Category: Statistics

MIL-OSI China: Shanghai’s international entry and exit volume up 27% in Q1

Source: China State Council Information Office

Shanghai has seen an increase in inbound and outbound passengers in the first quarter of the year, with the total entry and exit volume growing 27 percent year-on-year to over 10.15 million person-times, according to data from the Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection.

As China resumed and optimized its visa-free policies and other measures to facilitate international trips in recent years, foreign travelers have increasingly flocked into the country. In Q1, Shanghai recorded over 2.65 million international visitors, among which nearly 2.42 million passed through the city’s airports, representing a 49-percent increase year-on-year.

“Thanks to visa-free and 240-hour temporary entry policies, we have seen a remarkable increase in foreign nationals entering and exiting Hongqiao and Pudong international airports in the first quarter. About 80 percent of them were traveling for tourism and business. We also compiled statistics that show that the number of foreign travelers benefiting from the visa-free policies and entering Shanghai in the first quarter reached 601,000 person-times, accounting for more than 50 percent of all inbound foreign travelers at the two airports,” said Bai Yejian from the command center at Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection.

Meanwhile, as more nations offer visa-free entry to China and the increasing number of international air routes, more Chinese are making overseas tourism and business trips. In Q1, more than 6.7 million person-times of Chinese mainland residents entered and exited Shanghai ports, with a daily average number reaching 74,000, up about 20 percent year-on-year.

In addition, Shanghai’s cruise ports were also seeing more foreign entries. On March 16, AIDAstella of AIDA Cruises and Spectrum of the Seas belonging to Royal Caribbean International, docked at the Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, bringing nearly 4,800 foreign tourists to the city and marking the highest single-day arrival of international visitors since the terminal opened in 2011.

To further facilitate passengers’ entry and exit, Shanghai ports have rolled out a slew of measures to streamline the immigration and customs clearance process, including more efficient inspection, entry card filling and reporting measures as well as multi-language translation services.

MIL OSI China News –

April 7, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Dwelling and household estimates: March 2025 quarter
Source: Statistics New Zealand

Dwelling and household estimates: March 2025 quarter – 7 April 2025 – National dwelling and household estimates are used for many purposes including planning, policy formation, business decisions, and as ‘bottom lines’ in the calculation of market coverage rates.

Key facts
At 31 March 2025, the estimated number of:

private dwellings is 2,117,300

households is 2,034,500.

Files:

Dwelling and household estimates: March 2025 quarter
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
April 7, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Green Party differing view on the Treaty Principles Bill

Source: Green Party

Read the Green Party’s differing view on the Treaty Principles Bill, prepared by Tamatha Paul.

Treaty Principles Bill – Differing View – Green Party Aotearoa

Prepared by Tamatha Paul, Wellington Central MP

Te Tiriti is tapu. It is a sacred covenant that carries characteristics of mutual benefit, good faith, permanence, mutual respect, commitment to relationship. It is the founding agreement that legitimises the presence of people who would otherwise be only visitors in Aotearoa.

We express our strongest condemnation of this Bill in its entirety and wish to set out our concerns in full detail given there has been truncated analysis of the Bill and its submissions from the public. We wish to make the following comments on the Bill.

Justification or rationale for this Bill does not exist

The development of this Bill was not preceded by a legitimate policy imperative or outcome. This exercise has been estimated to cost around $6 million to the Government and has put the onus for truthful and accurate information regarding Te Tiriti o Waitangi on the general public.

This Bill is premised on an assertion that the principles of the Treaty are unclear. This assertion is baseless. The Regulatory Impact Statement on this Bill says that this Bill creates additional uncertainty because it displaces existing case law about how the principles should be applied in real life. This Bill is effectively a reset button on decades of jurisprudence and careful weighing of evidence by the Courts. This is the case law that gives clarity on what Te Tiriti o Waitangi means according to the Courts, and this Bill would overturn that clarity for no justifiable reason. Principles that have been carefully and deliberately established over the last forty years including partnership, active protection, and redress would no longer be relevant.

This Bill is a prime example of executive and legislative overreach by Parliament. We have a separation of powers for a reason, which is to provide an effective check on unbridled power wielded by politicians. The author of this Bill and some submitters supporting the Bill made claims about an “unelected judiciary”. This deliberately misrepresents the role of the judiciary. Judges should not be punished and dragged through the mud with no right of reply. The role of our judiciary is to interpret and apply legislation passed by Parliament, and there is no credible evidence that they have done anything but that in relation to legislation which mentions, or is relevant to, Te Tiriti o Waitangi. It is critical to our democracy that these roles remain independent and it is completely inappropriate for elected members to generate public uncertainty and distrust to our judicial system in order to enhance their own power.

Contrary to the assertions of the Bill’s author, It is not unusual or extraordinary to have constitutional arrangements that recognise and provide for different ancestry, languages, religions and genders. Canada, Denmark, Bolivia, Sweden, Finland, Ecuador, and the Philippines are a few countries that have enabled constitutional recognition of Indigenous rights. The reason why examples of constitutional structures that affirm indigenous self-determination and autonomy are apparently uncommon is that in many settler colonial countries the cultural, political, and constitutional presence of Indigenous peoples is extremely limited, as a result of deliberate efforts to render Indigenous peoples invisible. This Bill exists in a tradition of assimilationist approaches to indigenous people. The recognition of Māori rights does not diminish the rights of others. Upholding Te Tiriti aso protects the rights of non-Māori to make Aotearoa their home. It ensures that our country’s constitutional promise and social cohesion is achieved for the benefit of all.

We also note that this Bill does not include interpretation or definitions for the wording it uses to replace the principles of the Treaty. Despite the Bill using contested language such as “best interests”, “everyone”, “free”, “democratic”, “equal protection”, “equal benefit”, “equal enjoyment” and “fundamental rights” – there is no definitions provided for these contested terms, nor does the Bill point to any similar interpretations within existing laws which might help in the application of the drafted principles.

In summary, there is no justification for this Bill aside from the author of this Bill seeking to incite a culture war because it gives him and his pathetic policies a platform.

Misrepresentation of the Principles of the Treaty

The existing Treaty principles are far more clear than has been alleged by supporters of this Bill. The principles as we know them, and as they are applied, have been developed by the courts and the Waitangi Tribunal over the last fifty years. The Bill misrepresents the normal legal processes whereby courts develop law and principles over time – presenting that as somehow uniquely inappropriate. It is true that public education on Te Tiriti o Waitangi has been lacking throughout our history, but the Bill does not solve that problem and further skews the public understanding of the true history and intent of Te Tiriti o Waitangi..

Parliament is not the appropriate place to decide the Treaty principles in the way contemplated by this Bill. This is what this Bill is attempting to achieve. In a great show of humility by previous Parliament’s, including the Government who presided over the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975 when it came into effect, they acknowledged that Parliament does not have the knowledge or expertise to determine and define the principles. Parliamentarians come from all walks of life and have a vast array of skills, however very few have a coherent understanding of the historical context in which Te Tiriti was signed, nor proficiency in Te Reo Māori to understand the true context of the original text, nor the experience applying the principles in a judicial context.Aside from the constitutional inappropriateness, parliament is out of its depth when it comes to unilaterally adjudicating over Te Tiriti o Waitangi and we suggest that this is left to people with proper constitutional and legal skills and understanding to interpret and determine the principles and adherence to those. This is an abuse of power. Moreover, and arguably more importantly, that is something that should happen with the Māori Tiriti partner, not by the Crown alone.

The author of this Bill takes advantage of the relative lack of understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi which is an additional suppressive act due to the fact that it is not something that many New Zealanders ever learnt about in school. The author has crafted the principles in this Bill in a way that suggests that all New Zealanders are not already equal in terms of human rights. This is not true.

There is not one reputable source or academic who concurs with the author’s interpretation of the Treaty principles. This has been confirmed by the Waitangi Tribunal in the strongest of terms.

We wish to make the following comments on the principles as defined in this Bill:

On Principle 1, Māori never ceded sovereignty

This Bill defines the first principle of the Treaty of Waitangi/ Te Tiriti o Waitangi as: “The Executive Government of New Zealand has full power to govern, and the Parliament of New Zealand has full power to make laws (a) in the best interests of everyone; and (b) in accordance with the rule of law and the maintenance of a free and democratic society.”

This misrepresentation of Article 1 demonstrates a complete lack of understanding of the historical context in which Te Tiriti was signed. Many of the Bill’s supporters argued that Māori could not cede sovereignty because it was never ours to begin with, or because there were inter-tribal disputes. This completely dismisses and purposefully ignores He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nui Tireni 1835 which is the document preceding Te Tiriti o Waitangi which affirmed independence and sovereignty for Māori. Both He Whakaputanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi were signed in order to safeguard hapū and iwi Māori in the face of rapid change. We can see through this Bill and its process that this is the enduring nature of Te Tiriti, even 185 years later after its signing. The fact that sovereignty was never ceded is equally true for other signatories to Te Tiriti who did not sign He Whakaputanga in 1835.

The distortion of our historical context by the ACT Party is not only limited to their illiteracy in New Zealand history, it extends to their historical illiteracy in relation to the history of the Crown. In 1840, Great Britain was not a democratic society, and the ruling classes at the time were opposed to the prospect that it ever might be. How could the first article of Te Tiriti be interpreted to say “the maintenance of a free and democratic society”, when this was not the type of society that either of the signatories had, or aspired to, upon signing? In the words of Ani Mikaere, “in 1840 the Crown came to Māori as supplicant, not the other way around. The rangatira who signed Te Tiriti agreed to allow the Crown to remain in Aotearoa on the condition that it take responsibility for the conduct of its own citizens.”

Article 1 of Te Tiriti is about rangatira who signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi agreeing to share power and authority with the Governor. This was not a transfer of sovereignty, power or authority from rangatira to the Crown. Article 1 is a form of delegated authority drawn from the absolute tino rangatiratanga that Māori possessed in 1840, outnumbering non-Māori by 1 to 40 demographically, militarily, economically and culturally. The fact that Māori never ceded sovereignty has already been spelt out by the Waitangi Tribunal’s Te Paparahi o te Raki report.

On Principle 2, tino rangatiratanga

This Bill defines the second principle of the Treaty of Waitangi/ Te Tiriti o Waitangi as: “The Crown recognises, and will respect and protect, the rights that hapū and iwi Māori had under the Treaty of Waitangi/ te Tiriti o Waitangi at the time they signed it. However, if those rights differ from the rights of everyone, subclause (1) applies only if those rights are agreed in the settlement of a historical treaty claim under the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975.”

This misinterpretation of Article 2 completely disregards tino rangatiratanga affirmed by Te Tiriti o Waitangi. It constrains Māori rights to those conferred through Treaty settlements. Treaty settlements in and of themselves already fail to compensate for the violent dispossession of Māori land thanks to this Parliament’s decision to apply a fiscal limit to all Treaty settlements which reflects around 1% of the estimated financial impacts of Treaty breaches. This represents a legacy of colonial instincts whereby some of the people who have benefitted from this violent dispossession are now defending their right to preserve their interests which they got through lying, murdering, raping, infecting and pillaging Māori.

Tino rangatiratanga is far broader than property rights or Treaty settlements. Tino rangatiratanga did not come into existence in 1840, or 1835. It doesn’t exist relative to the Crown’s comfortability of acknowledging its existence.

This bill seeks to replace tino rangatiratanga, which is a collective right, with individual rights. This is a classic libertarian interpretation where most things are seen to be bought and owned by individuals, and the purpose of rights in their view is to assert control and exclusive power over something else.

On Principle 3, equality for who?

This Bill defines the third principle of the Treaty of Waitangi/ Te Tiriti o Waitangi as: “Everyone is equal before the law. Everyone is entitled, without discrimination, to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law; and the equal enjoyment of the same fundamental human rights.”

Principle 3, as it is proposed in this bill, purports to be about honouring the concept of equality. As pointed out by many submitters, this phrasing about equality is misleading. The term ‘equality’ is highly-contested and there are many iterations of the term.What this Bill refers to is what would be known as ‘formal equality’. Formal equality makes a presumption that everyone is equal right now and therefore we should treat everyone the same.

In reality, Māori are over-represented in the worst statistics due to enduring legacies of colonisation. For example, we have shorter life expectancy, we have poorer health and education outcomes, we are over-represented in prison and in homelessness statistics. If everyone were to receive equal treatment, this would maintain, and indeed entrench, existing inequalities. We want to be clear that it is not a fault of iwi, hapū or Māori that we are over-represented in such statistics. The shame and burden of responsibility for these statistics falls squarely on this Crown and its decisions to violently separate our people from our land, our language, our identities, our history and our future. We can only live in a society with equal outcomes and equal quality of living if we first address areas where specific groups have been let down so that we can all operate from an even playing field, otherwise this principle simply consolidates inequality. That is why developed democracies choose to subscribe to frameworks of ‘substantive equality’, as opposed to ‘formal equality’ which is focussed on equality of results and outcomes. Substantive equality if about redressing disadvantage, accommodating difference and achieving structural change.

In reality, equal protection of the law and equal enjoyment of the same fundamental human rights is already recognised and safeguarded under the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990, Human Rights Act 1993 and Senior Courts Act 2016. To act as if the only way to achieve these rights are through rewriting historic agreements and relinquishing Māori rights is misleading and sinister.

We are still looking for any credible evidence that “special treatment” exists for Māori. Moreover, Te Tiriti in and of itself did not confer any “special rights” to Māori. It affirmed pre-existing rights that Māori already had. Te Tiriti granted “special rights” to the Crown, if anybody.

Select committee is not a “national conversation”

The Green Party has always supported a national conversation about constitutional transformation in line with Matike Mai report prepared by the Independent Working Group on Constitutional Transformation. However, a select committee process does not constitute a national conversation. Select committee is a one-sided process where there are very few exchanges of ideas, where the Government is in control and sets the parameters, and no ability to ask questions or delve deeply into the publics views. Not to mention, this process has been rushed with many submissions not able to be processed before the report back to the house in May. Moreover, the Crown cannot abrogate its constitutional responsibilities to Māori by asking the public to adjudicate on the matter via select committee or via national referendum. Aside from the extreme inadequacies of this so-called ‘conversation’, an arguably even greater problem is that this ‘conversation’ is happening unilaterally, without the involvement of the Māori tiriti partner. As the Waitangi Tribunal pointed out, that is not a conversation, it is a monologue. The invitation for Māori to take part in the select committee process, as though that is enough, is unjust, unconstitutional and falls far short of what Te Tiriti o Waitangi requires.

Parliament is power, but it is not omnipotent. The fact that its executive branch, Cabinet, think that they can unilaterally amend our country’s founding document is historical vandalism and propaganda in the most dangerous form.

The select committee process has been unfathomably shabby. Not because of the hard work by the Committee’s secretariat, but because it has been rushed. This is the most submitted on Bill in the history of this Parliament. We have been unable to analyse submissions to the high standard we are accustomed to, our oral hearings were not live-captioned for those with hearing impairments, Te Reo Māori translation has been slow due to a lack of capacity to translate and analysis has been cut short in order to fit into the Government’s timeframes. This Parliament should never get in the habit of rushing legislation and cutting short the traditional process on such a polarising Bill of national significance.

A national referendum where a majority of people get the opportunity to undermine discrete rights of a minority population, who far outweighed the Crown and its subjects during the time of signing, is a recipe for polarisation, extremism and social division. A referendum which undermines the covenant between Māori and the Crown, led by politicians who are well-versed in giving opinions but constitutionally- and historically-illiterate undermines our aspirations and full ability to to be an honourable kāwanatanga. This Bill has completely undermined the mana and honour of the Crown against all advice from its officials and the people of New Zealand who it purports to represent.

Final comments

Overall, this Bill has been an international embarrassment. We have attracted international attention for this legislative attack on our indigenous people, as well as our inability to honour our agreements. New Zealand is party to 1,900 treaties. Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the treaty which founded our nation, is the one that this government refuses to honour or uphold. This Bill has been an absolute insult to Māori which will take a very long time to heal. This Bill has been described as a “legislative attack”, “worst assault on Māori” and even as an invitation, in the words of former Prime Minister Jenny Shipley, for civil war. A discussion of this nature must be informed by tikanga and led by both parties to Te Tiriti.

Arguments from people supporting this bill made in submissions were incoherent, factually inaccurate, based on outdated perspectives and arguments, and many were outright racist. In reality, Te Tiriti and its interpretation is not a matter that is keeping New Zealanders up at night. It is only a vocal, fixated minority who believe that their rights have been eroded by the presence of Te Tiriti. The New Zealanders who wish to wage war against our indigenous people, via this Bill, will inevitably fail because this type of culture war is not natural or normal to New Zealand, it is imported. New Zealanders know that we have far more important issues to solve than this.

This Bill is part of a suite of legislation that attacks and diminishes the mana of Te Tiriti o Waitangi because Treaty rights are seen as a barrier to the government’s agenda of facilitating corporate exploitation of nature. Indigenous rights do stand in the way of unfettered environmental exploitation. It is no coincidence that most of the world’s most intact biodiversity is in indigenous controlled land. Many iwi have leveraged their rights under Te Tiriti to protect their precious natural environment. For example, Ngāti Ruanui in Taranaki have defended their seabed from mining by Trans-Tasman Resources so that they might protect their taonga for future generations. In previous years Te-Whanau-ā-Apanui exercised their rights over their customary waters in the Raukumara Basin to successfully oppose deep sea oil drilling by transnational Brazilian oil company Petrobras. These protections of the natural commons – our oceans, rivers, climate, and taonga native species – benefit all New Zealanders, Māori and non-Māori alike. Indeed insofar as Māori exercise of tino rangatiratanga and kaitiakitanga achieves the preservation of natural biodiversity and ecosystem health it contributes to the viability of life on Earth for the good of all humanity.

Te Tiriti in the fullness of its intent and meaning is the pathway to cohesive nationhood. An Aotearoa in which everyone thrives and present and future generations can sustain and enjoy all that our beautiful country has to offer.

We oppose this Bill in the strongest terms.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 7, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: MyMedicare promises better health care. But only 1 in 10 patients has signed up
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jialing Lin, Research fellow, International Centre for Future Health Systems, UNSW Sydney

Rose Marinelli/Shutterstock

MyMedicare is a scheme that encourages patients to register with a regular GP practice to improve their health. But few patients have enrolled.

Since its launch in October 2023, only about 10% of patients have signed up.

The Albanese government’s 2023-24 budget allocated A$19.7 million over four years to implement MyMedicare. So if we are to get value for money from the scheme, we need to find out why patients are not signing up, and address any barriers to them doing so.

Other countries have similar schemes, as we outline in recent research. Here’s what we can learn from these to boost uptake of MyMedicare in Australia.

What is MyMedicare?

MyMedicare is a voluntary patient registration scheme. Patients nominate a GP or GP practice as their preferred provider and see the same GP or health-care team over time, a concept known as “continuity of care”.

Continuity of care is linked to earlier detection of health issues, better management of chronic (long-term) conditions, fewer avoidable hospital visits, and improved patient satisfaction.

Patients registered for MyMedicare have longer telehealth consultations. People living in residential aged care have more regular visits from their GP. From July this year, GP practices may offer patients more support for their chronic diseases.

There are also benefits for GP clinics that sign up for MyMedicare. They receive incentives to offer certain patients longer telehealth consultations. Practices also receive incentives to manage the health of registered aged care patients.

These incentives help practices invest in improved services and resources. From July, this may include better chronic disease management and enhanced team-based care (for instance, better liaison between GPs and allied health workers as part of someone’s health team).

MyMedicare comes with an extra boost for telehealth.
fizkes/Shutterstock

How many patients have signed up?

Since MyMedicare’s launch in 2023 until March 19 this year, more than 2.6 million patients have registered for MyMedicare, according to Department of Health and Aged Care statistics provided to The Conversation.

That’s about 10% of Australia’s population. This raises concerns about how aware patients are of the scheme, how engaged they are with it, and possible barriers to registration.

GP practices that provide services to patients who would benefit from the new longer telehealth services or provide care to people in aged care were encouraged to register those patients in MyMedicare as a priority. So perhaps other patients have yet to sign up.

GP practices have been quicker to sign up. Since its launch, health department statistics provided to The Conversation show 6,469 practices had registered for MyMedicare until March 19 this year.

That’s about 80% of GP practices in Australia.

Who’s most likely to register?

We don’t know which patient groups sign up for MyMedicare. The health department told The Conversation patients can provide details of their sex, location (such as metropolitan, regional, rural and remote areas), linguistic background, and disabilities when they sign up. But this is voluntary, and these data have only been available for collection since March 2024.

However, here’s what we learned when we looked at other countries’ patient enrolment schemes:
- men are less likely to enrol than women, and recent immigrants have significantly lower registration rates compared to long-term residents. These highlight potential barriers to access for certain populations
- patients in suburban, rural or small urban areas have higher registration rates, whereas those in large metropolitan centres and lower socioeconomic groups register less
- patients with mental illness or substance use disorders have lower registration rates, pointing to challenges in engaging vulnerable populations.
Men are less likely to enrol than women.
DC Studio/Shutterstock

How do other countries do it?

We also looked at how other countries set up their schemes to see what we can learn.

New Zealand: high uptake through financial incentives

New Zealand has successfully implemented a voluntary patient registration system by offering incentives to enrolled patients. These include lower co-payments for consultations and cheaper prescriptions.

This approach encourages people to register with a general practice rather than a specific GP. Some 95% of the population was registered by January 2025.

Quebec, Canada: tailored registration programs, but low uptake

Quebec has several voluntary registration programs for different groups of patients. These include ones for family medicine, vulnerable patients and a general program.

However, registration rate remains low, at 14.7-32.2%, depending on the program.

British Columbia, Canada: incentive-driven registration

British Columbia offers three voluntary registration programs – one for chronic diseases, another for complex care and a general program.

These use “capitation funding”, where GPs receive payments based on the number of patients they care for.

Participation rates vary widely across the three programs, with 45.5-79% of the population registered.

The differences in registration rates across these systems highlight the importance of how schemes are designed and implemented.

What can Australia learn?

If MyMedicare is to improve access and continuity of care, targeted strategies – such as outreach for immigrants and lower-income groups, and better support for people with mental health issues – will be essential.

Australia could also look to how countries with higher rates of patients signing up have designed their systems. This could include considering whether more financial incentives for patients to enrol is warranted, which has been successful in New Zealand.

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

– ref. MyMedicare promises better health care. But only 1 in 10 patients has signed up – https://theconversation.com/mymedicare-promises-better-health-care-but-only-1-in-10-patients-has-signed-up-253335
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
April 7, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Reform clock is ticking – the big policy challenges the next government must urgently address

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aruna Sathanapally, Grattan Institute

The 2025 federal election coincides with a period of profound global uncertainty, as the Trump administration wreaks havoc on the free trade system and longstanding alliances.

The events of recent months have underscored how, at each election, the voters in a democracy set their country on a path. Here in Australia, voters will be choosing whom to trust with tackling our challenges and making the most of the opportunities before us.

These turbulent times internationally only reinforce the need for us to be clear-eyed about the challenges facing Australia, and where our strengths lie in addressing them.

The big five challenges

We see five overlapping domestic policy challenges that must be tackled by whoever wins the next election, to ensure prosperity for current and future generations.

First, we must plan and deliver over the next 25 years the economic transformation that accompanies decarbonisation.

Addressing climate change is not a task we can delay or abandon, but it will be neither easy nor cheap. The next government can either work to build a credible plan, to orient long-term investment in a renewable energy future, or leave a legacy for the next generation of even greater costs and unreliability, and missed opportunities.

Second, we must increase the availability and affordability of housing in Australia. Housing is a fundamental human need, and when the housing system fails to deliver enough homes in the places people need and want to live, the consequences are both social and economic. In particular, our broken housing system sits at the centre of growing inequality in Australia.

Third, as the structure of our economy changes, becoming less reliant on routine and manual labour, Australia must deepen its talent pools and boost productivity to meet the needs of our society and lift economic dynamism. We must improve our school systems, expand access to high-quality early childhood education and care, dismantle barriers in the labour market that prevent people from making the most of their skills and experience, and be rapid adopters of the best global practices and technology.

Fourth, we are in the midst of the retirement of the Baby Boomer generation. An ageing population is placing increasing demands on public services, government budgets and our workforce. We need to get better at tackling chronic disease in our health system, and we need to shore-up our retirement and aged-care systems for the demographic change that we have long known is coming.

Fifth, we cannot continue to have high expectations for public services and infrastructure, without raising the money to pay for them. Tax reform has sat in the too-hard basket for too long. In particular, income tax breaks for superannuation and housing have become too generous, and unfairly place the tax burden on younger, less wealthy taxpayers.

And we need to implement sensible savings. Swingeing cuts may seem easy and appealing on the surface, but real savings will take more thinking than that: to make hospitals more efficient, to better target the NDIS, to get smarter in how we spend public money in procuring big infrastructure and defence projects.

A position of strength

None of these challenges is new: they were waiting for us as we emerged from the COVID crisis. Fortunately, we are not starting from scratch.

In several areas, the federal government has made a start. But whoever forms government after the 2025 election must stay the course on difficult reforms while also finally confronting the reforms that neither side of politics has effectively tackled since the start of the century.

Australia occupies a position of relative strength to tackle these challenges. We have a highly educated and skilled population, a more manageable fiscal position than many of our counterparts, stronger public institutions, and less polarisation in our politics.

The reform clock is ticking

Why, then, has reform proved so hard in Australia? Perhaps we have taken our strengths for granted, perhaps we have been content to leave problems for our future selves to solve. We cannot continue in this way.

The fundamentals of Australia’s prosperity have been our success in opening our economy and society to the world, while maintaining a strong social safety net, and ensuring economic benefits are broadly shared and that each new generation sees opportunity to build a rewarding life. Failing to tackle the Big Five challenges above risks unpicking these foundations.

Vested interests have been successful in thwarting reforms in the public interest for decades in Australia. Or perhaps the politics of opposition have proved so successful as to kill the prospect for bipartisan agreement on necessary, evidence-backed change.

Equally, it falls to the media to hold politicians to account over the facts and evidence that support their claims. Politicians should be firmly tested on what they propose to do with the power they seek, and how they intend to advance the interests of all Australians. This is one of the most important safeguards against empty promises that will do nothing to make us better off, or even take us backwards.

The reform clock is ticking. The winner of the 2025 election will have to get to work, quickly, on building a better Australia.

The Grattan Institute began with contributions to its endowment of $15 million from each of the Federal and Victorian Governments, $4 million from BHP Billiton, and $1 million from NAB. In order to safeguard its independence, Grattan Institute’s board controls this endowment. The funds are invested and contribute to funding Grattan Institute’s activities. Grattan Institute also receives funding from corporates, foundations, and individuals to support its general activities as disclosed on its website

– ref. Reform clock is ticking – the big policy challenges the next government must urgently address – https://theconversation.com/reform-clock-is-ticking-the-big-policy-challenges-the-next-government-must-urgently-address-251343

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: FxMagnetic Launches Parabolic Trader: A Smarter Way to Trade with Prop Firms and Personal Accounts
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, April 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FxMagnetic, a provider of intuitive trading tools, announces the launch of FxMagnetic Parabolic Trader, the latest addition to its expanding FxMagnetic Suite. Designed for MetaTrader 4 and with a MetaTrader 5 version currently in development, the new software enables traders to create, backtest, and automate strategies using the Parabolic SAR (PSAR) indicator—without requiring any programming skills.

Built specifically for traders working with prop firms like FTMO, The5ers, and others, as well as individual traders managing their own capital, FxMagnetic Parabolic Trader combines technical sophistication with ease of use. It allows traders to build and refine trading strategies directly on the chart, execute thousands of backtest simulations, and review detailed statistics such as win rate, max drawdown, and return/drawdown ratios.

Strategy Optimization Without Code

One of the defining features of FxMagnetic Parabolic Trader is its ability to simulate thousands of strategy variations based on the PSAR indicator and prebuilt logic. This enables traders to uncover winning combinations of parameters that fit their trading style—whether trend-following or reversal-based.

In addition to core features like chart-based backtesting and visual trade signals, the software includes several innovative capabilities that appeal to prop traders and personal account managers alike.

Advanced Filtering: Time-Based Trading Control

The Time Filter feature lets users define specific periods of the trading day during which trade signals can be generated—for example, 08:30–13:00 and 16:00–21:00. This enables traders to focus only on desired market sessions, such as the London and New York overlaps, improving alignment with volatility windows and avoiding low-liquidity periods.

This level of control gives traders the ability to refine their strategy based on personal preferences or firm-specific trading rules—a key requirement for those managing prop firm evaluations.

Failsafe Guard: SL/TP Recovery Mechanism

Another critical addition is the newly introduced Failsafe Guard, an SL/TP (Stop Loss / Take Profit) recovery mechanism that addresses a common concern among traders: the risk of unprotected trades due to broker-side execution issues.

If a trade opens without SL/TP due to temporary limitations, the Failsafe Guard will:
- Retry applying SL/TP as soon as broker conditions allow.
- Close the trade immediately if the price moves beyond intended SL or TP levels before protection is applied.
This added protection reduces the risk of large losses due to technical execution delays, offering an extra layer of risk management automation—a feature especially important for prop firm traders who must adhere to strict drawdown rules.

Visual Strategy Design with Instant Feedback

Instead of using spreadsheets or coding custom Expert Advisors, traders can now visually design and test strategies right on the MetaTrader chart. Each signal appears on the chart, with color-coded entry and exit points, providing instant clarity on how a strategy performs historically. Combined with powerful metrics, this helps both beginner and advanced traders make more informed decisions.

The vision of the FxMagnetic Suite is to simplify strategy development and automation for all traders, particularly those who need solutions that can function efficiently without constant screen time. This approach supports consistent execution while enabling more flexibility in how and when traders engage with the market.

FxMagnetic Parabolic Trader represents an evolution in the way strategies are tested and deployed—especially for traders who value data-driven decision-making and streamlined automation.

FxMagnetic continues to expand its ecosystem of tools, building on successful releases like FxMagnetic RSI Trader and FxMagnetic Candlestick Labs. With each tool offering multiple built-in strategies and extensive optimization settings, the suite provides a complete solution for strategy discovery, performance analysis, and automated trading.

Media Contact:
Rimantas Petrauskas
Email: support@fxmagnetic.com
Website: www.fxmagnetic.com

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the FxMagnetic. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

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The MIL Network –
April 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: 5 tips from an expert for choosing a self-help book that will actually work

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Joanna Pozzulo, Chancellor’s Professor, Psychology, Carleton University

With over 15,000 self-help books published yearly, sifting through so many books can be challenging. (Shutterstock)

The wellness industry is one of the fastest growing markets, with an estimated global value of US$6.3 trillion in 2023. Gen Z and millennials are driving much of this growth, spending more on wellness products and services than older generations.

The challenge, however, is that the wellness industry has few guardrails, allowing social media influencers and media personalities to position themselves as experts on well-being — sometimes without scientific backing.

In a space where personal opinions and untested strategies are often presented as facts, it can be difficult to distinguish between helpful guidance and misleading information.

Self-help books and bibliotherapy

One form of self-help that has gained attention is bibliotherapy, which uses books to support well-being. If you’re looking to improve your well-being, you may find yourself at your local bookstore or library scouring the shelves for a self-help book.

The self-help category is one of the largest non-fiction book categories. But not all self-help books contain strategies that are actually tested to determine their efficacy.

With over 15,000 self-help books published yearly in the United States alone, sifting through so many books can be challenging.

As a professor of psychology and founder of a book club that selects evidence-based books on well-being and self-improvement, I identify self-help books that rely on research rather than personal opinions or commercialized wellness trends.

Ready to make a change? The Quarter Life Glow-up is a new, six-week newsletter course from The Conversation’s UK and Canada editions.

Every week, we’ll bring you research-backed advice and tools to help improve your relationships, your career, your free time and your mental health – no supplements or skincare required. Sign up here to start your glow-up at any time.

5 tips for choosing self-help books

Here are five key tips for choosing self-help books that are grounded in reliable evidence:

1. Consider the author’s credentials

Check the qualifications of an author before assuming their book is evidence-based. Keep in mind that writing a book doesn’t qualify an author as an expert.

Some self-help books are based on personal experiences rather than scientific research, and while lived experience can be valuable, it is not the same as strategies that have been tested to determine their efficacy.

Look for authors with academic credentials, like a PhD or doctor of medicine from a reputable school, rather than those claiming expertise solely through personal experience.

Many professional writers simply summarize existing research rather having conducted the research they are writing about. This can sometimes lead to oversimplification or misrepresentation of scientific findings.

A quick online search can help determine whether an author has the necessary expertise to offer credible, science-based advice.

The self-help category is one of the largest non-fiction book categories.
(Shutterstock)

2. Don’t judge a book by its popularity

Just because a book is a bestseller or endorsed by celebrities doesn’t mean it’s grounded in science or evidence-based. Unlike academic research, which undergoes peer review before publication, self-help books are not always vetted for accuracy.

A book’s success may be driven by marketing, emotional appeal or trendy ideas rather than solid scientific evidence.

3. Consider where a book is shelved

Bookstores and libraries categorize self-help books in a variety of sections, including health, wellness, well-being and new age. While some books in these categories are evidence-based, you might consider looking under the science and nature section instead.

Exploring beyond traditional self-help sections can increase the likelihood of you finding books based on credible, scientific evidence.

4. Be open to different topics

Self-improvement is not limited to a single aspect of life. Well-being is a multifaceted construct with some experts including nine or more dimensions, including but not limited to physical, emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, financial, environmental, occupational and cultural.

When searching for a self-help book, consider exploring a well-being dimension that you may not know much about to expand your knowledge. This can contribute to a more well-rounded sense of personal development. Or, consider a topic that you want to know more about from a scientific perspective.

You might consider looking for wellness books outside the health, wellness, well-being and new age categories.
(Shutterstock)

5. Think critically about what you read

Even evidence-based books may report findings that are surprising or contradictory. If you read something that seems contrary in a book, seek out additional sources to verify the claims for yourself.

The most credible self-help books will include a list of references to original studies that allow you to verify claims for yourself and draw your own conclusions. The extra-benefit of these references is that they can also serve as a gateway to additional resources on the topic.

A pathway to better health and well-being

Reading offers a number of benefits for well-being, including helping cognitive function, reducing stress, improving sleep quality and quantity, improving mood, and decreasing blood pressure.

Although reading is often considered a solitary activity, it can also be a way to connect with others. Being part of a community can help reduce social isolation, decrease loneliness and increase connectedness.

Book clubs, in particular, can provide a way for you to reap the benefits of reading and community. I created the the Reading for Well-Being Community Book Club at Carleton University.

I select evidence-based books on various aspects of well-being and self-improvement as Professor Pozzulo’s Picks. I also interview the authors of the books I select on my Reading for Well-Being podcast.

Each month, members receive a newsletter announcing my pick and a link to the digital platform where my review is posted including a discussion board where club members can share their thoughts about the book. There are no fees and all are welcome to join.

Whether reading alone or with a group, the benefits of books extend far beyond their pages. So pick up a book and start your journey toward a healthier and more connected life.

Happy reading!

Joanna Pozzulo receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

– ref. 5 tips from an expert for choosing a self-help book that will actually work – https://theconversation.com/5-tips-from-an-expert-for-choosing-a-self-help-book-that-will-actually-work-252596

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 7, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: The Coalition has announced an even more radical plan to cut international students than Labor. Here’s how it would work

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Norton, Professor of Higher Education Policy, Monash University

Last year, the Coalition made the surprise decision to oppose Labor’s plans for new international student caps.

On Sunday, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton proposed an even more radical policy of his own to limit the number of international students in Australia.

He announced a combination of tighter enrolment limits, increased visa application fees and changes to temporary graduate visas, which allow some former students to remain in Australia to work.

This is aimed at either deterring potential students from applying or stopping them from going to their preferred university.

What’s the Coalition’s policy?

The Coalition and Labor similarly argue high numbers of international students are putting pressure on housing markets.

But the opposition is also concerned there are too many international students in some courses. They say some courses can have international enrolments of up to 80%.

To address both problems, the Coalition proposes a maximum international student enrolment share at public universities (which is almost all universities in Australia). This would be around 25% of all commencing (or new) enrolments. Other education providers, such as private colleges and TAFEs, would face separate caps.

The Coalition estimates this would result in 30,000 fewer new international students per year than Labor’s policy.

What is happening under Labor?

Last year, Labor wanted to give the education minister wide powers to cap international student enrolments by education provider, campus and course.

Apart from some exempt categories (such as postgraduate research students), vocational and higher education providers would have been allocated 270,000 commencing enrolments between them for 2025. This is compared to 323,000 commencing enrolments in 2023.

But the bill was opposed by the Greens and the Coalition. So Labor had to move to plan B.

Using its migration powers, in December 2024, the government issued a ministerial direction on how the Department of Home Affairs should process applications for student visas. This is arguably a de facto cap.

Immigration officials have been instructed to prioritise student visa applications for all institutions until they near the individual caps that were blocked by the Senate last year.

Once visa applications are at 80% of each provider’s cap, subsequent applications go into a slower visa processing stream.

Read more:
International student numbers in Australia will be controlled by a new informal cap. Here’s how it will work

Signs applications are already down

Prospective international students cannot apply for a visa unless an education provider gives them a “confirmation of enrolment”.

We are seeing signs the ministerial direction is leading to fewer “confirmations of enrolment” and resulting applications.

My analysis below shows student visa applications for January and February 2025 are well down on equivalent months in 2024, 2023 and 2019 (pre-Covid).

In late 2024, demand was below the boom times of 2023 and early 2024, but still above 2019.

What does the Coalition’s plan mean for unis?

Labor’s policy for university caps uses a formula based on past international student enrolments. The Coalition’s caps would be a percentage of total new enrolments. They expect this to be around 25%, but will set the precise number after consultation and receiving the most recent data.

Coalition education spokesperson Sarah Henderson has expressed concerns high concentrations of international students have “not been good for our country or for the education outcomes of Australian students”.

Based on 2023 enrolment data – the latest that also includes domestic students – 35% of new university students in Australia were from overseas. But several universities had international student shares above 50%.

On the Coalition’s estimates, their policy would see no more than 115,000 new international students in public universities each year, down from 139,000 under Labor’s approach.

The Coalition acknowledges this will particularly affect the highly ranked Group of Eight universities, including The University of Melbourne and The University of Sydney. Dutton argues these universities have admitted “excessive numbers” of international students.

Coalition caps for private providers

One reason the Coalition gave for not supporting Labor’s legislation last year was the disproportionate effect on private education providers, which include both vocational and higher education colleges.

Under the Coalition’s plan, private providers will still have caps, but they will be different than those for universities. Exactly how this will work is unclear. Their combined caps will be “at most 125,000”, according to the Coalition. Under Labor’s policy, their combined cap is a little higher, at about 132,000.

A complicating factor here is the government’s existing migration policies have smashed demand for vocational education – as my analysis shows.

This means many vocational education providers may not be able to fully use the places allocated under Labor’s indicative cap. These shortfalls may create space to increase caps for other private education providers.

Visa application fees

Last year, in a bid to cut international student numbers, Labor more than doubled the student visa application fee from A$710 to $1,600. They subsequently reversed this for Pacific Islander applicants.

Under the Coalition, the visa application fee would more than triple to $5,000 for applicants to Group of Eight universities. For students seeking entry to other providers, the fee would be $2,500.

Temporary graduate visas

The Coalition also promises a “rapid review” of the temporary graduate visa program. This would be to prevent its “misuse” as a way to gain access to the Australian labour market and permanent migration.

Labor has already reduced the number of years former students can stay on temporary graduate visas, reduced the age limit to be granted a visa from 50 to 35 years, and increased the minimum English requirements.

Applications for temporary graduate visas are down on past levels.

While Labor’s changes made some potential visa applicants ineligible, recent applications could be the calm before the storm. Large numbers of 2023 and 2024 international students will complete their courses in the coming years, with many of them eligible for temporary graduate visas under current policies.

International education will take a hit regardless

The Coalition’s international student election policy is less of a surprise than its refusal to back Labor’s caps last year. They have foreshadowed tough policies many times in recent months.

But the proposed increased visa application fees and enrolment caps would be painful for both students and education providers.

Universities have repeatedly argued international students are not major causes of the housing crisis. They have also argued international education is a valuable export and it is being undermined by policy changes out of Canberra. But this has had no impact on the stance of either Labor or the Coalition.

So, the number of international students in Australia will fall regardless of the federal election result. The decline is set to be greater under a Coalition government. But regardless of the election result, the days of unlimited international student numbers are over.

Andrew Norton works for Monash University, which is a member of the Group of Eight and would be significantly affected by the policies discussed in this article.

– ref. The Coalition has announced an even more radical plan to cut international students than Labor. Here’s how it would work – https://theconversation.com/the-coalition-has-announced-an-even-more-radical-plan-to-cut-international-students-than-labor-heres-how-it-would-work-253919

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 6, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Fiji solidarity group condemns Rabuka plans for embassy in Jerusalem

Asia Pacific Report

A Fiji-based Pacific solidarity group supporting the indigenous Palestine struggle for survival against the Israeli settler colonial state has today issued a statement condemning Fiji backing for Israel.

In an open letter to the “people of Fiji”, the Fijians for Palestine Solidarity Network (F4P) has warned “your government openly supports Israel despite its genocidal campaign against Palestinians”.

“It is directly complicit in Israel’s genocide against Palestinians and history will not forgive their inaction.”

The group said the struggle resonated with all who believed in justice, equality, and the fundamental rights of every human being.

Fijians for Palestine has condemned Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s coalition government plans to open a Fijian embassy in Jerusalem with Israeli backing and has launched a “No embassy on occupied land” campaign.

The group likened the Palestine liberation struggle to Pacific self-determination campaigns in Bougainville, “French” Polynesia, Kanaky and West Papua.

Global voices for end to violence
The open letter on social media said:

“Our solidarity with the Palestinian people is a testament to our shared humanity. We believe in a world where diversity, is treated with dignity and respect.

“We dream of a future where children in Gaza can play without fear, where families can live without the shadow of war, and where the Palestinian people can finally enjoy the peace and freedom they so rightly deserve.

“We join the global voices demanding a permanent ceasefire and an end to the violence. We express our unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people.

“The Palestinian struggle is not just a regional issue; it is a testament to the resilience of a people who, despite facing impossible odds, continue to fight for their right to exist, freedom, and dignity. Their struggle resonates with all who believe in justice, equality, and the fundamental rights of every human being.

“The images of destruction, the stories of families torn apart, and the cries of children caught in the crossfire are heart-wrenching. These are not mere statistics or distant news stories; these are real people with hopes, dreams, and aspirations, much like us.

“As Fijians, we have always prided ourselves on our commitment to peace, unity, and humanity. Our rich cultural heritage and shared values teach us the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it is not popular or convenient.

“We call on you to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people this Thursday with us, not out of political allegiance but out of a shared belief in humanity, justice, and the inalienable human rights of every individual.

“There can be no peace without justice, and we stand in unity with all people and territories struggling for self-determination and freedom from occupation. The Pacific cannot be an Ocean of Peace without freedom and self determination in Palestine, West Papua, Kanaky and all oppressed territories.

“To the Fijian people, please know that your government openly supports Israel despite its genocidal campaign against Palestinians. It is directly complicit in Israel’s genocide against Palestinians and history will not forgive their inaction.”

[embedded content]

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 6, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China reinvents ancestral veneration with green goodbyes

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

Amid gentle sea breezes and blooming memorial flowers, and through 3D-printed facial restoration of the deceased and AI-powered farewells, China is breathing new life into traditional tomb-sweeping rituals on Qingming Festival, which falls on Friday.
With its dual identity as both a solar term and a festival, Qingming, which has a history of over 2,500 years, sees tens of millions honor ancestors through tomb-sweeping rituals, both on-site and online, embodying the Confucian ethos of “revering the departed to nurture virtue.”
In a modern twist on Qingming customs, technological and ecological approaches now vie with the more familiar incense and paper offerings.
Guided by green policies and shifting public attitudes, a quiet dialogue has unfolded between tradition and modernity, as green burials and minimalist tributes gain traction, blending the cultural heritage of this age-old Chinese day of remembrance with modern values.
ETERNAL REST IN THE BLUE
At dawn, 112 families boarded a charter boat off Tiger Beach in Dalian, a coastal city in northeast China’s Liaoning Province, and lowered biodegradable urns containing their loved ones’ ashes into the Bohai Sea.
Chrysanthemum petals and handwritten memorial cards floated on the waves as seagulls circled above — a tranquil alternative to smoke-heavy traditional open-air ritual burning.
“My father loved the ocean. Now, he’ll forever be a part of it,” said Yang Lijiao, who came from the provincial capital Shenyang, along with the other families on board. The ritual was organized by Shenyang’s only government-contracted sea burial service provider.
Her eyes fixed on her father’s urn as it drifted away before slowly descending into the depths. “Wherever the ocean flows, Dad’s memory will live on.”
Liaoning has pioneered sea burials for over a decade, offering services in cities like Dalian, Yingkou and Dandong. Official statistics show that a total of 71,386 sea burials were performed between 2012 and 2023, saving approximately 290,000 square meters of land — equivalent to 40 soccer fields.
“Policy upgrades and public outreach have driven sea burial adoption,” explained Yao Ning from Shenyang’s civil affairs bureau. The province now provides subsidies of up to 2,000 yuan (about 278 U.S. dollars) per sea burial.
In 2016, China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs and eight other departments jointly issued guidelines promoting land-saving eco-burials, encouraging sustainable ashes disposition via sea or tree burials, or urn storage.
To date, 28 provincial-level regions nationwide have adopted eco-burial policies with financial incentives and infrastructure investments, according to an official with the ministry. Multiple regions now offer higher sea burial subsidies, streamlined procedures and humane services, driving growing public adoption.
Beijing has conducted nearly 40,000 sea burials since 1994, now representing 4 percent of the city’s annual cremations. In the neighboring Hebei Province, 30 pilot eco-burial sites were green-lighted last year, aiming to set the stage for gradual province-wide adoption.
“Traditional burial practices have become unsustainable in their land consumption,” said Wang Yi, associate professor at Tianjin University, adding that the shift in Qingming rituals reflects the public’s growing ecological awareness. “Sea and tree burials, with their land-free designs, offer sustainable alternatives that reduce pressure on limited land resources.”
TECH WARMS GOODBYES
During a recent open day at the Guangzhou Funeral & Interment Service Center in south China, local residents observed technology merging with tradition: 3D-printed facial restoration of the departed, AI-curated memorial videos reviving personal histories, and robotic urn bearers operating with ceremonial precision.
In the center’s mortuary restoration lab, Li Fajun, a mortician, led a team using 3D scanning and printing to recreate lifelike facial contours for the deceased. Their “3D wound mapping” technique digitally reconstructs facial features with unprecedented accuracy, allowing highly authentic reconstruction for those whose appearances were affected by trauma or illness.
Through a meticulous process combining 3D-printed molds and specialized cosmetic techniques, the departed can be restored to their natural appearance for their final goodbyes. The lab has also secured national patents for its self-developed high-efficiency composite embalming agent and 3D-printed surface restoration device.
“These patented technologies allow families to see their loved ones at peace,” Li said. “We’re not just repairing appearances. We’re healing families’ grief.”
Among the team’s younger members is Zhao Zhihui, a mortuary science graduate, who regards the work as “building the last bridge between the departed and their loved ones.”
As technology reshapes modern life, it’s also redefining how China faces death, with growing numbers embracing innovative approaches such as AI memorials or virtual ceremonies to honor their departed loved ones.
Beyond Guangzhou, tech-infused memorials are reshaping China’s funeral culture. In Beijing, over 100,000 families have opted for “life gemstones” — cremated ashes transformed into crystalline keepsakes via high-pressure synthesis. Meanwhile, Dalian’s sea burial memorials feature LED walls displaying names, embodying the growing acceptance of “returning to nature.”
“Tech-driven memorials reflect modern trends,” commented Wang, noting that faster lifestyles and greater mobility reduce opportunities for physical grave visits, she linked this shift to digital memorials’ growth, whose efficiency and visual appeal further boost adoption. Yet AI shouldn’t replace all traditions, she warned, as rites like tomb-sweeping demand physical presence, a practice central to filial piety that virtual interactions cannot replicate.
Hong Chang, professor at Tianjin Foreign Studies University, viewed AI-assisted memorials and sea burials as adaptations of tradition to modernization, with AI streamlining remembrance and eco-burials addressing environmental concerns. “Yet we should balance innovation with cultural heritage as we retain the essence of Qingming rituals.”
These innovations signal a societal shift: as environmental awareness grows, Chinese families increasingly honor the departed through more diverse practices from AI-preserved memories to green burials. This fusion of technology and sustainability creates new forms of reverence without severing ties to tradition.

MIL OSI China News –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Economic and Social Council Fills Vacancies in 15 Subsidiary Bodies

Source: United Nations 4

The Economic and Social Council convened today to conduct elections, nominations, confirmations, and appointments to fill vacancies in 15 of its subsidiary bodies.

The Council, which plays a vital role in advancing the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development, oversees a complex ecosystem of subsidiary entities, comprising regional and functional commissions, standing committees, and expert and ad hoc bodies.

For instance, its Statistical Commission, established in 1946, is responsible for the development of international statistics concepts and methods, including their implementation at the national and international level. The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, formed in 2000, advises the Council on Indigenous peoples’ rights and provides recommendations to Member States on issues affecting indigenous communities. And the Commission on Narcotic Drugs formulates international drug policies and oversees the implementation of global drug control treaties.

Statistical Commission

The Council by secret ballot today elected Romania to the Statistical Commission for a four-year term beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2029. In a second round of balloting, the Russian Federation was elected for the same four-year term.

Since the number of candidates from the African States, the Asia-Pacific States, the Latin American and Caribbean States and the Western European and other States was equal to the number of vacancies, the Council also elected Austria, Benin, Brazil, Burundi, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Finland, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru and Uzbekistan by acclamation for the same four-year term.

Commission on Population and Development

To the Commission on Population and Development, the Council elected Bolivia, Cameroon, China, Cuba, Ireland, Ghana, Malaysia, Mongolia, Norway, Russian Federation, Senegal, United Kingdom and the United Republic of Tanzania by acclamation for a four-year term of office beginning at the first meeting of the Commission’s sixtieth session in 2026 and expiring at the close of its sixty-third session in 2030.

The Council also elected Albania, by acclamation, to the Commission for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring at the close of the Commission’s fifty-ninth session in 2026. Japan and the Philippines were elected, by acclamation, for a four-year term beginning at the first meeting of the fifty-ninth session and expiring at the close of the sixty-second session in 2029.

Commission on the Status of Women

To the Commission on the Status of Women, the Council elected Cabo Verde, China, Gabon, Japan, Maldives, Mongolia, Morocco, Qatar, United Republic of Tanzania and Zimbabwe, by acclamation, for a four-year term of office beginning at the first meeting of the Commission’s seventy-first session in 2026 and expiring at the close of its seventy-fourth session in 2030.

Commission on Narcotic Drugs

To the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, the Council elected from the Asia-Pacific States — by secret ballot — Pakistan, Kazakhstan, United Arab Emirates and Kyrgyzstan for a four-year term beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2029. From the Eastern European States, it elected Slovenia, Lithuania and Ukraine, and from the Western European and Other States, it elected Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Australia and, in a second round of balloting, France, for the same four-year term beginning on 1 January 2026.

Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice

From the African States and the Latin American and Caribbean States, the Council elected Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Honduras, Mauritania and Trinidad and Tobago, by acclamation, to the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice for a four-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

To the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the Council elected by secret ballot from the Eastern European States Valts Ernštreits of Latvia and Suleiman Mamutov of Ukraine for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

Since the number of candidates from the African States, the Asia-Pacific States, the Latin American and Caribbean States and the Western European and other States was equal to or less than the number of vacancies, the Council elected Brenda Gunn of Canada, Nan Li of China, Rodrigo Paillalef Monnard of Chile, Diego A. Tituaña Matango of Ecuador and Anne-Chantal Nama of Cameroon, by acclamation, for the same three-year term of office.

Executive Board of the United Nations Children’s Fund

Since the number of candidates from the Asia-Pacific States, the Eastern European States, the Latin American and Caribbean States and the Western European and other States was equal to or less than the number of vacancies, the Council elected Antigua and Barbuda, China, Georgia, Guatemala, Iceland, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Norway, Ukraine and the United Kingdom, by acclamation, to the Executive Board of the United Nations Children’s Fund for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

The Council also elected by acclamation Canada, Türkiye and Liechtenstein to complete the unexpired term of office of Australia, France and Portugal, respectively, beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2027. Australia, France and Portugal resigned from their seats on the Executive Board effective 31 December 2025.

Executive Board of the United Nations Development Programme/United Nations Population Fund/United Nations Office for Project Services

Next, the Council elected Armenia, Bolivia, China, Cuba, Estonia, Finland, Japan, Nepal, Norway, Rwanda and the United States, by acclamation, to the Executive Board of the United Nations Development Programme/United Nations Population Fund/United Nations Office for Project Services for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

The Council also elected by acclamation Monaco, New Zealand and Türkiye to complete the unexpired term of office of Austria, Luxembourg and Ireland, respectively, beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2026. Switzerland was elected to complete the unexpired term of office of Belgium, beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2027. Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg and Ireland resigned from their seats on 31 December 2025.

Executive Board of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women

The Council next elected Burkina Faso, China, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Japan, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Rwanda and Senegal by acclamation to the Executive Board of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

Executive Board of the World Food Programme

The Council also elected Cuba, Gabon and Kenya by acclamation to the Executive Board of the World Food Programme for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

Programme Coordinating Board of the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)

The Council by secret ballot elected Ukraine to the Programme Coordinating Board of the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026. Further, it elected Kenya, by acclamation, to the Programme Coordinating Board for the same term.

The Council then elected by acclamation the Philippines to complete the unexpired term of office of Japan, beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2027.

Committee for Programme and Coordination

The Council next nominated China, Cuba, Egypt, Nigeria, Republic of Korea and Senegal, for election by the General Assembly to the Committee for Programme and Coordination for a three-year term beginning on 1 January 2026.

Commission for Social Development

To the Commission for Social Development, the Council elected Switzerland, by acclamation, for a term beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring at the close of the Commission’s sixty-seventh session in 2029.

Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting

Next, the Council elected Belarus, Colombia, India and Kyrgyzstan, by acclamation, to the Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting, each for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2027. Greece was elected, by acclamation, to the same body for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2026.

Committee for the United Nations Population Award

Finally, the Council elected Cyprus, by acclamation, to the Committee for the United Nations Population Award for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2027.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: On 30th anniversary, officials highlight importance of WTO work on rules of origin

Source: WTO

Headline: On 30th anniversary, officials highlight importance of WTO work on rules of origin

In her opening remarks to the anniversary event, Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard noted that the CRO, which first met exactly 30 years ago, was founded upon a clear vision: fostering international cooperation and facilitating trade through predictable, clear and harmonized rules of origin.
DDG Ellard noted that the Committee’s initial work was focused on negotiating harmonized rules of origin for all non-preferential purposes, i.e., for rules applicable to trade outside of regional and preferential trade agreements. While completion of the ambitious harmonization objective has proven unattainable, “the objectives of the Agreement retain all their significance for members and business in today’s world,” she said.
“Businesses navigating global trade need predictability and welcome greater simplicity and transparency,” DDG Ellard told the audience. “Transparency should, therefore, remain a central objective of this Committee, and I am glad to see recent work in this area, as well as the voluntary use of a new notification template.”
“New technologies, digital trade procedures, blockchain technologies, and artificial intelligence open many new opportunities and challenges that could guide the work of this Committee,” she continued. “In fact, in the past few years, we have seen an expansion of the Committee’s work, particularly on preferential rules of origin for least developed countries. There is great scope for members to learn from each other and to improve their practices with a view to facilitating trade.”
“As members implement more detailed and complex rules of origin and control mechanisms, they must also strive for rules that facilitate trade,” she added. “In this context, multilateral discussions within this Committee are increasingly relevant.
Rules of origin are the criteria used to define where a product is made for customs purposes. They are also important for implementing other trade policy measures, including trade preferences, quotas, marking, anti-dumping measures and countervailing duties.
Non-preferential rules of origin are those which apply when trade is conducted on a most-favoured nation (MFN) basis. Preferential rules of origin are those which apply in reciprocal trade preferences (i.e. regional trade agreements or customs unions) or in non-reciprocal preferences (i.e. preferences in favour of developing countries or LDCs).
The Chair of the CRO, Mr. Guna Seelan Balakrishnan of Malaysia, said predictable and clear rules of origin are important for global trade.
“The necessity of our work is shown in the simplicity of our purpose to determine where a good is made,” the Chair said. “So simple, but as the past 30 years have shown, so complex at the same time.”
Mr Balakrishnan welcomed in particular the CRO’s recent work on preferential rules of origin for least developed country members, a period of “some of the most extensive activity” from the Committee. “The responses and interactions I have been part of during the consultations with the LDC Group and the preference granting members has reflected this adaptability to work through an important part of the Committee’s mandate,” he said.
While outlining the history of the negotiations that led to the conclusion of the Agreement and the subsequent work of the CRO, Darlan F. Martí from the WTO Secretariat also paid tribute to trade negotiators, customs officials, international organizations and former Chairs who dedicated many hours of work to the CRO.
He also emphasized that the current work of the Committee could be useful for all members: “The lessons learned from this work extend beyond the LDCs – for instance, our conversations about utilization rates or trade facilitating practices that are conducive to the utilization of preferences,” he said. “This is something that is not only useful in the context of non-reciprocal trade preferences for the LDCs, but it’s something that, if members want, could go beyond this and also be discussed in the context of preferential rules of origin used in (free trade agreements) as well.”
To conclude the event, the International Trade Centre gave an overview of statistics on the use of the WTO, WCO, ITC “Origin Facilitator”, a publicly-available global database on rules of origin.
Several members and observers took the floor to thank the speakers for their presentations, to comment on the work of the Committee and to identify priorities for future work. They also extended their appreciation to the Chair of the Committee, Mr. Balakrishnan.
DDG Ellard’s statement and the presentations made, including a video recording of the session, will be made available in the events section of the Rules of Origin portal of the WTO website.
CRO meeting
At its meeting on 3 April, the CRO continued to review developments related to preferential rules of origin for LDCs. Japan provided additional information on its consignment obligations. The EU presented the functioning of its self-certification scheme as well as the operation of the “non-manipulation” principle. China updated the Committee on the introduction of electronic certification for LDCs. The United Kingdom reported on the rates utilization of its Developing Countries Trading Scheme.
Cambodia presented a new paper regarding differentiating utilization rates of preferential trade arrangements for LDCs while the LDC Group presented ongoing research concerning the identification of specific cases of firms using cumulation in Africa. Cumulation refers to provisions allowing producers in one country to source parts and inputs from other countries without losing the originating status of that input.
The Secretariat provided an overview of notifications received on non-preferential rules of origin requirements. Switzerland and Viet Nam were the first members to update their notifications using the new template proposed by the Chair in November 2024. The Secretariat noted that 57 members apply non-preferential origin requirements, 61 members do not, and 21 members have not submitted any information yet.
Next meeting
The next formal CRO meeting will take place on 5-6 November.

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MIL OSI Economics –

April 5, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Thursday, 3 April 2025 – Strasbourg – Final edition

Source: European Parliament

PV-10-2025-04-03

iPlPv_Sit

Minutes

Thursday, 3 April 2025 – Strasbourg

Abbreviations and symbols

+	adopted
–	rejected
↓	lapsed
W	withdrawn
RCV	roll-call votes
EV	electronic vote
SEC	secret ballot
split	split vote
sep	separate vote
am	amendment
CA	compromise amendment
CP	corresponding part
D	deleting amendment
=	identical amendments
§	paragraph

IN THE CHAIR: Younous OMARJEE
Vice-President

1. Opening of the sitting

The sitting opened at 09:00.

2. Council positions at first reading (Rule 64)

– Position of the Council at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on European Union labour market statistics on businesses, repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 530/1999 and Regulations (EC) No 450/2003 and (EC) No 453/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council – Adopted by the Council on 24 March 2025 (17082/1/2024 – COM(2025)0134 – C10-0054/2025 – 2023/0288(COD))
referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Position of the Council at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2016/1011 as regards the scope of the rules for benchmarks, the use in the Union of benchmarks provided by an administrator located in a third country, and certain reporting requirements – Adopted by the Council on 24 March 2025 (05123/1/2025 – COM(2025)0155 – C10-0055/2025 – 2023/0379(COD))
referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Position of the Council at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on a Border Regions’ instrument for development and growth (BRIDGEforEU) – Adopted by the Council on 24 March 2025 (17102/1/2024 – COM(2025)0131 – C10-0057/2025 – 2018/0198(COD))
referred to committee responsible: REGI

The three-month period available to Parliament under Article 294 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union for it to adopt its positions would begin the following day, 4 April 2025.

3. European Action Plan on Rare Diseases (debate)

Commission statement: European Action Plan on Rare Diseases (2025/2637(RSP))

Olivér Várhelyi (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Tomislav Sokol, on behalf of the PPE Group, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Ondřej Knotek, on behalf of the PfE Group, Michele Picaro, on behalf of the ECR Group, Stine Bosse, on behalf of the Renew Group, Tilly Metz, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Catarina Martins, on behalf of The Left Group, Christine Anderson, on behalf of the ESN Group, András Tivadar Kulja, Romana Jerković, Gerald Hauser, Francesco Torselli, Vlad Vasile-Voiculescu, Ignazio Roberto Marino, Ondřej Dostál, Adam Jarubas, Nicolás González Casares, Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (the President reminded Members to keep to the subject of the debate), Billy Kelleher, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Rosa Estaràs Ferragut, Nikos Papandreou, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, Michalis Hadjipantela, Marta Temido, Viktória Ferenc, who also answered a blue-card question from András Tivadar Kulja, Letizia Moratti, Estelle Ceulemans, Laurent Castillo and Leire Pajín.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Maria Grapini, Alexander Jungbluth, Lukas Sieper and Kateřina Konečná.

The following spoke: Olivér Várhelyi.

The following spoke: András Tivadar Kulja who made a personal statement in response to the intervention by Alexander Jungbluth.

The debate closed.

4. Establishment of a European Day of the Righteous (debate)

Commission statement: Establishment of a European Day of the Righteous (2025/2638(RSP))

Olivér Várhelyi (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Letizia Moratti, on behalf of the PPE Group, Pierfrancesco Maran, on behalf of the S&D Group, Julien Leonardelli, on behalf of the PfE Group, Antonella Sberna, on behalf of the ECR Group, Billy Kelleher, on behalf of the Renew Group, Catarina Vieira, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Petr Bystron, on behalf of the ESN Group, Ernő Schaller-Baross, Arkadiusz Mularczyk and Cristian Terheş.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Liudas Mažylis, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Petras Gražulis and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Olivér Várhelyi.

IN THE CHAIR: Roberts ZĪLE
Vice-President

The debate closed.

5. 110th anniversary of the Armenian genocide (debate)

Commission statement: 110th anniversary of the Armenian genocide (2025/2639(RSP))

Olivér Várhelyi (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Miriam Lexmann, on behalf of the PPE Group, Yannis Maniatis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, on behalf of the PfE Group, Nicolas Bay, on behalf of the ECR Group, Nathalie Loiseau, on behalf of the Renew Group, Markéta Gregorová, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Pernando Barrena Arza, on behalf of The Left Group, Stanislav Stoyanov, on behalf of the ESN Group, Reinhold Lopatka, Vasile Dîncu, Julie Rechagneux, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Helmut Brandstätter, Marie Toussaint, Marina Mesure, Sander Smit, Evin Incir, Paolo Inselvini, Tomislav Sokol and Marcos Ros Sempere.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Sebastian Tynkkynen, Petras Gražulis and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Olivér Várhelyi.

The debate closed.

(The sitting was suspended at 11:14.)

IN THE CHAIR: Christel SCHALDEMOSE
Vice-President

6. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 12:03.

7. Request for the waiver of immunity

The competent German authorities had sent the President a request for Petr Bystron’s immunity to be waived in connection with judicial proceedings in Germany.

Pursuant to Rule 9(1), the request had been referred to the committee responsible, in this case the JURI Committee.

8. Verification of credentials

On the basis of a unanimous proposal by the JURI Committee issued at its meeting of 18 March 2025, Parliament verified the credentials of Sirpa Pietikäinen, Andi Cristea and Liudas Mažylis in accordance with Rule 3(4).

⁂

The following spoke: Anders Vistisen, Matthieu Valet and Tomasz Froelich, on certain amendments tabled (the President provided some clarifications).

9. Voting time

For detailed results of the votes, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.

9.1. Establishing an EU talent pool ***I (vote)

Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing an EU talent pool [COM(2023)0716 – C9-0413/2023 – 2023/0404(COD)] – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs. Rapporteur: Abir Al-Sahlani (A10-0045/2025) (This document is not available in all languages)

(Majority of the votes cast)

DECISION TO ENTER INTO INTERINSTITUTIONAL NEGOTIATIONS (request by the PfE, ECR, The Left and ESN Groups to put this decision to the vote) (Rule 72)

Approved

Detailed voting results

9.2. Granting equivalence with EU requirements to Moldova and Ukraine as regards field inspections and production of seed ***I (vote)

Report on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Decision 2003/17/EC as regards the equivalence of field inspections carried out in the Republic of Moldova on fodder plant seed-producing crops and on the equivalence of fodder plant seed produced in the Republic of Moldova, and as regards the equivalence of field inspections carried out in Ukraine on beet seed-producing crops and oil plant seed-producing crops and on the equivalence of beet seed and oil plant seed produced in Ukraine [COM(2024)0052 – C9-0026/2024 – 2024/0027(COD)] – Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development. Rapporteur: Veronika Vrecionová (A10-0043/2025) (This document is not available in all languages)

(Majority of the votes cast)

DECISION TO ENTER INTO INTERINSTITUTIONAL NEGOTIATIONS (request by the PfE Group to put this decision to the vote) (Rule 72)

Approved

Detailed voting results

9.3. Estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2026 – Section I – European Parliament (vote)

Report on Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2026 [2024/2111(BUI)] – Committee on Budgets. Rapporteur: Matjaž Nemec (A10-0048/2025)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted

The following had spoken:

Matjaž Nemec (rapporteur), before the vote, to make a statement under Rule 165(4).

Detailed voting results

9.4. Prosecution of journalists in Cameroon, notably the cases of Amadou Vamoulké, Kingsley Fomunyuy Njoka, Mancho Bibixy, Thomas Awah Junior, Tsi Conrad (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0230/2025 (minutes of 3.4.2025, item I), B10-0230/2025, B10-0231/2025, B10-0232/2025, B10-0233/2025, B10-0234/2025, B10-0235/2025 and B10-0236/2025 (minutes of 2.4.2025, item I) (2025/2627(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted

(Motions for resolutions B10-0231/2025 and B10-0234/2025 fell.)

Detailed voting results

9.5. Execution spree in Iran and the confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0220/2025 (minutes of 3.4.2025, item I), B10-0220/2025, B10-0222/2025, B10-0224/2025, B10-0225/2025 and B10-0226/2025 (minutes of 2.4.2025, item I) (2025/2628(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted

(Motion for a resolution B10-0222/2025 fell.)

Detailed voting results

9.6. Immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0219/2025 (minutes of 3.4.2025, item I), B10-0218/2025, B10-0219/2025, B10-0221/2025, B10-0223/2025, B10-0227/2025 and B10-0229/2025 (minutes of 2.4.2025, item I) (2025/2628(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted

(Motion for a resolution B10-0218/2025 fell.)

Detailed voting results

9.7. Amending Directives (EU) 2022/2464 and (EU) 2024/1760 as regards the dates from which Member States are to apply certain corporate sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements ***I (vote)

Amending Directives (EU) 2022/2464 and (EU) 2024/1760 as regards the dates from which Member States are to apply certain corporate sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements [COM(2025)0080 – C10-0038/2025 – 2025/0044(COD)] – Committee on Legal Affairs

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL TO REJECT THE COMMISSION PROPOSAL

Rejected

COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS

Approved

Parliament’s first reading thus closed.

Detailed voting results

9.8. Energy-intensive industries (vote)

Motion for a resolution B10-0209/2025 (minutes of 3.4.2025, item I) (2025/2536(RSP))

The debate had taken place on 2 April 2025 (minutes of 2.4.2025, item 4).

(Majority of the votes cast)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted

The following had spoken:

Pascale Piera, to move an oral amendment to add a new paragraph after paragraph 1. Parliament had not agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote as more than 39 Members had opposed it.

Detailed voting results

9.9. Targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0211/2025, B10-0211/2025, B10-0212/2025, B10-0213/2025, B10-0214/2025, B10-0215/2025, B10-0216/2025 and B10-0217/2025 (minutes of 3.4.2025, item I) (2025/2612(RSP))

The debate had taken place on 1 April 2025 (minutes of 1.4.2025, item 17).

(Majority of the votes cast)

REQUEST FOR POSTPONEMENT (The Left Group)

Rejected

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted

(Motions for resolutions B10-0212/2025 and B10-0213/2025 fell.)

The following had spoken:

Marc Botenga, on behalf of The Left Group, before the vote, to request that the vote be postponed under Rule 206(4) and Patryk Jaki, against that request.

Detailed voting results

(The sitting was suspended at 12:40.)

IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ
Vice-President

10. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 15:01.

11. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.

12. Health care related tourism: protecting EU patients abroad (debate)

Commission statement: Health care related tourism: protecting EU patients abroad (2025/2640(RSP))

Olivér Várhelyi (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Tomislav Sokol, on behalf of the PPE Group, Maria Grapini, on behalf of the S&D Group, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, on behalf of the PfE Group, Michele Picaro, on behalf of the ECR Group, Billy Kelleher, on behalf of the Renew Group, Valentina Palmisano, on behalf of The Left Group, Siegbert Frank Droese, on behalf of the ESN Group, Seán Kelly, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú and Liudas Mažylis.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Bogdan Rzońca, Lukas Sieper and Alvise Pérez.

The following spoke: Olivér Várhelyi.

The debate closed.

13. Explanations of vote

13.1. Targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security (RC-B10-0211/2025) (oral explanations of the vote)

Seán Kelly

13.2. Written explanations of the vote

In accordance with Rule 201, written explanations of the vote could be found on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.

14. Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted

In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the start of the next sitting.

With Parliament’s agreement, the texts adopted during the part-session would be forwarded to their respective addressees without delay.

15. Dates of the next part-session

The next part-session would be held from 5 May 2025 to 8 May 2025.

16. Closure of the sitting

The sitting closed at 15:39.

17. Adjournment of the session

The session of the European Parliament was adjourned.

Alessandro Chiocchetti	Roberta Metsola
Secretary-General	President

LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT

I. Motions for resolutions tabled

Prosecution of journalists in Cameroon, notably the cases of Amadou Vamoulké, Kingsley Fomunyuy Njoka, Mancho Bibixy, Thomas Awah Junior, Tsi Conrad

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

on the prosecution of journalists in Cameroon, notably the cases of Amadou Vamoulké, Kingsley Fomunyuy Njoka, Mancho Bibixy, Thomas Awah Junior and Tsi Conrad (2025/2627(RSP)) (RC-B10-0230/2025)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0230/2025, B10-0232/2025, B10-0233/2025, B10-0235/2025, B10-0236/2025 and B10-0237/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Tomáš Zdechovský, Michael Gahler, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Tomas Tobé, Luděk Niedermayer, Seán Kelly, Vangelis Meimarakis, Andrey Kovatchev, Wouter Beke, Danuše Nerudová, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Łukasz Kohut, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Miriam Lexmann, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Marta Temido
on behalf of the S&D Group
Waldemar Tomaszewski, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Assita Kanko, Alexandr Vondra, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Adam Bielan
on behalf of the ECR Group
Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Catarina Vieira
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
Rima Hassan
on behalf of The Left Group

Execution spree in Iran and the confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

on the execution spree in Iran and confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani (2025/2628(RSP)) (RC-B10-0220/2025)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0220/2025, B10-0224/2025, B10-0225/2025, B10-0226/2025 and B10-0228/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Loucas Fourlas, Michael Gahler, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Tomas Tobé, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Seán Kelly, Vangelis Meimarakis, Andrey Kovatchev, Wouter Beke, Danuše Nerudová, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Łukasz Kohut, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Tomáš Zdechovský, Miriam Lexmann, Inese Vaidere, Milan Zver
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Daniel Attard, Evin Incir
on behalf of the S&D Group
Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Reinis Pozņaks, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Rihards Kols, Michał Dworczyk, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Maciej Wąsik, Aurelijus Veryga, Dick Erixon, Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Assita Kanko, Alexandr Vondra
on behalf of the ECR Group
Helmut Brandstätter, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Bart Groothuis, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Urmas Paet, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Hannah Neumann
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

Immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

on the immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee (2025/2629(RSP)) (RC-B10-0219/2025)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0219/2025, B10-0221/2025, B10-0223/2025, B10-0227/2025 and B10-0229/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Miriam Lexmann, Michael Gahler, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Tomas Tobé, Dariusz Joński, Luděk Niedermayer, Seán Kelly, Vangelis Meimarakis, Andrey Kovatchev, Wouter Beke, Danuše Nerudová, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Tomáš Zdechovský, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Robert Biedroń
on behalf of the S&D Group
Adam Bielan, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Mariusz Kamiński, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Rihards Kols, Michał Dworczyk, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Maciej Wąsik, Reinis Pozņaks, Ivaylo Valchev, Marlena Maląg, Aurelijus Veryga, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Dick Erixon, Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Assita Kanko, Alexandr Vondra, Roberts Zīle
on behalf of the ECR Group
Michał Kobosko, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Eugen Tomac, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
on behalf of the Renew Group
Mārtiņš Staķis
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
Merja Kyllönen, Jonas Sjöstedt, Hanna Gedin, Per Clausen, Jussi Saramo, Li Andersson

Energy-intensive industries

Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

on energy-intensive industries (2025/2536(RSP)) (B10-0209/2025)
Giorgio Gori, Wouter Beke, Brigitte van den Berg, Benedetta Scuderi
on behalf of the ITRE Committee

Targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security

Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0211/2025)
Hilde Vautmans, Abir Al-Sahlani, Dan Barna, Urmas Paet, Yvan Verougstraete
on behalf of the Renew Group

on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0212/2025)
Alexander Sell, Tomasz Froelich
on behalf of the ESN Group

on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0213/2025)
Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Matthieu Valet, Susanna Ceccardi, Silvia Sardone, Roberto Vannacci, Hermann Tertsch, Jorge Martín Frías
on behalf of the PfE Group

on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0214/2025)
Mounir Satouri
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0215/2025)
Lukas Mandl, David McAllister, Andrzej Halicki, Michael Gahler, Sebastião Bugalho, Željana Zovko, François-Xavier Bellamy, Christophe Gomart, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Andrey Kovatchev, Miriam Lexmann, Rasa Juknevičienė, Antonio López-Istúriz White
on behalf of the PPE Group

on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0216/2025)
Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Cristian Terheş, Maciej Wąsik, Aurelijus Veryga, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
on behalf of the ECR Group

on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0217/2025)
Yannis Maniatis, Marit Maij
on behalf of the S&D Group

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 136(2) and (4):

on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) (B10-0211/2025)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0211/2025, B10-0214/2025, B10-0215/2025, B10-0216/2025 and B10-0217/2025)
Lukas Mandl, David McAllister, Andrzej Halicki, Michael Gahler, Sebastião Bugalho, Željana Zovko, François-Xavier Bellamy, Christophe Gomart, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Andrey Kovatchev, Miriam Lexmann, Rasa Juknevičienė, Antonio López-Istúriz White
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Marit Maij
on behalf of the S&D Group
Patryk Jaki, Adam Bielan, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Aurelijus Veryga, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Mariusz Kamiński, Marlena Maląg, Marion Maréchal, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Alberico Gambino, Nicolas Bay, Waldemar Buda, Piotr Müller, Maciej Wąsik, Kosma Złotowski, Jacek Ozdoba, Daniel Obajtek, Tobiasz Bocheński, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Carlo Fidanza, Cristian Terheş
on behalf of the ECR Group
Hilde Vautmans, Petras Auštrevičius, Dan Barna, Olivier Chastel, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Urmas Paet, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Mounir Satouri
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

II. Petitions

Petitions Nos 0260-25 to 0376-25 had been entered in the register on 28 March 2025 and had been forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(9) and (10).

The President had, on 28 March 2025, forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(15), petitions addressed to the European Parliament by natural or legal persons who were not citizens of the European Union and who did not reside, or have their registered office, in a Member State.

III. Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports

Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports (Rule 55)

(Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 26 March 2025)

AFCO Committee

– Implementation of the Charter on Fundamental Rights of the European Union in the EU legal framework (2025/2075(INI))
(opinion: LIBE)

AFET, DEVE committees

– Global Gateway – past impacts and future orientation (2025/2073(INI))
(opinion: INTA)

CONT Committee

– Evaluating the successes achieved and lessons learned from EU enlargements since 2004 in the implementation of the EU budget (2025/2071(INI))

ECON Committee

– Access to finance for SMEs and scale-ups (2025/2072(INI))

FEMM Committee

– Gender inequalities in health, specifically as regards gender-specific conditions (2025/2074(INI))
(opinion: SANT)

Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports (Rules 55 and 213)

(Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 26 March 2025)

EUDS Special Committee

– Findings and recommendations of the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield (2025/2069(INI))

HOUS Special Committee

– Housing crisis in the European Union with the aim of proposing solutions for decent, sustainable and affordable housing (2025/2070(INI))

IV. Consent procedure

Reports with a motion for a non-legislative resolution (Rule 107(2))

(Following notification by the Conference of Committee Chairs on 26 March 2025)

INTA Committee

– The termination of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) between the EU and the Republic of Cameroon on forest law enforcement, governance and trade in timber and timber products to the European Union (FLEGT) (2024/0245M(NLE) – 2024/0245(NLE))
(opinion: DEVE)

V. Documents received

The following documents had been received:

1) from other institutions

– Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) 2015/1017, (EU) 2021/523, (EU) 2021/695 and (EU) 2021/1153 as regards increasing the efficiency of the EU guarantee under Regulation (EU) 2021/523 and simplifying reporting requirements (COM(2025)0084 – C10-0036/2025 – 2025/0040(COD))
In accordance with Rules 151(1) and 152(1), the President would consult the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on this proposal.
referred to committee responsible: BUDG, ECON
opinion: ENVI, ITRE, TRAN

2) from Members

– Catherine Griset. Motion for a resolution on promoting knowledge learning and transfer in the crafts and heritage restoration professions (B10-0153/2025)
referred to committee responsible: CULT

– Beatrice Timgren. Motion for a resolution on reassessing the European Green Deal: innovation before costly emission cuts (B10-0170/2025)
referred to committee responsible: ENVI
opinion: ITRE

– Virginie Joron. Motion for a resolution on the annulment of the elections in Romania (B10-0172/2025)
referred to committee responsible: LIBE

– Ľuboš Blaha, Fernand Kartheiser, Hans Neuhoff, Friedrich Pürner, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Filip Turek, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Milan Uhrík and Petar Volgin. Motion for a resolution on the deteriorating rule of law situation in Romania (B10-0173/2025)
referred to committee responsible: LIBE

– Christine Anderson, Anja Arndt, René Aust, Arno Bausemer, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Irmhild Boßdorf, Markus Buchheit, Petr Bystron, Ivan David, Ondřej Dostál, Tomasz Froelich, Petras Gražulis, Roman Haider, Gerald Hauser, Marc Jongen, Alexander Jungbluth, Mary Khan, Maximilian Krah, Rada Laykova, Luis-Vicențiu Lazarus, Milan Mazurek, Alexander Sell, Petra Steger, Stanislav Stoyanov, Marcin Sypniewski and Stanisław Tyszka. Motion for a resolution on political repression and fundamental rights in Bulgaria (B10-0198/2025)
referred to committee responsible: LIBE

ATTENDANCE REGISTER

Present:

Aaltola Mika, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Annunziata Lucia, Arias Echeverría Pablo, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barley Katarina, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blinkevičiūtė Vilija, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bogdan Ioan-Rareş, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Braun Grzegorz, Brejza Krzysztof, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Brudziński Joachim Stanisław, Buchheit Markus, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Daniel, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Bullmann Udo, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Cârciu Gheorghe, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Castillo Laurent, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Ceccardi Susanna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Ciccioli Carlo, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Cristea Andi, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Do Nascimento Cabral Paulo, Donazzan Elena, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Düpont Lena, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Estaràs Ferragut Rosa, Everding Sebastian, Ezcurra Almansa Alma, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fernández Jonás, Firmenich Ruth, Flanagan Luke Ming, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Friis Sigrid, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glück Andreas, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomart Christophe, Gómez López Sandra, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Gregorová Markéta, Grims Branko, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Groothuis Bart, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guarda Cristina, Guetta Bernard, Guzenina Maria, Győri Enikő, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hassan Rima, Hauser Gerald, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Homs Ginel Alicia, Humberto Sérgio, Ijabs Ivars, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jalloul Muro Hana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kaljurand Marina, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Kanev Radan, Kanko Assita, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kemp Martine, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kohut Łukasz, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovařík Ondřej, Kovatchev Andrey, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyllönen Merja, Kyuchyuk Ilhan, Lakos Eszter, Lalucq Aurore, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Lazarus Luis-Vicențiu, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Loiseau Nathalie, Løkkegaard Morten, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, Lövin Isabella, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Manda Claudiu, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Mantovani Mario, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martins Catarina, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Mato Gabriel, Matthieu Sara, Mavrides Costas, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, Mažylis Liudas, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Mehnert Alexandra, Meimarakis Vangelis, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Millán Mon Francisco José, Miranda Paz Ana, Molnár Csaba, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moratti Letizia, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Motreanu Dan-Ştefan, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Nardella Dario, Navarrete Rojas Fernando, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neuhoff Hans, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Omarjee Younous, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Panayiotou Fidias, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pappas Nikos, Pascual de la Parte Nicolás, Patriciello Aldo, Paulus Jutta, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Pereira Lídia, Pérez Alvise, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pietikäinen Sirpa, Pimpie Pierre, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Popescu Virgil-Daniel, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Rackete Carola, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Ressler Karlo, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Šarec Marjan, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schwab Andreas, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Serra Sánchez Isabel, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Simon Sven, Singer Christine, Sinkevičius Virginijus, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Søvndal Villy, Squarta Marco, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Ştefănuță Nicolae, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Târziu Claudiu-Richard, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Temido Marta, Teodorescu Georgiana, Terheş Cristian, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomac Eugen, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Toveri Pekka, Tridico Pasquale, Tsiodras Dimitris, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Uhrík Milan, Ušakovs Nils, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Overtveldt Johan, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vasile-Voiculescu Vlad, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Veryga Aurelijus, Vešligaj Marko, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Vind Marianne, Vistisen Anders, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiezik Michal, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zan Alessandro, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zijlstra Auke, Zīle Roberts, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 5, 2025

MIL-OSI Global: Shop smarter, not harder. How gentle messaging can help the planet more than tough talk

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jasmine Mohsen, Doctoral Researcher in Consumer Psychology and Consumer Behaviour, University of Leeds

Heavy-handed messaging? Andy Soloman/Shutterstock

Fast fashion is booming, but so is its environmental toll. With up to 10% of global carbon emissions linked to the industry, the over-consumption of cheap clothing has made sustainability campaigns more vital than ever. Yet, even as awareness of fast fashion’s environmental harm grows, many consumers remain resistant to changing their shopping habits.

My recent research investigated a surprising obstacle to these campaigns: the language used to drive change. I explored how assertive messages such as: “Stop shopping to save the planet!” fare when pitted against softer suggestions along the lines of: “Consider shopping less for a greener future.”

The results reveal that pushy messaging not only fails but actively backfires, triggering anger and resistance that can undermine the campaign’s goals.

At the heart of this resistance lies psychological reactance – a defensive reaction to perceived threats to personal freedom. Humans value autonomy, and messages that come across as commands (“must”, “stop”, “don’t”) can spark a “boomerang effect”, prompting people to defy the directive – even if they agree with its underlying intent.

This reluctance may be attributed to the fact that buying clothes is frequently linked to self-esteem, social desirability and confidence. Shopping is often an enjoyable and empowering experience, driven by personal choice and satisfaction. But when marketing relies on guilt or pressure, this positive engagement can shift to discomfort and resistance. Rather than nurturing real connections with brands’ messages, forceful campaigns risk weakening trust and consumer loyalty.

In the study, 196 participants in the US were shown posters designed as part of a campaign to reduce consumption. One group saw an assertive poster demanding they stop shopping to help the environment. The other saw a suggestive poster encouraging wise shopping for the same goal. Participants then completed surveys assessing their emotional responses and willingness to alter their behaviour.

The findings were clear. Assertive messages provoked stronger feelings of anger and defensiveness in the face of a perceived threat than suggestive ones. These negative emotions led to lower compliance with the campaign’s goals, showing that pushy language can diminish – rather than enhance – effectiveness.

The role of anger

The emotional fallout of assertive messaging doesn’t stop there. The study found that anger, sparked by perceived restrictions, affects consumer behaviour. Participants who felt their freedom was threatened were not only less likely to reduce shopping but also more likely to dismiss the campaign altogether. Anger adds another barrier to encouraging sustainable habits.

However, this anger can also fuel a desire to regain autonomy, pushing consumers toward action that reaffirms their independence. This could be resisting the message or making choices that feel self-directed – it may even drive consumers towards unsustainable choices.

The findings uncovered several insights for anyone designing campaigns to encourage sustainable consumption.

Read more:
Five consumer myths to ditch in 2025

First, go with suggestion over command. Messages framed as friendly suggestions, such as “consider” or “you might”, are less likely to provoke resistance and more likely to inspire positive change.

Second, focus on empowerment. Highlighting the autonomy of the consumer and the benefits of participation can encourage them to cooperate without threatening their individual freedom.

Third, educate with empathy. Campaigns that inform consumers about the environmental impact of their habits, without using forceful language, are better received.

In 2011, outdoor clothing brand Patagonia launched an advert with the message “Don’t Buy This Jacket” – a good example of assertive language and reverse psychology. The campaign sent a message about buying less and taking care of the environment. As a strategy, this is known as “demartketing”.

Interestingly, although it used the “don’t” command, Patagonia was giving people a choice to ignore the message or question why they were buying the jacket in the first place. Although Patagonia’s sales jumped by 30% the following year, the campaign was about more than selling. The company wanted to encourage people to think about the impact of Black Friday as well as their wider buying habits, and to consider repairing things, reusing them or buying clothing that would last longer.

Of course, these insights extend beyond fast fashion. Judgemental messaging has been shown to fail in areas such as smoking cessation, exercise and diet campaigns, suggesting that softer approaches may work better across a range of public health and environmental initiatives.

The environmental cost of fast fashion is undeniable, with millions of tons of clothing wasted annually and more than a billion tons of greenhouse gases emitted each year. Encouraging consumers to embrace sustainable habits, from buying secondhand to adopting minimalism, is vital. However, as our research shows, how we ask for that change makes all the difference.

If we want people to shop less for the planet’s sake, it might be worth abandoning the “here’s what you must do” messaging in favour of strategies that respect their freedom. This could be a powerful way to shift behaviour towards a sustainable future – one suggestion at a time.

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

– ref. Shop smarter, not harder. How gentle messaging can help the planet more than tough talk – https://theconversation.com/shop-smarter-not-harder-how-gentle-messaging-can-help-the-planet-more-than-tough-talk-249217

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Here’s how to create a more nature-literate society

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Seirian Sumner, Professor of Behavioural Ecology, UCL

stuartjames worcs/Shutterstock

Spring is the time of year when my friends remember what a strange job I have, because a stripy insect has just appeared in their kitchen and they are panicking. “It’s huge!” one squeals. “Help! What do I do? I swear it’s that murder hornet I saw on social media.”

I explain to my friend that this is a common wasp queen, freshly emerged from hibernation. She’s lost 40% of her body weight and needs sugar. She will soon build a nest – using wood from my friend’s garden fence – lay eggs and rear them to adulthood by feeding them caterpillars, flies, aphids and spiders. If she survives, she might lay 10,000 eggs through the summer producing 10,000 worker wasps that will hunt more of these so-called pests and pollinate plants in my friend’s garden.

By now, my friend is offering the wasp some honey. As he watches her feed and fly away, he is contemplating the benefits that this single insect will bring to his garden this summer.

My friend is not unusual: like many people, he lacks the words to describe nature and knowledge to name it. Without such nature literacy, is it any wonder that many people don’t know how to care for the natural world or why we should bother?

Humans are more disconnected from nature than ever, partly because technology means we have fewer reasons to spend time in nature – this is what ecologists call the “extinction of experience”. Fewer than half of UK adults feel highly connected with nature; most children can’t identify stinging nettles, bumblebees or robins. People don’t understand what the term natural history means or why it matters.

I witnessed this recently while lecturing. In a class survey, my bioscience students summed up natural history as: “old Victorian gentlemen”, “museums”, “dinosaurs” and “old-fashioned”. They also rated natural history as not relevant or of little relevance to their degree programmes, with only a few people rating it as quite or very important.

We weren’t always like this. Natural history is the study of nature: it is the oldest science. Natural selection ensured that early humans were brilliant naturalists, in order to find food and not become food. Nature inspired some of our most influential scientists, from Aristotle to Charles Darwin.

Non-biologists were also deeply influenced by nature. In the words of physicist Albert Einstein: “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” English mathematician Isaac Newton considered himself “a natural philosopher” – only the nature-curious would bother watching an apple fall.

Having the language to name and describe nature is a gateway to curiosity-driven innovation, creativity and discovery. This matters because our food, health and wellbeing, innovations and creativity depend on observation, curiosity and understanding of the natural world. From termite-mound inspired air-conditioning technology to burr-mimicking Velcro, and ant-led town planning.

Without noticing how nature has solved problems and without the ability to name, recognise and share the source with others in order to replicate the observations, none of these breakthroughs would have happened. Where will our next innovations come from, if we’ve lost the inclination and ability to notice, name and know nature?

Knowledge about nature also makes us more pro-environmental and more likely to make planet-friendly decisions. This is critical as we continue to exceed planetary boundaries, driving climate change and nature loss. As things stand, our continuing divorce from nature means that the next generation are ill equipped for the future. Nature literacy helps us reconnect and make the right decisions.

Growing nature literacy

Becoming a nature-literate society starts with three key steps.

1. Notice. Relearn how to be deliciously distracted by nature, curious about the ordinary, and redevelop the sense of awe and wonder that has inspired science, innovation and the arts for centuries.

2. Name. Embrace the joys of learning to name nature. Can you tell a beech tree from an oak? A bee-fly from a bumble-bee? By being able to name something, we develop a connection with it and crave knowledge about it – be it for wasps or weeds.

3. Nurture. With names and knowledge come care, responsibility and the determination to take action to protect nature, such that future generations have the biodiversity needed for future learning and inspiration.

Have you ever seen an elephant hawkmoth caterpillar?
Simon T May/Shutterstock

Noticing and naming nature means we’re more likely to nurture it. Sharing our nature knowledge with others helps nudge the nature literacy agenda from below the boots of old Victorian gentlemen and into the 21st century. Even when that bit of nature involves gorgeous wasps.

Read more:
A new natural history GCSE is welcome – but climate change needs to be part of the whole curriculum

And after 11 years of campaigning, environmentalist and author Mary Colwell has nudged nature literacy on to the agenda of the UK government with the approval of an examination-level qualification for secondary school children – the natural history GCSE. This is an important first step forward in shifting the baseline of nature literacy among the next generation in the UK.

But nature literacy needs to become much more embedded across society. Nature-based jobs are the future. In industry and academia, tech startups and government, frontline roles are now focusing on “green” or “nature-based” jobs to deliver the nature-based solutions needed for a sustainable future. Demands for these jobs is booming, but the the lack of necessary nature-literacy skills is well-recognised. A recent report identified biodiversity knowledge as the most important technical skill identified by nature-based solutions employers globally.

We need to shift cultural norms and societal expectations so that nature literacy is taught and valued by everyone – not just ecologists. Government and educators owe the future of our planet a nature-literate workforce.

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

Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

Seirian Sumner receives funding from the UK government’s Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). She is a Trustee and Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society, and author of the book ‘Endless Forms: Why We Should Love Wasps’

– ref. Here’s how to create a more nature-literate society – https://theconversation.com/heres-how-to-create-a-more-nature-literate-society-253373

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – Strengthening the security of identity cards of Union citizens and of residence documents issued to Union citizens and their family members exercising their right of free movement – P10_TA(2025)0056 – Wednesday, 2 April 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament
Text proposed by the Commission Amendment Amendment 1
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19 (19)  This Regulation does not provide a legal basis for setting up or maintaining databases at national level for the storage of biometric data in Member States, which is a matter of national law that needs to comply with Union law regarding data protection, including its necessity and proportionality requirements. Moreover, this Regulation does not provide a legal basis for setting up or maintaining a centralised database at Union level. (19)  This Regulation does not provide a legal basis for setting up or maintaining databases at national level for the storage of biometric data in Member States. Moreover, this Regulation does not provide a legal basis for setting up or maintaining a centralised database at Union level. As recalled by the European Data Protection Supervisor in his opinion 21/2024, setting up or maintaining databases at national level for storing biometric data in Member States, or similarly, setting up or maintaining a centralised database at Union level, along with the potential use of such data for other purposes, would need to meet a strict necessity and proportionality test under the Charter, as interpreted by the relevant case law of the Court of Justice. Amendment 2
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 (20)  Biometric identifiers should be collected and stored in the storage medium of identity cards and residence documents for the purposes of verifying the authenticity of the document and the identity of the holder. Given the electronic signature on the storage medium of identity cards, identifying the holder by means of the storage medium, which contains the same biographic data as printed on the document, is more reliable than a visual check of the document. Union citizens should thus be allowed to use the data stored in the storage medium of their identity card to identify themselves towards private entities. However, the verification of the fingerprints stored on the storage medium should only be carried out by duly authorised staff and only when the document is required to be produced by law. (20)  Facial images stored in the storage medium of identity cards and residence documents should be accessed only by duly authorised staff of competent national authorities, Union agencies and private entities for the purposes of verifying the authenticity of the document and the identity of the holder. Such access should comply with Union data protection law. Facial images should not be retained for longer than is necessary for those purposes, should be deleted as soon as those purposes are achieved and should not be transferred to third countries or international organisations unless permitted by Union data protection law. Those safeguards are intended to ensure appropriate protection of the facial image while not prohibiting its use. Amendment 3
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 a (new) (20a)  The verification of the fingerprints stored on the storage medium should be carried out only by duly authorised staff of competent national authorities and Union agencies and only when the document is required to be produced by Union or national law. Amendment 4
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 (23)  Member States should be able to decide whether to include a person’s gender on a document covered by this Regulation. Where a Member State includes a person’s gender on such a document, the specifications of ICAO Document 9303 ‘F’, ‘M’ or ‘X’ or the corresponding single initial used in the language or languages of that Member State should be used, as appropriate. (23)  Without prejudice to the case law of the Court of Justice1a, Member States should be able to decide whether to include a person’s gender on a document covered by this Regulation. Where a Member State includes a person’s gender on such a document, the specifications of ICAO Document 9303 ‘F’, ‘M’ or ‘X’ or the corresponding single initial used in the language or languages of that Member State should be used, as appropriate. _________________ 1a Judgment of the Court of Justice of 4 October 2024, Mirin, C-4/23, ECLI:EU:C:2024:845 Amendment 5
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26 (26)  Where difficulties are encountered in the collection of biometric identifiers, Member States should ensure that appropriate procedures are in place to respect the dignity of the person concerned. Therefore, specific considerations relating to gender and to the specific needs of children and of vulnerable persons should be taken into account. (26)  Where difficulties are encountered in the collection of biometric identifiers, Member States should ensure that appropriate procedures are in place to respect the dignity of the person concerned. Therefore, specific considerations relating to gender and to the specific needs of children and of vulnerable persons should be taken into account. Qualified staff should receive training on best practices for collecting biometric identifiers from children and vulnerable persons, ensuring sensitivity to gender and age-specific needs while respecting the dignity of all individuals. Amendment 6
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 32 (32)  Member States should exchange with each other such information as is necessary to access, authenticate and verify the information contained on the secure storage medium. The formats used for the secure storage medium should be interoperable, including in respect of automated border crossing points. (32)  Member States should exchange with each other such information as is necessary to access, authenticate and verify the information contained on the secure storage medium. The formats used for the secure storage medium should be interoperable, including in respect of automated border crossing points. The Commission should promote Member States’ cooperation in support of such objectives. Amendment 7
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 43 (43)  In accordance with the Interinstitutional Agreement of 13 April 2016 on Better Law-Making9 , the Commission should, no sooner than six years after the date of application of this Regulation carry out an evaluation of this Regulation, including on the basis of information gathered through specific monitoring arrangements, in order to assess the actual effects of this Regulation and the need for any further action. For the purpose of monitoring, Member States should collect statistics on the number of identity cards and residence documents which they issued. (43)  The Commission should report on the implementation of this Regulation two years, and 11 years, after the date of its entry into force, including on the appropriateness of the level of security, taking into account its impact on fundamental rights and data protection principles. In accordance with the Interinstitutional Agreement of 13 April 2016 on Better Law-Making9 , the Commission should, six years after the date of entry into force of this Regulation, and every six years thereafter, carry out an evaluation of this Regulation, including on the basis of information gathered through specific monitoring arrangements, in order to assess the actual effects of this Regulation and the need for any further action. For the purpose of monitoring, Member States should collect statistics on the number of identity cards and residence documents which they issued. _________________ _________________ 9 OJ L 123, 12.5.2016, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/agree_interinstit/2016/512/oj. 9 OJ L 123, 12.5.2016, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/agree_interinstit/2016/512/oj. Amendment 8
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 By way of derogation from the first subparagraph, the document number may be inserted in zone I and the designation of a person’s gender shall be optional. By way of derogation from the first subparagraph, the document number may be inserted in zone I and the designation of a person’s gender shall be optional. Where a Member State includes a person’s gender on a document covered by this Regulation, the specifications of ICAO Document 9303 ‘F’, ‘M’ or ‘X’ or the corresponding single initial used in the official language or languages of that Member State shall be used, as appropriate. Amendment 9
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 5.  Identity cards shall include a highly secure storage medium which shall contain a facial image of the holder of the card and two fingerprints in interoperable digital formats. For the capture of biometric identifiers, Member States shall apply the technical specifications as established by Commission Implementing Decision C(2018) 776712 as amended by Commission Implementing Decision C(2021) 372613 . 5.  Identity cards shall include a highly secure storage medium which shall contain a facial image of the holder of the card and two fingerprints in interoperable digital formats. For the capture of those two types of biometric identifiers, Member States shall apply the technical specifications as established by Commission Implementing Decision C(2018) 776712 as amended by Commission Implementing Decision C(2021) 372613 . _________________ _________________ 12 Commission Implementing Decision C(2018) 7767 of 30 November 2018 laying down the technical specifications for the uniform format for residence permits for third country nationals and repealing Decision C(2002) 3069. 12 Commission Implementing Decision C(2018) 7767 of 30 November 2018 laying down the technical specifications for the uniform format for residence permits for third country nationals and repealing Decision C(2002) 3069. 13 Commission Implementing Decision C(2021) 3726 of 4 June 2021 amending Annex III to Implementing Decision C(2018) 7767 as regards the list of normative references. 13 Commission Implementing Decision C(2021) 3726 of 4 June 2021 amending Annex III to Implementing Decision C(2018) 7767 as regards the list of normative references. Amendment 10
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 3 3.  Other than where required for the purpose of processing in accordance with Union and national law, biometric identifiers stored for the purpose of personalisation of identity cards or residence documents shall be kept in a highly secure manner and only until the date of collection of the document and, in any case, no longer than 90 days from the date of issue. After this period, these biometric identifiers shall be immediately erased or destroyed. 3.  Biometric identifiers stored for the purpose of personalisation of identity cards or residence documents shall be kept in a highly secure manner and only until the date of collection of the document and, in any case, no longer than 90 days from the date of issue. After this period, those biometric identifiers shall be immediately erased or destroyed. Processing of those data for other purposes shall be subject to the limitations and conditions provided for in national law or Union data protection law. Amendment 11
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 4 4.  Cooperation with external service providers shall not exclude any liability on the part of a Member State which may arise under Union or national law in respect of breaches of obligations with regard to personal data. 4.  Cooperation with external service providers shall not exclude any liability on the part of a Member State which may arise under Union or national law in respect of breaches of obligations with regard to personal data. Member States shall ensure that all external providers comply with Union and national data protection law, and appropriate measures shall be adopted to prevent any unauthorised access or misuse of personal data during outsourced processes. Amendment 12
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part Biometric data stored in the storage medium of identity cards and residence documents shall only be used in accordance with Union and national law for the purpose of verifying: The facial image of the holder stored in the storage medium of identity cards and residence documents shall only be accessed by duly authorised staff of competent national authorities, Union agencies and private entities in accordance with Union data protection law for the purposes of verifying: Amendment 13
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1 a (new) Access to the facial image by private entities shall also require the consent of the holder, unless access regardless of consent is strictly necessary for the purposes set out in the first subparagraph and provided for by Union or national law in compliance with Union data protection law. Amendment 14
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 2 The two fingerprints stored in the storage medium shall only be accessed by duly authorised staff of competent national authorities and Union agencies. The two fingerprints of the holder stored in the storage medium shall only be accessed by duly authorised staff of competent national authorities and Union agencies for the purposes set out in the first subparagraph in accordance with Union and national data protection law. Amendment 15
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – title Evaluation Reporting and evaluation Amendment 16
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph -1 (new) -1.  By [two years after the date of entry into force of this Regulation] and by [11 years after the date of entry into force of this Regulation] the Commission shall report to the European Parliament, to the Council and to the European Economic and Social Committee on the implementation of this Regulation, in particular on the protection of fundamental rights and personal data. Amendment 17
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – introductory part 1.  No sooner than [six years after the entry into force of this Regulation], the Commission shall carry out an evaluation of this Regulation and present a report on the main findings to the European Parliament, to the Council and to the European Economic and Social Committee. The report shall in particular focus on: 1.  No later than [six years after the entry into force of this Regulation], and every six years thereafter, the Commission shall carry out an evaluation of this Regulation and present a report on the main findings to the European Parliament, to the Council and to the European Economic and Social Committee. The report shall in particular focus on: Amendment 18
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new) (da)   the necessity of introducing common security features of identification documents used on a provisional basis in view of their better recognition; Amendment 19
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point d b (new) (db)   the necessity of further harmonising the security features of residence documents.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on March Labour Force Survey results

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, has issued the following statement on the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for March 2025:

“All over the world, people are looking for new trading partners as the tariff threat now impacts countries around the globe. We are working to diversify our trade to support our businesses and protect and create more jobs.

“Today’s Labour Force Survey data shows in March, while the national trend is down, B.C. held steady with a small increase of 5,700 jobs compared to last month, with the highest increase in full-time employment among provinces at 10,000. So far this year, B.C. has gained 35,400 full-time jobs, the highest increase among provinces.

“Compared to March of last year, B.C.’s private-sector employment is up by 32,700, the third-highest increase in private-sector employment across the country. And we have work to do to continue to support the private sector that is facing real impacts from Trump’s tariffs. Since July 2017, B.C. has gained 172,800 private-sector jobs.

“Our unemployment rate is 6.1%, one of the lowest in the country and below the national average of 6.7%. B.C. also continues to lead the country with an average hourly wage of $37.64, the highest among provinces.

“This month, women’s employment increased by 16,800, with full-time jobs up by 14,100 and part time up by 2,700. So far this year, B.C. has had the highest increase in women’s full-time employment among provinces, up by 32,500.

“The data this morning shows that in March, B.C. had employment increases in health care and social assistance (+6,600) and professional, scientific and technical services (+2,400). Construction has gained 14,500 jobs and manufacturing is up 8,600 jobs compared to this time last year.

“As British Columbians braced themselves for another week of uncertainty from the United States, our government continues to stand strong for people, take action and defend our jobs. This week, 22 B.C. companies and universities promoted the province’s unique technology products and services in Germany at Hannover Messe 2025, the world’s largest trade show for industrial and energy technologies.

“As we expand our trade diversification globally, we’re proud to showcase B.C.’s solutions to the challenges of advancing AI, improving energy efficiency and lessening the impacts of climate change worldwide. This is the largest number of B.C. companies that have chosen to travel to this event. Advancing our trade and investment opportunities on this global stage will open new markets for B.C.’s economy to grow and prosper, and create new jobs for people in British Columbia.

“B.C. is protecting services and defending people’s jobs and the economy. Growing a stronger and more diverse economy will help protect people in B.C. from instability outside our borders, with investments that will bring good-paying jobs to the province as part of robust and sustainable industries.”

Learn More:

To learn more about B.C.’s Response to Tariffs, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/tariffs

To learn more about B.C.’s trade presence at Hannover Messe, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025JEDI0014-000275

MIL OSI Canada News –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Delivers Strongest Labour Market in Canada with Highest Job Creation and Lowest Unemployment Rate

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on April 4, 2025

Statistics Canada’s latest labour force numbers show continued growth in Saskatchewan with 19,800 jobs added year-over-year in March, leading the nation with a 3.4 per cent job growth rate. Saskatchewan also had the lowest unemployment rate among provinces at 4.9 per cent, well below the national average of 6.7 per cent.

“Saskatchewan continues to have one of the strongest labour markets in Canada,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Career Training Jim Reiter said. “Our government has made Saskatchewan the first carbon tax free province in Canada which will ensure that we remain the most attractive jurisdiction in the nation for businesses looking to create jobs and opportunities for our residents.”

Year-over-year, full-time employment increased by 5,400 an increase of 1.1 per cent. There are more women working in Saskatchewan than ever before with female employment reaching an all-time high of 287,000. Female employment is up 11,300 which is an increase of 4.1 per cent and male employment is up 8,400 an increase of 2.7 per cent.

Saskatchewan’s two biggest cities also saw year-over-year growth. Compared to March 2024, Saskatoon’s employment was up 4,800, an increase of 2.5 per cent, and Regina’s employment was up 3,500, an increase of 2.5 per cent.

Major year-over-year gains were reported for construction up 8,700, an increase of 24.2 per cent. Health care and social assistance is up 8,100 an increase of 8.8 per cent and educational services is up 4,900 an increase of 8.7 per cent.

The province continues to see economic growth in other areas. In January 2025, Saskatchewan ranked first year-over-year amongst provinces for growth in new motor vehicle sales (17.3 per cent) and second for growth in retail sales (11.5 per cent). Year to date Saskatchewan also had the second highest growth rate amongst provinces for urban housing starts (51.5 per cent).

This economic growth is backed by the Government of Saskatchewan’s recently released Building the Workforce for a Growing Economy: The Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy, a roadmap to build the workforce needed to support Saskatchewan’s strong and growing economy, and Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan’s Investment Attraction Strategy, a plan to increase investment in the province and to furth advancing Saskatchewan’s Growth plan goal of $16 billion in private capital investment annually.

-30-

For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: “ARE WE THERE YET?” INDEX: Samsung Teams Up with Jordan Banjo to Reveal Nation’s Road Trip Frustrations Ahead of Easter Long Weekend

Source: Samsung

LONDON, UK – 3rd April 2025 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd – Whilst the Easter holidays promise adventure, for many families, this is quickly overshadowed by the boredom and frustration of long journeys.

Research conducted to launch Samsung’s latest tablet, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE, unveils a staggering 52% of families are planning journeys over the Easter weekend. The stats also reveal that on average, boredom strikes within just 43 minutes of a road trip. With the majority (43%) considering road trips to be journeys upwards of 2 hours, its clear entertainment becomes crucial before they’ve even reached the halfway point.

The infamous phrase, “Are we there yet?” reigns supreme as one of the top causes of frustration on a family road trip (33%), heard an average of five times during a journey lasting more than 50 miles. Samsung’s “Are We There Yet?” Index pinpoints families in the West Midlands as the most impatient – 44% hear “Are we nearly there yet?” before the hour is up. And, families in the East of England are most likely to ask this more than 10 times on a typical road trip.

But it’s not just the miles that are causing friction. Keeping younger passengers entertained (29%), unexpected road closures (38%) and complaints of boredom (35%) also play a big part. In fact, nearly a fifth (20%) admit that these frustrations cause at least two arguments per road trip.

Father of three and Diversity member, Jordan Banjo, says: “As a dad of three, ‘are we there yet’ is a familiar soundtrack in my car. It’s not about keeping the kids quiet; it’s about making those long drives fun for everyone.
“Tech like the new Galaxy Tab S10 FE has been a game-changer for us, turning ‘are we there yet?’ into ‘can I have a go’.”

In a bid to rescue families from travel woes, Samsung introduces the Galaxy Tab S10 FE as the ultimate travel companion, bringing much-needed entertainment to the whole family.

Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product and Marketing Samsung UK&I, says: “Working out how to keep your children entertained in the car can be as stressful as planning a family trip itself.
 
“Parents often need technology like tablets to be an additional travel companion for long journeys, helping the entire family to beat both boredom and frustration – whether it’s getting creative with the S Pen, or exploring the Galaxy Tab S10 FE’s preloaded apps to encourage imagination and learning whilst on the move.
 
“It’s not about filling the time; it’s about enriching the journey for everyone in the car. The Galaxy Tab S10 FE is designed to do just that, turning challenging journeys into shared enjoyment.”

Top family road trip frustrations:

Unexpected road closures or heavy traffic
Complaints of boredom
Kids repeatedly asking, “Are we there yet?”
Struggling to keep younger children entertained
Sibling arguments and bickering
Motion sickness and travel sickness complaints
Frequent toilet stops
Poor mobile signal or no internet for entertainment
Snacks running out too soon or making a mess
Difficulty finding a suitable place to stop for food or breaks

Stats revealed that other annoying phrases heard by adults included ‘I need the toilet’ (16%), ‘I’m bored’ (13%) and ‘I’m hungry’ (10%).

When asked what would help improve the road trip experience, having an entertainment device (39%), plenty of snacks (50%) and frequent stops to take breaks (36%) topped the list. Of those who embarked on lengthy trips at least three times a year, 86% say access to Wi-Fi was crucial to the smooth running of a journey. This reached its highest point amongst Londoners, with 91% flagging online connection as an essential.

Jordan Banjo shares his top tips for keeping the boredom at bay on long car journeys:

Plan frequent stops: Little legs need breaks! We always plan regular stops to stretch, grab snacks, and let the kids burn off some energy.
Creative entertainment: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE has been a game-changer for us. The S Pen allows my kids to draw and create, and we’ve found loads of educational apps that make learning fun. It stops the constant “Are we there yet?” questions.
Music and podcasts: A good playlist or family-friendly podcast can make a huge difference. Let everyone take turns choosing, or find something everyone can enjoy together.
Snacks and drinks: Pack plenty of healthy snacks and drinks to avoid hanger meltdowns. A well-fed family is a happy family!
Embrace the journey: Road trips are a chance to make memories. Try playing car games, telling stories, and enjoying the time together.

With 55% of Brits voting the tablet the top travel tech gadget, and 27% using tech to engage the family in a shared activity, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE is set to bring the whole family entertainment.

From the S Pen that allows for creative expression through drawing and note-taking, to a vast library of apps that can turn travel time into learning opportunities, the suite of features guarantees an engaging journey. And with a powerful processor and longer lasting battery life, you can do more for longer.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE, with its creative and entertainment capabilities, alongside 5G connectivity, ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey for all.

Discover the Galaxy Tab S10 FE: https://www.samsung.com/uk/tablets/galaxy-tab-s10-fe/buy/.

Additional stats:
40% of Brits combat frustration by loading up tablets with films, TV shows or games
This is followed by packing healthy snacks (34%), playing classic car games (32%), and setting challenges (28%)
48% of parents use tech to keep kids occupied quietly so parents can focus on driving
On average, families take two stops and have three arguments per road trip

Research carried out by One Poll on behalf of Samsung in March 2025, 1500 respondents, UK adults

MIL OSI Economics –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: 2X Awarded on the Financial Times Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies 2025 List
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MALVERN, Pa., April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 2X, a leader in subscription-based marketing as a service (MaaS), has been named to the Financial Times list of The Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies 2025. This prestigious award is presented by the Financial Times and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The awards list was announced on April 2, 2025, and can be viewed on the FT.com website.

2X has been named to the Financial Times’ list of the America’s Fastest Growing Companies for the third time, earning the #102 spot for 2025—up from #114 in the 2024 edition. This consistent recognition underscores 2X’s rapid growth and sustained momentum in the dynamic B2B marketing services space.

Over the past few years, 2X has experienced significant growth, driven by strategic investments, key acquisitions, and deep partnerships across the B2B marketing ecosystem. Backed by leading private equity firms Recognize and Insight Partners, 2X has expanded its capabilities and reach through the acquisition of growth services firm Intelligent Demand and a strategic investment in Get Levrg, which offers subscription-based marketing services for startups, founder-led, and venture-backed businesses. The company also partners with cutting-edge tech leaders like 6sense and Copy.ai to deliver next-generation marketing performance and capabilities. Today, 2X supports over 150 clients, including global brands like SAP, Ricoh, Docker, Hyland, Seismic, Qlik, and GoTo. By applying enterprise-grade frameworks, automation, and data-driven strategies, 2X empowers marketing organizations of all sizes to thrive in an increasingly competitive $100B B2B marketing services market.

“We’re honored to be recognized by the Financial Times as one of the Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies for the third time—a milestone that reflects the continued trust of our clients, the strength of our team, and the power of the marketing-as-a-service model,” said Domenic Colasante, CEO of 2X. “This recognition underscores our mission to redefine how B2B companies scale revenue and marketing operations—by enabling them to subscribe to a tech-enabled, AI-forward execution model that drives efficiency, performance, and growth.”

The Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies 2025 ranking identifies companies with the strongest revenue growth between the years 2020 and 2023. The creation of the ranking was based on the following criteria:
- Revenue of at least US $100,000 generated in 2020
- Revenue of at least US $1.5M generated in 2023
- The company is independent (the company is not a subsidiary or branch office of any kind)
- The company is headquartered in one of 20 American countries
- Revenue growth was primarily organic between 2020 and 2023
Statista publishes hundreds of industry rankings and company listings worldwide with high-profile media partners. This research and analysis is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, relevant business data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.

About 2X

2X is a leading B2B marketing-as-a-service firm that helps marketing leaders achieve greater impact while lowering costs through its managed services delivery model. Servicing over 150 clients including SAP, Ricoh, Docker, Hyland, Seismic, Qlik, and GoTo, 2X provides dedicated and highly skilled FTEs who specialize in marketing operations, MarTech management, campaign execution, content and creative production, and strategy consulting services. With more than 1,000 team members globally, 2X is backed by private equity firms Recognize and Insight Partners and has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the US by Inc. and the Financial Times. For more information, visit 2X.marketing or follow us on LinkedIn.

Media Contact
Audree Hernandez
JMAC PR for 2X
2X@JMACPR.com

The MIL Network –
April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Abolition wasn’t fueled by just moral or economic concerns – the booming whaling industry also helped sink slavery

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Topher L. McDougal, Professor of Economic Development & Peacebuilding, University of San Diego

An engraving of whalers at sea attacking a whale with a harpoon from 1820. Kean Collection/Getty Images

Historians have long debated whether the end of slavery in the United States was primarily driven by moral campaigns or economic changes. But what if both perspectives are looking at only part of the puzzle?

We are experts in economic development and social movements. Our new research uncovers what we believe to be a surprising and overlooked factor in the decline of slavery in the U.S. – the rise of the whaling industry.

Starting around 1650, whaling expanded along the Northeast coast of the British American colonies. Whaling expeditions killed whales and brought back to port valuable animal products like oil, used for lamps and other items, and whalebone, used for products ranging from corsets to combs.

Whalers also brought spermaceti, a waxy substance that comes from a sperm whale’s head and is used to produce candles and lubricants for precision machinery like watches and clocks.

At its peak, in the 1850s, the American whaling industry alone employed 50,000 to 70,000 workers who worked on an estimated 700 to 800 ships.

In the decades before cheap oil helped many industries truly take off, whaling played an important, but often overlooked, role in laying the groundwork for the antislavery movement.

Black sailors made up perhaps 20% to 30% of whaling crews. Of these sailors, some were enslaved and used their hard-won earnings to buy their freedom. Some of these sailors went on to finance abolitionist efforts. Others built houses of worship.

The whaling industry that produced oil to illuminate 19th-century lamps also added fuel to the fire of the antislavery movement. The city motto of New Bedford, Massachusetts – lucem diffundo, or “I diffuse light” in Latin – referred to the candles and lamps the whaling industry lit, as well as the moral clarity some whalers aspired to promote.

Three Black whalers stand on a wharf in New Bedford, Mass., in an 1880 drawing.
Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images

The missing link between whaling and abolition

Slavery in the American colonies began in 1619 with a small enslaved population that grew to about 500,000 by the American Revolution in 1775. As slavery became institutionalized in law and American culture, the number of enslaved people grew, primarily in the South, to as many as 4 million in the years leading up to the Civil War in 1861.

The first half of the 1800s saw a surge of abolitionist activism, rooted in early Quaker efforts and Indigenous wisdom. Abolitionism reshaped American politics into a fuller democracy, linking Black resistance, feminist struggles and labor rights to the broader fight for democracy and human rights.

The decline and eventual abolition of slavery has been portrayed as the result of tireless activism and moral persuasion by early Quaker advocates like Benjamin Lay who considered slavery one of the worst sins. Abolitionists like Frederick Douglass would later go on to advocate for the Civil War to force a moral reckoning on the South.

The result was an antislavery moral high ground from which the United Kingdom, and later the U.S., could measure other countries and monitor the high seas.

Another common explanation for the end of slavery is the economic argument that slavery declined as fossil fuel-powered machinery replaced enslaved labor on farms and even in factories.

Our research challenges this binary by showing that before steam engines transformed industry, whaling played an overlooked role in challenging the proposition that slavery was America’s most economically profitable form of labor organization at the time.

Increased whaling, decreased slavery

We analyzed data from U.S. Census records and the logbooks of American whaling voyages from 1790 to 1840 – systematized in a dataset maintained by the Mystic Seaport Museum and New Bedford Whaling Museum.

This data came from well before the 1859 discovery and exploitation of oil in Pennsylvania.

The results were striking: When the whaling industry brought back more oil, bone and spermaceti to specific ports, the proportion of enslaved people in the corresponding states declined.

Statistically speaking, we saw a nearly perfect 1-to-1 inverse relationship between whaling and slavery.

When whaling products went up 1%, slavery proportions went down by almost the same amount in that state in the following years. What’s more, we mapped these findings geographically and discovered that the more whaling occurred, the more widely decreases in slavery occurred in nearby states.

In other words, our statistics suggest that increases in whaling led to decreases in slavery, and this effect diffused across state lines.

Why whaling mattered

Whaling was the first global industry in the colonies that eventually became the U.S.

Whaling hubs like the Massachusetts towns of Nantucket and New Bedford and the island of Martha’s Vineyard became some of the wealthiest communities in the country.

Whaling was also one of the few industries where Black Americans, both free and formerly enslaved, could make money and become wealthy. Individuals of all backgrounds could rise through the whaling industry ranks based on skill rather than birth.

It also required a risk-embracing and entrepreneurial mindset, as immortalized in a song that the writer Herman Melville has the crew sing in the 1851 book Moby-Dick: “So, be cheery, my lads! may your hearts never fail! / While the bold harpooner is striking the whale!”

By contrast, the plantation economy relied on rigid racial hierarchies and hereditary enslavement.

Prince Boston was one example of an enslaved whaler, who, in 1773 at the age of 23, won the right in the local Nantucket court to purchase his own freedom from his owner, who lived locally, with the money he earned on a harpoon crew.

This watershed moment saw the court make a precedent that was probably illegal at the time, but which supported and defended both the whaling industry as well as the aspirations of the people needed to make it thrive. Prince Boston’s free-born nephew, Absolom Boston, become the first Black whaling captain in 1822 – one of approximately 50 Black and Native captains in the American whaling industry throughout its history.

Financing the fight against slavery

The economic power generated by whaling helped fund the abolitionist movement in tangible ways.

Wealthy Quaker merchants in whaling towns, like Martha’s Vineyard, were some of the earliest and most fervent supporters of abolition.

Elihu Coleman, a Nantucket Quaker, wrote one of the first antislavery pamphlets in America in 1733. Douglass, the famed abolitionist and formerly enslaved man from Maryland, found refuge in New Bedford, a whaling town with a strong antislavery tradition.

Whaling profits financed the construction of meeting houses and schools for free Black communities in these towns. The African Baptist Society in Nantucket, for example, was built by Black whalers who had achieved financial independence through their trade.

Whalers cut pieces from a small whale on Long Island, N.Y., in 1900.
Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images

Whaling’s vital role in ending slavery

As an industry, whaling provided a meritocratic career path before fossil fuel mechanization made slavery obsolete. While industrialization eventually made enslaved labor less profitable by the mid- and late-1800s, whaling had already eroded slavery’s economic and social foundations decades earlier.

Of course, whaling itself was not a morally pure endeavor. It was dangerous and devastating to whale populations. The American whaling industry killed perhaps 32,000 whales over the 74 years between 1835 and 1909. The global harvest of whales was many times greater. The U.S. officially outlawed whaling in 1971.

Yet, whaling’s role in funding abolition and providing economic opportunities for free Black Americans is undeniable. It was, in many ways, a bridge between the world of forced labor and the energy-driven economy of the modern age.

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

– ref. Abolition wasn’t fueled by just moral or economic concerns – the booming whaling industry also helped sink slavery – https://theconversation.com/abolition-wasnt-fueled-by-just-moral-or-economic-concerns-the-booming-whaling-industry-also-helped-sink-slavery-250980

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Being alone has its benefits − a psychologist flips the script on the ‘loneliness epidemic’

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Virginia Thomas, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Middlebury

Studies show that choosing ‘me time’ is not a recipe for loneliness but can boost your creativity and emotional well-being. FotoDuets/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Over the past few years, experts have been sounding the alarm over how much time Americans spend alone.

Statistics show that we’re choosing to be solitary for more of our waking hours than ever before, tucked away at home rather than mingling in public. Increasing numbers of us are dining alone and traveling solo, and rates of living alone have nearly doubled in the past 50 years.

These trends coincided with the surgeon general’s 2023 declaration of a loneliness epidemic, leading to recent claims that the U.S. is living in an “anti-social century.”

Loneliness and isolation are indeed social problems that warrant serious attention, especially since chronic states of loneliness are linked with poor outcomes such as depression and a shortened lifespan.

But there is another side to this story, one that deserves a closer look. For some people, the shift toward aloneness represents a desire for what researchers call “positive solitude,” a state that is associated with well-being, not loneliness.

As a psychologist, I’ve spent the past decade researching why people like to be alone – and spending a fair amount of time there myself – so I’m deeply familiar with the joys of solitude. My findings join a host of others that have documented a long list of benefits gained when we choose to spend time by ourselves, ranging from opportunities to recharge our batteries and experience personal growth to making time to connect with our emotions and our creativity.

Being alone can help remind people who they are.

So it makes sense to me why people live alone as soon as their financial circumstances allow, and when asked why they prefer to dine solo, people say simply, “I want more me time.”

It’s also why I’m not surprised that a 2024 national survey found that 56% of Americans considered alone time essential for their mental health. Or that Costco is now selling “solitude sheds” where for around US$2,000 you can buy yourself some peace and quiet.

It’s clear there is a desire, and a market, for solitude right now in American culture. But why does this side of the story often get lost amid the warnings about social isolation?

I suspect it has to do with a collective anxiety about being alone.

The stigma of solitude

This anxiety stems in large part from our culture’s deficit view of solitude. In this type of thinking, the desire to be alone is seen as unnatural and unhealthy, something to be pitied or feared rather than valued or encouraged.

This isn’t just my own observation. A study published in February 2025 found that U.S. news headlines are 10 times more likely to frame being alone negatively than positively. This type of bias shapes people’s beliefs, with studies showing that adults and children alike have clear judgments about when it is – and importantly when it is not – acceptable for their peers to be alone.

This makes sense given that American culture holds up extroversion as the ideal – indeed as the basis for what’s normal. The hallmarks of extraversion include being sociable and assertive, as well as expressing more positive emotions and seeking more stimulation than the opposite personality – the more reserved and risk-averse introverts. Even though not all Americans are extroverts, most of us have been conditioned to cultivate that trait, and those who do reap social and professional rewards. In this cultural milieu, preferring to be alone carries stigma.

But the desire for solitude is not pathological, and it’s not just for introverts. Nor does it automatically spell social isolation and a lonely life. In fact, the data doesn’t fully support current fears of a loneliness epidemic, something scholars and journalists have recently acknowledged.

In other words, although Americans are indeed spending more time alone than previous generations did, it’s not clear that we are actually getting lonelier. And despite our fears for the eldest members of our society, research shows that older adults are happier in solitude than the loneliness narrative would lead us to believe.

It’s all a balancing act – along with solitude, you need to socialize.

Social media disrupts our solitude

However, solitude’s benefits don’t automatically appear whenever we take a break from the social world. They arrive when we are truly alone – when we intentionally carve out the time and space to connect with ourselves – not when we are alone on our devices.

My research has found that solitude’s positive effects on well-being are far less likely to materialize if the majority of our alone time is spent staring at our screens, especially when we’re passively scrolling social media.

This is where I believe the collective anxiety is well placed, especially the focus on young adults who are increasingly forgoing face-to-face social interaction in favor of a virtual life – and who may face significant distress as a result.

Social media is by definition social. It’s in the name. We cannot be truly alone when we’re on it. What’s more, it’s not the type of nourishing “me time” I suspect many people are longing for.

True solitude turns attention inward. It’s a time to slow down and reflect. A time to do as we please, not to please anyone else. A time to be emotionally available to ourselves, rather than to others. When we spend our solitude in these ways, the benefits accrue: We feel rested and rejuvenated, we gain clarity and emotional balance, we feel freer and more connected to ourselves.

But if we’re addicted to being busy, it can be hard to slow down. If we’re used to looking at a screen, it can be scary to look inside. And if we don’t have the skills to validate being alone as a normal and healthy human need, then we waste our alone time feeling guilty, weird or selfish.

The importance of reframing solitude

Americans choosing to spend more time alone is indeed a challenge to the cultural script, and the stigmatization of solitude can be difficult to change. Nevertheless, a small but growing body of research indicates that it is possible, and effective, to reframe the way we think about solitude.

For example, viewing solitude as a beneficial experience rather than a lonely one has been shown to help alleviate negative feelings about being alone, even for the participants who were severely lonely. People who perceive their time alone as “full” rather than “empty” are more likely to experience their alone time as meaningful, using it for growth-oriented purposes such as self-reflection or spiritual connection.

Even something as simple as a linguistic shift – replacing “isolation” with “me time” – causes people to view their alone time more positively and likely affects how their friends and family view it as well.

It is true that if we don’t have a community of close relationships to return to after being alone, solitude can lead to social isolation. But it’s also true that too much social interaction is taxing, and such overload negatively affects the quality of our relationships. The country’s recent gravitational pull toward more alone time may partially reflect a desire for more balance in a life that is too busy, too scheduled and, yes, too social.

Just as connection with others is essential for our well-being, so is connection with ourselves.

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

– ref. Being alone has its benefits − a psychologist flips the script on the ‘loneliness epidemic’ – https://theconversation.com/being-alone-has-its-benefits-a-psychologist-flips-the-script-on-the-loneliness-epidemic-250742

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Londoners’ chance to nurture nature
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Londoners’ chance to nurture nature

Spring sunshine on time for ‘happy’ outdoor events
Walkers stepping out for their health and wellbeing, as part of the Natural England Happier Outdoors Festival. Photo: Sally Oldfield

Groucho Marx said: “Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it.”

And with the warm spring sunshine greeted by so many like a long-lost friend, Londoners are being urged to get outside and connect with so-called green and blue spaces.

Over the next 2 weeks, the Happier Outdoors Festival highlights the chance to discover the London you might not know. The capital’s hidden nature nuggets rubbing shoulders with the hustle and bustle of city life.

With green land and waterways making up about half of Greater London, there is every reason to mark the return of longer, lighter days by feeling, embracing and being part of nature.

But one in 5 Londoners say they haven’t recently visited a green space, lower than any region in England [i]

More than 70 classes, groups and sessions make up the city celebration of the great outdoors – a mix of walks, clubs and events to relax or educate the mind and improve both your physical and mental state.

From Tai Chi classes in Harrow or counting bird numbers in Haringey, to taking a gentle stroll around woods and gardens in Lewisham or Croydon, building hotels for bugs in Barnet, and maybe putting your back into some organised gardening in Ealing.

Laura Brown, Natural England’s lead health adviser for London, said:

“The importance of open spaces cannot be underestimated. Nature can relax us, educate us, and help reduce anxiety and depression.

“We know there are countless benefits to connecting with nature – it makes us feel better, physically and mentally. The second Happier Outdoors Festival builds on last year, promoting the connection between people and urban nature.

“I’m excited for Londoners to discover natural spaces just minutes from their home or be inspired by a new outdoor hobby they had never considered before.”

Natural England founded the Happier Outdoors network, a group of more than 30 organisations running events to encourage people in London to connect with nature for improved health and wellbeing.

All events are free, and have either been arranged especially for the festival or continue throughout the year.

A full list of what’s on and how to get involved can be found at https://happieroutdoors.london/. The Happier Outdoors Festival runs between 7 and 16 April.

The clarion call to get outside comes as a wide-ranging survey opens into how exposure to natural spaces affects people’s health, behaviour and attitude to the environment over an extended period of time.

The three-year study will involve a sample of approximately 18,000 adults across the country, in a partnership between Natural England, the University of Exeter and the Natural Environment Research Council, and developed by organisations from a range of sectors.

[i] The People and Nature Survey for England 2024: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/the-people-and-nature-surveys-for-england-adults-data-y5q2-july-2024-september-2024.

Contact us:

Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk

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Published 4 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland is the only UK nation that is reducing child poverty

Source: Scottish National Party

Rachel Reeves could use her latest budget to match the Scottish Child Payment UK-wide, after research from the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) found that child poverty rates in Scotland have fallen compared to the rest of the UK.

The question is, will she? And will Scotland’s Labour MPs also challenge her to do so?

According to the CPAG, child poverty fell in Scotland, with the three-year average poverty rate falling in Scotland from 24% to 23% – with the latest one-year data showing a fall from 26% to 22%.

Meanwhile in England it has risen from 30% to 31%, from 23% to 24% in Northern Ireland, and from 29% to 31% in Wales

The CPAG states that “the key reason for this divergence is the introduction of the Scottish Child Payment” and that “this shows the impact investment in social security has on child poverty”.

It also warns the Westminster government that child poverty is set to rise even higher in the absence of any poverty-reducing reforms, reaching 4.8 million by the end of this parliament in 2029.

The report by the CPAG was soon followed by another, published by the Changing Realities study of the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), which concluded that Labour could lift 700,000 children out of poverty if it adopted the SNP policy.

These warnings come after the Westminster government’s own impact assessment revealed that the latest benefit cuts announced by Rachel Reeves will push 50,000 more children into poverty.

The SNP has consistently called for the UK government to match the Scottish Government’s action on child poverty by matching the Scottish Child Payment.

Instead of scapegoating struggling families on benefits for the UK’s ills the Chancellor should be using her spring budget to deliver the real and long-overdue action needed to tackle the increasing levels of child poverty in the rest of the UK.

It is a mark of shame on a Westminster Labour government that child poverty is rising and expected to hit record highs by the end of this parliament.

Westminster Labour government policies are now actively pushing children into poverty and holding Scotland back.

Rachel Reeves could deliver emergency action now by matching the Scottish Child Payment UK-wide. As the Child Poverty Action Group and LSE have revealed it has made a difference by reducing child poverty in Scotland.

As a result of the SNP government’s leadership, Scotland is the only part of the UK where child poverty is expected to fall – it’s time the Westminster Labour government matched this action.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: All India Workshop of Trainers for the Comprehensive Modular Survey on Education

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, organized the All India Workshop of Trainers (AIWOT) for the Comprehensive Modular Survey (CMS) on Education, as part of the NSS 80^th Round, at Marriott Hotel, Jaipur, on April 3, 2025. The NSO will conduct the CMS (Education) from April to June 2025.

Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, inaugurated the workshop and, in his address, underscored the significance of the education survey. He emphasized the crucial role of surveys in evidence- based policymaking and stressed the need for high-quality, timely data. Dr. Garg urged participants to uphold rigorous standards in data collection and processing and highlighted the importance of proactive engagement with state authorities to ensure smooth survey implementation and address other key issues under the Ministry’s purview.

The event was attended by Ms. Geeta Singh Rathore, Director General (NSS), along with Additional Director Generals and Deputy Director Generals from various NSS divisions. Field functionaries from all regional and sub-regional offices of the Field Operations Division (FOD) also participated, along with representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Population Council Institute, and the State Directorates of Economics & Statistics from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.

Live demonstration on the art of canvassing the schedule and hands-on training on CAPI was imparted to the participants.

CMS (Education) aims to collect critical data on education-related indicators, with a special focus on household expenditure on education.

The survey will cover the entire Indian Union, except for remote villages in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that are difficult to access.

****

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Households and non-financial corporations in the euro area: fourth quarter of 2024
Source: European Central Bank

4 April 2025
- Households’ financial investment increased at broadly unchanged annual rate of 2.4% in fourth quarter of 2024
- Non-financial corporations’ financing increased at annual rate of 0.9%, compared with 1.1% in previous quarter
- Non-financial corporations’ gross operating surplus decreased at unchanged annual rate of ‑1.4%
Chart 1

Household financing and financial and non-financial investment

(annual growth rates)

Sources: ECB and Eurostat.

Data for household financing and financial and non-financial investment

Chart 2

NFC gross-operating surplus, non-financial investment and financing

(annual growth rates)

Source: ECB and Eurostat.

Data for NFC gross-operating surplus, non-financial investment and financing

Households

Household gross disposable income increased in the fourth quarter of 2024 at a broadly unchanged rate of 4.4%. The compensation of employees grew at a lower rate of 4.9% (after 5.5% in the previous quarter), and gross operating surplus and mixed income of the self-employed increased at a lower rate of 2.9% (after 3.6%). Household consumption expenditure increased at a higher rate of 3.6% (after 3.2%).

The household gross saving rate increased to 15.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared with 15.2% in the previous quarter.

Household gross non-financial investment (which refers mainly to housing) decreased at a more negative annual rate (-1.5%) in the fourth quarter of 2024 (after -0.9%). Loans to households, the main component of household financing, grew at a higher rate of 1.2% (after 0.9%).

Household financial investment increased at a broadly unchanged annual rate of 2.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Currency and deposits grew at a higher rate of 2.8% (after 2.5%), while investment in debt securities increased at a lower rate of 9.0% (after 15.9%). Investment in shares and other equity grew at a higher rate of 2.0% (after 1.1%) due to accelerating investments in investment fund shares (7.7% after 5.4%). Investment in life insurance grew at a higher rate of 1.1% (after 0.8%) and in pension schemes at a lower rate of 2.1% (after 2.3%).

Household net worth increased at an annual rate of 4.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024, after 5.7% in the previous quarter. Net financial and non-financial assets grew due to valuation gains in addition to investments. Housing wealth, the main component of non-financial assets grew at a higher rate of 3.4% (after 2.8%). The household debt-to-income ratio decreased, to 81.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024 from 85.0% in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Non-financial corporations

Net value added by NFCs increased at a broadly unchanged annual rate of 2.5% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Gross operating surplus decreased at an unchanged rate of -1.4%, while net property income – defined in this context as property income receivable minus interest and rent payable – increased. As a result gross entrepreneurial income (broadly equivalent to cash flow) increased at a rate of 0.8% (after -1.4%).^[1]

NFCs’ gross non-financial investment increased at lower annual rate of 1.0% in the fourth quarter of 2024 (after 2.8%)^[2]. Financial investment grew at lower annual rate of 1.8% (after 2.2%). Among its components, loans granted increased at a lower rate of 2.5% (after 3.3%), and investment in shares and other equity grew at a lower rate of 1.0% (after 1.3%).

Financing of NFCs increased at a lower rate of 0.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024 (after 1.1%). Loan financing (1.2% after 1.4%)^[3] and financing via shares and other equity (0.4% after 0.6%) grew at lower rates. Financing via debt securities increased at a broadly unchanged rate of 2.4%, while financing via trade credits accelerated (3.5% after 3.1%).

The NFC debt-to-GDP ratio (consolidated measure) decreased to 67.3% in the fourth quarter of 2024, from 68.8% in the same quarter of the previous year; the non-consolidated, wider debt measure decreased to 138.7% from 140.7%.

For queries, please use the Statistical Information Request form.

Notes
- This statistical release incorporates revisions to the data since the first quarter of 2021.
- The annual growth rate of non-financial transactions and of outstanding assets and liabilities (stocks) is calculated as the percentage change between the value for a given quarter and that value recorded four quarters earlier. The annual growth rates used for financial transactions refer to the total value of transactions during the year in relation to the outstanding stock a year before.
- The euro area and national financial accounts data of non-financial corporations and households are available in an interactive dashboard.
- Hyperlinks in the main body of the statistical release are dynamic. The data they lead to may therefore change with subsequent data releases as a result of revisions. Figures shown in annex tables are a snapshot of the data as at the time of the current release.
- The ECB publishes experimental Distributional Wealth Accounts (DWA), which provide additional breakdowns for the household sector. The release of results for 2024 Q4 is planned for 30 May 2025 (tentative date).
MIL OSI Economics –
April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Euro area quarterly balance of payments and international investment position: fourth quarter of 2024
Source: European Central Bank

4 April 2025
- Current account surplus at €426 billion (2.8% of euro area GDP) in 2024, after a €243 billion surplus (1.7% of GDP) a year earlier.
- Geographical counterparts: largest bilateral current account surpluses vis-à-vis United Kingdom (€197 billion) and Switzerland (€76 billion) and largest deficit vis-à-vis China (€105 billion).
- International investment position showed net assets of €1.66 trillion (10.9% of euro area GDP) at end of 2024.
- Bilateral current account vis-à-vis the United States: surplus of €3 billion (0.0% of euro area GDP) in 2024, following a deficit of €30 billion (0.2% of GDP) in 2023. For more details see dedicated section on economic and financial linkages between the euro area and the United States.
Current account

The current account of the euro area recorded a surplus of €426 billion (2.8% of euro area GDP) in 2024, following a €243 billion surplus (1.7% of GDP) a year earlier (Table 1). This development was driven by larger surpluses for goods (from €264 billion to €372 billion), services (from €127 billion to €169 billion) and primary income (from €20 billion to €54 billion). The deficit for secondary income increased moderately from €167 billion to €168 billion.

The estimates on goods trade broken down by product group show that in 2024 the increase in the goods surplus was mainly due to a reduction in the deficit for energy products (from €314 billion to €260 billion). In addition, the surpluses for chemical products and machinery and manufactured products increased (from €244 billion to €268 billion and from 283 billion to €300 billion, respectively).

The larger surplus for services in 2024 was mainly due to widening surpluses for telecommunication, computer and information (from €169 billion to €203 billion) and travel (from €52 billion to €61 billion), and a lower deficit for other business services (from €60 billion to €28 billion). These developments were partly offset by a widening deficit for charges for the use of intellectual property (from €100 billion to €126 billion).

In 2024, the increase in the primary income surplus was mainly due to larger surpluses in direct investment (from €72 billion to €104 billion), portfolio debt (from €59 billion to €79 billion), and other primary income (from €3 billion to €15 billion), which were partly offset by a larger deficit in portfolio equity (from €163 billion to €194 billion).

Table 1

Current account of the euro area

(EUR billions, unless otherwise indicated; transactions during the period; non-working day and non-seasonally adjusted)

Source: ECB.
Notes: “Equity” comprises equity and investment fund shares. Goods by product group is an estimated breakdown using a method based on statistics on international trade in goods. Discrepancies between totals and their components may arise from rounding.

Data for the current account of the euro area

Data on the geographical counterparts of the euro area current account (Chart 1) show that in 2024, the euro area recorded its largest bilateral surpluses vis-à-vis the United Kingdom (€197 billion, down from €220 billion a year earlier) and Switzerland (€76 billion, up from €65 billion). The euro area also recorded surpluses vis-à-vis other emerging countries (€155 billion, up from €135 billion a year earlier) and other advanced countries (€114 billion, up from €80 billion). The largest bilateral deficit was recorded vis-à-vis China (€105 billion, down from €109 billion a year earlier) and a deficit was also recorded vis-à-vis the residual group of other countries (€96 billion, down from €142 billion).

The most significant changes in the geographical components of the current account in 2024 relative to 2023 were as follows: the goods surpluses increased vis-à-vis the United States (from €179 billion to €213 billion) and vis-à-vis other advanced countries (from €27 billion to €50 billion), while the goods deficit vis-à-vis China increased from €131 billion to €141 billion. In services, the deficit vis-à-vis the United States increased (from €124 billion to €156 billion), while the balance vis-à-vis offshore centres shifted from a deficit (€8 billion) to a surplus (€16 billion). In primary income, the balance vis-à-vis the United Kingdom shifted from a surplus (€31 billion) to a deficit (€4 billion) while a smaller deficit was recorded vis-à-vis the United States (from €84 billion to €52 billion). The deficit in secondary income vis-à-vis the EU Member States and EU institutions outside the euro area decreased slightly (from €76 billion to €73 billion).

Chart 1

Geographical breakdown of the euro area current account balance

(four-quarter moving sums in EUR billions; non-seasonally adjusted)

Source: ECB.
Note: “EU non-EA” comprises the non-euro area EU Member States and those EU institutions and bodies that are considered for statistical purposes as being outside the euro area, such as the European Commission and the European Investment Bank. “Other advanced” includes Australia, Canada, Japan, Norway and South Korea. “Other emerging” includes Argentina, Brazil, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Türkiye. “Other countries” includes all countries and country groups not shown in the chart, as well as unallocated transactions.

Data for the geographical breakdown of the euro area current account

International investment position

At the end of 2024, the international investment position of the euro area recorded net assets of €1.66 trillion vis-à-vis the rest of the world (10.9 % of euro area GDP), up from €1.25 trillion in the previous quarter (Chart 2 and Table 2).

Chart 2

Net international investment position of the euro area

(net amounts outstanding at the end of the period as a percentage of four-quarter moving sums of GDP)

Source: ECB.

The €407 billion increase in net assets was mainly driven by larger net assets in portfolio debt (up from €1.27 trillion to €1.42 trillion), direct investment (up from €2.54 trillion to €2.66 trillion) and reserve assets (up from €1.32 trillion to €1.39 trillion).

Table 2

International investment position of the euro area

(EUR billions, unless otherwise indicated; amounts outstanding at the end of the period, flows during the period; non-working day and non-seasonally adjusted)

Source: ECB.
Notes: “Equity” comprises equity and investment fund shares. Net financial derivatives are reported under assets. “Other volume changes” mainly reflect reclassifications and data enhancements. Discrepancies between totals and their components may arise from rounding.

Note: “Other volume changes” mainly reflect reclassifications and data enhancements.
MIL OSI Economics –
April 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Conference of State Government Ministers on Strengthening of Statistical Systems to be held on 5th April, 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 12:01PM by PIB Delhi

The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is organizing a “Conference of State Government Ministers on Strengthening of Statistical Systems” on 5^th April, 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

The main objective of the conference is to highlight the importance of producing relevant, accurate, and timely statistics at both the national and sub-national levels, with a particular emphasis on the need for sub-national estimates for various socio-economic indicators. The discussion will also focus on emphasizing the key areas where deeper collaboration and partnership between the Centre and the States are not only desirable but crucial for strengthening both national and state statistical systems. The conference aims to gain a thorough understanding of the specific needs and requirements of the States/Union Territories (UTs) to improve their statistical systems, as well as to ascertain their expectations.

The Conference will serve as a platform for establishing a regular and sustained framework to strengthen statistical collaboration between States/UTs and MoSPI across a range of critical areas. These inter-alia, include the implementation of the Support for Statistical Strengthening (SSS) Scheme in States/UTs, the participation of States/UTs in National Sample Surveys to generate district-level estimates, the compilation of GDP, IIP, and CPI at the sub-national level, as well as some of the innovation initiatives of MoSPI to address the challenges in generating official statistics, technical support to States/UTs in development, greater use of administrative statistics and alternative datasets, refinement of sub-national level monitoring frameworks for SDGs and implementation of MPLAD Scheme.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Rao Inderjit Singh, Chief Minister/Dy. Chief Minister/State Government Ministers of Planning & Senior Officers from States/UT Governments, Officers from MoSPI and other distinguished officials are expected to participate in the meeting.

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Samrat/Allen: pibmospi[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2118634) Visitor Counter : 15

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SAMOA BUREAU OF STATISTICS IS GETTING READY FOR THE NEXT SAMOA DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEY-MULTIPLE INDICATOR CLUSTER SURVEY (SDHS-MICS) 2025 SINCE LAST SURVEY IN 2019

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[PRESS RELEASE – 24th March 2025] – The Samoa Bureau of Statistics through its Census, Survey and Demography Division will be hosting an official opening of the Samoa DHS-MICS 2025 main training for enumerators on Monday 24th March, 2025 at the DBS Conference room level 6 at 9:00am.

The main aim of the training is to assist and equip the enumerators with the necessary skills and knowledge required for the DHS-MICS 2025 data collection activity.

The training will be officially opened by the Government Statistician (GS) followed by official remarks from the respected partners namely Australian High Commissioner in Samoa, UNICEF Chief Fieldwork Officer in Samoa and UNPFA Assistant Representative in Samoa. Other invited guests are Senior Government Officials and members of the DHS-MICS Steering Committee from the Nuanua O le Alofa (NOLA), Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development and Ministry of Finance.

The Samoa DHS-MICS 2025 will collect information in the areas of population, health and nutrition targeting women and men of 15-49 years of age and children. The overall objective of the DHS-MICS 2025 is to provide data and information that will enhance the monitoring of most of the indicators under the Social Sectors of the economy namely Health, Education, Community, Law and Justice, as well as Water and Sanitation and Environment Sectors. The updated data will guide in the prioritization of most of the social sector programs and activities to be implemented in the next 5 years

Throughout the duration of the training, resource persons from key sectors will be invited to clarify some of the concepts in the questionnaires to better inform the enumerators before they start the data collection activity.

The training has been made possible by the support of our development partners namely UNICEF, UNFPA and the Tautua program under the Government of Australia DFAT. The Main fieldwork is scheduled to be started from May 5th -July 5th 2025 and we kindly request the public and communities support when the survey fieldwork starts.

For more information, please contact Kaisarina Moananu at email kaisarina.moananu@sbs.gov.ws or Victoria Tuivaiti at email victoria.tuivaiti@sbs.gov.ws or phone number 23033.

Thank you

SOURCE – Samoa Bureau of Statistics

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April 3, 2025

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Number of voluntary departures – E-001250/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001250/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Özlem Demirel (The Left)

According to Eurostat, no voluntary departures of third-country nationals were reported by Germany, Romania and Italy in the third quarter of 2024.[1]

1.Has the Commission taken these reports as the basis for its statements on the departure rate of third-country nationals requested to leave?

2.On the basis of which guidelines or legal bases are reports of voluntary departures made, to what extent and which departures are taken into account (please be as specific as possible)?

Submitted: 26.3.2025

[1] https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?oldid=578362#:~:text=In%20the%20third%20quarter
Last updated: 4 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 4, 2025

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Households

Non-financial corporations

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Current account

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International investment position

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