NewzIntel.com

Category: Sport

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government supports Anti-Corruption pilot

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A cross-agency Anti-Corruption Taskforce pilot highlights the Government’s commitment to protecting public funds and upholding integrity across the state sector, Police Minister Mark Mitchell and Public Service Minister Judith Collins say.

    The taskforce is led by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), supported by NZ Police and the Public Service Commission, and brings together counter fraud and enforcement expertise to identify and combat corruption and fraud risks faced by the public sector. 

    “The taskforce’s work will build a clearer intelligence picture of the threats that face our public sector. This is about taking proactive action to ensure our prevention and response system remains resilient and fit for purpose,” Mr Mitchell says.  

    “The public sector accounts for a third of the economy and the pilot is a critical step in protecting and enhancing New Zealand’s reputation as an attractive place to invest.

    “Every dollar of public funding counts, and preventing the unlawful taking of taxpayer money is something we take very seriously.”

    Ms Collins says the taskforce supports the Government’s broader public integrity agenda.

    “New Zealand is widely respected as one of the least corrupt countries in the world, and we intend to keep it that way,” Ms Collins says.

    “By increasing transparency, identifying risks and encouraging ethical conduct across the public sector, this taskforce will help maintain trust in our institutions.

    “Fighting corruption is not just about prosecution, it’s about leadership, accountability and promoting a culture of integrity.”

    The taskforce will begin with a pilot project requiring a group of public sector agencies to assess their fraud and corruption prevention and detection systems. This will include reporting on offending detected and prevented, and the controls agencies have in place to protect public funds.

    Participating agencies are the Department of Corrections, Land Information New Zealand, Inland Revenue, ACC, Ministry of Social Development and Sport New Zealand.

    The pilot will inform the Government’s future approach to counter-fraud and corruption capability across the state sector, with a public report to be released following its completion.

    The Anti-Corruption Taskforce follows the SFO’s launch of a national campaign to tackle Foreign Bribery and new online reporting platform for whistleblowers earlier this year, further strengthening New Zealand’s anti-corruption response.

    More information about the Taskforce is available on the SFO’s website: https://www.sfo.govt.nz/fraud-and-corruption/what-we-do/anti-corruption-taskforce-pilot 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur Statement at the Full Committee Markup of the 2026 Energy and Water Development Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Washington, DC — Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Ranking Member of the Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at the full committee’s markup of its fiscal year 2026 bill:

    Thank you very much, Chairman Cole. Ranking Member DeLauro, my dear friend, Chair Fleischmann and all the members as we gather today to mark up this Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development Bill. I have to restate, Chairman Fleischmann, I have truly appreciated working with you. You are always open to suggestions and, to all of our colleagues on this subcommittee that is a very, bipartisan subcommittee to develop and pass these bills, and our committee has long had this practice. We affect every single Congressional District in this country.

    I’m truly saddened that this vital subcommittee is, being steered yet again to return to a partisan process not caused by our subcommittee, but as we move forward with this Fiscal Year 2026 House bill.

    I would like to begin by thanking our diligent staff for all their hard work on this bill from the minority staff Scott McKee, Anisha Singh, and Adam Wilson, and on our personal staff, Kaitlin Ulin, TJ Lowdermilk, and Margaret McInnis. Truly thank you to you all.

    Engineered energy and water systems undergird America’s way of life. They are not optional, but essential to sustaining life. Of late, we have been piercingly reminded about our subcommittee’s purpose, especially as related to water management by the extreme flash flooding and tragic loss of over 132 lives, and with over 101 missing, in the Guadalupe River catchment area in Texas.

    The deadly West Virginia flash flooding this past month significantly damaged over 100 homes. Unfortunately, taking the lives of at least nine people, including a three year old, in Valley Grove, West Virginia. And we’ve seen flooding events in central North Carolina and New Mexico. All our hearts go out to the families of the victims and their communities. These tragedies inform us of the power of water and wild energy in our atmosphere. Not because of cloud seeding, but because of nature’s awesome power generated inside the thin seven layer atmosphere surrounding our spinning and rotating earth. Let me be clear. No matter how much members on the other side of the aisle want to pretend that the climate isn’t changing, for the record, the last ten years are the ten hottest in recorded history.

    So many have been held up on their plane flights back here. It’s an unusual change in the weather across this country, and members are personally experiencing these delays, as are the American people. These recent floods are made worse by the heating atmosphere. We had four 1,000 year floods last week alone. That is a record.

    So far in July, our country has seen over 1,200 flooding events, more than double the normal for an average July, and we’re just halfway through the month. Constitutionally, it is our sworn duty to prepare and protect the people in our communities, and it is hard to accept that no warning sirens had been installed along the Guadalupe River, despite prior tragedies along that very treacherous corridor. Our nation needs to install warning systems and build resilient infrastructure, and we are behind.

    For example, in a district like mine, we had to bring funding for tornado sirens many years ago. I was shocked that they didn’t exist. And in Ohio, we do zone to prevent flooding from threatening human life. But many places in our country do not, and we cannot keep bailing out places that are irresponsible in their behavior. My home in the City of Toledo has gone into Billions of dollars of debt to build new sewers, along with gigantic underground catchment basins, some as large as two football fields in size, in order to handle increasing water loads.

    We are making investments all over our district to protect Lake Erie shoreline and its tributaries. But in places where infrastructure investments aren’t cost effective, how does our nation make sure that families will be protected with adequate local planning and disaster warning systems? America needs more rigor in land and water planning systems, and my friends, quite frankly, we as a nation don’t get a grade A on that.

    It is our awesome responsibility as public servants to address the structural shortcomings at the federal, state, and local level that contributed to the recent loss of life. Sadly, this Republican energy and water bill does not meet our nation’s imperative for the future. It’s over $700 Million below last year. We must invest faster in modern infrastructure, and become energy independent in perpetuity. That is our responsibility. In a nation of 350 million people headed to 500 million people, we must make energy cost less and invest in grid resilience, which is sadly behind what this country needs.

    I find it interesting that Russell Vought, the chief architect of the budget cuts that we are being asked to endure in this bill, claims that he’s so savvy. But how is it possible? He’s supposed to be known as a budget cutter, right? But how is it possible that he has added $3.4 Trillion, despite our cuts to the national debt over the next ten years? Over 20 years, he’s adding $9.5 Trillion, and $18.7 Trillion by 30 years out. So that’s a total of $32 Trillion, if temporary measures are extended permanently. Think about that one. So if they’re doing such a good job over there at the Executive Branch and OMB, how come the national debt is rising when we’re cutting every single bill that we are discussing today, and those that will follow?

    This bill fails to address the cost of living crisis. The price of electricity has risen 5.8% over the last year. Every family in this country knows that, and even higher energy bills lie ahead for families and businesses. China is investing record levels in energy, my friends. But this bill retreats from US global leadership in the future in the form of a diversified and clean energy economy. This energy and water bill cuts $1.6 Billion, or 47%, from the Department of Energy’s energy efficiency and renewable energy programs. The adage analysis prevention is worth a pound of cure applies to our nation’s imperative to deliver clean, affordable, and secure energy to the American people and to ensure our nation leads, not lags, in the global race toward energy independence in perpetuity, including an abundant clean energy future.

    Our mom and dad taught us how to be thrifty and not wasteful. Dad would say, “it’s not how much you make, it’s how much you save,” and that applies to energy and fresh water. Conservation are good goals for the future of our children and grandchildren, and we’ve made some strides toward those horizons. The United States on the oil front is producing more than ever before, record high levels of production, but we are still tethered to a volatile global energy market dominated by cartels and petroleum dictators like OPEC. We must advance an all of the above energy strategy to be successful long term. Europe learned the hard way about being too reliant on one source of energy, Russian gas. In their case when Russia invaded Ukraine. Let us heed that chilling warning.

    China aims to be the OPEC for the next century, and gain dominance in clean energy, and they are well on their way. Their investments dwarf the rest of the world’s. A Chinese company has developed an EV battery. Are you ready for this? That can travel 1,800 miles in a single charge and recharge in just five minutes. Think about that. What sense does it make for this Energy and Water Bill to slash the Department of Energy’s vital research and development programs?

    The Republican plan cripples America’s energy future by awarding giant tax breaks to Millionaires and Billionaires in the Big Billionaire Bonanza Bill that’s creating the big, huge additions to the debt. America must focus on building an economy that works for everyone, especially our working families and retirees, not just the wealthy few. The bill this bill eliminates funding for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, and worse, it revokes $5.1 Billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law resources from the Department of Energy that will cede the US global lead in hydrogen, direct air capture, battery recycling, and energy savings in every public and private structure. Already, US businesses have canceled. This is shocking number. More than $15 Billion in investments in new factories and electricity production projects this year, as a result of the Republican Bonanza for Billionaires Bill. Those canceled projects were expected to create nearly 12,000 new jobs, all now gone.

    I can remember when we brought back the heavy Ford heavy truck line from Mexico to the region that I represent, and I stood next to the CEO of the company at that time, and I said, what can I do to keep these jobs anchored here in Northern Ohio? And he looked at me and he didn’t waste a moment. He said, cut my energy bills by a third. Well, think about that one.

    Thus I strongly oppose the Republican cuts to vital energy production and conservation and our future through the US Department of Energy. Shortchanging these advances pushes our nation backwards and raises already high energy prices for consumers. Why drive America backwards by slow walking energy innovation and failing to modernize our nation’s electric grids, which are old.

    In other areas, this bill dangerously short changes our national security, and this is really critical. The bill slashes $412 Million from the Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation account. This effectively guts our efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, detect covert nuclear threats, and uphold arms control agreements that keep us safe. All a big gift for Iran, Russia, China, Belarus, and North Korea. Think about that Spiderweb of Tyranny.

    Additionally, this bill turns its back on communities still living with the toxic legacy of America’s atomic past. Zeroing out the Army Corps program to clean up radioactive waste at early nuclear sites. It slashes $779 Million from the Department of Energy’s nuclear cleanup efforts. Delaying the cleanup of these communities have been promised for decades. I’ll note for the committee that one of these sites is in the village of Luckey, Ohio, not so far from my district, and believe me, you don’t want to breathe in or ingest atomic waste anywhere in the world. Finally, this bill includes numerous controversial poison pill riders that sadly show some extremists among us are not interested in real bills that can gain bipartisan support and become law.

    In closing, I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill. America can, and must meet the new age frontiers of energy and water. We owe it to the future. Nature is signaling, times are changing. And it’s good to remind ourselves, 200 years after Daniel Webster stated this, that is up on the wall in the House of Representatives chamber. “Let us develop the resources of our land, call forth its powers, build up its institutions, promote all its great interests, and see whether also we in our time and generation may not perform something worthy to be remembered.” That is our mandate today.

    Thank you, and I yield back.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Club World Cup ends with success, controversy and questions

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

    FIFA’s bold reimagining of the Club World Cup (CWC) culminated July 13, ushering in what the governing body hailed as “a golden era of club football.”

    The expanded 32-team format, along with sweeping technological and presentation changes, aimed to elevate the tournament’s global appeal, fairness and influence. While the 2025 edition delivered significant successes, it also revealed persistent challenges that demand attention.

    GLOBAL PARTICIPATION EXPANDS

    The most radical change was the expansion from seven to 32 teams. Players from 81 countries and regions took the pitch, many experiencing FIFA’s top-tier competition for the first time. This dismantled the previous barrier that limited participation mostly to continental champions, advancing FIFA’s mission to “truly globalize football.”

    Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (R) of Paris Saint-Germain vies with Malo Gusto of Chelsea FC during the final match between Chelsea FC (England) and Paris Saint-Germain (France) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, the United States, July 13, 2025. (Xinhua/Xu Chang)

    Smaller clubs responded with enthusiasm. Facing giants like Real Madrid and Manchester City enriched player resumes and sparked pride back home-fulfilling FIFA’s core goal of showcasing diverse football cultures.

    “It shows how big football is worldwide and how good some of these players are,” said Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane. “I’m loving this tournament so far, and hopefully we can be here for a while.”

    Zhou Tong, the sole Chinese player representing New Zealand’s semi-professional Auckland City, captured the spirit: “Football connects people, changes lives, opens eyes to the world. That’s magic-like universal language.”

    Unlike elite clubs, most Auckland City players hold full-time jobs and play part time. Zhou works as a community coach focused on grassroots development. Their participation powerfully embodied FIFA’s “Football Unites the World” campaign.

    CALENDAR AND COMPETITIVE CHALLENGES

    Criticism focused on increased player workload and injury risks. The CWC schedule fully overlapped with Europe’s summer league breaks. With next summer’s FIFA World Cup in North America, European players face back-to-back grueling seasons.

    UEFA and others have long criticized FIFA’s crowded calendar. Opponents argue players are overworked while domestic leagues face disruption. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reiterated: “Players are not machines.” The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) escalated the issue by filing a complaint with the European Commission.

    Another concern was the competitiveness gap. Heavy defeats, such as Auckland City’s 10-0 loss to Bayern Munich and Al Ain’s 6-0 defeat to Manchester City, highlighted the disparity. Teams from Asia, Africa and North America generally struggled, resulting in matches that lacked suspense and neutral appeal.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino acknowledged criticism from European clubs and fans, as well as concerns about heat, noting future use of roofed stadiums and cooling breaks.

    Luka Modric (L) of Real Madrid vies with Senny Mayulu of Paris Saint-Germain during the semifinal match between Paris Saint-Germain (France) and Real Madrid (Spain) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, the United States, July 9, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Rui)

    “So maybe some criticize it a little bit, but it’s something new. It’s something special,” Infantino said. “It’s a real World Cup with the best teams and the best players.”

    He added: “The heat is an issue. Cooling breaks are very important, and we will see what we can do. But we have stadiums with roofs, and we will definitely use these during the day next year.”

    Infantino emphasized the tournament’s value for underrepresented regions like Oceania: “Auckland City, to some extent, represents 99.9% of football players and fans – those of us who dream of being on that stage but may never get the chance. Suddenly, one of us gets to play against the best. It must be a place for everyone.”

    REFEREEING REVOLUTION

    The tournament also served as a testing ground for technological innovation. A key rule change from the International Football Association Board (IFAB) debuted: goalkeepers holding the ball for more than eight seconds would concede a corner kick.

    FIFA Referees Committee Chairman Pierluigi Collina reported widespread approval. “It was very successful. The tempo of the match improved, and we saw no time wasting by goalkeepers, as happened quite often before.” Only two violations occurred, fulfilling the rule’s preventative goal.

    Referees wore head-mounted cameras to broadcast a first-person view, enhancing viewer engagement. Collina said the “ref cam” exceeded expectations and spurred interest in broader adoption.

    Referees also announced VAR decisions on-field via microphone, while fans in stadiums viewed the same replays as officials, increasing transparency. Coaches used tablets for substitutions and real-time player data (e.g., distance covered, heart rate), reducing errors and supporting tactical decisions. Collectively, the innovations improved fairness and flow.

    “The outcome of using the ref cam at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 went beyond our expectations,” Collina said. “We’ve received great feedback – people ask, ‘Why not in all matches?’ and even more: ‘Why not in all sports?’”

    BILLION-DOLLAR GAMBLE

    FIFA dramatically increased the prize pool from 16 million US dollars for seven teams in the previous edition to 1 billion dollars for 32 teams, surpassing the 440 million dollars awarded at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It became the richest prize pool in football.

    Clubs earned money based on performance and commercial impact. Even bottom-ranked Auckland City received 4.6 million dollars – about seven times their 2024 total revenue.

    Infantino dismissed skepticism over the tournament’s financial viability: “We heard it wouldn’t work financially, but we generated over 2 billion dollars in revenue from this competition. We earned an average of 33 million dollars per match. No other cup competition comes close.”

    “It is already the most successful club competition in the world by all different measurements,” he added.

    To maximize accessibility, FIFA struck a 1-billion-dollar global broadcast deal with streaming service DAZN, including free streams of all 63 matches in 32 languages.

    New presentation features such as individual player walkouts and a mid-final halftime show added spectacle-but sparked backlash. The 24-minute halftime performance violated FIFA’s 15-minute maximum break rule.

    Attendance figures varied widely: four matches drew fewer than 10,000 fans, with the lowest being 3,412 for a Group F match between Ulsan HD and Mamelodi Sundowns. Sixteen matches exceeded 60,000 fans, with the highest attendance at 81,118 for the Chelsea vs. PSG final.

    “We respect everyone’s opinion,” Infantino said. “But it has been successful. We had over 2.5 million spectators in the stadiums – around 40,000 per match. No league in the world reaches that number, except the Premier League.”

    MEDIA ZONE REFORMS

    The revamped CWC mixed zone abandoned the traditional TV-first format. Instead, four interview pods were set up – two per team.

    Clubs designated players to give interviews in their native language and in English. Written press were allowed to film and photograph, but videos could only be posted online one hour after the mixed zone closed and had to be removed within 48 hours.

    Many journalists welcomed the guaranteed access. Marcio Dolzan of Brazil’s Lance contrasted it with the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where reporters waited two hours for Argentine players, who avoided interviews entirely.

    Others were critical. “Having covered nine World Cups, this format is unfamiliar,” said Antonio Carrasco of Venezuela’s Meridiano TV. “It feels like mini press conferences. All journalists hear the same thing. There’s no opportunity for exclusives or choice of whom to interview.”

    West Lamy of The Huffington Post pointed out logistical issues: At English-language pods, non-English-speaking journalists often interviewed players in their own language, undermining the pod’s purpose.

    FIFA provided translators, but they were often ineffective – journalists spoke over them or asked new questions before translations finished. Star players drew crowds, while others were overlooked. On-screen player data helped with question prep but didn’t solve access inequities.

    “But if this is a change FIFA has already decided on, we will adapt,” Carrasco said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Olympians expected to make highlight as Universiade swimming kicks off

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

    Swimming at the Rhine-Ruhr World University Games will feature several student-athletes who competed at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

    High-profile coaches who have been behind some of biggest stars will also be part of the Games.

    Team USA will see Olympians Emma Lebron Weber and Jacob Ryan Mitchell as well as world junior mixed and women’s relay gold medalist Maxine Charlize Parker in the pool.

    Olympians Julie Brousseau, Patrick Hussey and Emma O’Croinin will be the shepherds for Canada.

    Canada’s Ashley McMillan will be on the chase for medals having made the final in the 200m individual medley at the 2024 world championships.

    Britain will have a strong presence in the 100m breaststroke with Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Archie Goodburn in the squad.

    Loughborough’s Fleur Lewis will be on the medal hunt in the 800m freestyle after breaking an 18-year-old British short-course record in the 1,500m freestyle at the BUCS Championships 2023.

    With the World Aquatics Championships beginning immediately after the opening of the FISU Games, many student-athletes will be heading straight from Berlin to Singapore.

    Among them is Paige Van Der Westhuizen from Zimbabwe, who studies at the University of Stirling in Scotland.

    “I’m feeling good,” she said. “Having the World University Games just before the World Aquatics Championships will be tough, but I’m excited.”

    Swimming Australia’s head coach Rohan Taylor, who had coached Beijing 2008 Olympic champion Leisel Jones, said that the FISU Games will also help provide an incentive to keep student-athletes in their sport.

    “Athletes often face a crossroads that can end their careers,” Taylor said on Thursday. “They think they have to choose between university and a professional career of swimming.”

    “The World University Games provide an incentive for athletes to continue developing both paths by keeping them in the sport longer.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Universiade: First gold goes to Denmark as Sandersen triumphs in taekwondo

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

    With a Danish flag wrapped around her shoulders, taekwondo athlete Eva Eun-Kyung Sandersen raced around the venue Thursday after claiming the first gold of the Rhine-Ruhr World University Games in the women’s individual poomsae with a score of 8.732.

    A nine-time World Poomsae medalist and 11-time European champion, Sandersen dominated the final with refined technique and precise coordination, finishing ahead of South Korea’s Jung Haeun. Kaitlyn Marie Reclusado of the United States and China’s Pan Meijing shared bronze.

    “I feel so relieved,” said Sandersen, pausing to catch her breath in a post-match interview. “I’m really happy and proud of my trainer and everything we’ve worked for. I can finally tell them that we did something great together.”

    Despite having stood on many podiums before, the gold at the University Games held special significance for the 24-year-old.

    “I’ve practiced taekwondo for about 15 years. The sport is my whole life – it’s everything I think about. This gold medal means so much to me.”

    This marked Sandersen’s first and last appearance at the Universiade. She had hoped to make her debut two years ago in China’s Chengdu, but a last-minute injury ended those plans.

    “I was supposed to go to Chengdu, but I injured my knee just one month before, due to intense training over a long period,” she said, becoming emotional. “It was a tough time, and it was hard to recover both physically and mentally.”

    Born to South Korean parents and raised in Denmark, Sandersen wasn’t introduced to taekwondo right away.

    “My sports journey actually started with ballet,” she said. “But my mom suggested I try taekwondo because of our Korean heritage.”

    After a decorated career that spans both continental and global success, Sandersen now hopes to combine her two passions: sport and science.

    “I’m a student majoring in pharmacy, and ideally I’d love to find a way to blend pharmacy with sports. I want to promote taekwondo around the world and show people how beautiful it is.”

    She also shared a personal dream: to one day see her discipline recognized at the Olympic level.

    “I know individual poomsae isn’t currently part of the Olympic program, so I may never get the chance to compete at the Olympics,” she said. “But I really hope it will be included one day, and if it is, I’ll definitely fight for that glory.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at scarring and heart arrhythmia in veteran male athlete’s hearts

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging looks at cardiac scarring and arrhythmia in veteran males. 

    Prof Steffen Petersen, Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine, Queen Mary University of London; Consultant Cardiologist at Barts Health NHS Trust; BHF Data Science Centre Interim Director; and Immediate Past President, European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging, said:

    “This study is an important contribution to improving our current understanding of the long-term heart health impact of endurance exercise in older asymptomatic male athletes.  First, scar formation in the heart is common in about half of those athletes enrolled.  Second, a type of scar which is not due to poor blood supply of the heart muscle predicts the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias, but a very common type (insertion point between the left and right heart) is not concerning, which is reassuring to know.

    “A strength of the study is the confidence we can have in the accuracy of the outcome regarding ventricular arrhythmias, as determined by implantable loop recorders.  A weakness is the limited generalisability of the findings due to the small sample size, exclusive inclusion of male endurance athletes over 50 years of age from a single centre.”

    Prof James Ware, Professor of Cardiovascular and Genomic Medicine, Imperial College London and the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, and NHS consultant cardiologist, said:

    “This is in my opinion a well designed and well executed study.  The authors themselves acknowledge the principal limitations of the study, and the conclusions are balanced and fair.  The press release is a fair reflection of the science described in the article.

    “I would note:

    “This is a highly selected group of competitive athletes who have trained intensively for many years.  I would not expect these findings to have direct relevance to most recreational athletes, and I would not want anyone to be scared of exercise as a result of this study.  Regular physical activity is hugely beneficial for the vast majority of people, and I would encourage participation and enjoyment.  Dr Swoboda emphasises this in his own comments.

    “Nonetheless, fibrosis (scarring) is evidently more common in these high intensity athletes, and associated with heart rhythm abnormalities.  This is something we need to understand better.

    “Most of the arrhythmias observed were non-sustained ventricular arrhythmia (NSVT) – that is short runs of abnormal rhythm lasting

    ‘VENTricular arrhythmia and cardiac fibrOsis in endUrance eXperienced athletes (VENTOUX)’ by Wasim Javed first author et al. was published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging at 00:01 UK time on Friday 18 July 2025. 

    Declared interests

    Prof Steffen Petersen: “Disclosures:

    1. Consultancy, Circle Cardiovascular Imaging, Inc., Calgary, Alberta, Canada (in my view no conflict related to this work).
    2. Named reviewer of two relevant European guidelines:
    1. Pelliccia A, Sharma S, Gati S, Bäck M, Börjesson M, Caselli S, Collet JP, Corrado D, Drezner JA, Halle M, Hansen D, Heidbuchel H, Myers J, Niebauer J, Papadakis M, Piepoli MF, Prescott E, Roos-Hesselink JW, Graham Stuart A, Taylor RS, Thompson PD, Tiberi M, Vanhees L, Wilhelm M; ESC Scientific Document Group. 2020 ESC Guidelines on sports cardiology and exercise in patients with cardiovascular disease. Eur Heart J. 2021 Jan 1;42(1):17-96. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa605. Erratum in: Eur Heart J. 2021 Feb 1;42(5):548-549. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa835. PMID: 32860412.
    2. Visseren FLJ, Mach F, Smulders YM, Carballo D, Koskinas KC, Bäck M, Benetos A, Biffi A, Boavida JM, Capodanno D, Cosyns B, Crawford C, Davos CH, Desormais I, Di Angelantonio E, Franco OH, Halvorsen S, Hobbs FDR, Hollander M, Jankowska EA, Michal M, Sacco S, Sattar N, Tokgozoglu L, Tonstad S, Tsioufis KP, van Dis I, van Gelder IC, Wanner C, Williams B; ESC Scientific Document Group. 2021 ESC Guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention in clinical practice. Eur J Prev Cardiol. 2022 Feb 19;29(1):5-115. doi: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab154. PMID: 34558602.
    1. Author of relevant European consensus paper:

    Galderisi M, Cardim N, D’Andrea A, Bruder O, Cosyns B, Davin L, Donal E, Edvardsen T, Freitas A, Habib G, Kitsiou A, Plein S, Petersen SE, Popescu BA, Schroeder S, Burgstahler C, Lancellotti P. The multi-modality cardiac imaging approach to the Athlete’s heart: an expert consensus of the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging. 2015 Apr;16(4):353. doi: 10.1093/ehjci/jeu323. PMID: 25681828.”

    Prof James Ware: “I was not involved in this study, though have collaborated with Dr Swoboda on other research projects.

    Industry relationsships (in the last 2 years):  I have received research support from Bristol Myers Squibb, and have acted as a paid advisor to Health Lumen, Tenaya Therapeutics, and Solid Biosciences.  I am a founder with equity in Saturnus Bio.

    I do not consider that these relationships are directly related to the subject of this paper.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville OP-ED: It’s Time For Republicans To Put Up Or Shut Up When It Comes To Rescissions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed on X touting the Senate’s passage of President Trump’s $9 billion rescissions package early this morning. In the piece, Sen. Tuberville urges Republicans to adhere to the America First mandate 77 million Americans voted for in 2024 by continuing to cut wasteful government spending on programs that don’t benefit the lives of hardworking American families. With $37 trillion in debt, it’s far past time to return to fiscal sanity before it’s too late. 
    Read excerpts from Sen. Tuberville’s op-ed below or the full piece here.
    “When you’re coaching football, one of the first things you teach your team is discipline. A team without discipline blows assignments, misses tackles, and lets games slip away. Well, Washington has been blowing assignments and missing tackles for decades, especially when it comes to spending your hard-earned tax dollars. This week, we’ve got a chance to start calling the right plays. The Senate voted on a $9 billion rescissions package—a straightforward, no-nonsense plan to cut wasteful government spending and get our fiscal house back in order. Now it is up to the House to follow through. This isn’t a trick play. It’s not a Hail Mary. This is blocking and tackling—the fundamentals of fiscal responsibility. Frankly, this should be low-hanging fruit for Republicans. We talk a big game on the campaign trail about cutting waste, fraud, and abuse. But now that it’s time to walk the walk, some of my Republican colleagues seem to have forgotten how they got here in the first place.
    Over the past 4 years, Joe Biden treated the American taxpayers like his own personal piggy bank for bad ideas. Now, we’re $37 trillion in debt and have very little to show for it. The American people sent us here to clean house. 77 million Americans voted for President Trump and the America First agenda—an agenda that includes cutting woke foreign aid, left-wing propaganda, and out of control bureaucracy. That’s exactly what this bill does. We are cementing DOGE cuts into law and finally delivering on the President’s mandate to cut waste, fraud, and abuse. First, we’re cutting $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB).This woke organization funds NPR and PBS, two outlets that have gone out of their way to push the Democrat Communist Socialist Party’s radical agenda.
    It’s no secret that NPR is the PR arm of the left. Their CEO openly called President Trump a “fascist” and a “deranged racist.” But don’t taking my word for it—just ask Uri Berliner, who was a senior business editor at NPR for more than two decades. In April 2024, he wrote an op-ed called “I’ve Been at NPR for 25 Years. Here’s How We Lost America’s Trust.” In the piece, he wrote that NPR has an “absence of viewpoint diversity.” He acknowledged that NPR has “always had a liberal bent” but now an “open-minded spirit no longer exists at NPR.” To prove his point, he noted that registered Democrats outnumber Republicans 87 to 0 in the newsroom. Not surprisingly, NPR suspended Berliner for having the nerve to call it like it is. I guess NPR only protects freedom of speech as long as it aligns with their progressive ideology. Go figure.
    […]
    Americans are starving on the streets, and yet we’re sending money to educate kids in Uganda on LGBTQI+. It would almost be funny if it wasn’t so sad. This is global social engineering paid for by the American taxpayer. What the hell are we doing?
    It’s time for Republicans to put up or shut up. You can’t campaign on cutting spending and then flake out when someone hands you the scissors. If Republicans can’t make this play, we don’t deserve to be on the field. Let’s pass this rescissions package, tighten our belts, and start governing with some good old-fashioned common sense. President Trump campaigned on reining in spending, and it is incumbent on us to deliver. Let’s get it done.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 14: Alberta wildfire update (July 17, 3:30 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Steps Up to the Plate for Breast Cancer Survivor Shahra Lambert at 16th Annual Congressional Softball Game

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) played in the friendly rivalry softball game between the women of Congress and women of the D.C. press corps at the 16th Annual Congressional Women’s Softball Game (CWSG). Since 2009, the CWSG has supported the Young Survival Coalition by raising awareness of breast cancer in young women and honoring current fighters and survivors of cancer.

    This year, Rep. Castor stepped up to the plate for her District Advisor Shahra Lambert, a breast cancer survivor and dedicated advocate for residents across the Tampa Bay area. As District Advisor, Lambert uses her expertise and deep understanding of the region to meaningfully engage with constituents and stakeholders across the community. Lambert’s impressive career includes fifteen years in leadership roles for former U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, during which time she worked on several initiatives to promote equity and community engagement. After Nelson was confirmed to lead NASA, Lambert joined the Administrator’s team as Senior Advisor. Her extensive experience with federal agencies, grassroots advocacy and strategic planning has been instrumental in advancing the district’s priorities and fostering stronger connections within the community.

    Photos of the game are available here.

    “I’m humbled and honored that Congresswoman Castor is not only playing in my honor but playing for all those survivors and their loved ones’ cancer journey,” said Lambert. “It takes a village, and I’m glad to be a part of and root for Team Castor and the Congressional Women’s Softball.”

    “The Congressional Women’s Softball Game brings people together for a friendly rivalry game that helps bring people of all sides together to support initiatives raising awareness of breast cancer and underscoring the importance of young women knowing their risks and getting their screenings,” said Rep. Castor. “I was honored to play for my District Advisor, Shahra Lambert, whose exceptional experience and dedication to serving Florida families and small businesses are vital to my ability to connect with constituents and address their needs effectively. Shahra has been an asset in fighting to secure emergency federal support for my neighbors recovering from last year’s devastating hurricanes.”

    An estimated 316,950 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, and an estimated 43,700 women will die from the disease, according to the American Cancer Society. Rep. Castor has been a leader in Congress in advancing legislation to fight cancer through increased preventative care, expanded access to cancer screenings, coverage for timely cancer treatment and investments in cancer research.

    “While I am thrilled to receive the Rep. Joanne Emerson Most Valuable Player Award this year as the Member Team’s pitcher, all of the women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and have fought through the diagnosis are the true winners in my book,” said Rep. Castor.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Department of Human Services takes first steps in moving to new and historic Astoria location

    Source: US State of Oregon

    span dir=”ltr”>The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will be moving to a newly renovated but historic location in the heart of Astoria in about a year.

    The building, at 1535 Commercial Street, was the first structure completed in 1923 after the 1922 fire that leveled much of Astoria. It is one of the first buildings you see as you drive into historic downtown Astoria. Over the years it has been an active part of the community. It’s been a police station, a fire station, a car dealership, a furniture and appliance store and a public market. There is a door in the building that leads to the infamous tunnels that, according to history, ferried crimped sailors to waiting ships and were also used during Prohibition to transport alcohol.

    Just as this building has been a part of the community throughout its past, that community legacy will continue with ODHS moving to that location. The renovation work when feasible will be done by local contractors and using local products. Cork has met with staff, Clatsop and Nehalem Tribes, local non-profits such as CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and local school staff in the area to learn what their needs for the building would be.

    It is also more accessible inside and outside for people and easier to find than where the ODHS offices are now located in the port area at 450 Marine Drive. The city will be removing curbs for better wheelchair access. Also, it will be renovated to be a completely trauma-aware building.

    The agency will be leasing the building from Astoria Waterfront Group LLC. The Managing Member of AWG is former Astorian John Dulcich, of Goldsmith Land Investments, who remembers when he was a child coming to this building’s public market with his parents. Dulcich’s mother, Donna Mary, spent her entire career as a speech pathologist with the Clatsop County Educational Service District visiting the local schools helping children with speech therapy. Dulcich’s father, Vince Dulcich, was long-time football coach and Athletic Director at Astoria High School and also a commercial gillnetter.

    “This building has had a lot of public use. People know this building. And a lot of people in this area use human services. This is a safe area for people to come to. This building is also bringing family wage jobs here. I’m very excited ODHS will be bringing life back to this building,” Dulcich said.

    Because of the building’s history of service to the community, Dulcich decided to name the building the Van Dusen Mercantile Building to pay homage to the Van Dusen family.

    In 1849 wagon train pioneers Caroline and Adam Van Dusen started a general store by the same name in downtown Astoria. Later the Van Dusen family ventured into other industries including insurance, soft drink bottling and hospitality. Their grandson, Willis, born in 1953, and the family earned the distinction of having operated Oregon’s Oldest Business. Willis went on to serve the community as an Astoria Council member for more than 30 years and Astoria Mayor for 24 years.

    Dulcich said he is honored that the Van Dusen’s agreed to let him name the building after their family. Dulcich also noted that bringing the State ODHS to the building was originally the vision of the Van Dusen’s (Willis, Trudy and Junior) as they had initiated conversations with the State.

    “They got the ball rolling and now we just need to execute the plan so we can restore the luster to this jewel of a building,” Dulcich said.

    “It is an iconic building. If the walls could talk, I’m sure we’d hear a lot of great stories. We’re very excited to be coming to this building and to able to bring services to people in the area,” Tim Cork said. He is the District 1 Manager, which includes Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties. The building will house Child Welfare, Self-Sufficiency, Oregon Eligibility Partnership and Vocational Rehabilitation programs.

    The building sits in a very scenic area, just across the street from the Nordic Park with its interpretive signage and cattycorner from the Columbia River Maritime Museum. The building’s front windows look out onto the expansive view of the mouth of the Columbia River.

    —

    Watch the video and listen to the interviews of what is to come for the future of the Astoria ODHS offices: https://vimeo.com/1097989057/b74600b04c?share=copy

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Danish Presidency debriefs EP committees on priorities

    Source: European Parliament

    Denmark holds the Presidency of the Council until the end of 2025. This text will be updated regularly as the hearings take place.

    Agriculture and Rural Development Committee

    On 15 July, Jacob Jensen, Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, said that the Presidency will focus on easing the administrative burden for farmers while continuing to promote the green transition and animal welfare. Concluding the current negotiations on the common agricultural policy (CAP) simplification package and starting discussions on the post-2027 CAP will also be priorities.

    Several MEPs called for fair conditions between farmers inside and outside the EU in connection with the Mercosur Agreement and animal welfare. They asked how the presidency will help guarantee the EU’s protein and fertiliser self-sufficiency and support organic farmers. Others raised the issue of ensuring that the green transition does not compromise the agriculture sector’s sustainability.

    Regional Development Committee

    On 15 July, Danish Minister for European Affairs Marie Bjerre argued that cohesion policy should continue to play a crucial role in the EU budget, as the Presidency works on proposals for the next multiannual financial framework (MFF). She said that funding should also support competitiveness and be flexible in the face of unexpected events. Ms Bjerre highlighted the need to strengthen rule of law conditionality in the allocation of EU funds.

    MEPs agreed on the need to modernise cohesion policy and make it more flexible, but asked for the Presidency’s support in defending the policy’s core purpose – reducing inequalities between regions – and the role of regions and local authorities.

    Legal Affairs Committee

    On 15 July, Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard stressed the need to boost EU competitiveness but also to protect common values while advancing the green and digital transition. He committed to make progress on draft bills on the protection of adults and insolvency, while promoting rules on parenthood.

    Morten Bødskov, Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, will strive to simplify existing rules for the benefit of EU businesses in the upcoming negotiations on sustainability reporting and due diligence obligations. Mr Bødskov also intends to advance the patent package and the “28th regime” initiative (a single set of EU rules to support innovation).

    MEPs inquired about plans to strengthen the rule of law, fight illegal migration and improve licensing, considering the planned withdrawal of the proposal on standard essential patents. They also asked for work to move ahead on the special tribunal for the crime of aggression, for measures to ensure that simplification does not lead to deregulation, and for efforts to balance rights and copyright in the context of new technologies.

    Foreign Affairs Committee

    On 15 July, European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre said that the Presidency wants to advance EU accession negotiations with all candidate countries. She also added that the EU must act more independently to ensure its security. The dialogue with Türkiye will continue, but its accession negotiations will remain on hold.

    MEPs called for more support for some candidate countries on their EU path. They also enquired on possible new strategic partners for the EU, given recent developments in relations with the US, and called for the deepening of relations with Latin America. They also asked what steps the Presidency intends to take to help the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

    Environment, Climate Change and Food Safety Committee

    On 15 July, Jacob Jensen, Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, highlighted the need to simplify EU legislation for farmers and food producers, and to promote innovation through tools such as new genomic techniques, on which the Presidency aims to strike a deal with Parliament. He stressed the importance of making the EU’s agri-food sector more competitive while maintaining high standards of sustainability and food safety. Other priorities include an EU strategy for plant-based proteins, animal welfare, and action to tackle antimicrobial resistance.

    MEPs raised questions about the future of the CAP, demanding greater fairness, increased support for smaller farms, and clear targets for pesticide reduction. MEPs also enquired about trade agreements, such as with Mercosur, and a possible ban on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).

    Lars Aagaard, Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, stressed the importance of reaching an agreement on the EU 2040 climate target, to offer clear guidance for climate action, investment, and industrial competitiveness. He underlined the need for an agreement before the COP30 in Brazil on 10–21 November 2025, to show EU leadership and unity.

    Some MEPs raised concerns about energy affordability and the social impact of the new emissions trading system, while others stressed excessive flexibility would undermine the 2040 target.

    Civil liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee

    On 15 July, Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard said the Presidency would prioritise work on the fight against serious cross-border and organised crime, action to improve victims’ rights, and police cooperation to counter migrant smuggling. The Presidency will also advance work on the directive and regulation to combat child sexual abuse.

    Torsten Schack Pedersen, Minister for Resilience and Preparedness, called for implementation of the “Preparedness Union” strategy to strengthen EU security, resilience and preparedness. The Presidency will advance work on the reformed EU civil protection mechanism, the stockpiling strategy and measures to protect critical infrastructure.

    MEPs asked the Presidency about progress on the directives on combating corruption and victims’ rights. According to the Justice Minister, work on both will continue promptly as a priority. MEPs and the Ministers also discussed law enforcement access to data, and measures against terrorism and online radicalisation.

    Kaare Dybvad, Minister for Immigration and Integration, emphasised the need to implement the Asylum and Migration Pact in full. The Presidency will work on proposals on safe third countries, safe countries of origin and a common approach to returns. He also mentioned the possibility of developing external partnerships and possible return hubs in third countries, stressing the need to uphold international law and human rights. Other priorities are action to combat migrant smuggling and the EU talent pool.

    On Migration and Asylum Pact implementation, MEPs asked about the solidarity platform, protection of human dignity, and cooperation with third countries. The minister replied that priority should be given to people in need of refugee status. Economic migrants must use legal channels, and those with no right to stay need to be returned to their home countries.

    Marie Bjerre, Minister for European Affairs, said the Presidency aimed to strengthen the link between respect for EU values and access to EU funds, enhance the Council’s rule of law dialogues, and support tools such as the Commission’s rule of law report. It will also work to reinforce the conditionality mechanism in the next long-term budget, by increasing funding for it and ensuring more automatic application.

    Some MEPs raised concerns about the situation in Hungary, and called for a stronger conditionality mechanism and better protection of media freedom and civil society. Others called for clarity on the definition of rule of law, and raised the issues of spyware use against journalists and the situation in Gaza.

    Employment and Social Affairs Committee

    On 15 July, Employment Minister Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen stressed that the Presidency would focus on investing in skills, fair labour mobility, strengthening social dialogue, and occupational health. She aims to advance the revision of the Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (CMRD) and the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers. Minister for Social Affairs and Housing Sophie Hæstorp Andersen highlighted the need to improve independent living for persons with disabilities and to improve access to sustainable and affordable housing.

    MEPs highlighted the lack of legislative proposals in social areas and voiced concern about the future of the European Social Fund+. They stressed the need to strengthen the European Labour Authority, and addressed the working conditions of non-EU nationals, the lack of skilled workers, and the migration of qualified workers. Others asked for action on employment rights for persons with disabilities, the coordination of social security systems, and the European Child Guarantee.

    Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee

    On 15 July, Caroline Stage Olsen, Digital Affairs Minister, emphasised the need for action to boost investment and cut red tape. Special attention will be given to protecting minors online through firm Digital Services Act enforcement, new age verification rules and action to tackle addictive design. She supported postponing elements of the AI Act to give business, especially smaller companies, more time to comply.

    Morten Bødskov, Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, stressed the Presidency’s intention to tackle customs challenges, unfair competition, slow growth and job loss. The minister also expressed strong support for the green transition and the need to advance work on simplification packages and regulatory burden reduction targets.

    MEPs asked about the Presidency’s plans to work on e-commerce, the posting of workers, attracting talent and the “28th regime” (a single set of EU rules to support innovation). They also enquired about digital policy loopholes and the Digital Fairness Act, and the need to advance negotiations on the late payments regulation and the European defence industrial strategy.

    Development Committee

    On 15 July, Foreign Affairs Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called for a stronger Team Europe approach, given the widening gap between humanitarian needs and the resources available. Presidency priorities include the Global Gateway, the Samoa Agreement, the EU-African Union (AU) Summit, human rights and the sustainable development goals. The Presidency will champion external action in negotiations on the next long-term EU budget.

    MEPs stressed the importance of development aid and the need to make sure foreign investment upholds human rights, while also voicing concern over irregular migration. They called for a broader EU presence at the next EU-AU Summit, and asked about the Presidency’s plan for the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.

    Public Health Committee

    On 16 July, Sophie Løhde, Danish Minister for Interior and Health, highlighted the need to strengthen EU preparedness through efficient medical countermeasures, ensure better access to medicines, and address antimicrobial resistance. She shared the Presidency’s commitment to finalising the Council’s position on the critical medicines act, hoping an agreement with Parliament could be reached on the pharmaceutical package by the end of the year.

    MEPs quizzed the minister on medicine affordability, rare diseases, and healthcare workforce shortages. Some called for a greater focus on women’s health, action against PFAS contamination, and improved EU coordination of health and military crisis preparedness.

    Constitutional Affairs Committee

    On 16 July, European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre said the Presidency priorities were to advance a merit-based EU accession process and uphold the rule of law. She also highlighted the need to reinforce democratic resilience, for instance through the Commission’s Democracy Shield and improved transparency of foreign interests. The Presidency is also committed to strengthening interinstitutional cooperation and pursuing institutional reforms within the existing treaty framework.

    MEPs raised questions on the link between internal EU reforms and future accessions, the use of qualified majority voting to overcome institutional deadlocks, the right of inquiry, and electoral reform. Bjerre replied that the lack of consensus among member states on possible treaty changes made that a less feasible path.

    Security and Defence Committee

    On 16 July, Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said that one of the priorities was to continue to support Ukraine politically, militarily and financially, and work on integrating the Ukrainian defence industry into the EU one. This includes paving the way for Ukrainian companies to set up facilities in the rest of Europe. He also mentioned the need for Europe to be able to defend itself by 2030 by increasing its defence readiness and production, and freeing up defence financing.

    MEPs questioned the minister on a range of topics, including the use of frozen Russian state assets to support Ukraine’s reconstruction, a dedicated European defence fund, removing hurdles to support the Ukrainian defence industry, and the pros and cons of non-EU country access to EU defence funds.

    Fisheries Committee

    On 16 July, Jacob Jensen, Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, said the Presidency would prioritise the green transition, simplification, including for the Ocean Pact, and better regulation of fisheries. They will also focus on fishing opportunities in the Mediterranean and Baltic Sea for 2026 to allow fishers to plan early.

    MEPs highlighted fleet renewal, the Baltic Sea’s herring situation and the MFF’s role in achieving sustainability, simplification, and climate goals. They expressed concern over the 24-metre fleet renewal restriction and called for specific funding mechanisms for the Ocean Pact. Finally, they welcomed the focus on 2026 fishing quotas and sustainability objectives.

    Transport and Tourism Committee

    Boosting competitiveness, easing the administrative burden, ensuring a green transition in transport and tourism, but also military mobility, are the main drivers of Danish presidency, said Thomas Danielsen, Minister of Transport on 16 July. He hoped to start talks with MEPs on passenger rights and rules on counting CO2 emissions, as well as to finish negotiations on railway capacity infrastructure. Morten Bødskov, Minister of Business, Industry and Financial Services, added the Presidency perspective on shipping transport and upcoming EU ports and maritime industry strategies.

    The majority of transport committee MEPs welcomed the Presidency priorities, the ambition to reach a Council position on weights and dimensions rules, while some questioned the focus on the green transition. On passenger rights, MEPs were frustrated with the Council decision to force into a tight deadline to reach a deal on future rules, and asked the minister not to forget the multimodal part of the package.

    Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee

    On 16 July, Minister for Environment and Gender Equality, Magnus Heunicke, outlined priorities including combating gender-based violence, promoting equal opportunities by involving men and boys, and strengthening LGBTQI equality amid rising hate and harassment. He announced that a Council meeting on 17 October would focus on equality and non-discrimination.

    MEPs raised concerns about the absence of an EU-wide consent-based definition of rape, the lack of progress on the revision of the Victims’ Rights Directive, the under-representation of women in government, and the stalled horizontal anti-discrimination directive. In response, Heunicke confirmed that there would be a discussion on a consent-based rape definition, and that finalising the Victims’ Rights Directive negotiations was a priority.

    International Trade Committee

    On 16 July, Minister for Foreign Affairs Lars Løkke Rasmussen named agreements on the revised general scheme of preferences (GSP) and the foreign investment screening review as being among his priorities. The phasing-out of Russian gas imports and ratification of the trade agreement with Mercosur are also high on the agenda. The Presidency will also work to negotiate a new trade relationship with the US, while being prepared for other scenarios.

    MEPs welcomed the priorities, particularly on concluding the Mercosur Agreement, phasing out Russian gas imports and concluding the revision of the GSP. Some MEPs also questioned the Presidency on how EU-Israel trade relations should evolve given the humanitarian situation in the Middle East.

    Culture and Education Committee

    On 16 July, Mattias Tesfaye, Minister for Education and Youth, said that Presidency wanted to make vocational education and training more attractive, ensure learning mobility, and focus on how the digitalisation affects learning outcomes. The Presidency will also prioritise negotiations on the next generation of Erasmus+ and on the European education area.

    Many MEPs expressed their concerns about the future of the Erasmus+ programme and enquired about the protection of children online, recognition of competences, and the safety of young students in the workplace.

    Jakob Engel-Schmidt, Minister for Culture, Media and Sports Policy, highlighted the need to prohibit the use of images, voice and other personal features in deepfakes or lifelike imitations. The EU Copyright Regulation should be updated to address the challenges posed by artificial intelligence to the cultural and creative sectors, either by guaranteeing fair remuneration for rights holders or by achieving the best possible conditions for licensing agreements. In sport, the Presidency promises to do more to uphold democratic values and integrity in the awarding of international sports events.

    MEPs asked for measures to help EU countries implement the European Media Freedom Act and highlighted the revision of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive. MEPs also raised issues such as protecting heritage against natural disasters and gender equality programmes in sport.

    Industry, Research and Energy Committee

    On 16 July, Caroline Stage Olsson, Minister for Digital Affairs, outlined two priorities: enhancing digital competitiveness and protecting minors online. She advocated for reducing the administrative burden on business and for strategic investment for a more sovereign Europe. She also highlighted work on enforcing the Digital Services Act (DSA), stricter regulations for age verification and data protection, and the establishment of a competitiveness fund.

    Some MEPs stressed the need to reduce dependency on non-European tech companies and to balance regulation with simplification, to foster innovation while protecting consumers. Questions were asked about the impact of the DSA on free speech and privacy, and about investment in less connected regions.

    Troels Lund Poulsen, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, outlined four priorities: enhancing Europe’s defence capabilities, supporting Ukraine, fostering cooperation with NATO and strengthening the EU’s defence against hybrid threats. He also stressed the importance of the European defence industry programme (EDIP) to this end.

    Torsten Schack Pedersen, Minister for Resilience and Preparedness, focused on cybersecurity and highlighted three priorities: strengthening EU cyber resilience, framing a robust EU response to cyber crises, and simplifying the EU cyber legislation framework.

    MEPs enquired about the creation of a unified European defence market, the standardisation of defence products, and the need for joint procurement to enhance defence capabilities. Questions also focused on Baltic Sea security and measures to counter potential sabotage. Concerns were voiced about Europe’s dependency on non-European defence suppliers.

    Lars Aagaard, Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, emphasised the importance of a secure, clean and affordable energy supply, as well as of a stronger energy sector, focusing on renewable and clean energy produced locally. He called for an approach that would balance environmental protection with economic competitiveness and for Europe to phase out its dependency on Russian energy.

    Morten Bødskov, Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs focused on competitiveness and highlighted the need for increased investment in green technologies and new critical technologies such as life sciences, artificial intelligence, biotech, and quantum. Mr Bødskov also stressed the need to simplify regulations to foster innovation and growth.

    MEPs stressed the need for a more efficient regulatory environment to foster innovation and competitiveness. They expressed concerns about high energy prices and highlighted the importance of investing in clean energy technologies and infrastructure to achieve energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Several MEPs questioned the balance between environmental protection and economic competitiveness, and called for a more pragmatic approach to regulation that would not stifle innovation and growth.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: When public money is tight, how do governments put a price on culture?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Steve Nolan, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Liverpool John Moores University

    It’s no secret that public finances are tight in the UK. This spells trouble for many sectors, not least culture. After all, this is an area that often relies on public funding – with many projects facing an uncertain future. But in an era of economic bad news, can it be justifiable to pump money into what some see as “frivolous” projects?

    For some politicians, investment in cultural infrastructure is an investment in place and in people. This is the hope behind a £270 million fund that aims to boost the resilience of cultural institutions following an era of restricted public spending. There are limitations, and the culture-led approach – as with regeneration projects in general – remains only partially successful and deeply uneven.

    From the role of large-scale cultural events like the European Capital of Culture to the so-called “Bilbao effect” (where a new cultural site is thought to spark revitalisation and economic growth), the same questions arise. Who is it for? What type of value is created – and is it shared in equitably?

    But the question is also about how we might better understand and measure the value of a cultural site, collection or (re)development.

    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.

    Pinning down the meaning of “value” is a tricky philosophical question – one that has long plagued economists. The standard evaluation tool of cost-benefit analysis tries to collapse these debates into a number. That is, a price that can measure the multi-faceted benefits a project can provide.

    But in the cultural sphere, value often comes without a price tag. Access to many of our museums and galleries is free and the values derived from them transcend the monetary.

    Even though economists can estimate this non-monetary value (albeit not without criticism), a more wide-ranging benefit of cultural investment is harder to understand. This is the counter-intuitive notion of “non-use value”.

    In other words, this is the benefit that flows to an individual from the existence of a cultural good such as a museum. It can be without that person ever setting foot inside the building or engaging with any of the collections.

    Consider a current culture-led redevelopment in the UK: the Waterfront Transformation Project in Liverpool. This ambitious scheme takes in the redevelopment of the International Slavery Museum, Maritime Museum and associated outdoor spaces.

    Within this collection of cultural goods, “use” could be a visitor stepping inside the museums. They may derive multiple benefits, from the aesthetics of the building, the creativity of the displays and the histories and stories represented in the collection.

    If these stones could speak … through their very existence, cultural sites can bring value to people who will never visit them.
    NorthSky Films/Shutterstock

    But what about a history lover who either lacks the desire or the ability to visit the collection? Or someone whose memories or heritage intertwines with the history? Despite having no direct contact, they might still benefit from the sites’ continuing existence: the fact, for example, that a place exists where other citizens can visit, challenge and debate.

    For some, there is value simply in knowing that there are spaces for this kind of engagement. In this way, public use by others can generate indirect benefits. These benefits cannot be captured by traditional metrics like footfall. But they constitute value to that individual and, in turn, the communities in which they live.

    Assessing value

    The inclusion of non-use value within the Treasury’s evaluation recommendations recognises this complex public relationship with cultural goods. Correctly capturing these benefits is crucial. If not, funders may misconstrue a project’s total economic value when they make their decisions. Some that could generate significant public value might be overlooked.

    However, non-use value can be slippery both to define and measure. Understanding how engagement with publicly funded cultural goods varies across communities and regions is crucial. This current gap in our knowledge means that non-use value is not always fully considered in the design or evaluation of cultural programmes.

    Our ongoing project, undertaken along with post-doctoral research fellow Laura Taggart, attempts to improve this understanding in the context of Liverpool’s Waterfront Development Project.

    This process raises vital questions. What are the benefits and potential harms of the site? How do relationships with it change over time and across economic and ethnic groups? And how does the public’s historic relationship with the dockside change the nature of the non-use value generated?

    Clearly, the answers to these questions cannot easily be calculated from the results of a cost-benefit analysis. Like most economic tools it is a model – a simplification of reality that aims to help policymakers make informed decisions. By engaging locally and regionally, it is easier to understand what drives non-use value – and capture it in a way that is relevant across other projects.

    At heart, our project aims to capture the voices that are often excluded or overlooked in decisions about cultural funding. By developing a better understanding of the range of non-use value from these spaces, we hope to support more rounded approaches to cultural policy.

    This means improving evaluation tools and funding frameworks. They must better reflect how people relate to cultural goods and how this differs across communities and regions. This will help in the quest for a richer concept of “value for money” — one that supports political choices that recognise the long-term civic, emotional and historical returns of cultural infrastructure.

    Ultimately, in an era of tight budgets this allows for better and more targeted decision-making that recognises the often complex value and benefit flows that culture generates. But there is work to be done to help the public articulate the nature of benefits and costs. These are as vital and complex as the cultural goods that generate them.

    This article is part of the wider project – Cultural Heritage, People and Place (CHerPP) : Understanding Value via a regional case study. It is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the UK Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). Grant reference AH/Y000242/1

    – ref. When public money is tight, how do governments put a price on culture? – https://theconversation.com/when-public-money-is-tight-how-do-governments-put-a-price-on-culture-259483

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Updated cabinet sworn in to meet the needs of British Columbians in a changing world

    Premier David Eby has announced a strategic shift to his cabinet in order to centre jobs, the economy and the needs of British Columbians in their communities. 

    “We need to be responsive to the changing needs of our province by growing our economy, seizing new opportunities, and making our essential services more resilient,” Premier Eby said. “We have the skills and determination both at the cabinet table and in caucus to stand up for British Columbians. I want to thank two of our veterans, Garry Begg and George Chow, for their hard work and exceptional service to British Columbians. I know they will bring the same enthusiasm to their new roles.”

    The changes prioritize the specific skills and experience of ministers to meet the current moment. The new cabinet roles are:

    • Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth;
    • Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General;
    • Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills;
    • Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs;
    • Diana Gibson, Minister of Citizens’ Services;
    • Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport;
    • Spencer Chandra-Herbert, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; and
    • Rick Glumac, Minister of State for AI and New Technologies.

    The cabinet is tasked with working on the province’s biggest challenges: growing the economy, seizing investment opportunities and strengthening public services. Supported by the government caucus, they will work to build a stronger province and a more resilient economy that’s less reliant on the United States.  

    This cabinet features a majority of women (19), holding some of the most significant and complex portfolios. It is balanced with seasoned experience and fresh perspectives, ensuring a government that reflects the diversity and values of British Columbians. 

    New faces are stepping up to bring the perspectives and priorities of the next generation to the cabinet table. Experienced ministers are tasked with driving forward major projects and economic prosperity and strengthening core service portfolios. 

    Quick Facts:

    • This is Premier Eby’s third cabinet.
    • This cabinet includes MLAs from Vancouver Island, Lower Mainland, the North and Interior, reflecting the province’s diversity and ensuring local perspectives are part of the decision-making process.
    • Cabinet includes eight people of colour, one Jewish member and one Indigenous member. 
    • Cabinet members have a diverse range of backgrounds, including those in policing, technology, business, health care, local government and non-profit organizations. 
    • The new cabinet balances seasoned leadership with fresh talent with 14 members having served at least a full term in cabinet, 10 serving since 2024, and two new cabinet ministers.
    • The following MLAs are moving into new parliamentary secretary roles:
      • Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for anti-racism initiatives, mental health and addictions;
      • Garry Begg, parliamentary secretary for Surrey infrastructure;
      • George Chow, parliamentary secretary for the Downtown Eastside and Chinatown; and
      • Paul Choi, parliamentary secretary for trade.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secretary of State attends the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Secretary of State attends the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush

    Tournament returns to Northern Ireland for second time in six years

    Caption: Secretary of State Hilary Benn with The Claret Jug trophy and (L-R) United States Ambassador to the UK Warren A. Stephens and Captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, Ian Pattinson.

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn has congratulated the organisers of the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush, and welcomed the significant benefits it will bring to Northern Ireland, following a visit to the event today (Thursday 17 July).

    He said: “This week’s Open championship at Royal Portrush will shine a spotlight on Northern Ireland, showcasing its world-class sports facilities, tourism, and high quality local food and drink.

    “It will give Northern Ireland a real economic boost and will set the stage for future investment and opportunities for Northern Ireland.

    “To be chosen to host the Open twice in six years is a fantastic compliment, and I congratulate the organisers of the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush on having achieved this.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dream Fest: raising aspirations and sparking imagination

    Source: City of Derby

    Children and young people of all ages, from early years through to college, came together last week to enjoy Derby’s first Dream Fest.

    The newly refurbished Derby Market Hall hosted two energetic days of workshops and performances, encouraging young people to tread the boards as characters from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

    On day one, schools from across the city enjoyed high-octane dance classes and movement workshops alongside quieter, dreamier crafting sessions, group rehearsals of their Midsummer Night’s Dream extracts, and a final spectacular multi-school performance. 

    The fun continued on day two, with families invited to stop by and take part in a free programme of music, storytelling, breakdancing performances and workshops. It was a busy, joyous event, but any children who felt a little overwhelmed during the day were able to take time out in the Zen Den. Designed by a group of special educational needs and disability student ambassadors, the space featured sensory equipment and provided a calming space to relax and regroup.

    Dream Fest was created as a part of the Derby Promise, a city-wide initiative that brings together businesses, educational and cultural organisations united by the aim of helping our young people to dream big, explore the world of work and by supporting them to thrive. 

    Previous events have introduced children to careers in science and technology, and encouraged engagement with environmental issues. This was the first festival dedicated to creativity and culture, connecting learning with real-life experiences of collaborating, rehearsing, and performing. 

    Getting creative at Dream Fest

    Children were also able to engage with Royal Shakespeare Company actors about life in the creative industries, gaining insight into building a portfolio, how to approach auditions and interviews, and how to network and find new opportunities. Young people asked a range of interesting and thoughtful questions, keen to get the inside scoop on how to turn a passion into a career.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills particularly enjoyed watching the children immerse themselves in the activities and find their voice amongst their peers:

    It’s been wonderful to watch young minds unleash their creativity and have so much fun in doing so. There’s been a real focus on encouraging young people to explore their imagination and understand more about creative careers, taking an ‘if you can see it, you can believe it’ approach.

    Children have also learnt about the ways in which creative pastimes can help them in their future careers, be that through strengthening communication skills, building confidence, nurturing empathy or understanding different perspectives. Alongside these practical aspects, it’s been fantastic to see the energy and enthusiasm the children and young people have brought to the activities – truly joyful.

    Neil Wilkinson, Executive Headteacher at The Bemrose School, said:

    Our pupils and staff felt it was a really impressive event and would definitely want to be part of it in the future.  The workshops inspired the children around careers and the notion that they should dream big! 

    The pupils involved were able to explore and develop their problem-solving skills whilst also having the opportunity to perform and see their peers also perform. The event had awe and wonder for all involved and showed the full potential Derby has across all ages.

    Derby Promise continues its mission to encourage children and young people to dream big, raising aspirations about what is possible to achieve and to get involved with. The next event on the calendar is the Festival of Sport, which runs from 4-8 August at Derby Arena, offering inclusive sporting activities for children, ranging from dodgeball and cricket to wheelchair tennis, basketball and archery. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada invests over $4.5 million to enhance tourism across Northern Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced Government of Canada investments totalling $4,571,673 for 22 tourism projects across Northern Ontario. The funding is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP) and the Tourism Growth Program (TGP).

    Tourism Initiatives Funded by FedNor in Northwestern Ontario

    Lake of the Woods Brewing Company
    $976,852

    A non-repayable FedNor investment of $976,852 will support two tourism initiatives with the Lake of the Woods Brewing Company (LOWBrew). Funded through the TGP $750,328 will be used by LOWBrew to renovate and equip a new manufacturing facility in Kenora. Once complete, the facility will allow LOWBrew to reintegrate production, increase capacity, reduce shipping and production costs, while sourcing more materials from producers nearer to Kenora. The remaining $226,524 was used to establish the Brewer’s Village. Located outside LOWBrew’s new manufacturing facility, the Brewer’s Village is the ultimate tourism attraction for beer enthusiasts, social butterflies, and outdoor aficionados living, working or visiting the Thunder Bay region.

    Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina Inc.
    $250,000

    A non-repayable FedNor contribution of $250,000 through TGP is being used by Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina Inc. to complete critical infrastructure upgrades and improvements to the local marina. Identified as a strategic priority in the organization’s Marine Asset Management Plan, this project will ensure the marina is safe and functional for the next three to four years, or until a new dock can be constructed. Specifically, the funding will support structural and safety upgrades to the docks and removal of derelict sections including two fuel tanks, pumps, lines and valves. The project will also support environmental protection activities and a new foundation for the boat launch.

    Coopérative Centre Francophone De Thunder Bay Inc. 
    $214,624

    The Coopérative Centre Francophone De Thunder Bay (CCFTB) is receiving a non-repayable FedNor investment of $214,624 through the NODP to support the continuation and expansion of the local francophone festival, Festival BONJOUR. This project will allow CCFTB to hire a consultant to assess previous iterations of the festival as well as a part-time project coordinator to support festival activities, contribute to event costs, purchase and store festival equipment, and develop the capacity of dedicated staff and organization members. This investment will help support greater economic development by attracting more tourists while also creating impacts for local businesses and participating community organizations.

    City of Kenora
    $125,000

    The City of Kenora is receiving a FedNor investment of $125,000 to develop detailed design and specifications for the development of a new harbourfront pavilion on the shores of Lake of the Woods. The goal of the project is to replace the Thistle Pavilion that nearing its life expectancy. Identified as a strategic priority in the community’s five-year tourism and economic development strategy, the new pavilion will pave the way for more tourism and special events at the waterfront in downtown Kenora.

    Atikokan Economic Development Corporation                                                                      $112,500

    To enhance tourism and economic activity in Atikokan, FedNor is investing $112,500 to help the Atikokan Economic Development Corporation can purchase a three-season 50 x 140-foot festival and events tent. The funding will also support the purchase of tables and sound equipment to ensure maximum use and flexibility. The new structure will help attract more tourists and large-scale events to the community and create new opportunities in the shoulder seasons.

    Rainy River Future Development Corporation
    $99,000

    To help strengthen the region’s tourism sector a non-repayable FedNor investment of $99,000 will help the Rainy River Future Development Corporation implement the Fort Frances Tourism Development Marketing Plan. This priority project will increase marketing and support tourism development and growth. The goal of the project is to enhance the community’s image as an appealing tourism destination so they can attract more visitors and encourage extended overnight stays that lead to increased tourism spending. In addition, this priority project will help the town of Fort Frances and the region in their efforts to capitalize on the half-million annual crossings at the international border, where their downtown is strategically situated.

    Township of Nipigon
    $16,991

    A non-repayable FedNor investment of $16,991 will allow the Township of Nipigon to design, construct, and install two interactive tourism information kiosks. To maximize their tourism potential, the kiosks will be located in the lobby of the Nipigon Community Centre and at the Bridgeport Lookout Tower. The new kiosks aim to modernize the visitor experience and provide information on local history, culture, attractions and businesses, such as business directories, and information related to fairs, markets, festivals, and recreational activities, including driving directions. Funded through the NODP, the kiosks will be capable of personalizing recommendations based on the interests, preferences, and location submitted by users.

    Tourism Initiatives Funded by FedNor in Northeastern Ontario

    Timmins Festivals and Events Committee
    $391,820

    To help maximize the tourism and economic potential of the region, FedNor is providing $391,820 to the Timmins Festivals and Events Committee so they can purchase a professional concert stage and mobile event trailers. Specifically, the funding will be used to purchase a 40-by-40-foot mobile stage and two 12-by-40-foot portable office trailers. Not only will the new equipment support and amplify high-profile events such as Rock on the River (ROTR), it will also provide the organization with a new revenue stream when the new equipment is rented for use by partners and surrounding communities for regional festivals and events.   

    Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre
    $250,000

    The Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre is receiving a non-repayable FedNor investment of $250,000 to create the Love Muskoka Sustain Muskoka tourism exhibit. Provided through the TGP, this inclusive tourist attraction will help educate visitors of all ages on how to live more sustainably, combat climate change and protect the environment. With interactive features and compelling educational content, guests will learn positive changes they can make at home and in their community to support a cleaner and greener future. Over the next five years, this project is expected to help create four full-time jobs and maintain 10 more.

    Four Corners Contracting Inc.
    $212,500

    Four Corners Contracting is receiving a fully repayable FedNor investment through the TGP of $212,500 to develop a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to support new tourism offerings in Northern Ontario. Specifically, the funding is being used to construct a 2,000 square-foot facility with indoor learning spaces such as a classroom, construction shop, culinary spaces and artisan studios to support fibre arts, blacksmith activity as well as clay and woodworking areas. Once complete, the new facility will promote economic, environmental and cultural sustainability, as well as year-round in-door and outdoor tourism experiences designed to attract tourists and guests year-round.

    Magnetawan River Resort (Cornerstone Properties Britt)
    $202,500

    A repayable FedNor investment of $202,500 will help transform the Magnetawan River Resort into an all-season facility. The project includes upgrading existing cottages, installing new heating systems and completing electrical, water, septic and road enhancements. Provided through FedNor’s TGP, the funding will also be used to purchase snow maintenance equipment and create up to 10 new overnight RV sites. This project is expected to create two full-time jobs and five additional employment opportunities during the construction phase.

    Village of South River
    $189,000

    The Village of South River is receiving a non-repayable TGP funding of $189,000 to refurbish the South River Train Station. This FedNor investment will help the community to maximize its tourism potential by capitalizing on opportunities created by the return of Ontario Northland passenger rail services to South River. Specifically, the funding will be used to transform this historic facility into a fully accessible building with new washroom and upgraded amenities such as wi-fi and interpretative displays, while retaining the postcard charm of the original 1885 train station.

    Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corporation
    $180,000

    The Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corporation is receiving a non-repayable NODP contribution of $180,000 to undertake a 280-kilometre expansion of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail (GLWT). Specifically, the funding will support design, implementation, marketing, and new signage for the trail expansion. This strategic initiative will deliver tourism benefits to 11 communities in the Muskoka and Parry Sound districts by leveraging the popularity of the 3200-kilometre GLWT cycling trail, which links over 100 points of interest and amenities, and connects 170 partner communities from Quebec to Sault Ste. Marie. Once complete, the expanded trail network will not only attract more outdoor enthusiasts to the region, but it will also help attract major cycling events to the area such as the 2027 Great Waterfront Trail Adventure.

    The Chalets on Lake Muskoka
    $152,000

    The Chalets on Lake Muskoka is receiving a repayable TGP investment of $152,000 to complete infrastructure upgrades and purchase new equipment to increase occupancy and enhance the guest experience. Specifically, the funding is being used to build self-contained cabins with kitchenettes and fireplaces, upgrade the septic system, install a new sauna and establish vehicle charging stations. Once complete, this project will help enhance the resort’s appeal as a year-round destination for families, couples, individuals or large groups.

    Muskoka Chautauqua
    $100,000

    To strengthen the economy and attract more visitors during the off-season, Muskoka Chautauqua is receiving $100,000 to create, improve and deliver 40 tourism events and experiences. Over a 15-month period, the organization will coordinate gallery exhibitions and workshops, book signings, walking tours, concerts, film screenings, cultural, environmental and educational events and more. Funded through FedNor’s TGP, this project is expected to attract close to 3,000 visitors and generate more than $1 million in economic benefits for the region.

    Town of Parry Sound
    $60,000

    A FedNor investment of $60,000 is helping the Town of Parry Sound complete a comprehensive Waterfront Development Plan. Once complete, the plan will provide an economic roadmap to guide development and growth in the community and along the shores of the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, known as the 30,000 Islands. Funded through the NODP, this priority project supports the Government of Canada’s Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario by helping to build stronger communities by investing in economic development capacity in the region.

    Township of South Algonquin
    $55,000

    A FedNor investment $55,000 helped the Township of South Algonquin complete a master plan to help the community identify and advance economic development and tourism priorities. The plan will help guide future development and tourism growth that aligns with township’s recently completed Strategic Plan.

    ‎ Tourism Initiatives Funded by FedNor in Northcentral Ontario

    Culinary Tourism Alliance
    $366,300

    The Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA) is receiving $366,300 to support a three-year culinary and agri-tourism partnership program with Destination Northern Ontario. The goal of the project is to expand programs offered by CTA that are helping to increase the number of tourism operators benefiting from culinary tourism opportunities. Key activities for the project include providing learning and capacity-building activities for the tourism sector, sharing best practices and promoting Northern Ontario’s culinary and agritourism offerings by creating high-quality content to distribute through traditional and social media platforms.

    Indigenous Tourism Association of Ontario
    $250,011

    The Indigenous Tourism Association of Ontario is receiving FedNor funding of $250,011 to develop and implement a tourism corridor strategy to accelerate Indigenous tourism in Northern Ontario. Designed to attract visitors from south of Muskoka to the Manitoulin and Sault Ste. Marie corridor, the strategy will promote Indigenous tourism focused businesses that are visitor-ready. The strategy will include three key studies: a corridor strategy, implementation and sustainability report, and a business case for development/future investment in tourism along the corridor. At least 15 Indigenous-owned businesses in Northern Ontario will be directly supported to showcase cultural heritage and develop market-ready products as part of the corridor development.

    Manitoulin Island Cycling Advocates
    $112,500

    To help boost tourism in the region, the Manitoulin Island Cycling Advocates is receiving a non-repayable FedNor investment of $112,500 to create a best-in-class mountain bike park. The new park will be located at the Nordic Ski Club’s 80-acre facility, thus transforming the area into a four-season destination. The park will be engineered and built to International Mountain Bike Association standards and will complement the existing cycling tourism products which include e-bikes and chargers and over 850 kilometers of off-road and paved routes along Manitoulin’s beautiful roadways.

    Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands
    $42,575

    FedNor is investing $42,575 through its NODP to help Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands maximize the tourism and economic potential of its Home, Cottage & Culinary Show (HCCS). Identified as a local priority, the funding will be used to purchase an accessible portable stage, sound system and generator to enhance the 2025 HCCS experience and reduce costs for future municipal and community-led events. These assets will also improve the visitor experience, encourage return visits and increase economic activity through visitor spending in the region.

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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland answers the call for its community with sports kit donations

    Source: City of Sunderland

    “Now I can wear the right clothes when I go to my football sessions at The Beacon of Light,” says Dean, beneficiary of sports kit and active wear donation programme, Kit Out Sunderland.

    In just a matter of weeks, Kit Out Sunderland collected 224kg of sports kit, active wear and footwear to give away to local participants like Dean across the city.

    “Lack of kit and lack of suitable kit is a real barrier to children and young people taking part in sport and physical activity,” says Kathryn Foley, North East Regional Manager for Sported.

    “The point of the project is to gather in unwanted and unused kit that people have got lying around and then distribute it to the community groups that can really make best use of it.”

    One of those groups was Young Asian Voices, with their Executive Manager, Ram Kumareswaradas, adding: “Most of the young people that come into our group don’t have kits, so it stops them from participating.

    “By having these donated items, sports clothing and shoes and trainers, it opens up opportunities for young people and adults to take part in sports.” 

    In total, 13 public donations stations were set up at locations around the city and local area, as well as at Nissan’s manufacturing plant specifically for Nissan employees and their families.

    The kit collected has been swiftly given to local sports groups so that they can provide it to participants and people looking to get active but find having the right kit a barrier.

    Susan Kitchen, from another one of the recipient groups, Grace House, reflects: “For disabled young people and their families facing financial pressures, this kind of support can make a real difference. It’s not just about clothing—it’s about dignity, opportunity, and belonging.

    “Grace House are also proud to be part of a campaign that reduces waste and landfill by giving pre-loved sports clothes a second life.”

    Kit Out Sunderland is a partnership between Active Sunderland, Rise, Sported, StreetGames and Youth Sport Trust, funded by the North East Combined Authority.

    Louise Laws, Strategic Lead for Children and Young People’s Health and Wellbeing at Rise, says: “Not everyone has the kit, clothing or footwear they need to do what they want, so these generous donations will make a huge difference to break down barriers to participation and mean more children, young people and families can get active, get healthier and build friendships and confidence.

    “The environmental benefits the programme has also supported has made a huge impact, with less textile waste going to landfill.”

    Keep Active were also one of the groups to have received kit, and their Director, Colin Dagg, says: “Sport has always been expensive because you’ve got to buy things, but I think more so now, just in the times we’re living in, everybody’s money is so tight, and a lot of children miss out I think purely and simply because they haven’t got the money, parents can’t afford it.”

    Karen Nobel, CEO of Pallion Action Group, adds: “We were so pleased to be a recipient of Kit Out Sunderland. This would obviously have gone into landfill and now it’s not, it’s gone back into the community, it’s going to remove barriers for those young people and adults who want to get into physical activity but haven’t got the kit.”

    Anna Coulson, StreetGames Network Lead – North East, comments: “The Kit Out Sunderland sorting day was a huge success which involved a lot of stakeholders as well as volunteers from various Foundation of Light community programmes.

    “It was great to see all of the kit which had kindly been donated from the people of Sunderland and even better to see the community organisations receiving the much needed bags of really good sports kit, which will I’m sure be gratefully received by the young people and families they work to support.”

    Andrea Baldwin, Active Sunderland Project Lead, concludes: “Kit Out Sunderland has been a fantastic opportunity to work with some amazing local partners across the region to encourage participation for some of our most vulnerable residents.

    “By working with the community and businesses partners, we were able to reach out to the community to get people to donate their unwanted sports kit, to give it a new home. I hope we’ve made a huge difference.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Boom in passenger travel reported at Jimunai checkpoint on China-Kazakhstan border

    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

    URUMQI, July 17 (Xinhua) — The incoming and outgoing passenger flow through Jimunai Port in Jimunai County in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has exceeded 49,000 times this year as of July 15, according to local border control data.

    During the reporting period, 12 thousand vehicles passed through this checkpoint on the Chinese-Kazakh border, the data showed.

    According to Yang Chun, a manager at a local travel agency, the number of cross-border tour groups has increased significantly. He said his company, which offers various tour routes lasting from 1 to 30 days to Kazakhstan, organized tours for car tourists using 28 vehicles in May and June this year.

    The boom in cross-border travel is driven by the implementation of a mutual visa-free regime between China and Kazakhstan, which came into effect in November 2023.

    The visa-free policy makes cross-border travel more convenient, said Aytosh Makhmet, a tourist from Almaty, Kazakhstan, who plans to travel to Burchun County and Urumqi City in Xinjiang and other places during his stay in China.

    The county’s Department of Culture, Sports, Radio, Television and Tourism is working to develop new cross-border tourism products that integrate tourism resources from China and Kazakhstan, allowing domestic travelers to Xinjiang to also enter Kazakhstan through the Jimunai checkpoint, said Liu Shurong, an official with the department. -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.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: We need to value women in sport, UN rights chief says

    Source: United Nations 2

    “The playing field is still far from level,” Mr. Türk said.  

    In the past few years, topflight women’s sporting competitions have achieved increased global prominence with around a billion people watching the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023. This visibility and attention have prompted important conversations about stereotypes and power dynamics in women’s sports.

    He noted that certain groups face barriers and discrimination in the women’s sporting world — LGBTIQ+ women, women wearing headscarves, women with disabilities and women from marginalized ethnic and racial groups.  

    “We need to build up a world of sport in which women and girls, in all their diversity, are equally valuable, visible and paid.”

    A ‘stark’ pay gap

    While professional male footballers earn, on average, $1.8 million annually at the top clubs, women athletes at top clubs have an average income of $24,000. And the average woman athlete, not at top clubs, earns even less than that, rounding out to approximately $10,900 per year.  

    “Without a stable income, women are forced to take other jobs, leaving them with less time and energy to focus on training and improving,” Mr. Türk said.  

    The wage gap is made even more unsustainable by a lack of sufficient protections in the workplace – minimal, if any, maternity leave – and few places to​​ turn to for redress when harassment occurs.  

    Women are also very underrepresented in leadership of professional clubs and federations. Of the 31 federations, women chaired only three.

    Despite such sobering statistics, some federations have begun to institute changes, enshrining maternity and adoption leave and establishing pay equity agreements.  

    Driving social change

    Mr. Türk called on Member States to institute comprehensive anti-discrimination systems which promote pay equality and ensure that violence and harassment in sports is brought to justice.  

    He also said that the media can and should be a “force for good” in portraying women’s success stories in sports and by ensuring that their coverage is accurate and ethical.  

    “Sports can drive social change … and inspire and promote fairness, respect and equal opportunities for all. Today let’s champion a sporting world where women and girls can thrive.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple News+ introduces Emoji Game

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple News+ introduces Emoji Game

    UPDATE July 17, 2025

    Available today, Emoji Game is an original puzzle that challenges Apple News+ subscribers to use emoji to complete short phrases.

    Today, Apple News+ debuted Emoji Game, an original puzzle that challenges subscribers to use emoji to complete short phrases. Emoji Game is now available in English for Apple News+ subscribers in the U.S. and Canada.1

    “Emoji Game is the perfect addition to the Apple News+ suite of word and number puzzles, turning the emoji we use every day into a brainteaser that’s approachable and fun,” said Lauren Kern, editor-in-chief of Apple News.

    Emoji Game challenges players to use a selection of emoji — including Genmoji created using Apple Intelligence — to fill in the blanks of three short phrases using as few moves as possible. Each phrase is accompanied by a clue, which the user can choose to reveal, but that will count toward the player’s total number of moves. Results can be tracked on Game Center leaderboards, or shared with friends and family through Messages, Mail, social media, or other platforms. Subscribers can access daily and archived Emoji Game puzzles in the Puzzles section of the Apple News app. Apple News+ subscribers will also be able to access Emoji Game this fall through the Apple Games app, an all-new destination designed to help players jump back into the games they love, find their next favorite, and have more fun with friends. Emoji Game joins existing Apple News+ puzzles like crossword, crossword mini, Quartiles, and sudoku.

    Apple News+ provides subscribers with access to content from more than 400 top publications, including an expansive selection of local publications like the recently added Tampa Bay Times, The Minnesota Star Tribune, and The Washington Post. In addition to Apple News+ Puzzles, subscribers also get access to a dedicated Sports section featuring content about users’ favorite teams from local and national publications, as well as a newly introduced Food section, which offers subscribers access to tens of thousands of recipes and culinary stories from top food publishers.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation Treaty: The 17 Projects the UK and Germany will deliver together

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation Treaty: The 17 Projects the UK and Germany will deliver together

    A collection of projects agreed between the UK and Germany as part of the Treaty signed by the two countries on 17 July 2025 in London.

    In July 2025 the UK and Germany signed the Treaty on Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation. As part of the Implementation Plan under Article 22 of the Treaty, they agreed to deliver 17 priority projects. These projects span the breadth of the Treaty, enhancing cooperation in the face of global challenges, and delivering tangible benefits for UK and German citizens. The projects will be reviewed by a Joint Cabinet every two years.

    1. Ukraine Recovery & Reconstruction

    The UK-Germany Alliance will power Ukraine’s recovery: driving reform, reconstruction and resilience together.

    • Strengthening coordination and strategic alignment between the UK and Germany on Ukraine reform, recovery and reconstruction support.
    • Championing annual Ukraine Recovery Conferences, improving joint action between humanitarian, development and peace actors and strengthening donor engagement with Ukrainian civil society.

    2. Trinity House Defence Agreement

    The UK and Germany commit to building a much deeper Defence partnership which will endure in the long-term and enable both countries to address threats, and strengthen NATO, through the framework agreed in the 2024 Trinity House Agreement on Defence co-operation.

    • Deep Precision Strike and Defence: Advancing work to develop a new Deep Precision Strike capability to provide a conventional deterrent in Europe; we are jointly leading the 2.000 km+ cluster within the European Long Range Strike Approach (ELSA). It will be among the most advanced systems ever designed. We will aim to deliver a capability within a decade.
    • Uncrewed Aerial Systems and Future Connectivity: Continuing ongoing UK-Germany coordination of the development, procurement, and doctrine of uncrewed aerial systems. Both Air Forces have developed a detailed „Flight Plan“ to increase their future connectivity.
    • Strengthening Eastern Flank through new Land Strategic Partnership: Delivering a strategic partnership in land systems and continuing their close BOXER cooperation, including RCH 155 artillery and extending cooperation to common offboard systems for Future Ground Combat Systems. Both armies are building on their bilateral vision statement to drive this forward. A new Statement of Intent on bridging capabilities has been agreed.
    • Undersea Co-operation in the Northern Seas: Working together to counter undersea threats. This includes training of German crews on UK P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft which will also be delivered to Germany shortly. Both sides have signed an agreement on joint procurement of new Sting Ray torpedoes under development for their aircraft.

    3. Strengthening Defence Industrial and Export Co-operation

    We will work jointly across Government to promote defence exports and champion greater co-operation between our defence industries.

    • Widening our efforts to facilitate and promote dialogue with, and co-operation between, UK and German Defence Industries by further developing the UK-Germany Defence Industry Forum, as per the first meeting in June, reflecting our commitment to a new partnership with industry. This will drive innovation and business-business links to enhance growth.
    • Seeking opportunities to support one another’s defence capability requirements, including through developing future joint procurement initiatives where our requirements align.
    • Deepening efforts to promote our growth and security by pursuing joint export campaigns for jointly produced equipment, building on the UK’s imminent accession to the Germany-France-Spain Treaty on arms export controls.

    4. Joint Action Plan on Irregular Migration

    We will implement the comprehensive Joint Action Plan on Migration to step-up action against people smuggling and illegal migration.

    • Increasing cooperation against migrant smuggling, strengthening law enforcement and judicial cooperation, stepping-up efforts on returns, providing regional leadership and deterring irregular migration to Germany and the UK.
    • Germany is introducing a clarification in German legislation concerning the facilitation of irregular migration to the UK (to be brought to Cabinet with a view to be adopted by Parliament as soon as possible, within 2025).
    • This will establish an even stronger framework for law enforcement, policy and prosecutorial cooperation against organised crime groups smuggling and trafficking people. Aligning as regional leaders on irregular migration in forums such as the Calais Group and Berlin Process, developing joint approaches to key upstream routes.
    • Continuing to support one another to be innovative in managing our migration systems and delivering secure borders.

    5. Strategic Science and Technology Partnership

    We will together develop cutting-edge critical technologies – such as quantum, AI and digital, semiconductors, space capabilities, advanced connectivity, fusion and sustainable energy solutions including battery technologies – to drive long-term economic growth, by:

    • Conducting high-impact research, accelerating adoption of transformative technologies, enhancing supply chain resilience and contributing to an open and innovative business environment.
    • Exploring AI cooperation initiatives, enhancing UK-German innovation leadership, fostering further collaboration to accelerate breakthrough innovation, establishing a strategic space partnership, strengthening collaboration on semiconductors and facilitating closer cooperation between our two nations’ battery eco-systems.

    6. North Sea Energy Infrastructure Project

    We will work together to develop North Seas energy infrastructure – supporting economic growth and reducing bills through trade and infrastructure development.

    • Driving the development of offshore hybrid interconnection between the UK and Germany by the mid-2030s, including through exploring a Joint Declaration of Intent on Offshore Hybrid Assets for agreement at the North Sea Summit in January 2026.
    • Working together to accelerate the development of H2- and CO2-infrastructures.

    We will pave the way for a new direct rail connection between the UK and Germany.

    • Establishing formal cooperation between the two governments to address the barriers to establishing direct rail services between London and Germany within the next ten years.
    • Creating a task force, including Transport and Interior Ministries, to explore establishing juxtaposed controls.

    8. E-gates

    We will streamline leisure, educational, and business travel to Germany.

    • Rolling out the first phase of e-gates access for frequent travellers by the end of August, followed by roll out for all UK nationals as soon as technically possible.

    9. School trips and mobility of citizens

    We will make it easier for school groups to travel between the UK and Germany and consider ways to further enhance mobility between our people.

    • Delivering visa-free school group travel between the UK and Germany, increasing opportunities for linguistic, cultural and academic experiences. Rolling out the new scheme by the end of 2025.
    • Appointing a Joint Expert Group from across both governments to identify mutually agreeable solutions to UK and German mobility issues, including challenges faced by educational and scientific institutions, cultural bodies and political organisations.

    10. Business-Government Forum

    We will bring together German and UK businesses to exchange on business opportunities and to explore joint projects in order to drive growth, enabling our governments to draw upon the expertise and insights of our vibrant business communities.

    • Bringing together key stakeholders from Germany and the UK in this Forum to promote cooperation between German and UK companies and to identify areas of high growth potential in which UK-German cooperation will benefit the two economies.
    • This will be complemented by opportunities for direct exchange between senior business leaders and Ministers from both countries.

    11. Strategic conflict prevention and stabilisation partnership

    We will develop our global partnership to prevent conflict and build lasting peace.

    • Collaborating across international conflict prevention and resolution initiatives, including countering violent extremism; supporting security sector reform and working together to widen our engagement.
    • Sharing situational awareness, early warning, crisis data; collaborating on use of AI; and strengthening our commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

    12. Western Balkans stability and security

    The UK will host the German-born Berlin Process, bringing leaders of the six Western Balkans countries and other European states together to support stability, security and economic co-operation in the region.

    • Strengthening coordination between the UK and Germany to support long-term regional and broader European security
    • Driving joint initiatives under the Berlin Process and seeking tangible progress for the Western Balkans Six on their Euro-Atlantic paths.

    13. Indo-Pacific cooperation

    The UK and Germany commit to increased and sustained cooperation on the Indo-Pacific.

    • Strengthening coordination on regional and maritime security, share best practice on geo-economic affairs and secure growth, and strategically align efforts on climate change mitigation and adaptation in the Indo-Pacific.
    • This will include coordination between UK and Germany on initiatives across the Indo-Pacific cooperation workstream.

    14. Biosecurity Cooperation

    We will strengthen our capability to protect our nations and our interests from biological threats.

    • Exchanging information on the development of national biosecurity strategies, bolstering critical infrastructure (e.g. in health care), improving preparedness to state terrorism with biological agents, and preparing for new and re-emerging, highly pathogenic pathogens.
    • Establishing joint exercises and an emergency support system between the UK and Germany.

    15. Strategic sustainable development partnership

    We will deliver impact together on all aspects of sustainable development including growth and jobs, health and climate.

    • Building alliances to advance the 2030 Agenda, and reform international systems. Coordinating on global financial institutions, private sector mobilisation, climate and debt solutions, sustainable infrastructure, and climate resilient and inclusive growth.
    • Holding an annual Development Dialogue setting the strategic direction for our collaboration on development, focusing on shared expertise, new ideas and innovative tools to tackle key challenges and support Global South partners.

    16. Education, Culture, Sport

    We will boost opportunity and growth by putting young people and social mobility at the heart of a new era of educational, cultural and sporting cooperation.

    • Driving more school exchanges, focusing on lower socio-economic groups, creating new initiatives, delivered through existing mobility pathways, such as the first UK-German Creative Industries Prize and inaugural Youth Summit.
    • Delivering a revitalised UK-German Cultural & Education Commission, led by UK and German ministers, to identify and deliver new people-to-people initiatives, with a focus on driving opportunity for all.

    17. KfW/UK Public Financial Institutions collaboration

    Cooperation between our Public Financial Institutions will accelerate the investment needed to boost growth in our economies. * Deepening links between the British Business Bank, National Wealth Fund, and British International Investment) and Germany’s KfW to help mobilise private capital, develop well-functioning and sustainable markets * Sharing insights & best practice, enhancing operational/financial performance, seizing investment opportunities in areas of mutual interest, and exploring further opportunities to deepen cooperation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: PubMatic Launches AI-Powered Live Sports Marketplace with Real-Time Game Moment Curation, FanServ Joins as Premier Partner

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif., July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PubMatic (Nasdaq: PUBM), the independent technology company delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future, today launched an AI-powered Live Sports Marketplace that enables advertisers to target specific game moments across streaming platforms in real-time. This breakthrough proprietary technology analyzes live game data, offering granular event-level curation and real-time access to premium live sports ad inventory.

    The Live Sports Marketplace launches with FanServ as its premier partner, providing immediate access to premium NBA, WNBA, MLB, NHL and National Women’s Soccer League inventory, including exclusive local programming for the Minnesota Twins, Colorado Rockies, and Cleveland Guardians. This partnership is a pivotal step in unifying and expanding access to premium live sports inventory across the digital ecosystem.

    “FanServ was built by fans, for fans, and now, with PubMatic, we’re redefining how brands reach and engage fans through programmatic sports advertising. This partnership is about more than just access, it’s about precision and possibility,” stated Brad Friedman, CEO of FanServ. “By combining FanServ’s deep sports expertise with PubMatic’s unique event-level curation, we’re empowering brands to connect meaningfully at the exact moments that matter most, across every platform they love,” added Ben Goodfriend, VP of Demand Partnerships.

    The Live Sports Marketplace launches with substantial momentum, building on PubMatic’s sports advertising business where live sports activity has more than tripled in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. The company exceeded its entire 2024 live sports activity in just the first six months of 2025, positioning it to more than double last year’s performance and demonstrating explosive market demand for precision-targeted live sports solutions. Beyond FanServ’s premium inventory, the marketplace provides unified access to major publishers including MLB, FuboTV, DirecTV, Spectrum Reach, and Roku, and covers comprehensive sports content from major leagues (MLB, NBA & WNBA, NHL, MLS) to alternative sports (surfing, pickleball, MMA, FIFA, NASCAR & F1, tennis, golf, cricket) and NCAA college athletics. The company has recently monetized CTV inventory for the official FIFA Club World Cup, which took place from June 19 to July 17.

    Currently, traditional programmatic sports buying often fails to distinguish between low- and high-engagement moments, leading to wasted impressions during less impactful periods, such as commercial breaks in lopsided games, while missing opportunities to reach audiences during the most valuable, high-attention moments. The marketplace addresses these and other critical pain points, including fragmented streaming and under-monetized inventory, limited targeted precision across live events, and the technical complexities of managing unpredictable viewership spikes and behaviors. The Live Sports Marketplace enables advertisers and publishers to unlock the full value of live sports audiences through:

    • Industry-First Event- and Channel-Level Precision: PubMatic’s proprietary AI enables advertisers to target specific games, teams, or even high-impact moments, across a fragmented streaming landscape, maximizing relevance and engagement for every campaign.
    • Dynamic Scheduling & Real-Time Packaging: By importing and analyzing live TV schedules from all partners, the marketplace uses up-to-the-minute sports schedules, ensuring brands can target the right moments as they happen across all publishers.
    • Expert Management of Live Spikes: PubMatic’s owned-and-operated infrastructure can expertly manage unpredictable spikes in live viewership, with the potential for separate endpoints for DSPs dedicated to live sports, ensuring seamless, reliable ad delivery at scale, even during the most high-demand moments.
    • Scalability and Automation Roadmap: The platform is designed to provide both immediate manual flexibility and future automation, supporting scalable, automated deal creation and reporting. This ensures that both buyers and sellers can benefit from streamlined workflows and real-time insights as the market evolves.

    “This revolutionary technology and premium partnership with FanServ transforms fragmented live sports inventory into programmatically accessible, of-the-moment opportunities, setting a new standard for precision and impact in digital sports advertising,” stated Nicole Scaglione, VP of CTV and Online Video at PubMatic.

    According to eMarketer, 114.1 million people are projected to watch live sports digitally in 2025, compared to 82.0 million via traditional TV. As audiences migrate to streaming and connected devices, there is a real need for real-time, precise, and scalable ad delivery during unpredictable, high-attention moments. With the Live Sports Marketplace, PubMatic delivers the precision, speed and reliability advertisers need to succeed.

    To learn more about the Live Sports Marketplace and how it can elevate your live digital advertising strategy, please visit www.pubmatic.com/live-sports

    About Fanserv:
    Fanserv pairs the power of sports with the promise of digital by unifying inventory, enabling granular targeting, and providing unparalleled analytics. As the exclusive monetization partner for premiere teams, leagues, and federations, Fanserv delivers seamless monetization solutions purpose-built for live sports.

    About PubMatic:
    PubMatic (Nasdaq: PUBM) is an independent technology company maximizing customer value by delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future. PubMatic’s sell-side platform empowers the world’s leading digital content creators across the open internet to control access to their inventory and increase monetization by enabling marketers to drive return on investment and reach addressable audiences across ad formats and devices. Since 2006, our infrastructure-driven approach has allowed for the efficient processing and utilization of data in real time. By delivering scalable and flexible programmatic innovation, we improve outcomes for our customers while championing a vibrant and transparent digital advertising supply chain.

    Press Contact:
    Ashley Jacobson, Director of Corporate Marketing, press@pubmatic.com
    Broadsheet Communications for PubMatic, pubmaticteam@broadsheetcomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sport For All Day 2025 free activity coupons to be distributed on July 21

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will launch the Sport For All Day (SFAD) 2025 on August 3 (Sunday). Free recreation and sports programmes will be conducted at designated sports centres across the 18 districts on that day (from 2pm to 6pm). Members of the public may obtain activity coupons from 8.30am on July 21 (Monday) at the LCSD District Leisure Services Offices or designated venues in the 18 districts. Participants should present the coupons to attend the programmes on time. The LCSD will reserve a portion of the coupons for walk-in participants on a first-come, first-served basis.
     
    The theme of SFAD 2025 is “Coalescing together for the National Games”, echoing Hong Kong’s cohosting the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games with the Guangdong Province and the Macao Special Administrative Region for the first time.
     
    The prime venue is the Kowloon Park Sports Centre, with activities to be provided on August 3 including cheerleading and breaking performances; rugby and golf fun activities; virtual fencing, karting and triathlon; table tennis fun activities for persons with different abilities. Other designated sports centres will organise fitness programmes, health talks, sports demonstrations and a fun day for families, children, youngsters, the elderly and persons with disabilities. On the same day, the LCSD will also open a number of leisure facilities for public use free of charge. Members of the public may make ballot applications via SmartPLAY as individual users from now until July 23.
     
    In addition, the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China will hold the “Sport for All Experience Day” at GO PARK Sai Sha on August 3 (from 12 noon to 6pm), where the LCSD will set up an SFAD activity booth to promote the joy of sports. A number of organisations will also open up their facilities or roll out recreation and sports programmes for the public free of charge on the same day.
     
    Details are available on the SFAD 2025 dedicated website (www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/sfad).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cyngor Dinas Belfast

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cyngor Dinas Belfast

    Rhaglen Dinasyddion Creadigol Belfast 2024.

    | Yn 2020 cyhoeddodd Cyngor Dinas Belfast strategaeth ddiwylliannol 10 mlynedd oedd wedi’i gyd-ddylunio, A City Imagining, er mwyn datblygu “a people-focused approach to cultural development by facilitating citizen, community and creative, cultural and heritage sector participation”. Yn y strategaeth roedd yna gynlluniau ar gyfer digwyddiad diwylliant, Belfast 2024, sef prosiect “sbarduno” blwyddyn o hyd a fwriadwyd i roi gwerthoedd y strategaeth ar waith, gan ymgysylltu’n uniongyrchol â chymunedau o fewn y strategaeth, a sadio’r momentwm tuag at greadigrwydd fel grym ar gyfer datblygu dinesig a rhanbarthol. Un peth oedd yn ganolog i Belfast 2024 oedd y rhaglen Dinasyddion Creadigol, sef ymgysylltiad cyhoeddus helaeth a pharhaus nid yn unig i gyd-ddylunio’r rhaglen, y themâu a’r gweithgareddau am y flwyddyn, ond i rymuso dinasyddion a chymunedau mewn gwirionedd. Trwy ddull cyllidebu cyfranogol o’r enw The Bank of Ideas, y dinasyddion oedd yn penderfynu’n uniongyrchol ar ddyrannu’r gyllideb, gan gynnig a dewis prosiectau creadigol ar gyfer y ddinas. Yn ogystal â throsglwyddo’r pŵer i wneud penderfyniadau, roedd y cynllun yn anelu at leihau’r rhwystrau oedd yn atal mynediad at gyllid er mwyn i ystod ehangach o ddinasyddion, grwpiau cymunedol a sefydliadau eraill gymryd rhan.

    Yn fersiwn gyntaf y cynllun yn 2024, cyflwynwyd 93 o syniadau i’r cyhoedd mewn diwrnod pleidleisio yn Neuadd y Ddinas, gyda mwy na 2000 o bleidleiswyr yn penderfynu beth ddylai fynd yn ei flaen. O ganlyniad, cynhaliwyd 28 o brosiectau a drefnwyd gan grwpiau cymunedol, mudiadau gwirfoddol a phractisau creadigol bach mewn cymunedau a chymdogaethau ledled Belfast.  Roedd y prosiectau’n cynnwys carnifal amrywiaeth, llyfrgell deithiol, theatr ryngweithiol aml-synhwyraidd i blant ag anableddau, a phrosiectau bioamrywiaeth oedd yn defnyddio creadigrwydd fel offeryn ar gyfer addysg gymunedol. Roedd y prosiectau hyn yn helpu dinasyddion a grwpiau ymylol i ddod yn fwy cysylltiedig â chymunedau lleol.

    Mae’r ymagwedd a gymerwyd gan y ddinas, sef creu’r amodau ar gyfer cyfranogiad gweithredol yn y gymdeithas trwy wrando, ymateb a grymuso cymunedau lleol, wedi cael ei chydnabod yn lleol ac yn rhyngwladol, gan ennill Gwobr Ymgysylltu Cymunedol Gwobrau Llywodraeth NILocal yn 2025 a chael ei chydnabod gan reithgor rhyngwladol Llywodraethau Lleol Dinasoedd Unedig fel yr arferion gorau o dan Agenda 21 y Cenhedloedd Unedig ar gyfer Diwylliant.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cymunedau Cryfach Barnsley

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cymunedau Cryfach Barnsley

    Gwella ardaloedd lleol trwy gydgynhyrchu gyda chymunedau.

    Yn 2013, symudodd Rhaglen Cymunedau Cryfach Cyngor Barnsley o ddarparu gwasanaethau traddodiadol i fodel partneriaeth gymunedol. Mae’n mynd ati i gynnwys cymunedau a sefydliadau’r gymdeithas sifil wrth ddylunio, darparu ac adolygu gwasanaethau trwy wneud penderfyniadau datganoledig.

    Er mwyn targedu adnoddau yn y ffordd fwyaf cost-effeithiol i ateb anghenion lleol, cynyddodd y cyngor gyfranogiad cymunedol, gan symud o wneud pethau ar gyfer trigolion a grwpiau cymunedol i weithio gyda nhw.

    Sefydlodd Cyngor Barnsley gynghreiriau ward, bob un gydag aelodau etholedig a chynrychiolwyr cymunedol, cyllideb ddatganoledig, a phwerau penderfynu. Roedd y cynghreiriau ward yn cynnwys trigolion a grwpiau lleol i lywio blaenoriaethau cyffredin lleol a dyraniad cyllidebau. Mae’r strategaethau maen nhw wedi’u cydgynllunio ar draws Barnsley wedi cynyddu’r ymrwymiad a’r cyfranogiad lleol. Cynhyrchwyd cynllun sbwriel a throseddau amgylcheddol ar gyfer 2024 i 2030 ar y cyd ag aelodau o’r gymuned a gwirfoddolwyr y mae eu profiadau wedi llywio’r strategaeth, gan feithrin perchnogaeth gyffredin.

    Mae’r newid yma i weithio gyda’r gymuned leol yn golygu bod mwy o gymunedau yn cymryd rhan mewn penderfyniadau lleol, bod yna gynnydd yn yr oriau gwirfoddoli ac yn nifer y grwpiau lleol sy’n weithredol yn yr ardal. Mae’r pwerau i ddyrannu cyllidebau o fewn cynghreiriau ward wedi cefnogi ystod o brosiectau lleol, ac wedi grymuso cymunedau i ddod at ei gilydd, a theimlo’n unedig mewn ymdeimlad o falchder yn eu hardal. 

    Mae’r effaith gymunedol yma wedi cyfrannu at gydnabyddiaeth genedlaethol i Gyngor Barnsley, gan ennill teitl Cyngor y Flwyddyn gan y Local Government Chronicle a gwobr Awdurdod Lleol y Flwyddyn gan y Municipal Journal yn 2023, yr unig gyngor i ennill y ddwy wobr yn yr un flwyddyn.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: AllChild a Better Society Capital

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: AllChild a Better Society Capital

    Comisiynu hyblyg ar gyfer gweithredu cynnar effeithiol.

    Mae AllChild yn elusen a grëwyd i harneisio adnoddau cymunedol i weithio gydag ysgolion, awdurdodau lleol, dyngarwyr, y llywodraeth a’r sector gwirfoddol a chymunedol i wella cyfleoedd bywyd i’r 20% o blant sy’n wynebu’r risg fwyaf o ganlyniadau gwael. Mae’r rhaglen yn becyn dwy flynedd dwys o gymorth wedi’i deilwra i gryfderau, anghenion a dyheadau unigryw pob plentyn.

    O ran ei fodel cyllido, mae AllChild yn cael ei gefnogi drwy waith comisiynu sy’n seiliedig ar ganlyniadau, sy’n gweld buddsoddwyr cymdeithasol fel Better Society Capital yn sianelu arian trwy reolwyr cronfeydd i ddarparu cyfalaf gweithio i’r sefydliad. Mae’r comisiynydd, yn yr achos hwn llywodraeth leol, yn talu allan unwaith y bydd canlyniadau targed yn cael eu cyrraedd, megis gwell lles i blant. Mae’r model cyllido hwn yn lleihau’r risg ariannol i gyrff cyhoeddus, a thrwy hynny yn hybu buddsoddiadau mewn rhaglenni arloesol a hyblyg.

    Y gwersi allweddol

    Mae contractau sy’n seiliedig ar ganlyniadau yn rhoi hyblygrwydd a chynaliadwyedd i sefydliadau’r sector cymdeithasol, gan eu galluogi i greu partneriaethau â’r rhanddeiliaid gan gynnwys y sector cyhoeddus lleol, dyngarwyr a buddsoddwyr, wrth ddarparu gwasanaethau effeithiol sydd wedi’u teilwra.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cyngor Dinas Caergrawnt

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cyngor Dinas Caergrawnt

    Adeiladu nodau cyffredin a chysoni â’r strategaeth adeiladu cyfoeth cymunedol

    Mae gan Gyngor Dinas Caergrawnt strategaeth wrth-dlodi ers 2014 a honno wedi’i chynllunio i fynd i’r afael â thlodi ac anghydraddoldeb. Dros y deng mlynedd diwethaf mae dull y cyngor wedi esblygu. Er mwyn mynd i’r afael ag achosion hirdymor dwfn tlodi, cydnabu’r cyngor fod angen iddyn nhw weithredu dull cyffredin sy’n cyfuno arweinyddiaeth gan y cyngor a chydweithio â chymunedau lleol ac ystod o bartneriaid lleol a rhanddeiliaid allweddol i godi eu heffaith ar y cyd i’r eithaf. Arweiniodd hyn at ddatblygu strategaeth Adeiladu Cyfoeth Cymunedol (CWB), a fabwysiadwyd yn 2024.

    Nod dull CWB yw mynd i’r afael ag achosion tlodi trwy weithio’n gyfannol ar draws y sectorau tuag at weledigaeth a nod cyffredin gyda’r holl randdeiliaid; trwy gyfuno asedau, cyfrifoldebau statudol a rôl ymgynnull y cyngor â’r gwasanaethau, y dulliau a’r perthnasoedd y gall y sectorau cymunedol, gwirfoddol, busnes a chyhoeddus eu darparu.

    Mae yna themâu allweddol sy’n sail i ddull CWB y Cyngor, gan gynnwys:

    • sicrhau bod dull cyfannol ar y cyd o fynd i’r afael â thlodi bob amser yng nghanol rhaglenni a phrosiectau yn y dyfodol; gweithio ar draws sefydliadau a sectorau er mwyn creu atebion

    • sut y gall y cyngor archwilio cyfleoedd i ddefnyddio’u harweinyddiaeth a’u hasedau i gynhyrchu cyfoeth yn ôl i’r gymuned, gan gynnwys gwerth cymdeithasol o gontractau a thrwy ddefnyddio adeiladau a thir y cyngor yn well

    • gweithio gyda’r sector preifat lleol i gefnogi economi lleol cynaliadwy a chynhwysol

    Un enghraifft o egwyddorion newydd strategaeth CWB yw prosiect Shaping Abbey. Mae Shaping Abbey yn dwyn ynghyd drigolion lleol, y gymdeithas sifil a phartneriaid o’r sector preifat, ochr yn ochr â buddsoddiad o £100 miliwn a gefnogir gan y cyngor a Llywodraeth y Deyrnas Unedig i ailddatblygu rhannau o Ward Abbey yng ngogledd-ddwyrain Caergrawnt. Yma, mae trigolion a grwpiau cymunedol wedi bod yn rhan annatod o lunio dyfodol Ward Abbey, ac wedi bod yn rhan o sgyrsiau Shaping Abbey, lle mae lleisiau cymunedol wedi bod yn ganolog i ddatblygiad yr ardal. Mae rhaglen gysylltiedig Focus on Abbey yn darparu cyllid ar gyfer prosiectau cymunedol lleol.

    Y gwersi allweddol

    Trwy eu strategaeth CWB, datblygodd Cyngor Dinas Caergrawnt ddull partneriaeth newydd gyda sefydliadau’r gymdeithas sifil leol, a rhanddeiliaid lleol ehangach, ar sail gweledigaeth gyffredin i fynd i’r afael â thlodi ledled y ddinas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Calderdale

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Calderdale

    Cydnabod gwerth y VCSE ar gyfer dyfodol ffyniannus.

    Mae strategaeth VCSE Cyngor Calderdale 2024-2029 yn cydnabod rôl hanfodol y sector Mentrau Gwirfoddol, Cymunedol a Chymdeithasol (VCSE) yn Calderdale. Mae’n gwerthfawrogi’r VCSE fel partner allweddol wrth gyflawni’r weledigaeth leol o fod yn lle mentrus, llawn cyfleoedd, lle gall pawb fyw bywyd ehangach.

    Adeg ei chreu, roedd grwpiau’r VCSE yn wynebu llai o gyllid o’r sector cyhoeddus, costau cynyddol, a galw cynyddol am eu gwasanaethau. Roedd prinder staff, cyflog is, a llai o wirfoddolwyr yn ychwanegu at y pwysau. Un peth sy’n ganolog i’w datblygiad a’i gweithredu oedd cydnabyddiaeth Cyngor Calderdale o werth ac arbenigedd cynhenid y sector VCSE.

    Mae’r strategaeth, sydd wedi’i chydgynhyrchu gyda chynrychiolwyr y VCSE, yn cydnabod natur amrywiol a chymhleth y sector VCSE a’i heffaith arwyddocaol ar drigolion a chymunedau Calderdale. Mae’n cydnabod cyfraniad y sector i’r gymdeithas yn ogystal â’r economi lleol. Nododd ymchwil iechyd a lles lleol yn 2023 fod cyfanswm gwerth y VCSE yn Calderdale oddeutu £549.5 miliwn. Mae’r ffigur yma yn cynnwys gwariant y sector, y gwerth a gynhyrchir gan wirfoddolwyr cyson, a gwerth a grëwyd i ddefnyddwyr gwasanaethau.

    Mae Cyngor Calderdale wedi ymgorffori cydnabyddiaeth o rôl y VCSE mewn sawl strategaeth arall yn y fwrdeistref. Un enghraifft allweddol yw Strategaeth yr Economi Cynhwysol, sy’n gweld sector VCSE ffyniannus yn sylfaenol i gyflawni economi cynhwysol. Yn Calderdale, mae’r VCSE yn rhan allweddol o’r economi lleol, gan gyflogi dros 5,000 o bobl, a chefnogi 13,000 fel gwirfoddolwyr. Fel rhan o Strategaeth yr Economi Cynhwysol, bydd Calderdale yn ceisio archwilio mwy o lwybrau gyrfa i bobl ifanc yn y sector VCSE lleol, gan ddarparu mwy o gyfleoedd i bobl ifanc aros yn Calderdale, gyda mynediad at waith o ansawdd da.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Clymblaid Troseddau Cyllyll y Swyddfa Gartref

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Clymblaid Troseddau Cyllyll y Swyddfa Gartref

    Dull wedi’i seilio ar bartneriaeth o leihau troseddau cyllyll.

    Mae’r Glymblaid i Fynd i’r Afael â Throseddau Cyllyll, a lansiwyd gan y Prif Weinidog ym mis Medi 2024, yn bartneriaeth o unigolion sydd â phrofiad byw, y gymdeithas sifil, a grwpiau ymgyrchu. Mae wedi mabwysiadu dull partneriaeth gyda’r llywodraeth er mwyn haneru troseddau cyllyll o fewn degawd.

    Mae’r cydweithrediad yn dod â dealltwriaeth ddofn o ymyriadau a all helpu i atal troseddau cyllyll, gan ddod â’r safbwyntiau hyn i mewn i’r gwaith o greu polisïau a rhaglenni i fynd i’r afael â’r mater.

    Mae’r Swyddfa Gartref hefyd yn gweithio gyda phartneriaid y Glymblaid i roi llwyfan i lais ieuenctid a’u safbwyntiau ar y materion craidd ynglŷn â throseddau cyllyll, gan gynyddu diogelwch y cyhoedd a chefnogi’r rhai sydd ei angen fwyaf, gan sicrhau bod profiadau byw pobl ifanc yn cyfrannu at lunio polisi’r Llywodraeth.

    Un enghraifft allweddol lle mae’r Glymblaid yn gweithio mewn partneriaeth â’r llywodraeth yw’r cyfraniad gwerthfawr a wnaeth er mwyn llywio’r broses o ddatblygu polisi a dylunio’r trefniadau ildio estynedig ar gyfer cleddyfau ninja, cleddyfau ac arfau eraill.  

    Gydag aelod o’r Glymblaid FazAmnesty a Word 4 Weapons, mae’r llywodraeth yn cyflwyno trefniadau estynedig ar gyfer ildio arfau drwy fis Gorffennaf 2025. Mae FazAmnesty yn gweithredu fan ildio symudol yn Llundain Fwyaf, Gorllewin Canolbarth Lloegr, a Manceinion Fwyaf, tra bydd Word 4 Weapons yn darparu biniau ildio dienw yn yr ardaloedd hynny ar gyfer cyllyll ac arfau eraill, gan gynnwys cleddyfau ninja.

    Mae’r mentrau hyn yn darparu opsiynau diogel i bobl ifanc ildio arfau peryglus, gan wneud ein strydoedd yn fwy diogel a thynnu mwy o arfau o gymunedau.

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    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cytundeb VCFSE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Cyfamod y Gymdeithas Sifil: Cytundeb VCFSE

    (Mentrau Gwirfoddol, Cymunedol, Crefyddol a Chymdeithasol) Manceinion Fwyaf (GM).

    Cafodd [Cytundeb VCFSE Manceinion Fwyaf (GM)] ](https://www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/what-we-do/communities/voluntary-community-faith-and-social-enterprise-accord/) ei lofnodi ym mis Tachwedd 2017 fel cytundeb cydweithredu rhwng cyrff cyhoeddus a’r gymdeithas sifil.

    Sefydlwyd y Cytundeb gan Awdurdod Cyfun Manceinion Fwyaf a Phartneriaeth Iechyd a Gofal Cymdeithasol Manceinion Fwyaf gyda grŵp o arweinwyr y gymdeithas sifil wedi’u lleoli ym Manceinion Fwyaf er mwyn adeiladu perthynas a fyddai’n cydnabod ac yn datgloi potensial llawn y gymdeithas sifil i fynd i’r afael ag anghydraddoldebau yn y ddinas-ranbarth er budd y cyhoedd.

    Mae’r Cytundeb wedi helpu i godi proffil sefydliadau’r gymdeithas sifil gydag arweinwyr y sector cyhoeddus lleol gan fwrw goleuni ar y gwerth a’r arbenigedd y gallan nhw eu cynnig. Un bartneriaeth sy’n deillio o hynny yw Uned Lleihau Trais Manceinion Fwyaf (GMVRU) rhwng y llywodraeth, yr heddlu, iechyd, addysg, gwasanaethau cyfiawnder ieuenctid, awdurdodau lleol, asiantaethau statudol eraill a’r gymdeithas sifil. Mae’r GMVRU wedi ymrwymo i arddel ymagwedd a arweinir gan y gymuned yn ei hymdrechion i atal trais. Mae’r dull yma yn cydnabod gwerth a chryfder sefydliadau’r gymdeithas sifil wrth weithio’n agos gyda chymunedau, i ddeall eu hanghenion, eu heriau a’u cryfderau mewn perthynas ag atal trais. Mae hefyd yn rhoi penderfyniadau yn nwylo cymunedau, gan gynnwys gosod blaenoriaethau a chytuno ar gyllid ar gyfer prosiectau ac ymyriadau sy’n anelu at ymgysylltu â phlant, pobl ifanc a theuluoedd.

    Mae mentrau’r VRU wedi cynnwys rhaglen StreetDoctors dan arweiniad y gymdeithas sifil, sy’n darparu sesiynau hyfforddi i bobl ifanc weithredu mewn argyfwng meddygol. Yn sgil hyn roedd 95% o’r bobl ifanc yn gwybod beth i’w wneud os byddai rhywun yn gwaedu neu’n anymwybodol, ac roedd 85% yn barod i weithredu mewn argyfwng meddygol.

    Mae [Adroddiad Interim ar Gynnydd Cytundeb VCFSE Manceinion Fwyaf] https://www.vcfseleadershipgm.org.uk/resources/greater-manchester-vcfse-accord-interim-progress-report)  yn awgrymu gwella gwelededd y Cytundeb ac ymgorffori ei egwyddorion ar draws sefydliadau’r sector cyhoeddus. Bydd hyn yn gwella cydnabyddiaeth o werth y gymdeithas sifil ar draws Manceinion Fwyaf, a thrwy hynny yn cefnogi mwy o gyfranogiad gan VCSEs a chynyddu lleisiau dinasyddion mewn gwaith ledled Manceinion Fwyaf.

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    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –