be better positioned to attract investment, create jobs and ensure long-term sustainability. The AEC welcomes this milestone and encourages all oil and gas stakeholders to build on Golden Swan’s example by innovating, collaborating and driving Africa’s growth while protecting its natural heritage.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing unveils new policies to boost cultural industry

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

    Beijing’s Chaoyang district on Monday announced 17 policies aimed at promoting high-quality development of the cultural industry.

    These measures will offer targeted support for cultural enterprises, gaming and e-sports industries, and film production. 

    Over the years, Beijing has made great progress in building itself into a national cultural center.

    Jointly established by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Beijing municipal government, the National Cultural Industry Innovation Experimental Zone in Beijing’s Chaoyang district has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. The number of companies in the zone has grown from 16,000 to over 50,000, including 1,517 large-scale cultural enterprises and 44 listed companies.  

    The zone has fostered key cultural enterprises, including Pop Mart, whose Labubu collectible figure has gained global popularity recently. It is also home to China’s largest e-sports complex and a center dedicated to AI-generated art.

    To further support growth, financial services have been developed specifically for cultural enterprises. So far, more than 33.97 billion yuan (US$4.73 billion) in credit financing has been provided to 3,072 companies in the zone.

    In addition, Chaoyang has transformed former industrial sites into cultural parks, developing 102 creative industry parks across the district.

    Looking ahead, the zone plans to upgrade its traditional sectors such as film and advertising, while accelerating the development of four major industry clusters, which are digital advertising, digital audiovisual content, gaming and e-sports, and digital performing arts.

    MIL OSI China News –