Category: Science

MIL-OSI United Nations: Advance Cooperation Grounded in Science to Safeguard Ocean for Everyone’s Benefit, Secretary-General Urges in International Seabed Authority Anniversary Message

Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

SG/SM/22737

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the thirtieth anniversary of the International Seabed Authority, in Kingston today:

I am pleased to join you in celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of the International Seabed Authority — a cornerstone in the governance of our ocean commons.

The international seabed area is not the domain of any nation. It is the common heritage of humankind — a principle enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which must continue to guide us. We must bring together our global efforts in climate action, biodiversity preservation, and marine protection.

The deep ocean remains one of our last frontiers. It holds great promise but also requires great caution.

For thirty years, the Authority has helped protect this shared realm through peaceful, sustainable and inclusive governance. Today, it is navigating complex challenges with care and clarity, and I commend its commitment to finding balanced and effective solutions.

As we mark this milestone, let us advance cooperation grounded in science, and keep working together to safeguard the ocean for the benefit of all people, everywhere.

For information media. Not an official record.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: How public development banks could narrow inequality gaps between the Global North and South

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Alicja Paulina Krubnik, PhD Candidate, Political Science, McMaster University

The United Nations’ Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) recently concluded in Seville, Spain. It gathered global leaders from government, development, academia and civil society to discuss key barriers to sustainable development and shape collaborative efforts to address them.

FFD4 comes at a crucial time, when the Action Agenda from the last FFD3, set 10 years ago, must be built upon and upheld. With only five years left to meet the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), more than 80 per cent are off track. More tangibly, 2030 is a key deadline for global emissions reduction.

The global aid environment is also in crisis, just as low- and middle-income countries face mounting pressures due to the interconnected impacts of climate change, environmental damage, poverty and inequality.

Boosting global co-operation

FFD4 was an opportunity to revitalize and transform international development co-operation to help states meet these challenges and pursue sustainable development.

Achieving this requires more than decarbonizing development financing. FFD4 faced its most testing challenge yet: how to reform the global financial systems that direct development resources.

Key factors include aligning funding with the sustainable development needs of low- and middle-income countries, increasing access to long-term concessional financing — loans or other forms of financing provided on terms more favourable than those in the market — and reducing public debt burdens.

Public development banks offer crucial leadership here. They provide affordable financing, direct resources where urgently needed and align funding with long-term development strategies, giving them significant potential to democratize project ownership.

Urgent human development needs

At the FFD4 gathering, many representatives, especially from Global South and climate-vulnerable countries, highlighted the inadequacy of development financing. Seedy Keita, the minister for finance and economic affairs from The Gambia, told the conference that as developing countries are being urged to invest more in climate and human development initiatives, they lack the tools to do so.

The countries facing the worst climate impacts also struggle with urgent human development needs. Adapting to and mitigating climate breakdown are inseparable from economic and social development, with human welfare — access to food, water and clean air, avoiding displacement and the safety of women and girls — intimately linked to climate.

Yet climate-vulnerable states receive a small share of global development financing, particularly for adaptation projects that yield lower returns. Additionally, resources for building value-added industries in low- and middle-income countries remain insufficient.

Scant commitment to action

Simply increasing financing is not enough. At the launch of the latest SDGs Report, UN Secretary General António Guterres stated:

“There is something fundamentally wrong in the structure of the economic and financial architecture and in the way it operates to the detriment of developing countries.”

In short, it’s too rigid and unresponsive to the Global South’s unique needs, ultimately constraining their ability to act on the SDGs.

The most ambitious and pressing outcome of FFD4, the “Sevilla Commitment,” addresses key issues in efforts to reform international financial systems but lacks commitment to strong, transformative action.

Too much priority is given to enabling low- and middle-income countries to access private finance for development. Using public development finance to mobilize private investments and lending has failed to close the financing gap.

Poverty and inequality worsens

Private support for the structural green transformation needed for long-term economic development in low- and middle-income countries remains inadequate, widening the divide between the Global North and South. The strategy of catalyzing private finance has shifted risk to public balance sheets while reserving most of the profits for private, often multinational corporations — what’s known as “de-risking.”

A privatized development strategy has pushed fiscal austerity measures on Global South countries to access international capital markets to fund development initiatives. Many of these countries are struggling with alarming debt, forcing them to divert scarce funds from essential services like health and education to service debts, which worsens poverty and inequality.

FFD4’s efforts to create a fairer debt system include scaling up debt swaps and forming an alliance between creditor countries and multilateral banks to implement debt “pause clauses” during crises. While many states called for deeper debt reforms and a UN convention on sovereign debt, several wealthy countries resisted bold changes.

They largely overlooked the Global North’s climate debt — estimated at $192 trillion. The Sevilla Commitment proposes launching a UN-led intergovernmental process, opening a potential path for creditor action.

As Spain’s economy minister put it, FFD4 is a “launchpad for action” not a “landing zone.”

Directing money to where it’s needed most

Public development banks have the potential to lead this action for a more prosperous and equitable future. They can mobilize under-utilized public resources more economically, rapidly and effectively to serve development goals in a climate-forward way.

These banks can direct finance to where it’s most needed, aligning with development priorities across diverse low- and middle-income countries.

Public development banks are also well-positioned to co-ordinate at multilateral, regional and national levels and to align global decarbonization goals to local demands. The largest coalition of banks, the Finance in Commons group, was recognized in the Sevilla Commitment. The group called for strengthening public development banks’ co-operation and leadership at the FFD4. Already a leader in global climate financing, further co-ordination among public debate banks could amplify its impact.

Read more:
Your essential guide to climate finance

Supporting green, equitable development

Structural change requires the long-term, affordable and counter-cyclical financing that public development banks can provide.

For indebted developing countries facing high borrowing costs, steadfast concessional financing is crucial. Beyond finance, public development banks have a privileged role in knowledge formation and dissemination, which can be leveraged alongside their financial power to support green and equitable development.

As public organizations, public development banks offer greater potential for transparency and accountability to democratic decision-making, aligning financing with public values. Beyond simply de-risking, these banks can leverage their financial power to generate broader public benefits.

Alicja Paulina Krubnik receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the International Development Research Centre.

– ref. How public development banks could narrow inequality gaps between the Global North and South – https://theconversation.com/how-public-development-banks-could-narrow-inequality-gaps-between-the-global-north-and-south-261160

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Announces TCSG, USG Sign First Articulation Agreement Since Passage of Top State for Talent Act

Source: US State of Georgia

ATLANTA – Governor Brian Kemp today announced that the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) and the University System of Georgia (USG) signed an articulation agreement to help nursing students seamlessly advance their education and careers, the first of its kind following the passage of HB 192, the Top State for Talent Act. The agreement allows graduates of TCSG’s associate degree in nursing programs to transfer directly into participating USG institutions to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), establishing a true 2+2 transfer model between the two systems.

“Georgia’s success as the No. 1 state for business depends on a strong pipeline of talent, especially in critical fields like healthcare,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “This agreement between TCSG and USG is a perfect example of how our state is working together to expand opportunities for students, strengthen our workforce, and ensure that every Georgian has the opportunity to succeed.”

Governor Kemp has made aligning the state’s workforce pipeline with the needs of employers a top priority. The Top State for Talent Initiative, including the state’s first unified high-demand career list, seeks to bring private and public sector leaders together to help Georgians pursue the opportunities available to them statewide.

This partnership between TCSG and USC supports the initiative by developing and retaining a highly skilled healthcare workforce. Under the agreement, students who graduate from a TCSG college with an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) will be eligible for admission into BSN programs at participating USG institutions. This streamlined transition offers students a cost-effective and accessible option to continue their education without interruption or loss of credit.

“With this agreement, we’re eliminating barriers and opening doors for more Georgians to pursue rewarding careers in nursing,” said TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier. “It’s a strategic move that helps our students, our healthcare partners, and our communities—especially as we work together to fill critical nursing shortages across the state.”

“Georgia’s growing population means a greater demand for healthcare, and this partnership helps meet it by preparing more nurses, especially in rural and underserved areas,” said USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue. “As we align programs, we’re making it easier for students to grow their skills. It’s a smart investment that drives student success, expands access to care, and builds a more prosperous Georgia.”

In addition to easing the transition between systems, the agreement expands career pathways for students by creating a clear route from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree in one of the state’s most in-demand fields. It is part of a broader strategy by TCSG and USG to increase educational attainment and create upward mobility for students pursuing careers in high-demand industries, including nursing, healthcare, and allied health professions.

For more information, visit www.tcsg.edu or www.usg.edu.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: From grasslands to killing fields: why trees are bad news for one of Australia’s most stunning birds

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gabriel Crowley, Adjunct Associate Professor in Geography, University of Adelaide

JJ Harrison/Wikimedia, CC BY

Picture this. A small, rainbow-coloured chick emerges from its nest for the first time. It stretches its wings and prepares to take flight. But before the fledgling’s life in the wild has begun, a sharp-beaked predator swoops in, leaving nothing but a tiny skeleton.

This is the sad scenario playing out on Cape York Peninsula, new analysis shows. There, trees are invading the open, grassy habitat of the endangered golden-shouldered parrot (Psephotellus chrysopterygius). The trees give cover to predators – meaning they can lie in wait, before striking the adult birds and their young.

The golden-shouldered parrot is endangered, now found in just 5% of its original range. The new findings suggest more work is needed to restore grassland habitat to its former open state, to ensure the parrots’ survival.

A vanishing species

The initial decline of the golden-shouldered parrot was likely caused by a loss of food plants and degradation of the termite mounds in which it nests. Birds that remained in two small areas in central Cape York Peninsula faced other issues.

In the 1990s, researchers began studying the parrot on Artemis Station, to better understand why numbers were declining. A new suspect was identified: native woody plants, such as the broad-leaved tea-tree (Melaleuca viridiflora), which had crept into the birds’ grassy habitat.

The change was largely due to overgrazing, which reduced fuel loads and led to fewer fires. This allowed the woodland trees to overtake the grasslands. But exactly how were these trees affecting the survival of the golden-shouldered parrot? New research by my colleagues and I set out to answer this question.

The above image shows the three phases of woodland invading the parrots’ habitat. Left, a few scattered trees establish around the nesting mound. Centre, tea trees emerge from the grass layer. Right, dense thickets of tea trees shade out the termite mounds.
Gabriel Crowley

Counting eggs, nest by nest

We monitored 108 termite-mound nests over three years, tracking the success of 555 eggs. We visited each nest every few days to record whether chicks successfully fledged (grew strong enough to leave the nest) or died.

We also counted the number of trees around the nests, and recorded signs of interference from predators.

So what did we find? The proportion of nests that produced a fledgling from every egg decreased in proportion to the number of trees around the nest. The percentage of eggs, chicks and adults that were killed or disappeared from a nest also increased in line with tree numbers.

That’s because the trees bring different predators – and places for them to hide.

We suspected reptiles were the main predators. This was due to scratches on the nests and disappearance of eggs without any other signs of damage. While the exact species of reptile predator was hard to pinpoint, we know tree snake numbers increase as woodlands encroach.

However, of all predators, we found butcherbird numbers increased most strongly as trees crept in. Butcherbirds tear prey apart with their strong, hooked beaks. Trees close to the nests give butcherbirds cover, enabling them to wait for adults or their young to emerge.

Tragically, we found skulls of chicks pierced by the butcherbirds’ sharp bills. In one case, the shredded flesh of a bird was wedged atop a termite mound.

Butcherbirds have strong, hooked beaks, which they use to tear apart prey.
Conservation Partners

Parrots successfully fledged from just over half of the 555 eggs we monitored.

In the most dense woodlands, the number of birds that successfully fledged was just one-third of the rate needed to maintain the golden-shouldered parrot’s population.

Adult birds were lost from one-third of the nests we studied. This is especially troubling. Modelling from similar tropical birds shows this rate of adult deaths can push a species towards extinction.

Unusually, golden-shouldered parrots nest in termite mounds.
Peter Valentine

Restoring the parrots’ grassland home

The world’s grassland habitats are under threat. This has devastating consequences for species that depend on them – including the golden-shouldered parrot.

Our findings show Cape York’s grasslands should be maintained and restored to ensure the survival of the golden-shouldered parrot. Much work is needed to ensure the species avoids the fate of its closest relative, the paradise parrot, which is presumed extinct.

Work is already underway. Golden-shouldered parrot habitat in national parks and on Indigenous-owned land has been destocked, and more traditional Indigenous fire regimes reinstated. This will help maintain open grasslands and reverse early woodland encroachment. Such work is also being undertaken at the study site on Artemis Station.

Where woody plant invasion is more advanced, more intensive methods have been deployed. At the study site, this includes using chainsaws and brush-cutters to clear trees, before the stump is poisoned.

Where woody vegetation is well established, trees must be felled to help restore grassland habitat.
Conservation Partners

Other measures include installing electric fences to keep out reptiles, reseeding grasslands with food plants and providing feeding stations in seasons when food is scarce.

Land managers across Cape York have also been provided guidelines for managing woodland encroachment.

These efforts must be sustained in the long-term, to ensure the golden-shouldered parrot can return to its former range.

Gabriel Crowley undertook the work cited in this article with Susan Shephard (Artemis Station), Stephen Garnett (Charles Darwin University and Conservation Partners) and Stephen Murphy (Conservation Partners). Funding was provided by the Queensland and federal governments, Gulf Savannah NRM and WWF Australia. Gabriel has provided advice on golden-shouldered parrots and their habitat to the Olkola Aboriginal Corporation, Conservation Partners and Bush Heritage Australia as a volunteer and/or consultant. She is a volunteer for Helen Haines MP (Member for Indi).

– ref. From grasslands to killing fields: why trees are bad news for one of Australia’s most stunning birds – https://theconversation.com/from-grasslands-to-killing-fields-why-trees-are-bad-news-for-one-of-australias-most-stunning-birds-259898

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Is sleeping a lot actually bad for your health? A sleep scientist explains

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charlotte Gupta, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Appleton Institute, HealthWise Research Group, CQUniversity Australia

Walstrom, Susanne/Getty

We’re constantly being reminded by news articles and social media posts that we should be getting more sleep. You probably don’t need to hear it again – not sleeping enough is bad for your brain, heart and overall health, not to mention your skin and sex drive.

But what about sleeping “too much”? Recent reports that sleeping more than nine hours could be worse for your health than sleeping too little may have you throwing up your hands in despair.

It can be hard not to feel confused and worried. But how much sleep do we need? And what can sleeping a lot really tell us about our health? Let’s unpack the evidence.

Sleep is essential for our health

Along with nutrition and physical activity, sleep is an essential pillar of health.

During sleep, physiological processes occur that allow our bodies to function effectively when we are awake. These include processes involved in muscle recovery, memory consolidation and emotional regulation.

The Sleep Health Foundation – Australia’s leading not-for-profit organisation that provides evidence-based information on sleep health – recommends adults get seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

Some people are naturally short sleepers and can function well with less than seven hours.

However, for most of us, sleeping less than seven hours will have negative effects. These may be short term; for example, the day after a poor night’s sleep you might have less energy, worse mood, feel more stressed and find it harder to concentrate at work.

In the long term, not getting enough good quality sleep is a major risk factor for health problems. It’s linked to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease – such as heart attacks and stroke – metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, poor mental health, such as depression and anxiety, cancer and death.

So, it’s clear that not getting enough sleep is bad for us. But what about too much sleep?

Could too much sleep be bad?

In a recent study, researchers reviewed the results of 79 other studies that followed people for at least one year and measured how sleep duration impacts the risk of poor health or dying to see if there was an overall trend.

They found people who slept for short durations – less than seven hours a night – had a 14% higher risk of dying in the study period, compared to those who slept between seven and eight hours. This is not surprising given the established health risks of poor sleep.

However, the researchers also found those who slept a lot – which they defined as more than nine hours a night – had a greater risk of dying: 34% higher than people who slept seven to eight hours.

This supports similar research from 2018, which combined results from 74 previous studies that followed the sleep and health of participants across time, ranging from one to 30 years. It found sleeping more than nine hours was associated with a 14% increased risk of dying in the study period.

Research has also shown sleeping too long (meaning more than required for your age) is linked to health problems such as depression, chronic pain, weight gain and metabolic disorders.

This may sound alarming. But it’s crucial to remember these studies have only found a link between sleeping too long and poor health – this doesn’t mean sleeping too long is the cause of health problems or death.

Read more:
If ‘correlation doesn’t imply causation’, how do scientists figure out why things happen?

So, what’s the link?

Multiple factors may influence the relationship between sleeping a lot and having poor health.

It’s common for people with chronic health problems to consistently sleep for long periods. Their bodies may need additional rest to support recovery, or they may spend more time in bed due to symptoms or medication side effects.

People with chronic health problems may also not be getting high quality sleep, and may stay in bed for longer to try and get some extra sleep.

Additionally, we know risk factors for poor health, such as smoking and being overweight, are also associated with poor sleep.

This means people may be sleeping more because of existing health problems or lifestyle behaviours, not that sleeping more is causing the poor health.

Put simply, sleeping may be a symptom of poor health, not the cause.

What’s the ideal amount?

The reasons some people sleep a little and others sleep a lot depend on individual differences – and we don’t yet fully understand these.

Our sleep needs can be related to age. Teenagers often want to sleep more and may physically need to, with sleep recommendations for teens being slightly higher than adults at eight to ten hours. Teens may also go to bed and wake up later.

Older adults may want to spend more time in bed. However, unless they have a sleep disorder, the amount they need to sleep will be the same as when they were younger.

But most adults will require seven to nine hours, so this is the healthy window to aim for.

It’s not just about how much sleep you get. Good quality sleep and a consistent bed time and wake time are just as important – if not more so – for your overall health.

The bottom line

Given many Australian adults are not receiving the recommended amount of sleep, we should focus on how to make sure we get enough sleep, rather than worrying we are getting too much.

To give yourself the best chance of a good night’s sleep, get sunlight and stay active during the day, and try to keep a regular sleep and wake time. In the hour before bed, avoid screens, do something relaxing, and make sure your sleep space is quiet, dark, and comfortable.

If you notice you are regularly sleeping much longer than usual, it could be your body’s way of telling you something else is going on. If you’re struggling with sleep or are concerned, speak with your GP. You can also explore the resources on the Sleep Health Foundation website.

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

– ref. Is sleeping a lot actually bad for your health? A sleep scientist explains – https://theconversation.com/is-sleeping-a-lot-actually-bad-for-your-health-a-sleep-scientist-explains-259991

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Birds use hidden black and white feathers to make themselves more colourful

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Griffith, Professor of Avian Behavioural Ecology, Macquarie University

The green-headed tanager (_Tangara seledon_) has a hidden layer of plumage that is white underneath the orange feathers and black underneath the blue and green feathers. Daniel Field

Birds are perhaps the most colourful group of animals, bringing a splash of colour to the natural world around us every day. Indeed, exclusively black and white birds – such as magpies – are in the minority.

However, new research by a team from Princeton University in the United States has revealed a surprising trick in which birds use those boring black and white feathers to make their colours even more vivid.

Male golden tanagers (Tangara arthus) have hidden layers of white which make their plumage brighter, while females have hidden layers of black which make their plumage darker.
Daniel Field

In the study, published today in Science Advances, Rosalyn Price-Waldman and her colleagues discovered that if coloured feathers are placed over a layer of either white or black underlying feathers, their colours are enhanced.

A particularly striking discovery was that in some species the different colour of males and females wasn’t due to the colour the two sexes put into the feathers, but rather in the amount of white or black in the layer underneath.

Why birds are so bright – and how they do it

Typically, male birds have more vivid colours than females. As Charles Darwin first explained, the most colourful males are more likely to attract mates and produce more offspring than those that aren’t as vivid. This process of “sexual selection” is the evolutionary force that has resulted in most of the colours we see in birds today.

Evolution is a process that rewards clever solutions in the competition among males to stand out in the crowd. Depositing a layer of black underneath patches of bright blue feathers has enabled males to produce that extra vibrancy that helps them in the competition for mates.

The blue feathers of a red-necked tanager (Tangara cyanocephala) stand out against a black underlayer.
Rosalyn Price-Waldman

The reason the black layer works so well is that it absorbs all the light that passes through the top layer of coloured feathers. The colour we see is blue because those top feathers have a fine structure that scatters light in a particular way, and reflects light in the blue part of the spectrum.

The feathers appear particularly vivid blue because the light in other wavelengths is absorbed by the under-layer. If the under-layer was paler, some of the light in the other parts of the light spectrum would bounce back and the blue would not “pop out” as much.

Different tricks for different colours

Interestingly, in the new study, the researchers found that for yellow feathers the opposite trick works. Yellow feathers contain yellow pigments – carotenoids – and in this case they are enhanced if they have a white under-layer.

The white layer reflects light that passes through the yellow feathers, and this increases the brightness of these yellow patches, making them more striking in contrast to surrounding patches of colour.

The red feather tips of a scarlet-rumped tanager (Ramphocelus passerinii) are enhanced by the white feathers beneath them.
Rosalyn Price-Waldman

A surprisingly common technique

The authors focused most of their work on species of tanager, typically very colourful fruit-eating birds that are native to Central and South America.

However, once they had discovered what was happening in tanagers, they checked to see if it was occurring in other birds.

The vivid blue colouring of the Australian splendid fairy wren (Malurus splendens) is enhanced by an underlayer of colourless feathers.
Robbie Goodall / Getty Images

This additional work revealed that the use of black and white underlying feathers to enhance colour is found in many other bird families, including the Australian fairy wrens which have such vivid blue colouration.

This widespread use of black and white across so many different species suggests birds have been enhancing the production of colour in this clever way for tens of millions of years, and that it is widely used across birds.

The color of the vibrant red crown of this red-capped manakin (Ceratopipra mentalis) is magnified by a hidden layer of white plumage.
Daniel Field

The study is important because it helps us to understand how complex traits such as colour can evolve in nature. It may also help us to improve the production of vibrant colours in our own architecture, art and fashion.

Simon Griffith receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

– ref. Birds use hidden black and white feathers to make themselves more colourful – https://theconversation.com/birds-use-hidden-black-and-white-feathers-to-make-themselves-more-colourful-261567

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: CNRC Launches “Top Doc” in Fort Lauderdale

Source: United States Navy

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Navy Recruiting Command launched its national initiative pilot program, “Top Doc,” showcasing Medical Corps capabilities and career paths at Nova Southeastern University’s Fort Lauderdale campus on Saturday, July 12.

“Top Doc,” is designed to draw in a wide variety of people in various stages of their medical career path. This includes medical students, residents, residency program leaders and staff, and attending physicians in any type of practice or specialty.

“The involvement of a scholarly team of professionals, enabled by Nova Southeastern University’s prestigious health sciences programs, is a cornerstone of our excitement for launching the ‘Top Doc,’ pilot in South Florida, where we’ve received unparalleled community support,” said Capt. Tara Mcginnis, medical officer programs officer, Navy Recruiting Command. “This event captivates Florida residents by showcasing Navy Medicine’s advanced emergency care techniques, directly relevant to the state’s veteran and active-duty communities. It offers local medical professionals and students the chance to explore rewarding careers in Navy Medicine, while residents take pride in the military-civilian partnerships fostered here.”

Mcginnis believes the “Top Doc” initiative prioritizes the Medical Corps by attracting top medical talent from medical schools, residencies, and direct accessions.

“The experience offers military medical trainees and staff the opportunity to collaborate with civilian healthcare programs, foster a mutual exchange of knowledge, innovation, and service,” said Navy Counselor (Recruiting) 1st Class Jason Catano, assigned to the Hometown Medical Recruiter pilot program with Medical Accessions, Navy Recruiting Command. “The whole intent with this is to bring that all to the table and also give an opportunity to have hands-on training with the different professionals that are here from different career fields.”

Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED), the headquarters for Navy Medicine, was represented at “Top Doc,” by surgeons, an anesthesiologist, and a dermatologist. Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) instructors, Nurse Corps officers, and enlisted hospital corpsmen also lent their experience and expertise to the event.

Matthew Chenworth, senior director of military affairs for Nova Southeastern University and Marine Corps veteran, believes ensuring connecting the university’s students, faculty, and staff with the military is a top priority. Chenworth says NSU’s collaboration on “Top Doc,” and the long-standing relationship with NTAG Miami helps to achieve that goal.

“We’ve been coordinating a lot of scholarship opportunities specifically with our medical students who are looking to serve their country as a medical officer with the United States Navy upon their graduation,” said Chenworth. “We introduced [“Top Doc”] to our pre-medicine students, our nursing students, and to those who are currently within our health profession division that are going to be [Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Medical Doctors, and Physician Assistants]. We also extended the invite to our public safety office as well because those might be skills that our security officers here on campus may need.”

This joint effort brought in local medical professionals and community leaders, adding to the value of the event. Dr. Joshua Lenchus, former Florida Medical Association president, and Dr. Aeyal Oren, general surgeon in private practice, spent time working with simulation manikins and leading procedural demonstrations.

“It was a big role to step into, but I have prior experience doing simulation experience with my training down in Miami as well as dealing with the military because we ran trauma simulations there as well,” said Lenchus. “I think that the opportunities in the military are tremendous and there’s never enough gratitude that we can pay to the people who choose to put on the uniform and serve this country.”

Lenchus believes that while financial aid is extremely important, the leadership development gained through the military’s specialized training and coursework—often not available in the civilian sector—is equally vital.

Those in attendance gained insights from active-duty and reserve healthcare professionals working in the fleet.

Navy Medicine personnel presented specialized training capabilities on simulation tools, such as the TCCC Cut Suit, used to train medical personnel in treating battlefield traumas. Several presenters shared information sessions explaining the availability and requirements of medical officer programs and how they applied those programs in their careers.

Lt. Gahen Pendlebury, a full-time out-service medical officer and, emergency medicine resident, facilitated at the event.

“What I’ve realized through talking with civilian colleagues is that there are a lot of misconceptions [about military careers],” said Pendlebury. “Some people think that they’re too old, and they are no where near that. Some think that because they went to a Caribbean school, they can’t join as physicians. There are all sorts of entryways. These types of events really help not only expand Navy branding, but really help people understand that it’s not too late and that there are different pathways.”

Pendlebury believes there is a need for these kinds of events where interested people can obtain information about different career paths in Navy Medicine whether as active duty or reserve Sailors.

David Missel, a first-year optometry student at NSU and Navy medical officer applicant, said he attended “Top Doc,” to learn more about Navy Medicine and to celebrate his commitment to serve upon graduation.

“I decided to come here today because I’ve really had a passion for the Navy ever since I was a little kid,” said Missel. “I didn’t even know that I could be an optometrist in the Navy until very recently. Speaking to a recruiter and other people in the Navy, the more I learned about it the more I realize that this is such an amazing program and it’s a wonderful career opportunity. I’m just really looking forward to diving into this.”

Navy Medicine, represented by more than 44,000 highly trained military and civilian health care professionals, provides enduring expeditionary medical support to the warfighter any time, any place.

Missed the event but want to learn about Navy Medicine opportunities? Visit www.navy.com/navy-medicine or call 1-800-USA-NAVY for information.

NTAG Miami, has 38 recruiting locations throughout South Florida, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, with the combined mission to recruit the highest caliber Sailors to meet the needs of the Fleet.

Navy Recruiting Command consists of a command headquarters, two Navy Recruiting Regions, Navy Recruiting Reserve Command, and 26 NTAGs that serve more than 970 recruiting stations around the world. Their mission is to attract the highest quality candidates to assure the ongoing success of America’s Navy.

MIL Security OSI –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI: Eagle Bancorp, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results and Cash Dividend

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BETHESDA, Md., July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eagle Bancorp, Inc. (“Eagle”, the “Company”) (NASDAQ: EGBN), the Bethesda-based holding company for EagleBank, one of the largest community banks in the Washington D.C. area, reported its unaudited results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025.

Eagle reported a net loss of $69.8 million or $2.30 per share for the second quarter 2025, compared to net income of $1.7 million or $0.06 per diluted share during the first quarter. The $71.5 million decrease in net income from the prior quarter is primarily due to a $111.9 million increase in provision expense. In the quarter, net interest income increased $2.1 million, noninterest income decreased $1.8 million, and noninterest expenses decreased $2.0 million.

Pre-provision net revenue (“PPNR”)¹ in the second quarter was $30.7 million compared to $28.4 million for the prior quarter reflecting expansion of the net interest margin.

“Our core profitability improvement this quarter, evident in the growth of pre-provision net revenue, expansion of core deposits, and reduced reliance on wholesale and brokered funding, reflects our disciplined execution of our strategic plan,” said Susan G. Riel, Chair, President, and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. “We continue to work on building a stronger balance sheet that will contribute to long-term, sustainable performance.”

Our second quarter reflects the execution of our previously communicated strategy to resolve challenged loans and address related valuation pressures in the office portfolio.

“This quarter’s credit costs reflect decisive actions we are taking to address risk in our loan portfolio. While the charge is significant, it is aligned with our ongoing strategy and reflects our judgement to remediate credit exposures thoughtfully and deliberately. We view this quarter’s loss as a necessary and measured outcome of our risk remediation strategy. The resulting impact of these decisions is difficult, yet represents necessary steps in our objective to drive long-term value creation for shareholders,” added Ms. Riel.

Eric R. Newell, Chief Financial Officer of the Company said, “This quarter, the credit loss reserve coverage rose to 2.38% of total loans, up 75 basis points from last quarter. This reserve build reflects our ongoing and continued proactive approach to address credit risk in our loan portfolio and our expectation that remediation activity will continue over the coming quarters. Our capital position remains strong, with common equity tier one capital at 14.0% and our tangible common equity¹ ratio exceeding 10%. We will continue to evaluate capital allocation decisions, in alignment with our objectives of maintaining long-term franchise value.”

Additionally, the Company is announcing today a cash dividend in the amount of $0.165 per share. The cash dividend will be payable on August 29, 2025 to shareholders of record on August 8, 2025.

Second Quarter of 2025 Key Elements

The Company announces today the declaration of a common stock dividend of $0.165 per share.
The ACL as a percentage of total loans was 2.38% at quarter-end; up from 1.63% at the prior quarter-end. Performing office coverage² was 11.54% at quarter-end; as compared to 5.78% at the prior quarter-end.
Nonperforming assets increased by $26.0 million to $228.9 million as of June 30, 2025, representing 2.16% of total assets, compared to 1.79% as of March 31, 2025. During the quarter, nonperforming loan inflows totaled $222.8 million, primarily driven by office and land properties, including a $33.6 million data center loan backed by office collateral and a $9.1 million life sciences office loan. Reductions of $182.8 million reflected charge-offs, loans moved to held for sale, and restructuring activity.
Substandard and special mention loans totaled $875.4 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $774.9 million in the prior quarter.
Annualized quarterly net charge-offs for the second quarter were 4.22% compared to 0.57% for the first quarter of 2025.
The net interest margin (“NIM”) increased to 2.37% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 2.28% for the prior quarter, primarily driven by the paydown of average borrowings and reduced funding costs on money market accounts and other borrowings.
At quarter-end, the common equity ratio, tangible common equity ratio¹, and common equity tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) ratio were 11.18%, 11.18%, and 14.01%, respectively.
Total estimated insured deposits remained stable at quarter-end to $6.8 billion, representing 75.0% of deposits, compared to $6.9 billion, or 74.7% in the prior quarter.
Total on-balance sheet liquidity and available capacity was $4.8 billion, compared to $2.3 billion in uninsured deposits, resulting in a coverage ratio of over 200%.

Income Statement

Net interest income was $67.8 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $65.6 million for the prior quarter. The increase in net interest income for the quarter was primarily driven by lower funding costs on savings and money market accounts, a reduction in average short-term borrowings, and the benefit of one additional day in the quarter. These benefits were partially offset by lower yields on loans and a higher mix of time deposits. Both interest income and interest expense declined during the quarter, reflecting the impact of lower market rates.
Provision for credit losses was $138.2 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $26.3 million for the prior quarter. The increase was primarily driven by higher office-related reserves and expected exit strategies. Net charge-offs totaled $83.9 million, up from $11.2 million in the first quarter. The reserve for unfunded commitments totaled $1.8 million, driven primarily by higher unfunded commitments in our commercial and industrial portfolio. This compared to a reversal for unfunded commitments in the prior quarter of $0.3 million.
Noninterest income was $6.4 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $8.2 million for the prior quarter. The primary driver for the decrease was a $1.9 million loss on a trade executed to reposition the investment portfolio into higher-yielding assets.
Noninterest expense was $43.5 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $45.5 million for the prior quarter. The decrease over the comparative quarter was primarily due to decreased legal, accounting, and professional fees.

Loans and Funding

Total loans were $7.7 billion at June 30, 2025, down 2.8% from the prior quarter-end. The decrease in total loans was primarily driven by declines in income-producing real estate loans, partially offset by an increase in commercial and industrial loans.
Total deposits at quarter-end were $9.1 billion, down $157.7 million, or 1.7%, from the prior quarter-end. The decrease was primarily driven by lower balances in brokered savings and money market accounts. Period end deposits have increased $852.3 million when compared to the prior year comparable period end of June 30, 2024.
Other short-term borrowings were $50.0 million at June 30, 2025, representing an 89.8% decrease from the prior quarter-end. The decline was driven by the pay down of FHLB borrowings, funded by cash and core deposit growth.

Asset Quality

Allowance for credit losses was 2.38% of total loans held for investment at June 30, 2025, compared to 1.63% at the prior quarter-end. Performing office coverage was 11.54% at quarter-end; as compared to 5.78% at the prior quarter-end.
Net charge-offs were $83.9 million for the quarter compared to $11.2 million in the first quarter of 2025.
Nonperforming assets were $228.9 million at June 30, 2025.
- NPAs as a percentage of assets were 2.16% at June 30, 2025, compared to 1.79% at the prior quarter-end. At June 30, 2025, other real estate owned consisted of five properties with an aggregate carrying value of $2.5 million.
- Loans 30-89 days past due were $34.7 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $83.0 million at the prior quarter-end.

Capital

Total shareholders’ equity was $1.2 billion at June 30, 2025, down 4.8% from the prior quarter-end. The decrease in shareholders’ equity of $59.8 million was primarily due to quarterly losses that reduced capital. This was partially offset by an increase in the fair market value of the available-for-sale investment portfolio.
Book value per share and tangible book value per share³ were $39.03 and $39.03, down 4.8% from the prior quarter-end.

Additional financial information: The financial information that follows provides more detail on the Company’s financial performance for the three months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2025 and June 30, 2024, as well as eight quarters of trend data. Persons wishing additional information should refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other reports filed with the SEC.

About Eagle Bancorp: The Company is the holding company for EagleBank, which commenced operations in 1998. The Bank is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, and operates through twelve banking offices and four lending offices located in Suburban Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia. The Company focuses on building relationships with businesses, professionals and individuals in its marketplace, and is committed to a culture of respect, opportunity, belonging, and inclusion in both its workplace and the communities in which it operates.

Conference call: Eagle Bancorp will host a conference call to discuss its second quarter of 2025 financial results on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

The listen-only webcast can be accessed at:

https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yiqohzt3/
For analysts who wish to participate in the conference call, please register at the following URL:
https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI6d1c218e6b0143a6903a372200e40cc7

A replay of the conference call will be available on the Company’s website through Thursday, August 7, 2025: https://www.eaglebankcorp.com/

Forward-looking statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements of goals, intentions, and expectations as to future trends, plans, events or results of Company operations and policies and regarding general economic conditions. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by use of words such as “may,” “will,” “can,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “plans,” “strategy,” “estimates,” “potential,” “continue,” “should,” “could,” “strive,” “feel” and similar words or phrases. These statements are based upon current and anticipated economic conditions, nationally and in the Company’s market (including reductions in the size of the federal government workforce; changes in government spending; the proposal, announcement or imposition of tariffs; volatility in interest rates and interest rate policy; inflation levels; competitive factors) and other conditions (such as the impact of bank failures or adverse developments at other banks and related negative press about the banking industry in general on investor and depositor sentiment regarding the stability and liquidity of banks), which by their nature are not susceptible to accurate forecast and are subject to significant uncertainty. Because of these uncertainties and the assumptions on which this discussion and the forward-looking statements are based, actual future operations and results in the future may differ materially from those indicated herein. For details on factors that could affect these expectations, see the risk factors and other cautionary language included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and in other periodic and current reports filed with the SEC, including the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. Readers are cautioned against placing undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. The Company’s past results are not necessarily indicative of future performance, and nothing contained herein is meant to or should be considered and treated as earnings guidance of future quarters’ performance projections. All information is as of the date of this press release. Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company speak only as to the date they are made. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason.

Eagle Bancorp, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

	Three Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			June 30,
		2025			2025			2024
Interest Income
Interest and fees on loans	$	125,223		$	126,136		$	137,616
Interest and dividends on investment securities		11,436			11,912			12,405
Interest on balances with other banks and short-term investments		14,760			15,803			19,568
Interest on federal funds sold		24			27			142
Total interest income		151,443			153,878			169,731
Interest Expense
Interest on deposits		78,912			77,211			76,846
Interest on customer repurchase agreements		250			260			330
Interest on other short-term borrowings		2,489			8,733			21,202
Interest on long-term borrowings		2,016			2,025			—
Total interest expense		83,667			88,229			98,378
Net Interest Income		67,776			65,649			119,910
Provision for Credit Losses		138,159			26,255			8,959
Provision (Reversal) for Credit Losses for Unfunded Commitments		1,759			(297	)		608
Net Interest Income After Provision for Credit Losses		(72,142	)		39,691			110,343

Noninterest Income
Service charges on deposits		1,771			1,743			1,653
Gain on sale of loans		—			—			37
Net gain on sale of investment securities		(1,854	)		4			3
Increase in cash surrender value of bank-owned life insurance		5,161			4,282			709
Other income		1,336			2,178			2,930
Total noninterest income		6,414			8,207			5,332
Noninterest Expense
Salaries and employee benefits		21,940			21,968			21,770
Premises and equipment expenses		3,019			3,203			2,894
Marketing and advertising		1,144			1,371			1,662
Data processing		4,293			3,978			3,495
Legal, accounting and professional fees		1,550			3,122			2,705
FDIC insurance		8,077			8,962			5,917
Goodwill impairment		—			—			104,168
Other expenses		3,447			2,847			3,880
Total noninterest expense		43,470			45,451			146,491
Income (Loss) Before Income Tax Expense		(109,198	)		2,447			(79,373	)
Income Tax Expense		(39,423	)		772			4,429
Net (Loss) Income	$	(69,775	)	$	1,675		$	(83,802	)

(Loss) Earnings Per Common Share
Basic	$	(2.30	)	$	0.06		$	(2.78	)
Diluted	$	(2.30	)	$	0.06		$	(2.78	)

Eagle Bancorp, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	June 30,			March 31,			June 30,
		2025			2025			2024
Assets
Cash and due from banks	$	14,005		$	12,516		$	10,803
Federal funds sold		4,091			2,968			5,802
Interest-bearing deposits with banks and other short-term investments		239,237			661,173			526,228
Investment securities available-for-sale at fair value (amortized cost of $1,271,179, $1,330,077, and $1,584,435 respectively, and allowance for credit losses of $—, $—, and $17, respectively)		1,170,489			1,214,237			1,420,618
Investment securities held-to-maturity at amortized cost, net of allowance for credit losses of $1,229, $1,275, and $2,012 respectively (fair value of $799,136, $820,530, and $856,275 respectively)		896,855			924,473			982,955
Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock		30,613			51,467			54,274
Loans held for sale		37,576			15,251			5,000
Loans		7,721,664			7,943,306			8,001,739
Less: allowance for credit losses		(183,796	)		(129,469	)		(106,301	)
Loans, net		7,537,868			7,813,837			7,895,438
Premises and equipment, net		7,103			7,079			8,788
Operating lease right-of-use assets		31,202			32,769			16,250
Deferred income taxes		80,731			84,798			86,236
Bank-owned life insurance		325,174			320,055			114,333
Intangible assets, net		9			11			129
Other real estate owned		2,459			2,459			773
Other assets		223,919			174,268			174,396
Total Assets		10,601,331			11,317,361			11,302,023
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing demand		1,532,132			1,607,826			1,693,955
Interest-bearing transaction		895,604			926,722			1,123,980
Savings and money market		3,267,630			3,558,919			3,165,314
Time deposits		3,424,241			3,183,801			2,284,099
Total deposits		9,119,607			9,277,268			8,267,348
Customer repurchase agreements		23,442			32,357			39,220
Other short-term borrowings		50,000			490,000			1,659,979
Long-term borrowings		76,264			76,181			—
Operating lease liabilities		37,297			38,484			20,016
Reserve for unfunded commitments		4,925			3,166			6,653
Other liabilities		104,729			155,014			139,348
Total Liabilities		9,416,264			10,072,470			10,132,564
Shareholders’ Equity
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; shares authorized 100,000,000, shares issued and outstanding 30,364,983, 30,368,843, and 30,180,482 respectively		300			300			297
Additional paid-in capital		388,927			386,535			380,142
Retained earnings		904,205			978,995			949,863
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(108,365	)		(120,939	)		(160,843	)
Total Shareholders’ Equity		1,185,067			1,244,891			1,169,459
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	10,601,331		$	11,317,361		$	11,302,023

Loan Mix and Asset Quality
(Dollars in thousands)

	June 30,				March 31,				June 30,
	2025				2025				2024
	Amount		%		Amount		%		Amount		%
Loan Balances – Period End:
Commercial	$	1,207,512	15	%	$	1,178,343	15	%	$	1,238,261	15	%
PPP loans		164	—	%		226	—	%	$	407	—	%
Income producing – commercial real estate		3,768,884	48	%		3,967,124	49	%	$	4,217,525	53	%
Owner occupied – commercial real estate		1,365,901	18	%		1,403,668	18	%	$	1,263,714	16	%
Real estate mortgage – residential		45,921	1	%		48,821	1	%	$	61,338	1	%
Construction – commercial and residential		1,211,728	16	%		1,210,788	15	%	$	1,063,764	13	%
Construction – C&I (owner occupied)		69,554	1	%		83,417	1	%	$	99,526	1	%
Home equity		49,224	1	%		50,121	1	%	$	52,773	1	%
Other consumer		2,776	—	%		798	—	%	$	4,431	—	%
Total loans	$	7,721,664	100	%	$	7,943,306	100	%	$	8,001,739	100	%

	Three Months Ended or As Of
	June 30,		March 31,		June 30,
	2025		2025		2024
Asset Quality:
Nonperforming loans	$	226,420	$	200,447	$	98,169
Other real estate owned		2,459		2,459		773
Nonperforming assets	$	228,879	$	202,906	$	98,942
Net charge-offs	$	83,877	$	11,230	$	2,285
Special mention	$	173,311	$	273,380	$	307,906
Substandard	$	702,128	$	501,565	$	408,311

Eagle Bancorp, Inc.
Consolidated Average Balances, Interest Yields And Rates vs. Prior Quarter (Unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands)

	Three Months Ended
	June 30, 2025						March 31, 2025
	Average Balance		Interest		Average Yield/Rate		Average Balance		Interest		Average Yield/Rate
ASSETS
Interest earning assets:
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks and other short-term investments	$	1,375,782	$	14,749	4.30	%	$	1,445,054	$	15,803	4.44	%
Loans held for sale⁽¹⁾		15,418		284	7.39	%		169		—	—	%
Loans^{(1) (2)}		7,942,333		124,939	6.31	%		7,933,695		126,136	6.45	%
Investment securities available-for-sale⁽²⁾		1,233,206		6,491	2.11	%		1,321,954		6,857	2.10	%
Investment securities held-to-maturity⁽²⁾		918,083		4,945	2.16	%		933,880		5,055	2.20	%
Federal funds sold		2,184		24	4.41	%		5,410		27	2.02	%
Total interest earning assets		11,487,006		151,432	5.29	%		11,640,162		153,878	5.36	%
Total noninterest earning assets		635,125						596,585
Less: allowance for credit losses		133,036						118,557
Total noninterest earning assets		502,089						478,028
TOTAL ASSETS	$	11,989,095					$	12,118,190

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Interest bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction	$	1,489,056	$	9,982	2.69	%	$	1,368,609	$	9,908	2.94	%
Savings and money market		3,461,918		29,634	3.43	%		3,682,217		32,389	3.57	%
Time deposits		3,367,907		39,296	4.68	%		2,951,111		34,914	4.80	%
Total interest bearing deposits		8,318,881		78,912	3.80	%		8,001,937		77,211	3.91	%
Customer repurchase agreements		34,387		250	2.92	%		36,572		260	2.88	%
Derivative collateral liability		12,710		118	3.72	%		—		—	—	%
Other short-term borrowings		245,291		2,360	3.86	%		682,222		8,733	5.19	%
Long-term borrowings		76,236		2,016	10.61	%		76,146		2,025	10.79	%
Total interest bearing liabilities		8,687,505		83,656	3.86	%		8,796,877		88,229	4.07	%
Noninterest bearing liabilities:
Noninterest bearing demand		1,907,214						1,881,296
Other liabilities		142,124						197,212
Total noninterest bearing liabilities		2,049,338						2,078,508
Shareholders’ equity		1,252,252						1,242,805
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$	11,989,095					$	12,118,190
Net interest income			$	67,776					$	65,649
Net interest spread					1.43	%					1.29	%
Net interest margin					2.37	%					2.28	%
Cost of funds					3.17	%					3.35	%

(1	)	Loans placed on nonaccrual status are included in average balances. Net loan fees and late charges included in interest income on loans totaled $3.6 million and $3.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
(2	)	Interest and fees on loans and investments exclude tax equivalent adjustments.

Eagle Bancorp, Inc.
Consolidated Average Balances, Interest Yields And Rates vs. Year Ago Quarter (Unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands)

	Three Months Ended June 30,
		2025						2024
	Average Balance		Interest		Average Yield/Rate		Average Balance		Interest		Average Yield/Rate
ASSETS
Interest earning assets:
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks and other short-term investments	$	1,375,782	$	14,749	4.30	%	$	1,455,007	$	19,568	5.41	%
Loans held for sale⁽¹⁾		15,418		284	7.39	%		8,045		100	5.00	%
Loans^{(1) (2)}		7,942,333		124,939	6.31	%		8,003,206		137,516	6.91	%
Investment securities available-for-sale⁽²⁾		1,233,206		6,491	2.11	%		1,478,856		7,048	1.92	%
Investment securities held-to-maturity⁽²⁾		918,083		4,945	2.16	%		995,274		5,357	2.16	%
Federal funds sold		2,184		24	4.41	%		13,058		142	4.37	%
Total interest earning assets		11,487,006		151,432	5.29	%		11,953,446		169,731	5.71	%
Total noninterest earning assets		635,125						510,725
Less: allowance for credit losses		133,036						102,671
Total noninterest earning assets		502,089						408,054
TOTAL ASSETS	$	11,989,095					$	12,361,500

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Interest bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction	$	1,489,056	$	9,982	2.69	%	$	1,636,795	$	16,100	3.96	%
Savings and money market		3,461,918		29,634	3.43	%		3,321,001		33,451	4.05	%
Time deposits		3,367,907		39,296	4.68	%		2,215,693		27,295	4.95	%
Total interest bearing deposits		8,318,881		78,912	3.80	%		7,173,489		76,846	4.31	%
Customer repurchase agreements		34,387		250	2.92	%		38,599		330	3.44	%
Derivative collateral liability		12,710		118	3.72	%		—		—	—	%
Other short-term borrowings		245,291		2,360	3.86	%		1,682,684		21,202	5.07	%
Long-term borrowings		76,236		2,016	10.61	%		—		—	—	%
Total interest bearing liabilities		8,687,505		83,656	3.86	%		8,894,772		98,378	4.45	%
Noninterest bearing liabilities:
Noninterest bearing demand		1,907,214						2,051,777
Other liabilities		142,124						151,324
Total noninterest bearing liabilities		2,049,338						2,203,101
Shareholders’ equity		1,252,252						1,263,627
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$	11,989,095					$	12,361,500
Net interest income			$	67,776					$	71,353
Net interest spread					1.43	%					1.26	%
Net interest margin					2.37	%					2.40	%
Cost of funds					3.17	%					3.61	%

(1	)	Loans placed on nonaccrual status are included in average balances. Net loan fees and late charges included in interest income on loans totaled $3.6 million and $4.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
(2	)	Interest and fees on loans and investments exclude tax equivalent adjustments.

Eagle Bancorp, Inc.
Statements of Operations and Highlights Quarterly Trends (Unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
				Three Months Ended
	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024			December 31, 2023			September 30, 2023
Income Statements:
Total interest income	$	151,443		$	153,878		$	168,417		$	173,813		$	169,731		$	175,602		$	167,421		$	161,149
Total interest expense		83,667			88,229			97,623			101,970			98,378			100,904			94,429			90,430
Net interest income		67,776			65,649			70,794			71,843			71,353			74,698			72,992			70,719
Provision for credit losses		138,159			26,255			12,132			10,094			8,959			35,175			14,490			5,644
Provision (reversal) for credit losses for unfunded commitments		1,759			(297	)		(1,598	)		(1,593	)		608			456			(594	)		(839	)
Net interest income after provision for credit losses		(72,142	)		39,691			60,260			63,342			61,786			39,067			59,096			65,914
Noninterest income before investment gain		8,268			8,203			4,063			6,948			5,329			3,585			2,891			6,342
Net gain on sale of investment securities		(1,854	)		4			4			3			3			4			3			5
Total noninterest income		6,414			8,207			4,067			6,951			5,332			3,589			2,894			6,347
Salaries and employee benefits		21,940			21,968			22,597			21,675			21,770			21,726			18,416			21,549
Premises and equipment expenses		3,019			3,203			2,635			2,794			2,894			3,059			2,967			3,095
Marketing and advertising		1,144			1,371			1,340			1,588			1,662			859			1,071			768
Goodwill impairment		—			—			—			—			104,168			—			—			—
Other expenses		17,367			18,909			17,960			17,557			15,997			14,353			14,644			12,221
Total noninterest expense		43,470			45,451			44,532			43,614			146,491			39,997			37,098			37,633
(Loss) income before income tax expense		(109,198	)		2,447			19,795			26,679			(79,373	)		2,659			24,892			34,628
Income tax expense		(39,423	)		772			4,505			4,864			4,429			2,997			4,667			7,245
Net (loss) income		(69,775	)		1,675			15,290			21,815			(83,802	)		(338	)		20,225			27,383
Per Share Data:
(Loss) earnings per weighted average common share, basic	$	(2.30	)	$	0.06		$	0.51		$	0.72		$	(2.78	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.68		$	0.91
(Loss) earnings per weighted average common share, diluted	$	(2.30	)	$	0.06		$	0.50		$	0.72		$	(2.78	)	$	(0.01	)	$	0.67		$	0.91
Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic		30,373,167			30,275,001			30,199,433			30,173,852			30,185,609			30,068,173			29,925,557			29,910,218
Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted		30,510,847			30,404,262			30,321,644			30,241,699			30,185,609			30,068,173			29,966,962			29,944,692
Actual shares outstanding at period end		30,364,983			30,368,843			30,202,003			30,173,200			30,180,482			30,185,732			29,925,612			29,917,982
Book value per common share at period end	$	39.03		$	40.99		$	40.60		$	40.61		$	38.75		$	41.72		$	42.58		$	40.64
Tangible book value per common share at period end⁽¹⁾	$	39.03		$	40.99		$	40.59		$	40.61		$	38.74		$	38.26		$	39.08		$	37.12
Dividend per common share	$	0.165		$	0.165		$	—		$	0.165		$	0.45		$	0.45		$	0.45		$	0.45
Performance Ratios (annualized):
Return on average assets	(2.33		)%		0.06	%		0.48	%		0.70	%	(2.73		)%	(0.01		)%		0.65	%		0.91	%
Return on average common equity	(22.35		)%		0.55	%		4.94	%		7.22	%	(26.67		)%	(0.11		)%		6.48	%		8.80	%
Return on average tangible common equity⁽¹⁾	(22.35		)%		0.55	%		4.94	%		7.22	%	(28.96		)%	(0.11		)%		7.08	%		9.61	%
Net interest margin		2.37	%		2.28	%		2.29	%		2.37	%		2.40	%		2.43	%		2.45	%		2.43	%
Efficiency ratio⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾		58.60	%		61.50	%		59.50	%		55.40	%		191.00	%		51.10	%		48.90	%		48.83	%
Other Ratios:
Allowance for credit losses to total loans⁽³⁾		2.38	%		1.63	%		1.44	%		1.40	%		1.33	%		1.25	%		1.08	%		1.05	%
Allowance for credit losses to total nonperforming loans		81.17	%		64.59	%		54.81	%		83.25	%		110.06	%		108.76	%		131.16	%		118.78	%
Nonperforming assets to total assets		2.16	%		1.79	%		1.90	%		1.22	%		0.88	%		0.79	%		0.57	%		0.64	%
Net charge-offs (recoveries) (annualized) to average total loans⁽³⁾		4.22	%		0.57	%		0.48	%		0.26	%		0.11	%		1.07	%		0.60	%		0.02	%
Tier 1 capital (to average assets)		10.63	%		11.11	%		10.74	%		10.77	%		10.58	%		10.26	%		10.73	%		10.96	%
Total capital (to risk weighted assets)		15.27	%		15.86	%		15.86	%		15.51	%		15.07	%		14.87	%		14.79	%		14.54	%
Common equity tier 1 capital (to risk weighted assets)		14.01	%		14.61	%		14.63	%		14.30	%		13.92	%		13.80	%		13.90	%		13.68	%
Tangible common equity ratio⁽¹⁾		11.18	%		11.00	%		11.02	%		10.86	%		10.35	%		10.03	%		10.12	%		10.04	%
Average Balances (in thousands):
Total assets	$	11,989,095		$	12,118,190		$	12,575,722		$	12,360,899		$	12,361,500		$	12,784,470		$	12,283,303		$	11,942,905
Total earning assets	$	11,487,006		$	11,640,162		$	12,303,940		$	12,072,891		$	11,953,446		$	12,365,497		$	11,837,722		$	11,532,186
Total loans⁽²⁾	$	7,942,333		$	7,933,695		$	7,971,907		$	8,026,524		$	8,003,206		$	7,988,941		$	7,963,074		$	7,795,144
Total deposits	$	10,226,095		$	9,883,233		$	10,056,463		$	9,344,414		$	9,225,266		$	9,501,661		$	9,471,369		$	8,946,641
Total borrowings	$	355,914		$	794,940		$	1,118,276		$	1,654,736		$	1,721,283		$	1,832,947		$	1,401,917		$	1,646,179
Total shareholders’ equity	$	1,252,252		$	1,242,805		$	1,230,573		$	1,201,477		$	1,263,627		$	1,289,656		$	1,238,763		$	1,235,162

(1	)	A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to the nearest GAAP measure is provided in the tables that accompany this document.
(2	)	Computed by dividing noninterest expense by the sum of net interest income and noninterest income.
(3	)	Excludes loans held for sale.

GAAP Reconciliation to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

	June 30,			March 31,			June 30,
	2025			2025			2024
Tangible common equity
Common shareholders’ equity	$	1,185,067		$	1,244,891		$	1,169,459
Less: Intangible assets		(9	)		(11	)		(129	)
Tangible common equity	$	1,185,058		$	1,244,880		$	1,169,330

Tangible common equity ratio
Total assets	$	10,601,331		$	11,317,361		$	11,302,023
Less: Intangible assets		(9	)		(11	)		(129	)
Tangible assets	$	10,601,322		$	11,317,350		$	11,301,894

Tangible common equity ratio		11.18	%		11.00	%		10.35	%

Per share calculations
Book value per common share	$	39.03		$	40.99		$	38.75
Less: Intangible book value per common share	$	—		$	—		$	(0.01	)
Tangible book value per common share	$	39.03		$	40.99		$	38.74

Shares outstanding at period end		30,364,983			30,368,843			30,180,482

	Three Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			June 30,
	2025			2025			2024
Average tangible common equity
Average common shareholders’ equity	$	1,252,252		$	1,242,805		$	1,263,627
Less: Average intangible assets		(11	)		(14	)		(99,827	)
Average tangible common equity	$	1,252,241		$	1,242,791		$	1,163,800

Return on average tangible common equity
Net (loss) income	$	(69,775	)	$	1,675		$	(83,802	)
Return on average tangible common equity	(22.35		)%		0.55	%	(28.96		)%

Net (loss) income	$	(69,775	)	$	1,675		$	(83,802	)
Add back of goodwill impairment		—			—			104,168
Operating net (loss) income (Non-GAAP)	$	(69,775	)	$	1,675		$	20,366
Operating Return on average tangible common equity (Non-GAAP)	(22.35		)%		0.55	%		7.04	%

Efficiency ratio
Net interest income	$	67,776		$	65,649		$	71,353
Noninterest income		6,414			8,207			5,332
Operating revenue	$	74,190		$	73,856		$	76,685
Noninterest expense	$	43,470		$	45,451		$	146,491
Add back of goodwill impairment					—			(104,168	)
Operating Noninterest expense (Non-GAAP)		43,470			45,451			42,323

Efficiency ratio		58.59	%		61.54	%		191.03	%
Operating Efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP)		58.59	%		61.54	%		55.19	%

Pre-provision net revenue
Net interest income	$	67,776		$	65,649		$	71,353
Noninterest income		6,414			8,207			5,332
Less: Noninterest expense		(43,470	)		(45,451	)		(146,491	)
Pre-provision net revenue	$	30,720		$	28,405		$	(69,806	)

Pre-provision net revenue	$	30,720		$	28,405		$	(69,806	)
Add back of goodwill impairment	$	—		$	—		$	104,168
Operating Pre-provision net revenue (Non-GAAP)	$	30,720		$	28,405		$	34,362

Tangible common equity, tangible common equity to tangible assets (the “tangible common equity ratio”), tangible book value per common share, average tangible common equity, annualized return on average tangible common equity, and the operating annualized return on average tangible common equity are non-GAAP financial measures derived from GAAP based amounts. The Company calculates the tangible common equity ratio by excluding the balance of intangible assets from common shareholders’ equity, or tangible common equity, and dividing by tangible assets. The Company calculates tangible book value per common share by dividing tangible common equity by common shares outstanding, as compared to book value per common share, which the Company calculates by dividing common shareholders’ equity by common shares outstanding. The Company calculates the annualized return on average tangible common equity ratio by dividing net income available to common shareholders by average tangible common equity, which is calculated by excluding the average balance of intangible assets from the average common shareholders’ equity. The Company calculates the operating annualized return on average tangible common equity ratio by dividing operating net income available to common shareholders, which adds back the goodwill impairment, by average tangible common equity, which is calculated by excluding the average balance of intangible assets from the average common shareholders’ equity. The Company considers this information important to shareholders as the significant impact of the goodwill impairment is a one-time event that obscures the operating performance of the company. Further related to other measures, tangible equity is a measure that is consistent with the calculation of capital for bank regulatory purposes, which excludes intangible assets from the calculation of risk based ratios, and as such is useful for investors, regulators, management and others to evaluate capital adequacy and to compare against other financial institutions.

The efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measure calculated by dividing GAAP noninterest expense by the sum of GAAP net interest income and GAAP noninterest income. The efficiency ratio measures a bank’s overhead as a percentage of its revenue. The Company believes that reporting the non-GAAP efficiency ratio more closely measures its effectiveness of controlling operational activities. Further, the operating efficiency ratio is measured by dividing non-GAAP noninterest expense, which excludes the goodwill impairment, by the sum of GAAP net interest income and GAAP noninterest income. The Company considers this information important to shareholders as the significant impact of the goodwill impairment is a one-time event that obscures the operating performance of the company.

Pre-provision net revenue is a non-GAAP financial measure calculated by subtracting noninterest expenses from the sum of net interest income and noninterest income. The Company considers this information important to shareholders because it illustrates revenue excluding the impact of provisions and reversals to the allowance for credit losses on loans. Operating pre-provision net revenue is a non-GAAP financial measure calculated by subtracting noninterest expenses with the impact of the goodwill impairment added back from the sum of net interest income and noninterest income. The Company considers this information important to shareholders as the significant impact of the goodwill impairment is a one-time event that obscures the operating performance of the company.

	June 30,			March 31,		June 30,
	2025			2025		2024
Net (loss) income	$	(69,775	)	$	1,675	$	(83,802	)
Add back of goodwill impairment		—			—		104,168
Operating Net (loss) income (Non-GAAP)	$	(69,775	)	$	1,675	$	20,366

(Loss) earnings per share (diluted)⁴	$	(2.30	)	$	0.06	$	(2.78	)
Add back of goodwill impairment per share (diluted)		—			—		3.45
Operating earnings (loss) per share (diluted) (Non-GAAP)	$	(2.30	)	$	0.06	$	0.67

Operating net (loss) income and operating (loss) earnings per share (diluted) are non-GAAP financial measures derived from GAAP based amounts. The Company calculates operating net (loss) income by excluding from net (loss) income the one-time goodwill impairment of $104.2 million. During the second quarter of 2024, the Company performed an annual impairment test as a result of management’s evaluation of current economic conditions, and concluded that goodwill had become impaired, which resulted in an impairment charge of $104.2 million to reduce the carrying value of the Company’s goodwill to zero. The Company calculates operating earnings (loss) per share (diluted) by dividing the one-time goodwill impairment of $104.2 million by the weighted average shares outstanding (diluted) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024. The Company considers this information important to shareholders because operating net (loss) income and operating (loss) earnings per share (diluted) provides investors insight into how Company earnings changed exclusive of the impairment charge to allow investors to better compare the Company’s performance against historical periods. The table above provides a reconciliation of operating net income (loss) and operating earnings (loss) per share (diluted) to the nearest GAAP measure.

^{______________________________
₁}_{A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures and the nearest GAAP measures is provided in the GAAP Reconciliation to Non-GAAP Financial Measures tables that accompany this document.}
_{²Calculated as the ACL attributable to loans collateralized by performing office properties as a percentage of total loans.}
_{³ A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures and the nearest GAAP measures is provided in the GAAP Reconciliation to Non-GAAP Financial Measures tables that accompany this document.}
_{⁴ For periods ended with a net loss, anti-dilutive financial instruments have been excluded from the calculation of GAAP diluted EPS. Operating diluted EPS calculations include the impact of outstanding equity-based awards for all periods.}

EAGLE BANCORP, INC.
CONTACT:
Eric R. Newell
240.497.1796

For the June 30, 2025 Earnings Presentation, click 2025 EGBN Earnings DECK 6-30-2025 FINAL

The MIL Network –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: USGS Geologic Mapping Project Supports Critical Mineral Exploration, Enhances Public Safety in the Southeast

Source: US Geological Survey

The project aims to create detailed geologic maps of the Atlantic Seaboard Fall Line, a geologic boundary from New Jersey to Georgia. This area features rapids in streams and rivers, with higher land to the northwest. The Fall Line marks a 10-mile-wide area between the hard metamorphic rock of the Piedmont to the west and the softer sedimentary rock of the Coastal Plain to the east.

These new geologic maps will fill in knowledge gaps in many places in the southeastern U.S. that have not been mapped in detail before.

“New technologies and mapping techniques allow us to create more accurate maps of what lies underground, providing crucial geologic information, such as where important minerals could be or where earthquake risks are greater” said Mark Carter, a USGS research geologist and project lead with the USGS Florence Bascom Geoscience Center.

A key focus of this mapping project is to inform State Geological Surveys, private industry, and key decision-makers where critical minerals vital to the economy and national security might be located.

As demand for rare earth elements and other critical minerals grows for use in technology, energy, and defense sectors, this project can provide vital data that helps the U.S. secure domestic sources of critical minerals, thus reducing the nation’s dependence on foreign sources.

“Critical minerals are needed for almost every part of modern life,” Carter explained. “Projects like this one can make the U.S. more self-reliant by helping us find where these resources are.”

Critical minerals like titanium are found in sandy deposits along the coastal plain, originating from weathered rocks in and around the Appalachians and washed downstream. While experts know the current locations of many of these sandy deposits, their original sources in Piedmont and Blue Ridge bedrock upstream are still unknown. Discovering the origin of these minerals is important because there may be large amounts of valuable resources yet to be uncovered, added Carter.

Titanium is one of 50 critical minerals essential to the U.S. economy and national security. More than 95% of titanium used in the U.S. during 2024 was imported from other countries, so finding domestic sources of titanium is important for the U.S. to be self-sufficient. Titanium’s high strength-to-weight ratio is crucial for components in airplanes, spacecraft, military armor, and medical implants. Most titanium ore is processed into titanium dioxide, a pigment used in various products like paints, plastics, toothpaste and sunscreen.

In addition to its potential in locating critical minerals, this project fills a critical public safety need by assessing areas for earthquake hazards.

Many older geologic maps of the southeastern U.S. do not provide the detail needed to identify possible geological hazards, including rare but severe earthquakes that endanger lives and infrastructure. Updated maps can improve geological understanding and knowledge on earthquake risks, helping local governments and emergency services better prepare for and mitigate the impacts of earthquakes. This improved understanding helps local and state governments maximize the effectiveness of building codes, emergency plans, and public awareness programs.

“At the heart of this mapping endeavor is a commitment to public safety,” said Carter. “The project will provide local agencies and policymakers with the knowledge needed to implement effective hazard mitigation strategies, which can help save lives, protect communities and reduce economic losses in the event of a future earthquake.”

At present, the research for the project is focused on the Fall Line in southeast Virginia, northeastern North Carolina, and central Georgia. Much of the work in Georgia is focused on Federal lands, including the Oconee National Forests and both the Piedmont and Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuges.

During fieldwork, geologists traverse varied terrains to study rocks outcrops, topographic features, and soils while collecting samples for laboratory analysis. A key aspect of geologic mapping is laboratory work to determine the age of rocks and sediments. At USGS labs, various techniques are employed to achieve this, such as uranium-lead dating for zircon minerals, pollen analysis to determine sediment age, cosmogenic nuclide dating to measure sunlight exposure, and optically stimulated luminescence dating to find out when sands were last exposed to sunlight, which tells experts when the sands were buried.

This field and laboratory work also helps other parts of the USGS like the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI), which collects geophysical, geologic, geochemical, and topographic data across all regions of the U.S. to enhance scientific understanding of the nation’s geology and mineral resources. Earth MRI airborne surveys aid geologic mapping by measuring rock characteristics that are not visible to the naked eye but can be matched to geologic features that span large regions, even in remote, rugged areas or areas covered by vegetation or water. This project and similar efforts by USGS and State geological survey partners provide essential ground-truth information to interpret the geophysical data and infer the bedrock geology and features such as faults that are concealed beneath younger soils and sediment.

To learn more about this USGS National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program project, visit: Geology of the eastern Piedmont and upper Coastal Plain along the Fall Zone, Virginia to Georgia | U.S. Geological Survey

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Togo’s ‘Nana-Benz’: how cheap Chinese imports of African fabrics has hurt the famous women traders

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Fidele B. Ebia, Postdoctoral fellow, Duke Africa Initiative, Duke University

The manufacturing of African print textiles has shifted to China in the 21st century. While they are widely consumed in African countries – and symbolic of the continent – the rise of “made in China” has undermined the African women traders who have long shaped the retail and distribution of this cloth.

For many decades Vlisco, the Dutch textile group which traces its origins to 1846 and whose products had been supplied to west Africa by European trading houses since the late 19th century, dominated manufacture of the cloth. But in the last 25 years dozens of factories in China have begun to supply African print textiles to west African markets. Qingdao Phoenix Hitarget Ltd, Sanhe Linqing Textile Group and Waxhaux Ltd are among the best known.

We conducted research to establish how the rise of Chinese-made cloth has affected the African print textiles trade. We focused on Togo. Though it’s a tiny country with a population of only 9.7 million, the capital city, Lomé, is the trading hub in west Africa for the textiles.

We conducted over 100 interviews with traders, street sellers, port agents or brokers, government officials and representatives of manufacturing companies to learn about how their activities have changed.

“Made in China” African print textiles are substantially cheaper and more accessible to a wider population than Vlisco fabric. Our market observations in Lomé’s famous Assigamé market found that Chinese African print textiles cost about 9,000 CFA (US$16) for six yards – one complete outfit. Wax Hollandais (50,000 CFA or US$87) cost over five times more.

Data is hard to come by, but our estimates suggest that 90% of imports of these textiles to Lomé port in 2019 came from China.

One Togolese trader summed up the attraction:

Who could resist a cloth that looked similar, but that cost much less than real Vlisco?

Our research shows how the rise of China manufactured cloth has undermined Vlisco’s once dominant market share as well as the monopoly on the trade of Dutch African print textiles that Togolese traders once enjoyed.

The traders, known as Nana-Benz because of the expensive cars they drove, once enjoyed an economic and political significance disproportionate to their small numbers. Their political influence was such that they were key backers of Togo’s first president, Sylvanus Olympio – himself a former director of the United Africa Company, which distributed Dutch cloth.

In turn, Olympio and long-term leader General Gnassingbé Eyadéma provided policy favours – such as low taxes – to support trading activity. In the 1970s, African print textile trade was considered as significant as the phosphate industry – the country’s primary export.

Nana-Benz have since been displaced – their numbers falling from 50 to about 20. Newer Togolese traders – known as Nanettes or “little Nanas” – have taken their place. While they have carved out a niche in mediating the textiles trade with China, they have lower economic and political stature. In turn, they too are increasingly threatened by Chinese competition, more recently within trading and distribution as well.

China displaces the Dutch

Dating back to the colonial period, African women traders have played essential roles in the wholesale and distribution of Dutch cloth in west African markets. As many countries in the region attained independence from the 1950s onwards, Grand Marché – or Assigamé – in Lomé became the hub for African print textile trade.

While neighbouring countries such as Ghana limited imports as part of efforts to promote domestic industrialisation, Togolese traders secured favourable conditions. These included low taxes and use of the port.

Togolese women traders knew the taste of predominantly female, west African customers better than their mostly male, Dutch designers. The Nana-Benz were brought into the African print textile production and design process, selecting patterns and giving names to designs they knew would sell.

They acquired such wealth from this trade that they earned the Nana-Benz nickname from the cars they purchased and which they used to collect and move merchandise.

Nana-Benz exclusivity of trading and retailing of African print textiles cloth in west African markets has been disrupted. As Vlisco has responded to falling revenues – over 30% in the first five years of the 21st century – due to its Chinese competition, Togolese traders’ role in the supply chain of Dutch cloth has been downgraded.

In response to the flood of Chinese imports, the Dutch manufacturer re-positioned itself as a luxury fashion brand and placed greater focus on the marketing and distribution of the textiles.

Vlisco has opened several boutique stores in west and central Africa, starting with Cotonou (2008), Lomé (2008) and Abidjan (2009). The surviving Nana-Benz – an estimated 20 of the original 50 – operate under contract as retailers rather than traders and must follow strict rules of sale and pricing.

While newer Togolese traders known as Nanettes are involved in the sourcing of textiles from China, they have lower economic and political stature. Up to 60 are involved in the trade.

Former street sellers of textiles and other petty commodities, Nanettes began travelling to China in the early to mid-2000s to source African print textiles. They are involved in commissioning and advising on the manufacturing of African print textiles in China and the distribution in Africa.

While many Nanettes order the common Chinese brands, some own and market their own. These include what are now well-known designs in Lomé and west Africa such as “Femme de Caractère”, “Binta”, “Prestige”, “Rebecca Wax”, “GMG” and “Homeland”.

Compared to their Nana-Benz predecessors, the Nanettes carve out their business from the smaller pie available from the sale of cheaper Chinese cloth. Though the volumes traded are large, the margins are smaller due to the much lower final retail price compared to Dutch cloth.

After procuring African print textiles from China, Nanettes sell wholesale to independent local traders or “sellers” as well as traders from neighbouring countries. These sellers in turn break down the bulk they have purchased and sell it in smaller quantities to independent street vendors.

All African print textiles from China arrive in west Africa as an incomplete product – as six-yard or 12-yard segments of cloth, not as finished garments. Local tailors and seamstresses then make clothes according to consumer taste. Some fashion designers have also opened shops where they sell prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear) garments made from bolts of African print and tailored to local taste. Thus, even though the monopoly of the Nana-Benz has been eroded, value is still added and captured locally.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese actors have become more involved in trading activity – and not just manufacturing. The further evolution of Chinese presence risks an even greater marginalisation of locals, already excluded from manufacturing, from the trading and distribution end of the value chain. Maintaining their role – tailoring products to local culture and trends and linking the formal and informal economy – is vital not just for Togolese traders, but also the wider economy.

Rory Horner receives funding from the British Academy Mid-Career Fellowship. He is also a Research Associate at the Department of Geography, Environmental Management and Energy Studies at the University of Johannesburg.

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

– ref. Togo’s ‘Nana-Benz’: how cheap Chinese imports of African fabrics has hurt the famous women traders – https://theconversation.com/togos-nana-benz-how-cheap-chinese-imports-of-african-fabrics-has-hurt-the-famous-women-traders-260924

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: How the UK’s immigration system splits families apart – by design

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nando Sigona, Professor of International Migration and Forced Displacement and Director of the Institute for Research into International Migration and Superdiversity, University of Birmingham

arda savasciogullari/Shutterstock

The letter that arrived for eleven-year-old Guilherme in June 2025 was addressed personally to him. The UK Home Office was informing him that he and his eight-year-old brother Luca must return to Brazil. Their parents, an academic and a senior NHS nurse, both long-term UK residents with valid visas were not included in the order.

“Whilst this may involve a degree of disruption in family life,” the letter stated, “this is considered to be proportionate to the legitimate aim of maintaining effective immigration control.”

The family’s difficulties with the Home Office began after the parents divorced a few years after arriving in the UK. Mother and children arrived in the UK as dependants on the father’s visa. After the divorce, the mother secured her own skilled worker visa, while the father was granted indefinite leave to remain in 2024.

Under current rules, skilled workers must wait five years before applying for settlement. For the children to qualify for settlement, both parents must be settled or one must have sole responsibility – neither condition applies here. Only after media attention did the Home Office reconsider the decision.

This case is just the latest example of how barriers to migrants’ family life are embedded in the UK’s immigration system – something I have been studying for years. The Labour government’s recently announced immigration plans extend and bolster these barriers.

Current rules require migrants to earn at least £29,000 to sponsor a spouse or child – a figure set to rise to £38,700 in early 2026 after changes introduced by the last government. The newest immigration plans propose doubling the path to settlement from five to ten years. And they restrict the rights to family reunion to only “nuclear” families: divorced parents, adult children and extended kin are left out.

These changes are aimed at reducing migration and restoring “public trust”. But in practice, they make family unity a luxury — harder to achieve for low-paid migrant workers and even for working-class British citizens with foreign partners.

Read more:
‘Just the rich can do it’: our research shows how immigration income requirements devastate families

The price of family life

Recent research my colleagues and I conducted — based on over 50 interviews with migrant domestic and food delivery workers and other experts — shows how the immigration system fractures families and puts children at risk.

Faith, a Zimbabwean domestic worker, explained how she was unable to bring her eldest daughter to the UK due to age restrictions on dependant visas. Her daughter was later trafficked into the UK and, though she eventually rejoined her mother, hasn’t recovered from the trauma of separation: “She’s struggling to sleep, can’t eat … always emotional, saying she feels dizzy, scared to be around people.”

Faith had been trapped in an abusive relationship for a long time because her visa was tied to her partner. When she eventually left her partner, her visa was withdrawn – leaving her in breach of immigration rules. Her younger child was placed in care while Faith was detained for breaching the terms of her visa.

Jamal, a food delivery rider from Eritrea, had a similar experience of legal dependency. He came to the UK on a dependant visa linked to his British wife. After their relationship deteriorated, his ability to remain in the country was threatened: “If we have problems, she can cancel my visa. This was her weapon.”

Susan, a Zimbabwean woman working in the care and cleaning sector, moved to the UK to look after her adult daughter who had cancer. When her six month visitor visa expired, she applied for asylum, but her application was refused and eventually she was detained for almost a month.

She faced deportation but was released after a legal aid lawyer helped her submit strong evidence of her daughter’s condition. Reflecting on her experience, she explained: “When it benefits them, they say I’ve had no contact [with my family in the UK]. When they want to deport me, they say I have family to return to [in Zimbabwe].”

Immigration status doesn’t just define one’s own legal position, it can determine who gets the right to have a family in the UK and who does not. While some of our interviewees secured status through a partner’s EU citizenship and reunited with family members already in the UK, others who rely on temporary visas are excluded.

Changes to the immigration in recent years have placed a higher value on how migrants can contribute or provide “value” – seeing them as workers (or students) first, not members of families. Many are allowed in the UK for a limited time and without the right to bring with them even the closest family members. The effect is particularly harsh on women in domestic work, whose visas are short-term and not renewable.

Many interviewees reported that immigration barriers delayed or obstructed their children’s education or healthcare. Samantha’s daughter waited over two months for a school placement because their legal status was still pending. Adriana was charged £8,000 for NHS maternity services because of her undocumented status, which restricts access to free healthcare to GP and emergency care.

Even in less extreme cases, legal insecurity takes a toll. Children grow up hearing their parents talk about “papers”, “Home Office letters” or the risk of being “sent back”.

That the Home Office sent a removal letter to an eleven-year-old is not a clerical error. It is the system working as designed. And even when public outrage forces a reversal — as in Guilherme’s case — the wider machinery of enforcement continues.

Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

Nando Sigona is Scientific Coordinator of “Improving the Living and Working Conditions of Irregularised Migrant Households in Europe” (www.i-claim.eu), a three-year six-country research project, funded by the European Commission’s Horizon Europe and UKRI.

– ref. How the UK’s immigration system splits families apart – by design – https://theconversation.com/how-the-uks-immigration-system-splits-families-apart-by-design-261134

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Almost a third of NZ households face energy hardship – reform has to go beyond cheaper off-peak power

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kimberley O’Sullivan, Senior Research Fellow, He Kainga Oranga – Housing and Health Research Programme, University of Otago

Igor Suka/Getty Images

The spotlight is again on New Zealand’s energy sector, with a group of industry bodies and independent retailers pushing for a market overhaul, saying the sector was “broken” and “driving up the cost of living”.

The Commerce Commission and the Electricity Authority has already established a joint task force, after prices peaked in 2024, to investigate ways to improve the performance of the electricity market.

The Authority recently announced new rules requiring larger electricity retailers to offer lower off-peak power prices from next year. The government is also expected to make further announcements on the sector.

But the question is whether these changes will do enough to help New Zealanders live affordably in dry and warm homes.

Some 30% of households face energy hardship. This means they struggle to afford or access sufficient energy to meet their daily needs.

Caused by a combination of poor housing quality, high energy costs and the specific needs of vulnerable residents, energy hardship can lead to serious health issues and high hospital admission costs.

We know from our own research over the past 18 years that having power disconnected can negatively affect health and wellbeing.

People have told us that not being able to afford enough power to keep warm made them more likely to get sick and exacerbated existing health conditions. They described mental distress from unaffordable electricity and the threat of disconnection.

Research participants used words such as “stressed”, “anxious” or “depressed”. They also spoke about having to choose between food and power bills.

If power is disconnected, there can be additional costs from losing food in the fridge and freezer, as well as the problem of paying disconnection and reconnection fees when people already can’t afford the bill.

What’s driving up power bills?

In 2024, a “dry year” that increased the value of hydro generation, combined with lower-than-usual wind and declining supply of gas, resulted in wholesale electricity price spikes. But these winter shortages aren’t the only factor pushing up power bills.

Electricity bills reflect several costs along the supply chain from generation to getting the electricity to the sockets in our homes. A new regulatory period for lines charges from April 2025 increased bills by $10 to $25 per month, depending on where you live.

At the same time, low fixed daily charges are being phased out. This means the cost of being connected to the grid is the same no matter how much power is used.

It is the poorest New Zealanders who are being hardest hit. The lowest income households spend a bigger proportion of their income on power compared to higher income households. Having electricity prices increase faster than inflation will put even more families at risk.

The average household electricity bill was up 8.7% in May 2025 compared to June 2024. According to a recent Consumer NZ survey, 20% of respondents said they struggled to pay their power bill in the past year.

Tackling hardship

The new Consumer Care Obligations might help reduce some of the risks. Power companies must now comply with these obligations when working with households struggling to pay their bills, are facing disconnection or have someone in the home who is medically dependent on electricity.

If households feel their power company is not meeting these obligations, they can contact Utilities Disputes, a free independent electricity and gas complaint resolution service, or the Electricity Authority.

But multiple changes are needed to address the different parts of the energy hardship problem. Improving home energy efficiency through schemes like Warmer Kiwi Homes is crucial.

Introducing an Energy Performance Rating for houses would make it easier for home buyers and renters to know how much it will cost to power a home before they move in. This would also help target energy hardship support.

The government can also make electricity more affordable by supporting not-for-profit power companies. Another good move would be to help more households to install rooftop solar by providing access to long-term low-interest finance.

Lower prices during off-peak hours are a good start. But it is clear the sheer size and complexity of the problems mean government action, with community and industry collaboration, needs to go beyond slightly cheaper electricity when there is less demand.

Kimberley O’Sullivan receives funding from a Rutherford Discovery Fellowship administered by the Royal Society Te Apārangi, the Health Research Council, the Ministry of Business, Employment, and Innovation, and Lotteries Health Research.

– ref. Almost a third of NZ households face energy hardship – reform has to go beyond cheaper off-peak power – https://theconversation.com/almost-a-third-of-nz-households-face-energy-hardship-reform-has-to-go-beyond-cheaper-off-peak-power-259140

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Radio JOVE Volunteers Tune In to the Sun’s Low Notes

Source: NASA

As the Sun approaches the most active part of its eleven-year magnetic cycle this summer, NASA volunteers have been watching it closely. Now they’ve spotted a new trend in solar behavior that will have you reaching for your suntan lotion. It’s all about something called a “Type II” solar radio burst:
“Type II solar radio bursts are not commonly detected in the frequency range between 15 to 30 megahertz,” said Prof. Chuck Higgins, Co-founder of Radio JOVE. “Recently, we’re seeing many of them in that range.”
Let’s unpack that. Our Sun often sprays powerful blasts of radio waves into space. Heliophysicists classify these radio bursts into five different types depending on how the frequency of the radio waves drifts over time. “Type II” solar radio bursts seem to come from solar flares and enormous squirts of hot plasma called coronal mass ejections.
Now, Thomas Freeman, an undergraduate student at Middle Tennessee State University, and other volunteers working on NASA’s Radio JOVE project have observed something interesting about these Type II bursts: they are now showing up at lower frequencies—somewhere in between FM and AM radio.
What does it mean? It means our star is full of surprises! These Radio JOVE observations of the Sun’s radio emissions during solar maximum can be used to extend our knowledge of solar emissions to lower frequencies and, therefore, to distances farther from the Sun.
Radio JOVE is a NASA partner citizen science project in which participants assemble and operate radio astronomy telescopes to gather and contribute data to support scientific studies. Radio JOVE collaborated with SunRISE Ground Radio Lab, organized teams of high school students to observe the Sun, and recently published a paper on these Type II solar radio bursts. Learn more and get involved!

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NASA Seeks Industry Concepts on Moon, Mars Communications

Source: NASA

NASA is seeking proposals from U.S. companies about innovative Moon and Mars proximity relay communication and navigation capabilities as the agency aims to use private industry satellite communications services for emerging missions.
On July 7, NASA issued a Request for Proposals, soliciting advanced industry concepts to establish high-bandwidth, high-reliability communications infrastructure between the lunar surface and an Earth-based operations control center, along with concepts that establish a critical communications relay on the Martian surface and transfer data between Mars and the Earth.
“These partnerships foster important advancements in communications and navigation,” said Greg Heckler, deputy program manager for capability development within NASA’s SCaN (Space Communications and Navigation) Program. “It allows our astronauts, our rovers, our spacecraft – all NASA missions – to expand humanity’s exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.”
NASA’s request directly supports the agency’s long-term vision of an interoperable space communication and navigation infrastructure that enables science, exploration, and economic development in space. NASA, as one of many customers, will establish a marketplace that supports cost-effective commercial services involving communication needs on and around the Moon and Mars.
Responses are due by 5 p.m. EDT, Wednesday, Aug. 13.
NASA’s SCaN Program serves as the management office for the agency’s space communications and navigation. More than 100 NASA and non-NASA missions rely on SCaN’s two networks, the Near Space Network and the Deep Space Network, to support astronauts aboard the International Space Station and future Artemis missions, monitor Earth’s weather, support lunar exploration, and uncover the solar system and beyond.
Learn more about NASA’s SCaN Program at:
https://www.nasa.gov/scan
News Media Contact:Claire O’SheaHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: GVIS History

Source: NASA

In 1982, a $20 million supercomputer was brought to NASA Glenn. Scientists at NASA Glenn were becoming increasingly reliant on computer simulations to test their experiments. Advancements in computer technology allowed a different type of testing environment — one that revolved around virtual models and data over physical observation. The benefits of this method included a decrease in costs, a decrease in associated risk, faster turnaround, and more data.

But this method of experimentation created a problem: With data-point counts somewhere in the millions, it was a challenge for scientists to even begin to look at their own collected data. In short, there was simply too much data to be analyzed. To solve this problem, NASA Glenn built the Interactive Computer Aided Research Engineering system (ICARE) in the center’s Research Analysis Center.
Taking up several rooms, consisting of 22 total workstations, and costing a grand total of $20 million, the ICARE system was a way for scientists to examine their data through the aid of supercomputer visualizations. Using both graphical and modular methods, ICARE’s visualizations revealed and shared information in ways that traditional methods could not match.
The construction and implementation of the ICARE system was revolutionary to both the center and NASA as a whole. Before 1982, NASA already had an established interest in powerful computers; however, the ICARE system took NASA into the era of supercomputing. ICARE also brought increased attention to the value and power of scientific visualization.

In 1989, it was time for an upgrade. NASA Glenn wanted the latest scientific visualization technology and techniques for its scientists, so the center expanded the Research Analysis Center to make room for the new Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS). The GVIS Lab acquired cutting-edge graphics technology, including studio-quality TV animation and recording equipment, stereographic displays, and image processing systems. Later, the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 provided funding and opportunities to add high-speed computing, virtual reality, and collaborative visualization to its fleet of tools.

During this period, the GVIS Lab was responsible for assisting NASA Glenn scientists who needed help visualizing their data. The lab was also tasked with inventing new visualization techniques and promoting NASA Glenn’s activities though tours, videos, and other outreach programs. Some of the techniques the lab developed included particle tracking, iso-surface contours, and volume visualization. Tour guests included school children, corporate VIPs, local and national politicians, TV news media, and researchers from other national labs. Using state-of-the-art recording and editing hardware, the GVIS Lab regularly shared work both inside and outside of NASA.
As other labs and researchers began to gain access to their own scientific visualization tools, the GVIS Lab shifted its focus to experimenting with virtual reality- and augmented reality-based visualizations.

Today, the GVIS Lab has the same mission that it had in 1989: to apply the latest visualization and human interaction technologies to advance NASA’s missions. The team takes pride in pushing the limits of scientific visualization and computer science, helping fellow researchers make sense of their data, and inspiring the next generation through demonstrations and presentations. Computational technology has come a long way since the days of ICARE, but GVIS has continued to explore current and cutting-edge technologies.
In addition to scientific visualization and experimental computational technologies, the GVIS Lab now also specializes in virtual design, interactive 3D simulations, natural user interface development, applications of computer science, and mission scenario visualizations. The team uses the latest edition of 3D programs and VR devices to experiment with how these systems can be used to visualize data, pushing their input and output capabilities.
With all this technology, GVIS also supports the visualization of a wide variety of 3D data and models such as CAD, point clouds, and volume data. Additionally, the lab is capable of high-impact data visualization, web-based visualization, time-accurate data representation, and designing and testing CAD models in virtual reality.

Outside of the lab, GVIS has a longstanding history of taking its technology demonstrations across the city, throughout the country, and around the world. The team has extensive experience organizing, presenting, and facilitating STEM-based educational outreach for a variety of different events and venues. Inside the lab, GVIS supports the education and career exploration of its high school and college interns through mentorship, community engagement opportunities, and access to cutting-edge technology.

Contact Us
Need to reach us? You can send an email directly to the GVIS Team (GRC-DL-GVIS@mail.nasa.gov) or to the team leader, Herb Schilling (hschilling@nasa.gov).

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China has always firmly supported UNESCO’s activities – Chinese Foreign Ministry

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) — China has always firmly supported the work of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Wednesday.

As the diplomat noted at a regular press briefing, China took note that UNESCO and many countries expressed regret over the US decision to withdraw from the organization again. “This is the third time the United States has withdrawn from UNESCO and has not paid its membership dues for a long time. This is not what a responsible country should do,” the official said.

According to Guo Jiakun, UNESCO’s goal is to promote international cooperation in education, science and culture, promote mutual understanding and integration of civilizations, safeguard world peace and achieve common development. China has always firmly supported UNESCO’s activities, the diplomat stressed.

In light of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN, China calls on all countries to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism and, through concrete actions, uphold the international system with the UN at the center, the international order based on international law, and the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, Guo Jiakun concluded. –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DeGette, Raskin, Auchincloss Introduce Resolution Recognizing U.S. Leadership in Biomedical Research

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. Diana DeGette (CO-01), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), and Jake Auchincloss (MA-04) introduced a Congressional resolution recognizing the importance of U.S. leadership in biomedical research and the federal government’s responsibility to protect and expand that leadership in the years to come.

The resolution highlights the historic role the United States has played in advancing medicine and science—from breakthroughs in cancer and HIV treatment to the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines—and lays out a clear roadmap for how the federal government must act to strengthen biomedical innovation, insulate science from political interference, and improve public health outcomes for all Americans.

“Under the Trump administration, American leadership in biomedical research—which has saved countless lives through groundbreaking cures—has been under assault,” said DeGette. “NIH has long been the gold standard in biomedical research, and from the cure for hepatitis C to cutting-edge gene therapies, we’ve seen what’s possible when our scientists are empowered to pursue bold ideas and answer urgent medical challenges. But that progress is at risk of catastrophe. If we want to remain the global leader in innovation, the Trump administration must end its anti-science agenda, focus on empowering scientists, and ensure scientific inquiry is protected from political meddling.”

“Our resolution puts America back in position to lead in the biomedical research field and to protect this critical work from political interference,” said Raskin. “For the health and wellbeing of our people, the Trump Administration must stop its brutal onslaught against science, research, public health and the federal workforce.”

“America has led the world in biomedical research and innovation because it funds curiosity-driven basic science, elevates peer review over politics, and protects intellectual property,” said Auchincloss. “Congress either renews these commitments — or hands over biomedical leadership to China.

“As a nation, we have led the world in biomedical advancement for decades. This did not happen by accident–it happened through the unified support of presidents, congress, and the American public. By creating a publicly funded ecosystem where our best and brightest could pursue answers to problems that have followed humanity since our beginning, we have saved millions of lives. We cannot separate the benefits of this ecosystem from our committed investment in it,” said Stand Up for Science Founder and Executive Director Collete Delawalla.

“From working to find cures for rare diseases, cancers, and Alzheimer’s to conducting basic research that will form the basis of future biomedical breakthroughs, UAW members at the NIH and at academic research institutions across the country do lifesaving research every day,” said Rajiv Sicora, Legislative Director for the UAW. “But their work is under attack by the Trump administration’s attempts to gut the federal government’s role in scientific research, undermine scientific integrity and academic freedom, and decimate workers’ rights. We thank Congresswoman DeGette, Congressman Raskin, and Congressman Auchincloss for their clear-eyed attention to this crisis and their efforts to protect federal investments in biomedical research.”

The resolution emphasizes the indispensable role of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the world’s largest public funder of biomedical research, and calls for a doubling of federal biomedical investment over the next decade. It also urges Congress to prioritize workforce development, scientific independence, and translational research that brings lab discoveries directly into patient care.

The resolution also warns of recent political interference in scientific processes, including during the Trump administration, which has undermined grantmaking, delayed clinical trials, and politicized agency leadership—threatening long-term public health and global competitiveness.

The full resolution can be found here.

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MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Merkley and Hoyle Introduce Columbia River Clean-Up Act to Reauthorize Columbia River Basin Restoration Program
Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

July 23, 2025

For Immediate Release: July 23, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S.Senator Jeff Merkleyand U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) introduced the Columbia River Clean-Up Act to reauthorize the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program. Sen. Merkley created the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program in 2016 to focus federal attention on reducing toxics and pollution through voluntary efforts in the Columbia River Basin. However, funding for the program is set to expire next year. The Columbia River Clean-Up Act would ensure the program can be funded for another five years, through 2030.

“Our rivers and waterways are the lifeblood of communities across Oregon and the rest of the Pacific Northwest,” said Sen. Merkley. “The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program—which I created in 2016—is vital to preventing toxic pollutants from accumulating in our environment. Our bill reauthorizes this critical program, ensuring federal dollars will continue to support a cleaner, healthier Columbia River for Tribal communities, wildlife, ecosystems, and the economy.”

“The Columbia River Basin is one of our most important watersheds — supporting communities, economies, and ecosystems across the Pacific Northwest,” said Rep. Hoyle. “Reauthorizing the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program is critical to continuing the progress we’ve made in cleaning up toxic pollution and protecting public health. This voluntary program is a proven, bipartisan success, and I’m proud to join Senator Merkley in leading the effort to ensure it continues delivering results for Oregonians, Tribal Nations, and future generations.”

The Columbia River Basin is the second-largest watershed in the United States, stretching across parts of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and beyond. Home to 8 million people and more than 15 Tribal Nations, the Basin is central to the cultural, economic, and ecological identity of the Pacific Northwest.

For decades, industrial pollution, toxic runoff, and habitat degradation have threatened the health of the river and the communities that depend on it. The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program, first authorized in 2016, was the first federal initiative specifically designed to address toxic contamination in this critical watershed. Since its inception, the program has helped fund on-the-ground restoration projects, empowered Tribal and community-led efforts, and strengthened the scientific foundation for long-term recovery.

The Columbia River Clean-Up Act is endorsed by the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, The Freshwater Trust, Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership, National Wildlife Federation, The Nature Conservancy, Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies, Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, and Trout Unlimited.

The Freshwater Trust – Joe Witworth, President & CEO:

“The Columbia River Basin Restoration program incentivizes effective and collaborative conservation effort with public and private partners across Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington. We strongly support the reauthorization of this funding.”

Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership – Elaine Placido, Executive Director:

“The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program unites Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington to reduce toxic pollution in the Columbia River Basin through coordinated, community-driven solutions. This program is a transformative resource for the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership. With its support, we are implementing locally designed stormwater projects at schools and community centers. We’ve also leveraged program funding to secure over $1 million in additional investments, significantly amplifying the program’s reach and impact.”

The National Wildlife Federation – Alicia Marrs, Director of Wester Water:

“The health and resilience of the Columbia River Basin is critical to the more than 8 million people that depend on it for their drinking water. Reducing contaminants is essential to maintaining a healthy water supply so that fish, wildlife, and communities and economies in the Basin can thrive.?With the future of EPA funding uncertain, reauthorizing the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program ensures previous investments are not wasted and we continue to leverage collaborative, voluntary efforts with tribes and states that protect communities and ecosystems from toxic pollution. We are grateful for Representative Hoyle’s sustained leadership on this critical issue and look forward to continued collaborations to build resilience for the entire region.”

The Nature Conservancy – Sammy Mastaw Jr., Columbia Basin Program Director:

“Salmon are facing a myriad of threats, including pollution and contamination of vital habitat. The introduction of the Columbia River Clean-Up Act — reauthorizing the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program — is a practical, science-based investment in the resilience of the Basin, and an important step toward healing for salmon and people.” Said Sammy Matsaw Jr, Columbia Basin Program Director with The Nature Conservancy.

Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies – Jerry Linder, Executive Director:

“Columbia Basin Restoration Funds enabled EPA to provide grant funds to the Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies to complete work aimed at toxics reduction, specifically reducing PFAS and Phthalates through public education, low toxicity institutional purchasing guidelines, assessment of PFAS and Phthalate sources, and industrial pollution prevention information and assistance. The products of this effort are on the Oregon ACWA website and there have been 5111 downloads, so the information is making a difference to reduce toxics in the Columbia Basin and elsewhere. There is still much work to be done and the Columbia River Basin Clean-Up Act is essential to continuing the progress that has been made so far.”

Pacific Northwest Waterways Association – Neil Maunu, Executive Director:

“The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) was proud to support the?original?legislation that created this voluntary program to aid in the clean up and prevention of toxins that are harmful to the Columbia River ecosystem, listed species, and people. PNWA supports the reauthorization of?the?program?under the Columbia River Clean Up Act?to continue the?valuable?collaborative work being done by local communities, organizations, and Tribes to improve water quality and the environment on the Columbia River,”?said Neil Maunu, Executive Director of the PNWA.

Trout Unlimited – Chrysten Rivard, Oregon Director:

“For nearly a decade, the successful Columbia River Basin Restoration Program has made key investments across the Columbia River Basin to reduce toxins and improve water quality. Trout Unlimited applauds Congresswoman Hoyle’s leadership to ensure that this program continues to support Tribal, state and local governments, and non-profit groups throughout the basin who are working to make a difference for our waters and communities.”
This bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Wyden (D-Ore) and Murray (D-Wash.)

The text of the Columbia River Clean-Up Act is available here.

Background

The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program
Officially designates the national importance of the Columbia River Basin, which includes Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana.
Authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish the Columbia River Basin Restoration Working Group to understand and reduce toxics across the basin. It includes representatives of states, local governments, Tribal governments, ports, and non-profit organizations.
Directed the EPA to develop the Columbia River Basin Restoration Funding Assistance Program, which is a voluntary, competitive grants program for environmental protection and restoration programs throughout the Basin.
In 2021, the EPA awarded more than $79 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding through this program to reduce toxics in fish and water throughout the Basin. Awardees in past years have included:
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MIL OSI USA News –
July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey Urges AI Companies to Reject Trump’s Unconstitutional “Anti-Woke” AI Actions

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

Markey says Trump’s AI Action Plan and Executive Order are “factually baseless and patently unconstitutional”

Set of Letters (PDF)

Washington (July 23,2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today sent letters to the chief executive officers of Alphabet, Anthropic, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI, and xAI, slamming Trump’s AI Action Plan and executive order that prohibits federal agencies from contracting for any artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that is not “free from top-down ideological bias.”

In his letters, Senator Markey pointed out the double standard of Republicans complaining about biased AI chatbots even when Grok, the chatbot developed by Elon Musk’s AI company, acknowledged that it was trained to “appeal to the right.” Senator Markey urged the AI companies to fight this unconstitutional executive order and not become pawns in Trump’s effort to eliminate dissent in the United States.

Senator Markey writes, “In their broad claims about censorship by the tech platforms, Republicans continue to mistake fact-based outcomes for bias against conservatives. Although the right continues to lean heavily on anecdotal examples of Big Tech’s alignment with liberal viewpoints, it ignores even more egregious evidence to the contrary. For example, on May 1, 2025, Grok — the AI chatbot developed by xAI, Elon Musk’s AI company—acknowledged that ‘xAI tried to train me to appeal to the right.’ If OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini had responded that it was trained to appeal to the left, congressional Republicans would have been outraged and opened an investigation. Instead, they were silent.”

Senator Markey continues, “Even if the claims of bias were accurate, the Republicans’ effort to use their political power — both through the executive branch and through congressional investigations — to modify the platforms’ speech is dangerous and unconstitutional. Through the AI executive order, Republicans are using state power to pressure private companies to adopt certain political viewpoints, in this case by pressuring the Big Tech companies to ensure that responses from AI chatbots meet some unspecified, vague definition of ideological neutrality. The details and implementation plan for this executive order remain unclear but it will create significant financial incentives for the Big Tech companies — many of whom have multi-million or multi-billion-dollar contracts with the federal government — to ensure their AI chatbots do not produce speech that would upset the Trump administration. This type of interference with private speech is precisely why the U.S. Constitution has a First Amendment.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: House Energy and Commerce Committee Advances Latta’s Bill to Improve Access to Over-the-Counter Medicines

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced Congressman Bob Latta’s (OH-5) Over-the-Counter Monograph Drug User Fee Amendments (OMUFA). Co-led by Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-1), Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-2), and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-6), this bipartisan bill would reauthorize the Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act, which has improved access to over-the-counter medicines.

“The over-the-counter monograph drug user fee program (OMUFA) allows consumers to manage their own care safely and affordably. Five years ago, as the original sponsor of this legislation, my colleagues and I modernized how the FDA regulates most over-the-counter medicines by enacting OMUFA. These reforms transformed a 40-year-old system, making it more efficient, transparent, and open to innovation. I’m proud to lead the reauthorization of this critical program and thank my Energy and Commerce colleagues for advancing this important legislation to improve access to over-the-counter medicines,” Latta said.

“The passage of OMUFA out of the Energy & Commerce Committee will help to ensure that over-the-counter medications are safe, effective, and accessible. I’m glad to have worked on this important, bipartisan legislation to build on our success and ensure FDA can continue their work to deliver trusted medicines to all Americans,” DeGette said.

“Our bill gives the FDA the tools to keep up with modern science — reviewing over-the-counter medicines faster, without sacrificing safety. That means more trust for consumers, fewer delays for innovation, and no new burden on taxpayers,” Crenshaw said.

“Nearly nine out of ten Americans regularly use over the counter medications to quickly, easily, and effectively manage a range of conditions. The Over-the-Counter Monograph Safety, Innovation, and Reform Act has been highly successful in improving OTC drug availability and safety, and I’m glad to see this legislation pass out of committee. I will continue to work with my bipartisan colleagues to ensure consumers to have safe access to the OTC products they depend on, and the U.S. remains a global leader in health and innovation,” Dingell said.

Watch Congressman Latta’s remarks from today’s committee markup here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ezell’s Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System Passes Out of Natural Resources Committee
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed legislation introduced by Representative Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) for five more fiscal years. The bill maintains the program’s funding level at $56 million annually, ensuring continued support for critical ocean and coastal monitoring efforts that benefit fisheries, maritime industries, and coastal communities nationwide.

Cosponsors of the legislation include Reps. Bonamici, Weber, Dingell, Radewaggen, Davis, Harder, Casten, Case, Rutherford, Smith, Webster, Haridopolos, Rokuda, Amo, Pallone, Pingree, Stevens, Castor, McBride, Begich, Elfreth, DelBene, Magaziner.

IOOS is a nationally coordinated network of regional observation systems that provides real-time data on ocean conditions, helping to safeguard economic activities, public safety, and environmental health. The reauthorization also includes updates to improve the program’s effectiveness and modernization efforts to meet evolving scientific and operational needs.

“IOOS is essential to keeping coastal economies strong and resilient, especially in Mississippi,” Ezell said. “This reauthorization ensures we maintain vital ocean monitoring resources while modernizing the program to maximize its impact. Enhanced ocean data collection also improves hurricane forecasting and severe weather preparedness, which can save lives and reduce costly storm damage. I’m proud to lead this legislation as it will support jobs, commerce, and our nation’s leadership in ocean science. I look forward to seeing it come to the House floor for a vote in the near future.”

“Congressman Ezell’s bill will reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009,” House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. “This will ensure that near real-time data is available to manage our nation’s coasts and marine waters. I applaud Rep. Ezell for his work on this legislation and look forward to working with him to help usher this bill through the legislative process.”

“As the Representative for Texas’ Gulf Coast, I know firsthand how critical reliable ocean monitoring is to protecting our coastal communities, supporting maritime jobs, and strengthening our national economy,” Weber said. “The IOOS Reauthorization bill helps us do just that, by improving weather forecasting and ensuring the safety of the hardworking men and women along our shores.”

“The Integrated Ocean Observing System provides vital weather data that supports fishermen and other hard working Americans who make their living from the ocean,” Magaziner said. “I am proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to reauthorize IOOS and ensure that this critical program continues to serve coastal communities across the country.”

Background on the IOOS Reauthorization Act of 2025:
- Clarifying the nature of operational oceanographic data provided by IOOS.
- Updating statutory references to align with current law, including replacing the National Ocean Research Leadership Council with the Ocean Policy Committee.
- Enhancing the role of the Interagency Ocean Observation Committee to maximize IOOS’s integration and capabilities.
The bill’s passage out of committee marks a significant step toward continued federal support for ocean observation infrastructure that underpins economic, environmental, and public safety benefits across the nation.

MIL OSI USA News –
July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to observational study looking at rates of depression and anxiety in teens who smoke and vape

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

July 23, 2025

An observational study published in PLOS Mental Health looks at mental health outcomes in teens who smoke or use e-cigarettes.

Prof Peter Hajek, Professor of Clinical Psychology, and Director of the Health and Lifestyle Research Unit, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), said:

“There is not much novelty in this study. The findings add to the well-established link between mental health issues or other sources of stress, especially in childhood, and the use of psychoactive substances including nicotine.”

Prof Stella Chan, Charlie Waller Chair in Evidence-Based Psychological Treatment, University of Reading, said:

“This well conducted study has helpfully established robust evidence for a link between the use of cigarettes and vapes and symptoms of depression and anxiety in adolescents in the US. As acknowledged by the authors, the cross-sectional nature of the data cannot point towards causal relationships. It is therefore impossible to determine from this study if the use of tobacco increases the risk for mental health problems; or that adolescents with mood difficulties use tobacco as a coping strategy; or if a bit of both. Future research can also investigate differences between gender groups, those with neural divergent conditions, those belonging to minority or vulnerable groups such as LGBT+ , in care system, or justice system, to understand the effects of tobacco use in further details in order to inform support and intervention.”

Dr Jasmine Khouja, Senior Research Associate in the Tobacco and Alcohol Research Group, University of Bristol, said:

“This study design is not appropriate to address the research question. The study measures whether adolescents who have ever tried a “tobacco product” (even just once) are more or less likely to have some symptoms of anxiety or depression. It does not measure whether regularly using e-cigarettes or smoking causes depression or anxiety. Although the number of young people who used e-cigarettes more than once or twice is not reported, the majority of this group is likely made up of young people who vaped once or twice to give it a try. Therefore, the study measures whether people with anxiety and depression symptoms are more likely to have experimented with potentially risky products. This is not discussed in the limitations, which is concerning because the authors should be aware that the measure is not appropriate for this question.

“The study does not adequately account for other factors that could be driving this link, and it is cross-sectional, meaning that the mental health symptoms could have preceded the vaping experimentation. The authors state that nicotine could be a mechanism by which vaping could cause depression and anxiety, but they did not ascertain whether the products contained nicotine or not.

“It is important to note that although the authors describe e-cigarettes as tobacco products, e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, and using e-cigarettes is not considered tobacco use.

“This study alone does not add much to our understanding of the relationship between vaping, smoking, and mental health. Much more research (with a more appropriate study design) is needed before we can determine whether vaping causes poor mental health.”

Dr Johnathan Livingstone-Banks, Lecturer & Senior Researcher in Evidence-Based Healthcare, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, said:

“This study finds a correlation between ever trying cigarettes or vapes and reporting depression or anxiety, but as the authors note, it doesn’t show that one causes the other. It could just as easily be that young people with poor mental health are more likely to experiment. However, that does not mean that this correlation shouldn’t be taken seriously, and there is evidence in adults that quitting smoking can improve mental health.

“In the US, vapes are classed as tobacco products. But it’s worth clarifying: while they usually contain nicotine, they don’t contain any tobacco. In the UK, they’re not classified as tobacco products.

“This survey counts anyone who has ever used a vape or cigarette, even just once, as a user. That’s potentially misleading, especially when it comes to ‘dual use’. Someone who tried a vape once and a cigarette once, perhaps years apart, would be counted as dual users. Without more detailed data, we can’t tell whether these young people were actual users or just experimenting. The sample probably includes a mix of both.”

Dr Lion Shahab, Chartered member of the British Psychological Society, said:

“This study analysed cross-sectional data from the US National Youth Tobacco Survey to investigate the association of cigarettes and e-cigarette use in youth with self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms. The results show that exclusive cigarette and exclusive e-cigarette use, as well as co-use of both products was associated with higher depression and anxiety levels than not using either. Tobacco use has a well-established bidirectional relationship with mental health such that mental health symptoms predict later smoking and smoking leads to deterioration in mental health symptoms. This study shows that a similar relationship may exist with e-cigarette use.

“However, there are several caveats that need to be considered when interpreting these findings. First, as all measurements were taken at the same time, it is not clear whether e-cigarette use preceded poorer mental health symptoms or whether poorer mental health symptoms preceded e-cigarettes use, or whether there is evidence of an effect in both directions. This can only be assessed in a longitudinal cohort study where timelines of what occurs first (e-cigarette use or deterioration in mental health symptoms) can be clearly established.

“Due to the cross-sectional nature of this study, it is therefore as likely that adolescents who have experienced psychological stress or mental health problems may be more likely to start vaping as it is that prior vaping leads to later poor mental health outcomes. Second, as for most epidemiological studies, there is a risk that important factors that influence both e-cigarette use and mental health symptoms were not controlled for. For instance, this study did not account for familial history of mental health problems, which may – in part – explain the observed association.

“Lastly, the study used a relatively crude measure of e-cigarette use, which was defined ‘ever e-cigarette only use’. This category lumps together adolescents who may have used an e-cigarette once or twice with youth who vape daily, which is unhelpful. It is unlikely that very occasional e-cigarette use will have lasting effects on mental health. Future work would benefit from investigating whether the frequency of vaping and nicotine content in vapes has a dose-response relationship with mental health symptoms. Notwithstanding these issues, this study highlights the need to examine the effects of vaping in youth, not only in terms of potential physical health but also mental health.”

‘Mental health outcomes associated with electronic cigarette use, combustible tobacco use, and dual use among U.S. adolescents: Insights from the National Youth Tobacco Survey’ by Abdulhay et al. was published in PLOS Mental Health at 19:00 UK time on Wednesday 23th July.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmen.0000370

Declared interests

Dr Jasmine Khouja None

Prof Peter Hajek None

Prof Stella Chan None

Dr Jonathan Livingstone-Banks No financial conflicts – I’ve never received funding from industry. I’m a tobacco control researcher at the University of Oxford and I’m an author of numerous academic papers on smoking and e-cigarettes, including the Cochrane reviews on e-cigarettes for smoking cessation and interventions for vaping cessation.

Dr Lion Shahab None

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

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Protecting the right to a healthy environment under the modernized Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 and enhancing chemicals management
Source: Government of Canada News

Recent amendments of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) required the Government of Canada to develop a framework for the right to a healthy environment under CEPA. They also required the Government to publish a plan to address chemical substances and to guide efforts to replace, reduce, or refine vertebrate animal testing. The Government delivered on these commitments by publishing the Implementation Framework for the Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA; the Plan of Priorities; and the Strategy to Replace, Reduce, or Refine Vertebrate Animal Testing.

The Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA

The Implementation Framework elaborates on the meaning of the Right to a Healthy Environment (the Right) under CEPA. It provides guidance for CEPA decision-makers on how to consider the Right in the administration of CEPA.

As per the Framework, the Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA includes substantive and procedural elements. The substantive elements build on the definition of a healthy environment and include the right of every individual in Canada to live in an environment that is protected from harmful substances, pollutants, and waste; and where actions under CEPA contribute to clean and healthy air and water, a sustainable climate, and healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. The procedural elements of the Right include access to information and participation in decision-making.

The Framework elaborates on three new principles, namely environmental justice, intergenerational equity, and non-regression and describes how they will be considered in the administration of the Act to fulfil the duty to uphold these principles.

Additionally, the framework elaborates on how respect for Indigenous rights informs CEPA decision-making and recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge in informing decisions about protecting the environment and human health. In collaboration with Indigenous peoples, guidance on bridging, braiding, and weaving Indigenous knowledge with western science will be developed to support CEPA decision-makers.

The Framework also describes five of the relevant factors—environmental, scientific, social, health, and economic—that can be considered in interpreting and applying the Right and in determining the reasonable limits to which it is subject.

In the administration of CEPA, the Government of Canada will aim to fulfill its duty of protecting the right to a healthy environment, as it relates to the substantive elements, through consideration of the procedural elements, CEPA principles, and relevant factors described above, recognizing the Right is subject to reasonable limits.

The Government of Canada engaged with the public, Indigenous peoples, non-governmental organizations, and industry stakeholders during consultations in the spring and fall of 2024 to help inform the development of the Implementation Framework.

A new web portal offers more information on actions and decisions made under CEPA and gives the public an opportunity to provide input.

A transition period for the implementation of the Framework is in place to continue to advance timely CEPA decisions and actions. This will prevent negative impacts on the environment and human health while the Right to a Healthy Environment is being fully integrated into the administration of the Act.

Plan of Priorities

The Plan of Priorities outlines upcoming priorities to address substances to protect the health of people in Canada and the environment. It includes a list of more than 30 substances and substance groups (comprising approximately 500 chemicals) prioritized for assessment and includes new or expanded activities to help assess, control, and manage risks posed by substances.

In selecting and prioritizing these substances, the Plan took into account key considerations, including:
- substances that are hazardous to human health and/or the environment, including carcinogens, mutagens, and reproductive toxicants, as well as endocrine disrupting substances
- substances that are impacting populations or environments that may be at increased risk, due to either greater exposure or greater susceptibility
- substances with the potential to contribute to cumulative risks
- very hazardous substances that are capable of long-range transport
- substances with known hazardous properties that are used in products available to consumers
- potential substitutes for substances with known toxicity
The input and feedback received during the public consultation on the Proposed Plan of Priorities in the fall of 2024 was used to help refine the current Plan.

Moving forward, the Plan must be reviewed every eight years. The list of substances prioritized for assessment may also be amended from time to time, based on, for example, the emergence of new science, or through the new public request for assessment mechanism. Amendments to the Plan will be publicly communicated and consulted on.

Through implementation of the Plan of Priorities and the administration of chemicals management, the Government commits to upholding the principle of environmental justice and protecting the right to a healthy environment provided for in CEPA. Stakeholders and the public will be invited to participate in public consultations as the Plan is implemented.

Reducing reliance on vertebrate animal testing

The modernized CEPA recognizes the need to replace, reduce, or refine the use of vertebrate animal testing when assessing the potential harms that substances may pose to human health and the environment.

As part of the Plan of Priorities, Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada have developed a strategy to guide efforts to replace, reduce, or refine vertebrate animal toxicity testing. This strategy builds on:
- the major milestone announced by Health Canada in June 2023 regarding the end of cosmetic animal testing in Canada under the Food and Drugs Act
- the work underway to amend the New Substances Notification Regulations (NSNR) under CEPA to integrate greater flexibility to include alternative methods to vertebrate animal toxicity testing
This strategy considers input and feedback received during the public consultations on the related notice of intent, which closed in January 2024, and the draft strategy, which closed in November 2024.

The strategy is intended to be flexible. Its implementation will reflect and keep pace with emerging science and technology, including ongoing engagement with people living in Canada, Indigenous partners, stakeholders, and collaborations with national and international partners.

MIL OSI Canada News –
July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: RESPECT Unveiled: Makes it Easy for EdTech Stakeholders to Embrace African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development’s (AUDA-NEPAD) Africa EdTech 2030 Vision

Source: APO – Report:

RESPECT™ (https://Respect.World), a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Education, was announced today during the STEMtastic Adventures! Africa symposium. RESPECT was developed by the Spix Foundation to make it easy for Africa’s EdTech stakeholders to embrace AUDA NEPAD’s Africa EdTech 2030 Vision and Plan (https://apo-opa.co/4kYulLY), announced earlier this month. AUDA NEPAD’s Vision proposes that, by 2030, “every African student should have access to the world’s best interactive digital courseware—developed in Africa by Africans—on smartphones already present in their pockets, households, and/or schools”.

With today’s release of RESPECT Version 1, Africa has gained a multi-year head start over the rest of the world. The United Nations has only this year started talking seriously about the need for a DPI for Education (https://apo-opa.co/4m5Xm9h). Africa has already released it. Africa is already ahead. To accomplish the Vision, Africa need only leverage its new advantage to the hilt.

Speaking at the launch, John Kimotho, EdTech Consultant, Spix Foundation and Head of RESPECT Africa Office, said: “Much of EdTech is pilot-driven and disconnected from education systems, leaving developers without clear growth pathways and teachers with tools that don’t last. RESPECT makes it easy for policymakers, educators, and developers, to build solutions that align with real classroom needs and can grow and last.”

The launch coincides with AUDA-NEPAD’s release of sobering statistics (https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH): only 40% of African primary schools have internet access, an estimated 30 million primary-age children remain out of school, and the continent will need 17 million additional teachers by 2030 just to maintain universal access. Meanwhile, billions in education technology investment have resulted in fragmented, unsustainable pilot projects rather than scalable solutions.

“Africa has a unique opportunity to simultaneously drive access to free localised edtech solutions that can reach all parts of the education ecosystem, even those offline, while making it profitable and sustainable to develop the world’s best interactive digital courseware, right here in Africa;” said John Kimotho. “The system has been failing the innovators, not the other way around, and RESPECT makes it easy for those innovators to deliver the education technology solutions that Africa’s children need.”

The scale of market fragmentation

Recent analysis by the mEducation Alliance (https://apo-opa.co/46VaNEG) revealed that developers must navigate different rules, requirements, and procurement protocols in nearly every African country, resulting in what researchers term “small-batch deployment” – a Kenya pilot here, a Senegal district project there, with each requiring complete retooling.

The consequence is a paradox: whilst Africa has produced world-class educational technology – from Kenya’s classroom management systems to Senegal’s Wolof-language XamXam platform serving 1.2 million users – these innovations remain largely isolated within their countries of origin.

“Teachers are experiencing ‘tool fatigue’ from juggling multiple siloed applications with no central access or data integration,” notes the mEducation Alliance’s 2024 report on digital courseware in low- and middle-income countries. “This discourages adoption, even when individual apps are excellent.”

Key problems – and solutions

AUDA NEPAD’s Vision and Plan notes two key problems: (1) the lack of real-time, reliable data about what digital courseware works best for different learners, and (2) barriers to scale including policy, commercial, and technological obstacles.

“AUDA-NEPAD observes that if Africa solves these two problems—by making it easy for courseware to generate real-time data for ranking and research, and by lowering policy, technical, and commercial barriers—then market forces will do the rest,” according to the Vision and Plan.

All RESPECT Compatible™ apps send data on every learner-app interaction to the relevant authority – within the bounds of the jurisdiction’s data privacy, security, and sovereignty laws – enabling that authority to implement data-dependent techniques such as Teaching at the Right Level and Structured Pedagogy. This data, federated at the continental level, enables courseware ranking and research.

RESPECT lowers the aforementioned policy barriers by implementing AUDA-NEPAD’s new Policy Framework for Standards-Based, Vendor-Neutral EdTech, a draft of which was released for public comment today.

RESPECT lowers the technical barriers through the implementation of a range of on-device technologies from data compression, web caching, proxy servers, and mesh networking to make it easy for courseware app developers to write a single app that works online, offline, and intermittently online. Likewise, it has early support for systematic text localization and, eventually, curriculum standards mapping, that are expected to provide easy technological fixes for complex scaling problems. Also, RESPECT enforces interoperability through internationally-standardized APIs such as xAPI, OneRoster, and OAuth.

RESPECT lowers the commercial barriers by providing all RESPECT Compatible™ apps for free to all students and intermediaries, while paying the developers and localizers of said apps based on those apps’ usage (and later, impact). RESPECT’s revenue, derived from sponsorships, will go primarily to these developers and localizers. Think of it as “YouTube meets PBS Kids” (https://apo-opa.co/3IJTrAC) for EdTech apps.

Looking ahead

“The opportunity is historic, but time is short,” concluded Kimotho. “We need to stop lamenting the barriers and start dismantling them systematically.”

– on behalf of Africa Practice Ltd.

Note to editors:
RESPECT and RESPECT Compatible are trademarks of the Spix Foundation.
RESPECT: https://Respect.World
Full African EdTech 2030: Vision & Plan: https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH
mEducation Alliance Report – Leading Perspectives on the State of Digital Courseware in Low Resource Countries: https://apo-opa.co/4195XzU

For interviews, please contact:
Joslyne Muthoni
Africa Practice
jmuthoni@africapractice.com

Follow RESPECT:
Website: https://Respect.World
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4kQiD5N

About RESPECT:
RESPECT is an open source digital library for EdTech apps. It makes it easier for educators to discover and use high-quality apps in all settings, while giving developers the platform they need to grow their impact globally.

RESPECT sets strong interoperable technical standards, while enabling developers to monetise their tools through a simple sponsor supported revenue model.

What RESPECT offers:
By aligning incentives across policy, pedagogy, and technology, RESPECT makes it easier to access, build, scale and sustain resilient edtech innovations.

At its core, RESPECT connects the needs of developers and educators, supporting high quality, locally contextualised tools that reflect real classroom conditions and align with local languages and curriculum goals. It’s about building EdTech that lasts, where it matters most.

About AUDA-NEPAD:
The African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) is the continental development agency of the African Union, established to coordinate and execute priority regional and continental development projects to promote regional integration towards the accelerated achievement of Agenda 2063.

Full African EdTech 2030: Vision & Plan: https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH

About STEMtastic Adventures! Africa:
STEMtastic Adventures! Africa is hosted by the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) from July 22-25, 2025, bringing together leading thinkers, activists, and implementers to advance STEM education across the continent.

mEducation Alliance Report – Leading Perspectives on the State of Digital Courseware in Low Resource Countries: https://apo-opa.co/4195XzU

Media files

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: HSRC to host free training academy to equip researchers for AI

Source: Government of South Africa

HSRC to host free training academy to equip researchers for AI

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), in collaboration with the University of Pretoria, the University of Zululand and Sol Plaatje University, will host the 6th Annual Emerging and Established African Researcher Training Academy from 28 July to 1 August 2025.

The event will be held virtually and will run daily from 8:30am to 4pm.

This year’s academy is themed, ‘Research excellence reimagined: Preparing tomorrow’s scholars today‘, reflecting the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the research landscape.

“As AI increasingly transforms how research is designed, conducted, analysed, and communicated, the academy will explore how African scholars can engage with these changes while strengthening foundational research skills,” the statement read.

The key focus of the academy is to equip participants with essential competencies in research design, data analysis, and academic writing, while also introducing tools and techniques that integrate AI into the research process.

According to the HSRC, participants will examine important questions, such as how to preserve intellectual authenticity while harnessing AI’s transformative capabilities; where computational efficiency ends and human wisdom begins; and how to develop research skills that remain valuable as AI capabilities expand.

The academy was first launched as an in-person training programme in partnership with the University of Zululand.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it transitioned into a virtual format, allowing for broader participation and collaboration across institutions.

“Now celebrating its sixth year in this format, the academy continues to evolve by offering both foundational and advanced modules that respond to the changing demands of the research community.”

In line with its responsibilities to the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the HSRC said it supports capacity building in research and research management, and ensures inclusive access to training for marginalised groups.

This includes women and persons with disabilities and promotes a culture of lifelong learning among African scholars.

According to the chairperson of the academy’s organising committee, the HSRC’s Dr Bongiwe Mncwango, the academy aims to foster a collaborative and sustainable research environment, bringing together emerging and established scholars to share ideas, develop research skills, and pursue collaborative initiatives.

“The programme also supports career development for early-career researchers and raises awareness about the value of research in addressing Africa’s societal challenges.

“It is more than training – it’s a strategic investment in the future of African research. As AI revolutionises scholarship, African researchers must be equipped to lead with innovation, integrity, and impact,” said Mncwango.

Registration information and programme details are available on the HSRC’s website https://hsrc.ac.za/sixth-annual-emerging-and-established-african-researchers-training-academy-2025-2026/. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 07/23/2025 – 10:33

MIL OSI Africa –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Message from the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on the National Day of the Arab Republic of Egypt

Source: APO

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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, extends his warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Government and People of the Arab Republic of Egypt on the occasion of their National Day.

This momentous day marks not only the birth of modern Egypt’s sovereignty but also a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of freedom, resilience, and self-determination that continues to inspire the entire African continent.

Egypt has long played a central role in shaping Africa’s destiny-historically, politically, and intellectually. As a founding Member State of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU), Egypt has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism, unity, and regional integration.

Today, we celebrate Egypt’s contributions to peace and security, education, science, innovation, infrastructure, and continental diplomacy. The African Union greatly values Egypt’s leadership in key continental initiatives and its active engagement in the realization of Agenda 2063- our shared vision for a united, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.

Happy National Day!

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: 23 July 2025 Departmental update First-ever guidance for Triple Elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B

Source: World Health Organisation

The global community has committed to the Triple Elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B virus (HBV) as a public health priority. This global commitment encourages countries to provide the most effective, high-quality and person-centred care available to pregnant and breastfeeding women and girls. In so doing, countries aim to ensure a generation born free of HIV, syphilis and HBV.

At the 13th International AIDS Society (IAS) Conference on HIV Science held in Kigali, Rwanda, from 13-17 July 2025, WHO presented the first-ever guidance for countries to develop comprehensive and integrated programmes for Triple Elimination.

The new guidance is based on the WHO Triple Elimination Framework, which promotes an integrated, person-centred approach to preventing transmission of these infections from mothers to their infants along 4 pillars and 4 cross-cutting implementation considerations. The guidance also outlines a comprehensive strategy for governments, health-care providers and relevant stakeholders to assess, improve and scale-up elimination programmes.

“The release of this new guidance marks a critical milestone in our collective efforts to end mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B virus,” said Dr Meg Doherty, Director of WHO’s Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes. “It comes at a time when integrated approaches to maternal and child health are needed more than ever to ensure achievement of global targets by 2030 and safeguard the health of future generations.”

Country case studies are presented to illustrate some good practices and to offer models to inform development of country roadmaps for eliminating vertical transmission by 2030.

Country examples and lessons for Triple Elimination

Kenya began its triple elimination journey in 2018 by designating a focal team leading to the development of a framework for the EMTCT of HIV, syphilis and HBV in 2022–2023 and establishment of a dedicated Triple Elimination Technical Working Group in 2024. Oversight and operationalization are decentralized to county and sub-county levels for capacity-building and supervision. Representatives of people living with HIV are engaged in advocacy, community sensitization and participation in the development and validation of the national triple elimination framework for 2022-2027.

Kenya offers a range of EMTCT services and documents best practices, relating to the mentoring of mothers, creation and management of peer support groups, dual HIV/syphilis testing and more. The country is working toward introducing a universal HBV birth dose, integrating syphilis and hepatitis B into the MNCH electronic medical record module, diagnosing infants early and addressing commodity shortages.

Namibia expanded the 2020 dual HIV/syphilis elimination strategy to include hepatitis B into a triple elimination strategy in 2023. A situational analysis and stakeholder consultation informed its 2020–2024 roadmap. The country developed an operational plan, updated guidelines, and integrated triple elimination into training and health information systems.

In 2023, WHO awarded Namibia at the bronze tier for the Path to Elimination of MTCT of HIV. Namibia is also the first and only country to be awarded on the Path to Elimination of MTCT of hepatitis B virus at the silver tier.

To learn more about the experiences in Kenya and Namibia, see Country Case Examples in Chapter 6.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: World’s highest court delivers historic protections for climate-impacted communities

Source: Greenpeace Statement –

The Hague, Netherlands – The world’s highest court has just delivered a landmark Advisory Opinion on the obligations of States in the face of the climate emergency.[1] The International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision delivers historic protections that strengthen the responsibilities of States under international law beyond the Paris Agreement, with several key additional obligations including the duty of all countries to prevent significant harm to the environment and the duty to cooperate.

The Court’s decision obligates States to regulate businesses on the harm caused by their emissions regardless of where the harm takes place. Significantly, the Court found that the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is fundamental for all other human rights, and that intergenerational equity should guide the interpretation of all climate obligations.

Danilo Garrido, Legal Counsel at Greenpeace International, said:

“This is the start of a new era of climate accountability at a global level. The ICJ advisory opinion marks a turning point for climate justice, as it has clarified, once and for all, the international climate obligations of States, and most importantly, the consequences for breaches of these obligations. This will open the door for new cases, and hopefully bring justice to those, who despite having contributed the least to climate change, are already suffering its most severe consequences. The message of the Court is clear: the production, consumption and granting of licenses and subsidies for fossil fuels could be breaches of International Law. Polluters must stop emitting and must pay for the harms they have caused.”

The decision also clarifies that breaches of climate obligations give rise to full reparations: including stopping harmful actions, and giving financial compensation for any related losses and damages. These can include compensation for climate harm and even the need for an immediate cessation of GHG emissions above a science-based safety threshold. Most significantly, the Court made important findings that will ensure climate justice for future generations in the most climate-impacted communities, offering a historic level of protection.

Flora Vano, Vanuatu Women-Led Community Leader, said:

“Tonight I’ll sleep easier. For the first time, it feels like Justice is not just a dream but a direction. The ICJ has recognised what we have lived through – our suffering, our resilience and our right to our future. This is a victory not just for us but for every frontline community fighting to be heard. Now, the world must act.”

Earlier this month, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights delivered another historic decision on the obligations of States in the face of the climate emergency.[2] The Court established that governments must take “urgent and effective actions” to safeguard the right to a healthy climate, and that companies have obligations with regard to climate change and its impacts on human rights. This decision unequivocally puts the rights of people and nature above the interests of polluters.

In 2023, Greenpeace International’s iconic ship, the Rainbow Warrior, sailed through the Pacific and gathered testimonies from communities affected by climate change. These were submitted to the ICJ, along with testimonies from other communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis.[3] Subsequently, the Court held a two-week-long public hearing on the obligations of States with respect to climate change, featuring testimonies of impacts and resistance of frontline communities across the world, and with unprecedented participation from States and international organisations, following written comments submitted to the Court last year.[4][5]

Today’s decision adds to the global momentum towards climate accountability and to the Polluters Pay Pact, a global alliance of over 200,000 people on the frontlines of climate disasters, concerned citizens, first responders like firefighters, humanitarian groups, political leaders, and more than 60 NGOs, including Greenpeace International. It demands that governments worldwide make oil, coal and gas corporations pay their fair share for the damages they cause.

ENDS

High resolution images for media use can be found in the Greenpeace Media Library

Notes:

[1] Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change Request for Advisory Opinion

[2] The Inter-American Court of Human Rights, one of three regional human rights courts in the world, has the role to interpret and clarify the obligations of States. Its decisions inform national governments and courts. Read the full decision, Opinión Consultiva (in Spanish)

[3] Greenpeace submits brief to the International Court of Justice on the Obligations of States Regarding Climate Change

[4] Major milestone reached in historic climate judgement as States submit arguments to world’s highest court

[5] In 2019, 27 law students from The University of the South Pacific united in forming Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, with a campaign for the International Court of Justice to issue an Advisory Opinion on the responsibilities of States in respect to climate change. The resolution, put forward by Vanuatu alongside a global alliance of States, passed the United Nations General Assembly unanimously in March 2023, co-sponsored by over 130 countries.

Contacts:

Marie Bout, Strategic Comms Manager, Greenpeace International Climate & Energy Programme, +33 (0) 6 05 98 70 42, [email protected]

Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

MIL OSI NGO –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Subsidising e-bikes instead of cars could really kick the electric vehicle transition into high gear

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Noel Flay Cass, Research Fellow in Energy Demand Behaviour, University of Leeds

If you’re thinking of buying a new electric car worth up to £37,000, the UK government has offered to knock up to £3,750 off the price. The measure adds up to £650 million in grants for people to buy EVs (electric vehicles), but as a researcher who studies transport policy and climate change, I think this money would be better spent subsidising e-bikes.

Numerous questions surround the new government policy. Might people who can afford a new car buy one anyway, without the 10% discount? Might car dealers simply reduce the discounts they offer by a similar amount? Given the 20% VAT on an EV, doesn’t a sale actually result in a 200% immediate return for the government? And isn’t this mainly a bung to car manufacturers and company fleets?

The grants come on top of financial assistance for replacing cars, vans, taxis and motorbikes with electric options, announced in February – £120 million in total, including £500 grants for e-motorbikes. But almost no subsidies are available for two-wheeled, pedal-assisted EVs: e-bikes and e-cargo bikes.

The main financial help for buying e-bikes is the cycle to work salary-sacrifice scheme. The employer buys the bike and then instalments are deducted from a participant’s pay before tax, but the scheme’s eligibility is limited to employees on standard payroll tax (PAYE workers) whose sacrifices don’t drop their pay below minimum wage.

This also excludes those who are out of work, the low-paid, the self-employed and retired, arguably people who might benefit most from an e-bike.

Benefits beyond carbon savings

We know that e-bike owners replace lots of trips and miles driven by cars. We also know the upfront cost of around £2,000-£3,000 is a barrier to more people owning one, despite e-bikes being much cheaper than cars.

Estimates of annual carbon savings from e-bikers avoiding car trips vary, from as little as 87kg CO₂ in a 2016 study to 394kg in research published the following year. Estimates published in 2020 and 2023 put the annual climate dividend at 225kg and 168kg of CO₂ respectively – roughly in line with emissions for one person making a return short-haul flight.

E-bikes provide extra propulsion to make long or arduous journeys easier for more riders.
Umomos/Shutterstock

These might seem small savings compared to the tonnes of CO₂ that an EV can save. However, e-bike incentives would have two big advantages.

First, policies that encourage active travel, including cycling, have been assessed by the government multiple times to determine the payoff from investment. It turns out that they have huge benefit to cost ratios – 9:1 on average (internationally it’s 6:1).

Conservatively, policies to encourage cycling pay back £5.50 in social benefits for every £1 invested. These benefits are largely savings for the healthcare system. In a project I worked on, in which we lent e-cargo bikes for free to 49 households in Leeds, Brighton and Oxford for several months, e-cargo bike users cycled up to three times more than non-users in our surveys.

E-cargo bike borrowers also reported mental-health benefits on top of satisfaction at being able to combine fitness with functional everyday trips, which were longer than they would attempt on a conventional bike. The cargo bikes especially helped with combining trips – commutes with shopping and school runs, for instance – meaning that more than 50% of trips and miles replaced car usage.

Precious cargo.
R.Classen/Shutterstock

Second, e-bike incentives can be designed to appeal especially to the lower-paid, who have been found to use their e-bikes more than wealthier buyers, which would also replace more car trips. The highest of a sliding scale of means-tested incentives in a Canadian study attracted poorer first-time e-bike buyers with existing high car-use.

This reaped average annual carbon savings of 1,456kg for those in receipt of the maximum CAN$1,600 (£868). As the authors suggest, these incentives may have helped low-income households realise their preferences for less dependence on cars.

E-bike grants could get more people out of cars

But how many drivers want to drive less? According to research that groups people into camps based on travel preferences, up to 50% of travellers in the UK are “malcontented motorists” and “active aspirers” (to travel differently).

Research has shown great potential for wider e-bike ridership.
Halfpoint/Shutterstock

Our research also found that guilt, or trying to minimise car use, was a major motivator for nearly all of our participants. While the government has funded free e-(cargo) bike trials like ours, the main cycling organisations we talked to pointed out that use would “fall off a cliff” when the trial ends because of the cost barrier. Those who would struggle to buy one were back in the same position as before.

A government evaluation of free e-bike loans concluded they were poor value for money, but it tracked purchases made soon after with a tiny response rate. Our project followed up after a year and found 20% of our borrowers had bought an e-cargo bike. Trial loans and grants together might achieve even more.

The new EV grant money could provide nearly 750,000 e-bike or e-cargo bike purchase-incentives the size of the Canadian ones, which could lead to annual carbon savings of 1.125 million tonnes of CO₂, according to the weekly average savings they found in that group.

Given the conservative benefit to cost ratio of 5.5:1 from such a UK scheme, this investment could also reap more than £3.6 billion in social benefits – especially from a fitter car-dependent population. There would potentially be a massive boost to the struggling UK e-bike and e-cargo bike market as well.

Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

Noel Flay Cass receives funding from UK Research & Innovation grant EP/S030700/1 through the Elevate project: (Innovative Light ELEctric Vehicles for Active and Digital TravEl).

– ref. Subsidising e-bikes instead of cars could really kick the electric vehicle transition into high gear – https://theconversation.com/subsidising-e-bikes-instead-of-cars-could-really-kick-the-electric-vehicle-transition-into-high-gear-261429

MIL OSI –

July 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Five ways professional athletes are redefining the limits of age in sport

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Paul Hough, Lecturer Sport & Exercise Physiology , University of Westminster

Maciej Rogowski Photo/Shutterstock

In elite sport, the phrase “past your prime” is rapidly being redefined.

At 38, Jess Fishlock just became the oldest goalscorer in UEFA Women’s Euro history. At Euro 2024, Portuguese defender Pepe made headlines not for a red card or faking injury — but for simply stepping onto the pitch at age 41, becoming the oldest player to feature in a European Championship. Fellow veterans Cristiano Ronaldo (39), Luka Modrić (38), and Keylor Navas (38) also made appearances.

And it’s not just football. Serena Williams won the Australian Open at 35 (while pregnant). Roger Federer won a Grand Slam at 36. Rafael Nadal became the oldest French Open champion at 36. Novak Djokovic, now 38, won Olympic gold in 2024 and reached the semi-finals of all three Grand Slams this 2025.

In American sports, Tom Brady retired at 45 after 23 physically punishing NFL seasons. LeBron James, at 39, is still dominating in the NBA, having won the inaugural NBA Cup with the LA Lakers in 2023.

These aren’t just feel-good stories; they reflect a growing trend. Athletes are staying competitive for longer and pushing the boundaries of peak performance. But how?

Research backs the shift. A study on Olympic athletes found that between 1992 and 2021, the average age of male Olympians rose from 25 to 27, and female athletes from 24 to 26. In football, a study of UEFA Champions League players found the average player age rose by nearly two years between 1992 and 2018.

So how are older athletes continuing to thrive in elite sport? Here are some of the key factors.

1. Smarter training

Modern athletes benefit from personalised training programmes informed by cutting-edge sports science. Tools like GPS tracking, heart rate variability (HRV), and biomarker analysis help coaches monitor performance, recovery and injury risk.

Metrics such as HRV, for example, can indicate when an athlete might need more rest, which is crucial for older athletes who take longer to recover after intense competition.

Athletes are no longer reliant on a single coach. Today, they work with integrated teams – sports scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, and performance analysts – all dedicated to improving their fitness and performance.

2. Better injury prevention and medical support

Athletes now undergo regular fitness testing and musculoskeletal screening to identify potential weaknesses before they lead to injury. And when injuries do occur, recovery methods have vastly improved.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries were once considered career-ending for older athletes. But thanks to advanced surgical techniques and biological therapies, recovery is now faster, and athletes return to play much sooner.

Zlatan Ibrahimović, at age 35, returned to top-level football just seven months after an ACL tear – a feat nearly unthinkable a decade earlier.

3. Optimised recovery and nutrition

Ageing athletes have different recovery needs — and sports science has stepped up. Cryotherapy, compression therapy, and advanced sleep protocols all help reduce muscle soreness and accelerate repair.

Nutrition plays a key role too. Ageing bodies experience more inflammation and slower repair, so diets rich in polyphenols (found in berries, leafy greens, and dark chocolate) are used to support vascular health and recovery. Athletes may also take approved supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and slow degeneration.

The result? Older athletes can train more consistently and recover faster between games.

4. Experience and tactical intelligence

Speed and strength decline with age, but tactical intelligence often improves. Older athletes can compensate for age-related declines in physical capacity with their advanced game-reading skills and spatial awareness. For instance, footballers like Paul Scholes and Andrés Iniesta adapted their playing styles with age, relying more on positioning and passing intelligence than physical capacity.

5. Financial and legacy incentives

Today’s stars aren’t just competing for medals – they’re building brands. With massive financial rewards on offer, there’s a clear incentive to prolong careers.

Cristiano Ronaldo, for example, recently signed a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr that will see him play until age 42 — reportedly earning an estimated £492 million. For many athletes, the chance to leave a lasting legacy and secure generational wealth keeps them in the game.

While we can’t stop the biological effects of ageing, today’s athletes are proving we can delay their impact – and even thrive later in life.

With smarter training, better recovery strategies and cutting-edge medicine, the upper age limit for peak performance continues to stretch. These advances may allow more veteran athletes to defy expectations and continue competing at the highest level.

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

– ref. Five ways professional athletes are redefining the limits of age in sport – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-professional-athletes-are-redefining-the-limits-of-age-in-sport-261028

MIL OSI –

July 24, 2025

Category: Science

Boosting global co-operation

Urgent human development needs

Scant commitment to action

Poverty and inequality worsens

Directing money to where it’s needed most

Supporting green, equitable development

A vanishing species

Counting eggs, nest by nest

Restoring the parrots’ grassland home

Sleep is essential for our health

Could too much sleep be bad?

So, what’s the link?

What’s the ideal amount?

The bottom line

Why birds are so bright – and how they do it

Different tricks for different colours

A surprisingly common technique

China displaces the Dutch

The price of family life

What’s driving up power bills?

Tackling hardship

July 23, 2025

Country examples and lessons for Triple Elimination

Benefits beyond carbon savings

E-bike grants could get more people out of cars

1. Smarter training

2. Better injury prevention and medical support

3. Optimised recovery and nutrition

4. Experience and tactical intelligence

5. Financial and legacy incentives