Category: Switzerland

MIL-OSI Europe: Ministerial Discussion on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

New York, 23.09.2024 – Address by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – Check against delivery

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

This ministerial discussion occurs amid a concerning global backdrop, with over 120 armed conflicts ongoing worldwide.

As a result, millions of people require humanitarian aid and protection, while humanitarian and UN personnel face growing threats, often becoming targets of attacks.

Switzerland is alarmed by the rising violence against humanitarian workers, which is sometimes deliberately directed at them.

A concrete step was taken in May: my country introduced Security Council resolution 2730 on the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel, addressing this alarming trend. The resolution was adopted with the support of 98 UN Member States. I extend my thanks to all these States, especially Brazil for its initial work on the resolution.

This resolution is crucial for three reasons:

1. It reaffirms the obligations of States and parties in armed conflicts to respect and protect humanitarian and UN personnel, including national and local staff.

2. It condemns attacks on these personnel and urges States to ensure accountability for related violations.

3. It mandates the Secretary-General to submit recommendations to the Security Council within six months to prevent and address such attacks and combat impunity.

These recommendations focus on concrete actions. They are currently being prepared, and we look forward to receiving them in November.

Excellencies

Humanitarian personnel are a lifeline for millions of civilians worldwide, risking their lives daily to assist and protect those affected by armed conflict.

We must safeguard their ability to carry out this vital work and reaffirm our commitment to their protection.

With so many conflicts raging and civilians suffering so much, we must step up our efforts to ensure respect for international humanitarian law and strengthen the political will to build a more humane world.

Thank you.

Address for enquiries

FDFA Communication
Federal Palace West Wing
CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
Twitter: @SwissMFA

Publisher

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

MIL OSI Europe News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Europe: Seed capital and (more) customers for Empa spin-off: Solar cells for the Internet of Things

Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

Federal Laboratory for Materials Testing and Research

Dübendorf, St. Gallen und Thun, 24.09.2024 – Perovskia Solar has won more than ten leading companies from the Internet of Things (IoT) industry as customers and received over two million Swiss francs in seed capital. The multi-award-winning Empa spin-off prints customized solar cells for almost any electronic device. These can be produced cost-effectively – and even work indoors.

Every person owns an average of seven electronic devices. Hence there are several billion devices in use worldwide – and with the Internet of Things (IoT), the number is growing all the time. These need to be charged regularly, or their batteries need to be replaced. The Empa spin-off Perovskia Solar has therefore specialized in custom-made solar cells for all conceivable electronic devices – and successfully so: It has acquired more than ten leading companies from the Internet of Things (IoT) industry as new customers and has now received over two million Swiss francs from an international coalition of business angels and early-stage funds. “Energy harvesting for IoT devices is a rapidly growing market with a potential of several billion dollars,” said Anand Verma, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Empa spin-off. “Our easy-to-integrate designer solar cells either eliminate the need for batteries or extend their lifespan, opening up the possibility of powering any device with solar energy.”

Solar cells from the printer

The multi-award-winning Empa spin-off has launched the first perovskite solar cells on the market that can be used in smartwatches, keyboards and the like. Conventional silicon solar cells are complex and expensive to produce on a customized basis and are inefficient in poor lighting conditions. “We can print innovative perovskite solar cells in any size – and at low cost. With their high efficiency, they can power almost any indoor electronic device in bright home and office lighting,” says Verma.

“Our energy harvesting technology has been developed over several years at Empa, which has enabled us to launch a market-ready product that powers next-generation devices for industrial and residential applications,” adds Tobias Meyer, founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Perovskia. Perovskites have excellent properties: They absorb light particularly efficiently and conduct the generated electricity well. Until now, however, perovskite-based solar cells were not stable enough and not durable enough for large-scale use. Anand Verma therefore spent five years at Empa researching printing processes for perovskite solar cells before setting up the company in 2020.

A new factory and international support

Perovskia Solar now supplies several international companies with customized solar cells for IoT applications and for consumer electronics devices. The Empa spin-off is now supported by Kickfund from Venture Kick and the venture capital company D&FG Elements as well as an international coalition of business angels led by Nils Hagander and Beda Rohner. “With a market-leading product, Perovskia is ideally positioned to drive the next generation of IoT devices for consumers and industry,” says Hagander, entrepreneur and investor in technology and service companies.

The Empa spin-off recently set up a factory in Aubonne in the canton of Vaud. One million perovskite elements are to be printed there every year.

Address for enquiries

Manuel Martin
Communications
Phone +41 58 765 4454
redaktion@empa.ch

Publisher

Federal Laboratory for Materials Testing and Research
http://www.empa.ch

MIL OSI Europe News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – Global Barometers declining this month – KOF

Source: KOF Economic Institute

The Global Barometers record a decline, but overall they are still in line with the tendency towards relative stability observed over the course of this year. The decline brings the Leading Barometer closer to the neutral level of 100 points, while the Coincident Barometer is moving away from this band.

The Coincident Global Economic Barometer decreases 2.3 points in September, to 91.5 points, its lowest level since November 2023 (90.5 pts), while the Leading Barometer loses 2.6 points, to reach 100.6 points. The fall in the Coincident Barometer was entirely driven by the result of the Asia, Pacific & Africa region, whereas the result of the Leading Barometer was driven by the three surveyed regions.

“Although both global indicators show a decline this month, it can still be said that both have generally been relatively flat for more than a year. The leading indicator remains in much better shape than the coincident indicator, suggesting that hopes for an improvement in the subdued situation remain alive. Only the Asia-Pacific and Africa regions continue to deteriorate slowly, while Europe and the Western Hemisphere largely offset this development”, evaluates Jan-Egbert Sturm, Director of KOF Swiss Economic Institute.

Coincident Barometer – regions and sectors

The fall in the Coincident Barometer in September is the result of the 2.5-point negative contribution of the Asia, Pacific & Africa region, while the contributions from Europe and the Western Hemisphere were barely noticeably positive with 0.1 points each. With this result, the indicator for the Asia, Pacific & Africa region moves further away from the other regions and reinforces the slowdown in the region in 2024. While the Asia, Pacific & Africa region records accumulated losses of 6.0 points for the year, Europe and the Western Hemisphere accumulate gains of 6.4 and 4.5 points, respectively.

The development of the Coincident sector indicators in September is varied, with some sectors showing positive results and others negative tendencies. Industry, Economy (aggregated business and consumer evaluations), and Construction decrease this month, while Services and Trade move in the opposite direction.

Leading Barometer – regions and sectors

The Leading Global Barometer leads the world economic growth rate cycle by three to six months on average. In September, all the regions contribute negatively to the aggregate result with -1.0, -0.9, and -0.7 points for the Western Hemisphere, the Asia, Pacific & Africa region, and Europe, respectively. The lukewarm result since the second quarter of the year is spread across the three regions, and its continuity also signals weak growth in world economic activity for the second semester of 2024.

In September, all the Leading sector indicators decrease, with the exception of Trade, which gains 2.9 points and remains at the highest level among the sectors.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Nations: Meeting of the Group of Experts on Population and Housing Censuses

Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

20 – 22 September 2023

Palais des Nations Room V Geneva Switzerland

See also Workshop on Population and Housing Censuses

42478 _ ECE/CES/GE.41/2023/2 – Report _ 388176 _ English _ 773 _ 405874 _ pdf

42478 _ ECE/CES/GE.41/2023/2 – Report _ 388176 _ Russian _ 864 _ 405875 _ pdf

42478 _ ECE/CES/GE.41/2023/2 – Report _ 388176 _ French _ 780 _ 405876 _ pdf

MIL OSI United Nations News –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI: QUADIENT: H1 2024 results: Solid 3.2% reported revenue growth and sharp improvement in profitability from Digital

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

H1 2024 results: Solid 3.2% reported revenue growth
and sharp improvement in profitability from Digital

Key highlights

H1 2024 consolidated sales of €534 million, up +3.2% on a reported basis including the contribution of the latest acquisitions (Daylight and Frama) and up +0.8% organically⁽¹⁾
H1 2024 subscription-related revenue up +0.7% on an organic basis, representing 72% of total revenue
Strong performance from North America at +2.8% organic growth in H1 2024, representing 58% of Group Sales
H1 2024 EBITDA of €111 million, up 2.6% organically, primarily driven by a strong increase in profitability in Digital
H1 2024 Group current EBIT of €61 million, up 0.3% organically
Net attributable income of €24 million
Leverage ratio excluding leasing reduced to 1.6x²
FY 2024 outlook confirmed
Launch of share buyback program for up to €30 million

Paris, 23 September 2024

Quadient S.A. (Euronext Paris: QDT), a global automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, , today announces its 2024 second-quarter consolidated sales and first half results (period ended on 31 July 2024). The first-half 2024 results were approved by the Board of Directors during a meeting held on 20 September 2024.

Geoffrey Godet, Chief Executive Officer of Quadient S.A., stated:

“Quadient achieved a solid performance in the first half of 2024, setting a good start to the execution of our new strategic plan, ‘Elevate to 2030’, which aims at delivery €1 billion of subscription-related revenue by 2030. The various modules of our SaaS communication and financial automation platform are further recognized for their technical specificities as well as for their ease of use, reflecting our strong customer centric approach. Our highly recurring business model continues to be fueled by good results in both cross-selling and up-selling our solutions, by the strong outperformance of our Mail business as well as by a solid volume increase within our European parcel lockers open networks.

In parallel, the profitability of our Digital business has sharply increased. Indeed, our Digital EBITDA margin gained 6 points compared to the first half of 2023, demonstrating our commitment to strengthen our investment proposition. Confident in our value-creation potential and in our capacity to achieve our short- and long-term guidance, including our 2026 leverage target, we are announcing today a share buy-back program aimed at improving the return to our shareholders. More than ever, our objective is to accelerate our existing growth trajectory and propel Quadient as the leader in intelligent automation.”

Comments on H1 2024 performance

Group sales came in at €534 million in H1 2024, a 3.2% increase on a reported basis, and 0.8% organic growth compared to H1 2023 in line with Quadient’s expectations. The reported growth includes a positive currency impact of €1 million and a positive scope effect of €12 million, which is related to the acquisition of Daylight in September 2023 and to the acquisition of Frama in February 2024. In Q2 2024, organic revenue growth reached 0.6% compared to Q2 2023.

Consolidated sales and EBITDA by solution

H1 2024 consolidated sales

In € million	H1 2024	H1 2023 restated^(a)	Change	Organic change
Digital	130	120	+8.3%	+5.9%
Mail	362	353	+2.5%	(0.5)%
Lockers	43	45	(4.7)%	(2.5)%
Group total	534	517	+3.2%	+0.8%
(a) The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months. As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 revenue from the aforementioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024.

EBITDA and EBITDA margin

	H1 2024		H1 2023 restated ^(a)
In € million	EBITDA	EBITDA margin	EBITDA	EBITDA margin
Digital	20	15.7%	11	9.3%
Mail	94	25.8%	102	29.0%
Lockers	(3)	(6.7)%	(1)	(3.0)%
Group total	111	20.8%	112	21.7%
(a) The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months. As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 EBITDA from the aforementioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated EBITDA of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024.

Digital

In H1 2024, revenue from Digital reached €130 million, up 5.9% organically (+5.8% in Q2 2024 vs. Q2 2023) and up 8.3% on a reported basis (including the contribution from Daylight) compared to H1 2023. Importantly, growth for the Solution was still impacted by the delay in the implementation of two large contracts, announced in Q3 2023.

At the end of H1 2024, annual recurring revenue (ARR), which is a forward-looking indicator of future subscription-related revenue, reached €221 million, up from €206 million at the end of FY 2023, representing a 15.3% organic⁽³⁾growth on an annualized basis.

In H1 2024, subscription-related revenue recorded a strong 8.7% organic growth, now representing 82% of Digital total sales, a further increase compared to 80% in H1 2023. The share of SaaS customers stands at 83% at the end of H1 2024.

EBITDA for Digital was €20 million for the period, representing a 15.7% EBITDA margin, up 6.4 points compared to H1 2023. Strong improvement in profitability continues, supported by the combination of subscription-related revenue growth, and platform size benefits, despite further commercial and innovation investments. The profitability is expected to continue improving in FY 2024.

As part of the customer acquisition focus, Digital continues to experience strong commercial dynamics, supported by solid cross-selling with Mail including some large deals (notably one deal above USD1 million) in North America. Digital is benefiting from a positive start to Q3 2024 thanks to a new large deal with a US insurance company worth more than USD7 million over 5 years. Regarding the upcoming e-invoicing regulation in Europe, Quadient is now officially registered as a Partner Dematerialization Platform in France.

As part of the customer expansion process, the onboarding of all eligible customers on the Quadient Hub is now completed. Focus continues on further increasing up-selling. New partnerships, notably with Microsoft business central, Sage200 (ERP solutions) and Stripe (payment solution), have also been signed. Lastly, the churn rate in Digital continues to decline, now standing well below 5%.

Mail

Mail revenue reached €362 million in H1 2024, down only 0.5% on an organic basis (-0.8% in Q2 2024 vs. Q2 2023). The reported growth stood at +2.5%, including the contribution of Frama.

Hardware sales recorded a 4.8% organic growth in H1 2024, with strong contributions from North America, including a positive impact from decertification. The focus on investing into renewing the products offering continues to support product placements, as seen in the further increase in the share of the upgraded installed base, reaching 36.6% at the end of H1 2024 vs. 31.5% at the end of FY 2023.

Subscription-related revenue (68% of Mail sales) recorded a limited 2.8% organic decline in H1 2024.

EBITDA for Mail was €94 million for H1 2024. EBITDA margin reached 25.8%, down 3.2 points compared to H1 2023. The level of EBITDA margin of Mail was impacted by the higher proportion of revenue from equipment sales as well as by the dilution due to Frama acquisition, which performance is expected to improve significantly from 2025.

Thanks to its strong customer acquisition focus, Quadient’s Mail business continues to outperform the market. The commercial performance is expected to be resilient in Q3 2024. On the acquisition side, the aim is to upgrade the installed base.

As part of the customer expansion focus, the cross-selling remains solid, especially in the US, with several large contracts signed. Lastly, Mail benefited from the positive impact of the ongoing US mailing systems decertification.

Lockers

Lockers revenue reached €43 million in H1 2024, a 2.5% decrease on an organic basis (-1.8% in Q2 2024 vs Q2 2023) and a 4.7% decrease on a reported basis compared to H1 2023.

Subscription-related revenue was up 5.3% organically in H1 2024, benefiting from the solid volumes ramp up within the UK and the French open networks, as well as the contribution of the existing installed base, supported by the higher number of carriers committed to use Quadient’s open networks. However, change in commercial agreements with Yamato in Japan in Q3 2023 leading to a greater focus on usage as opposed to a rental-based model, continues for now to weigh on the subscription-related revenue. Overall, subscription-related revenue stood at 65% of total revenue in H1 2024, up from 61% in H1 2023.

Non-recurring revenue (license & hardware sales and professional services) were down 15.1% organically in H1 2024. Hardware sales were still impacted by slower new installations in North America.

Quadient’s global locker installed base reached c.21,400 units at the end of H1 2024 vs. c.20,200 units at the end of FY 2023. This is reflecting an acceleration in the pace of installation of new lockers, notably in the UK, fueled by the partnerships signed by Quadient to host parcel lockers in new suitable locations.

EBITDA for Lockers was negative at €(3) million in H1 2024. EBITDA margin stood at (6.7)%, down by 3.7 points. The decrease in EBITDA margin was mainly due to the negative impact from the change in commercial agreement with Yamato for the Japanese installed base at the start of H2 2023.

As part of the customer acquisition focus, Quadient is accelerating the installation pace for lockers in the open networks in Europe, mostly in France and in the UK. This is supported by the additional deals signed for premium locations and conversion of existing lockers. Conversely, the trend remains slow in North America.

As part of the customer expansion focus, volume increased strongly from both pick-up and drop-off in the open networks. The lockers business is also fueled by innovation in usage offerings, notably with new partnership with KeyNest in the United Kingdom, bringing additional volumes into the open network.

REVIEW OF 2024 FIRST HALF-YEAR RESULTS

Simplified P&L

In € million	H1 2024	H1 2023 restated ^(a)	Change
Sales	534	517	+3.2%
Gross profit	399	387	+3.2%
Gross margin	74.4%	74.8%
EBITDA	111	112	(1.1)%
EBITDA margin	20.8%	21.7%
Current EBIT	61	65	(6.0)%
Current EBIT margin	11.5%	12.6%
Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses	(16)	(6)	n/a
EBIT	45	59	(24.4)%
Financial income/(expense)	(21)	(16)	+32.3%
Income before tax	24	43	(45.4)%
Income taxes	2	(6)	n/a
Net income of continued operations	26	37	(31.0)%
Net income from discontinued operations	(1)	(0)	n/a
Net attributable income	24	36	(32.8)%
Earnings per share	0.71	1.05	n/a
Diluted earnings per share	0.71	1.05	n/a
(a) The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months. As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 contribution from the aforementioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated P&L of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024.

Gross margin stood at 74.4% in H1 2024 from 74.8% in H1 2023, due to slightly higher cost of sales and the impact of Frama integration.

EBITDA⁽⁴⁾ for the Group reached €111 million in H1 2024, almost flat compared to H1 2023. Organically, the EBITDA grew by 2.6%, thanks to a solid increase at Digital offsetting a weaker EBITDA performance in Mail. EBITDA margin stood at 20.8% in H1 2024, vs 21.7% in H1 2023.

Depreciation and amortization stood at €50 million in H1 2024, compared to €47 million in H1 2023. This is mainly due to slightly higher amortization of Lockers’ capex for rent.

Current operating income (current EBIT) reached €61 million in H1 2024 compared to €65 million in H1 2023, down 6.0% on a reported basis and up 0.3% on an organic basis. Current operating margin stood at 11.5% of sales in H1 2024 compared to 12.6% in H1 2023.

Optimization costs and other operating expenses stood at €16 million in H1 2024, versus €6 million in H1 2023 which was impacted by the write-off of an IT project and additional office optimization in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Consequently, EBIT reached €45 million in H1 2024, versus €59 million recorded in H1 2023.

Net attributable income

Net cost of debt was up year-on-year at €20 million, against €15 million in H1 2023, impacted by higher interest rates on the variable portion of the debt (one third of Quadient’s debt). The currency gains & losses and other financial items was a loss of €(1) million in H1 2024, stable vs. H1 2023. Overall, net financial result was a loss of €21 million in H1 2024 compared to a loss of €16 million in H1 2023.

Income tax reached a €2 million profit in H1 2024, benefitting from the positive impact of internal IP transfers. It compares to an expense of €6 million in H1 2023.

Net income from discontinued operations of the Mail Italian subsidiary amounts to €(1) million, including additional fees related to the ongoing sale process for this subsidiary.

Net attributable income after minority interest amounted to €24 million in H1 2024 compared to €36 million in H1 2023.

Earnings per share from continued operations came in at €0.74 in H1 2024 compared to €1.06 in H1 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share⁽⁵⁾ was €1.05 in H1 2023.

Earnings per share stood at €0.71 in H1 2024 compared to €1.05 in H1 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share⁽⁵⁾ was €0.71 in H1 2024 compared to €1.05 in H1 2023. The impact of dilutive instruments is accretive, dilutive earnings per share is therefore brought into line with net earnings per share.

Cash flow generation

The change in working capital was a net cash outflow by €19 million in H1 2024 compared to a net cash outflow of €55 million in H1 2023, mostly reflecting a better level of cash collection and the one-off positive impact from timing differences in VAT payments.

The leasing portfolio and other financing services stood at €591 million as of 31 July 2024, compared to €598 million as of 31 January 2024 (only down by (1.0)% on an organic basis), thanks to the solid performance of the Mail activity. While generating future subscription-related revenue, the expected increase in lease receivables resulting from the good performance in the placement of new equipment will translate into a cash outflow in H2 2024. At the end of H1 2024, the default rate of the leasing portfolio stood at around 1.2% compared to c.1.3% at the end of FY 2023.

Interest and taxes paid increased slightly to €38 million in H1 2024 versus the amount of €35 million paid in H1 2023. The difference was mostly explained by higher interest rates in H1 2024.

Capital expenditure reached €46 million in H1 2024, stable compared to H1 2023 reflecting an increase in capex for rent offset by the non-renewal of office leases (lower IFRS 16 capex). Capex for Digital reached €12 million in H12024, slightly up compared to €11 million in H1 2023 and was mainly focused on R&D. Capex for Mail decreased from €25 million to €22 million, due to lower IFRS 16 capex linked to less office leases renewal. Capex for Lockers increased from €10 million to €13 million to support the open network deployment in the UK and France.

All in all, cash flow after capital expenditure was up from a negative amount of €15 million in H1 2023 to a positive amount of €3 million in H1 2024.

Leverage and liquidity position

Net debt stood at €726 million as of 31 July 2024, a slight increase against the €709 million of net financial debt recorded as of 31 January 2024. In June 2024, the Group extended by an additional year the maturity of its Revolving Credit Facility to 2029. In July 2024, Quadient proceeded to a partial bond buy-back for a total amount of €7 million, leaving the outstanding amount of the 2.25% bond at €260 million.

The Group is well positioned to refinance its 2.25% bond, maturing early 2025.

The leverage ratio (net debt/EBITDA) remained broadly stable from 3.0x⁽²⁾ as of 31 July 2024 compared to 2.9x⁽²⁾ as of 31 January 2024. Excluding leasing, Quadient leverage ratio improved from 1.65x⁽²⁾ as of 31 January 2024 to 1.6x⁽²⁾ as of 31 July 2024.

As of 31 July 2024, the Group had a robust liquidity position of €494 million, split between €194 million in cash and a €300 million undrawn credit line, maturing in 2029.

Shareholders’ equity stood at €1,064 million as of 31 January 2024 compared to €1,069 million as of 31 January 2024. The gearing ratio⁽⁶⁾ stood at 68,2% as of 31 July 2024.

MAIL ITALIAN SUBSIDIARY

Following the reclassification of the Mail Italian Subsidiary as discontinued operations under IFRS 5 in full-year 2023, an agreement for its sale has been signed with a local mail distribution company in July 2024.

CAPITAL ALLOCATION

In line with Quadient’s capital allocation policy, the Company announces the launch of a share buyback program for a total consideration of up to €30 million to be executed on the market over an18-month⁽⁷⁾ period.

This operation aims at improving shareholders’ return. It also demonstrates Quadient’s confidence in the value creation potential of its new Elevate to 2030 strategic plan, its ability to reach its FY 2026 leverage ratio target⁽⁸⁾ and is in line with the capital allocation policy of the Company. A press release detailing this share buyback program has been published alongside today’s H1 2024 results.

OUTLOOK

With H1 2024 organic growth in line with expectations, Quadient confirms its FY 2024 financial guidance of organic growth both at the revenue and current EBIT levels. H2 2024 will benefit from an easier comparison basis for both Digital and Lockers as there will no longer be any negative impact neither from the delay in implementation of the two large SaaS contracts, nor from the change in commercial agreement with Yamato, which took place at the beginning of H2 2023.

Q2 2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

Approval of all resolutions by the combined Shareholders’ meeting of 14 June 2024
On 17 June 2024, Quadient announced that its combined Annual General Meeting was held on 14 June 2024, under the chairmanship of Mr. Didier Lamouche. All submitted resolutions were ratified, with an attendance rate of 74.19% (quorum for ordinary and extraordinary resolutions).

The Annual General Meeting approved the renewal of the three-year terms of directorship of Hélène Boulet-Supau, Geoffrey Godet, Richard Troksa. Vincent Mercier’s directorship was renewed for an 18-month term, until 31 December 2025. The Annual General Meeting also approved the co-option and approved the renewal for a three-year term of Bpifrance Investissement, represented by Emmanuel Blot.

Quadient expands its Open Locker Network in new high traffic locations in Japan, leveraging existing JR East Smart Logistics Lockers
On 21 June 2024, Quadient announced a significant expansion of its open locker network in Japan through a strategic partnership with JR East Smart Logistics Co., Ltd., the logistics arm of the major Japanese rail company. This collaboration integrates Quadient’s advanced parcel delivery and pickup functionalities into JR East’s existing multifunctional locker system, Multi E-Cube, across Japan’s extensive railway network. This marks the first time Quadient is expanding its intelligent locker capacities to third-party networks, highlighting its agility in deploying an open and interoperable logistics ecosystem with new approaches.

Quadient reports cross-selling success in North America, reinforcing strategic vision
On 2 July 2024, Quadient announced that nearly 50% of the large deals signed in North America with mail automation customers in May included digital automation platform applications, confirming the critical role its software solutions play in influencing customer decisions. Additionally, two-thirds of these cross-sell deals, secured by Quadient’s mail teams, featured both mail and digital automation solutions, reaching an over 60% integration rate.

Quadient launches new cloud-based application to empower small businesses in their Mail management processes
On 4 July 2024, Quadient announced the launch of Secure Barcode, a cloud-based application designed to enhance the security of customer physical communications through seamless barcode generation and insertion into documents. This innovative solution is tailored for small businesses that are beginning their journey into digital mail solutions, providing immediate benefits in document management and operational efficiency.

Quadient and Punch Pubs Partner to enhance parcel locker access for UK communities
On 11 July 2024, Quadient announced a new contract with Punch Pubs, a leading pub company in the UK. This partnership will see the deployment of Quadient’s Parcel Pending open locker network across 1,261 pub locations managed by Punch Pubs, enhancing the accessibility and convenience of parcel deliveries and returns for communities nationwide. This collaboration supports sustainable growth strategies, leveraging Punch Pubs’ nationwide commercial properties to deliver value to local populations.

More than 1.5 million higher education Students in the U.S. now rely on Quadient smart lockers for package delivery
On 25 July 2024, Quadient announced it has reached a new milestone of installed smart lockers totaling more than 250 colleges and universities across the United States. Across the campuses, more than 1.5 million students per year are served by the automated lockers.

POST-CLOSING EVENTS

Quadient recognized as a major player for first time in IDC MarketScape for worldwide accounts payable automation software for midmarket and small businesses
On 14 August 2024, Quadient announced it has been named a Major Player for the first time in two IDC MarketScape reports – IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Payable Automation Software for Midmarket 2024 Vendor Assessment (doc # US52378624, July 2024) and IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Payable Automation Software for Small Businesses 2024 Vendor Assessment (doc # US52378824, July 2024).

Quadient secures major contract in North America, demonstrating strength in integrating Digital communications and Mail automation solutions
On 28 August 2024, Quadient announced a new contract with a North American global leader in financial services, worth approximately €1.4 million per year over an initial period of three years. This successful deal underscores Quadient’s capability to meet the complex communication needs of large organizations through its extensive portfolio of digital and mail automation platforms, combined with high-level consulting and professional services.

Quadient unveils new mobile app, enabling any local business to offer parcel locker delivery services to customers
On 4 September 2024, Quadient announced the launch of a mobile app that enables local businesses to deliver customer orders directly to Quadient open network lockers without the need for specific software integrations. The app is already available in the Japanese market under the name PUDO ACCESS and will soon be made available in other countries, continuing to create value for merchants and their local communities.

E-invoicing mandate for businesses in France: Quadient officially registered as a Dematerialization Platform Partner
On 12 September 2024, Quadient announced its official registration as a Partner Dematerialization Platform (PDP) under number 0060. This registration, issued on 12 September 2024 by the PDP Registration Service of the Public Finance Department, acknowledges that Quadient meets all the requirements of the new Finance Law and is authorized to participate in the next phase of interoperability tests with the tax authorities’ platform when it becomes available.

Quadient Named a Leader in 2024 SPARK Matrix for Accounts Payable Automation
On 19 September 2024, Quadient announced it has been recognized as a Technology Leader in the “SPARK Matrix: Accounts Payable Automation” report, a detailed analysis of the accounts payable (AP) automation market by independent analyst firm QKS Group. The recognition comes on the heels of Quadient also being named a Technology Leader in the “2024 SPARK Matrix: Accounts Receivable (AR) Applications” report, which was published in May. This marks the second year in a row that Quadient has been named a leader in both AP and AR in the SPARK Matrix reports.

To know more about Quadient’s news flow, previous press releases are available on our website at the following address: https://invest.quadient.com/en/newsroom.

CONFERENCE CALL & WEBCAST

Quadient will host a conference call and webcast today at 6:00 pm Paris time (5:00 pm London time).

To join the webcast, click on the following link: Webcast.

To join the conference call, please use one of the following phone numbers:

▪ France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66.

▪ United States: +1 786 697 3501.

▪ United Kingdom (standard international): +44 (0) 33 0551 0200.

Password: Quadient

A replay of the webcast will also be available on Quadient’s Investor Relations website for 12 months.

Calendar

27 November 2024: Third quarter 2024 sales release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market).

About Quadient®

Quadient is a global automation platform provider powering secure and sustainable business connections through digital and physical channels. Quadient supports businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation and growth journey, unlocking operational efficiency and creating meaningful customer experiences. Listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and part of the CAC® Mid & Small and EnterNext® Tech 40 indices, Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing.

For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/en/.

Contacts

APPENDIX

Digital: New name for Intelligent Communication Automation

Mail: New name for Mail-Related Solutions

Lockers: New name for Parcel Locker Solutions

H1 2024 and Q2 2024 consolidated sales

H1 2024 consolidated sales by geography

In € million	H1 2024	H1 2023 restated ^(a)	Change	Organic change
North America	308	295	+4.1%	+2.8%
Main European countries⁽^b⁾	182	173	+4.9%	(1.6)%
International⁽^c⁾	45	49	(8.0)%	(2.5)%
Group total	534	517	+3.2%	+0.8%
(a) The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months. As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, H1 2023 revenue from the afore-mentioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in H1 2024. (b) Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom (c) International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

Q2 2024 consolidated sales by Solution

In € million	Q2 2024	Q2 2023 restated ^(a)	Change	Organic change
Digital	66	61	+8.1%	+5.8%
Mail	183	179	+2.4%	(0.8)%
Lockers	23	24	(3.2)%	(1.8)%
Group total	273	264	+3.3%	+0.6%
(a) The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months. As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, Q2 2023 revenue from the afore-mentioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in Q2 2024.

Q2 2024 consolidated sales by geography

In € million	Q2 2024	Q2 2023 restated ^(a)	Change	Organic change
North America	157	150	+4.9%	+3.2%
Main European countries⁽^b⁾	93	89	+4.2%	(1.8)%
International⁽^c⁾	22	25	(10.1)%	(5.8)%
Group total	273	264	+3.3%	+0.6%
(a) The full-year 2023 financial statements published in March 2024 reflected Quadient’s decision to review the future of its Mail activity in Italy with a view to divest this subsidiary within the next 12 months. As this was the case in the full-year 2023 statements, Q2 2023 revenue from the afore-mentioned subsidiary is not represented in the consolidated revenue of the Group as it is recorded as discontinued operations. This is still the case in Q2 2024. (b) Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom (c) International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

First half-year 2024

Consolidated income statement

In € million	H1 2024 (period ended on 31 July 2024)	H1 2023 restated (period ended on 31 July 2023)
Sales	534	517
Cost of sales	(135)	(131)
Gross margin	399	387
R&D expenses	(31)	(31)
Sales and marketing expenses	(143)	(139)
Administrative and general expenses	(97)	(90)
Service and support expenses	(58)	(55)
Employee profit-sharing, share-based payments and other expenses	(5)	(3)
Acquisition-related expenses	(4)	(3)
Current operating income	61	65
Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses	(16)	(6)
Operating income	45	59
Financial income/(expense)	(21)	(16)
Income before taxes	24	43
Income taxes	2	(6)
Share of results of associated companies	0	(0)
Net income from continued operations	26	37
Net income of discontinued operations	(1)	(0)
Net income	25	37
Of which: Minority interests	1	1
Net attributable income	24	36

Simplified consolidated balance sheet

Assets In € million	H1 2024 (period ended on 31 July 2024)	FY 2023 (period ended on 31 January 2024)
Goodwill	1,089	1,082
Intangible fixed assets	118	121
Tangible fixed assets	158	156
Other non-current financial assets	66	65
Other non-current receivables	2	2
Leasing receivables	591	598
Deferred tax assets	47	17
Inventories	71	67
Receivables	193	228
Other current assets	74	84
Cash and cash equivalents	194	118
Current financial instruments	2	2
Assets held for sale	11	9
TOTAL ASSETS	2,617	2,550

Liabilities In € million	H1 2024 (period ended on 31 July 2024)	FY 2023 (period ended on 31 January 2024)
Shareholders’ equity	1,064	1,069
Non-current provisions	15	12
Non-current financial debt	552	715
Current financial debt	329	66
Lease obligations	39	46
Other non-current liabilities	4	2
Deferred tax liabilities	119	104
Financial instruments	4	5
Trade payables	69	79
Deferred income	190	212
Other current liabilities	219	225
Liabilities held for sale	13	15
TOTAL LIABILITIES	2,617	2,550

Simplified cash flow statement

In €millions	H1 2024 (period ended on 31 July 2024)	H1 2023 restated (period ended on 31 July 2023)
EBITDA	111	112
Other elements	(11)	(7)
Cash flow before net cost of debt and income tax	100	105
Change in the working capital requirement	(19)	(55)
Net change in leasing receivables	6	16
Cash flow from operating activities	87	66
Interest and tax paid	(38)	(35)
Net cash flow from operating activities	49	31
Capital expenditure	(46)	(46)
Net cash flow after investing activities	3	(15)
Impact of changes in scope	(8)	0
Others	0	(0)
Net cash flow after acquisitions and divestments	(5)	(15)
Dividends paid	0	(0)
Change in debt and others	64	25
Net cash flow from financing activities	64	25
Cumulative translation adjustments on cash	(0)	(1)
Net cash from discontinued operations	2	(1)
Change in net cash position	60	10

Figures exclude Mail Italian subsidiary which has been reclassified as discontinued operations in 2023.
(1) H1 2024 sales are compared to H1 2023 sales, to which is added pro rata temporis the revenue of Daylight and Frama for a consolidated amount of €12 million. The currency impact is positive for €1 million.
(2) Including IFRS 16
(3) H1 2024 ARR impacted by a €0.2 million negative currency effect vs 31 January 2024
(4) EBITDA = current operating income + provisions for depreciation of tangible and intangible fixed assets.
(5) For the H1 2024, the average compounded number of shares is 33,950,930. Diluted number of shares is 34,487,900.
(6) Net debt / shareholders’ equity
(7) Subject to the renewal of the share buyback authorizations at the 2025 AGM
(8) FY 2026 leverage ratio excluding leasing target of 1.5x

Attachment

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI USA: During Climate Week, Markey, Badum, Merkley, Barragán Lead Over 100 International Lawmakers in Urging Biden Administration to Reject New LNG Exports

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

Letter Text (PDF)

Washington (September 23, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chair of the Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Clean Air, Climate, and Nuclear Safety, today partnered with Representative Lisa Badum, group coordinator in the German Bundestag’s Climate and Energy Committee and chairwoman of the Subcommittee on International Climate and Energy Policy, Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Senate and House colleagues, and leaders from around the world in sending a letter to President Joe Biden and Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, urging the administration to reject new liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports amidst the global climate crisis.

The United States is already the world’s largest exporter of LNG and is on track to exponentially increase export capacity – a full build-out that could yield hundreds of million metric tons of additional greenhouse gases at home and abroad. Pushing back on arguments that United States’ international allies need the country’s LNG, members of the U.S. Congress and Parliaments around the world are requesting that the administration reject these applications.

In their letter to the administration, the lawmakers wrote, “Far from being a clean ‘bridge’ fuel, LNG causes significant environmental harm. In addition to the greenhouse gas released when LNG is burned, the potent greenhouse gas effects of pervasive methane leaks throughout the LNG supply chain — which extends from initial exploration all the way through gas production, pipeline transportation, liquefaction, vessel transportation, regasification, distribution, and end-use consumption — likely eliminate any climate advantage of reduced greenhouse gas emissions.”

The lawmakers continued, “In addition to the environmental and health benefits, limiting U.S. LNG exports will actually support global energy security, not jeopardize it. In both emerging and developed markets, overinvestment in LNG diverts resources away from cheaper, more stable, and less trade-dependent clean energy investments.”

In Europe:

“While Europe’s energy system was strained in the immediate aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, it has since recovered. Europeans united to slash overall gas demand by 20 percent over the past two years. Gas prices are lower than before the start of the war, despite drastically lower supply from Russia.”

In Asia:

“China, the world’s largest LNG importer, has emerged as a major re-exporter within the region and globally, cashing in on lucrative price differentials that are facilitated by long-term agreements with the United States. Similarly, Japan, facing declining domestic demand and oversupply, is redirecting LNG trade volumes to emerging markets in South and Southeast Asia, bolstering profitable re-trading ventures.” Additionally, “South Korea, despite existing low terminal utilization and climate commitments, has invested significantly in expanding LNG infrastructure, highlighting a mismatch between capacity expansions and actual demand.”

In Africa:

“The expansion of LNG export infrastructure has sparked displacement, conflict, and environmental degradation, with many projects facing the risk of becoming stranded assets amid declining global demand. The African LNG export market parallels the United States in prioritizing foreign market interests over local needs amidst declining demand. U.S. participation in the LNG export market fuels this exploitative industry, undermining claims of leadership in a just global energy transition.”

In the Americas:

“Investments in new re-exporting infrastructure in Mexico will soon become stranded assets with poor financial viability, threatening the economic stability of the country for the benefit of short-term U.S. interests. Moreover, the export of U.S. LNG through Mexico also transfers environmental and climate justice burdens associated with LNG infrastructure, expanding the footprint of the industry’s harm to the country’s unique biodiversity and frontline communities in Mexico.”

Cosigners in the U.S. include Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Representatives Jared Huffman (CA-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC). Cosigners internationally include 30 Members of the Thailand Parliament, 15 Members of the European Parliament, 10 Members of the German Parliament, 3 Members of the United Kingdom Parliament, 2 Members of the Flemish Parliament, 2 Members of the National Assembly of the Gambia, 2 Members of the South Sudan Parliament, 2 Members of the Tanzanian Parliament the Australian Senator for Victoria, Brazilian State Deputy for Para, Canadian Senator for Quebec, the Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium, 1 former Member of the Sierra Leone Parliament, 1 former Member of the Catalan Parliament, 1 former Member of the Flemish Parliament, 1 Member of the Timor-Leste Parliament, Member of Parliament and Special Envoy on Climate Change and Environment from the Republic of Vanuatu, 1 Member of the Sierra Leone Parliament, 1 Member of Tasmania’s Legislative Council, 1 Member of the Australian Parliament, 1 Member of the Austrian Parliament, 1 Member of the Cambodian Parliament, 1 Member of the Cameroon National Assembly, 1 Member of the Colombian Congress, 1 Member of the Gambian Parliament, 1 Member of the Ghanaian Parliament, 1 Member of the Liberian House of Representatives, 1 Member of the Northern Ireland Assembly, 1 Member of the Scottish Parliament, 1 Member of the Swedish Parliament, 1 Member of the Swiss Parliament (National Council), 1 Member of the Tasmanian House of Assembly, 1 Member of the Ugandan Parliament, 1 Member of the UK House of Lords, and 1 Member of the Victorian Parliament in Australia on behalf of the Victorian Greens Members of Parliament.

In July 2023, Senator Markey and several New England Senators sent a letter to the Department of Energy urging it to consider the disproportionate negative impacts of LNG on New England as the department considers updates to its underlying environmental and economic analyses to improve export authorization decisions for LNG.

In May 2024, Senator Markey and Representative Yvette Clarke (NY-09) announced the reintroduction of the Block All New (BAN) Fossil Fuel Exports Act, legislation that would amend the Energy Policy and Conservation Act and ban the export of American crude oil and natural gas abroad to protect frontline communities from dangerous export infrastructure, prioritize U.S. consumers against fossil fuel profiteering, and help ensure the United States meets its climate and clean energy commitments on the world stage.

In March 2023, Senator Markey and Representatives Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) reintroduced the Fossil Free Finance Act, legislation that would direct the Federal Reserve to require major banks and other Systemically Important Financial Institutions (SIFIs) to stop financing projects and activities linked to increased greenhouse gas emissions and submit a plan on how they would meet these requirements. In October 2022, Senator Markey reintroduced the OPEC Accountability Act, legislation to require the U.S. President to initiate consultations with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and some non-OPEC countries to reduce crude oil production.

MIL OSI USA News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Nations: Eighty-second session of the ECE Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry

Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

The 82nd session of the ECE Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry (COFFI) will be held from 13-15 November 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland (in-person participation only).

More detailed information on the Deforestation-free trade dialogue can be found here

MIL OSI United Nations News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Board of Governors Elects New Chairperson for 2024-2025

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

Ambassador Philbert Abaka Johnson. (Photo: A. Barber-Huescar/IAEA)

The IAEA Board of Governors elected Ambassador Philbert Abaka Johnson as the Chairperson of the IAEA’s Board of Governors for 2024–2025. His one-year term commences today. He succeeds Ambassador Holger Federico Martinsen of Argentina.

Ambassador Johnson is the Permanent Representative of Ghana to the Agency, the United Nations Offices and other International Organizations in Vienna. Since his appointment in 2020, he has chaired the 54th Session of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), Subsidiary Body III of the Tenth Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), the standing open-ended intergovernmental working group on improving the governance and financial situation of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (FINGOV), the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, and the Vienna-based African Group. He is currently serving as Co-Chair for the preparations of the Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Science, Application and Technology and Technical Cooperation in 2024.

A career diplomat with close to 30 years of experience, Ambassador Johnson’s first diplomatic assignment was in Liberia in 1995. He has since served in multiple Ghana Missions in Switzerland, the Russian Federation, Belgium, Canada and New York and has held numerous positions in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, including as the first Director of the Diaspora Affairs Bureau in 2014. Before his appointment in Vienna, he was the Director of Africa and Regional Integration Bureau and Head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) National Office from 2019 to 2020 and contributed towards Ghana’s bid to host the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat and the establishment of the ECOWAS Early Warning Centre in Accra.

Ambassador Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a Diploma in Education from the University of Cape Coast, as well as two master’s degrees: a Master’s of International Affairs from the Legon Centre for International Affairs & Diplomacy in Ghana, and a Master’s of International Law and Economics from the World Trade Institute in Switzerland. He has participated in various courses on leadership and diplomacy and was the recipient of the Best Ghana Diplomatic Mission Award for 2024.

MIL Security OSI –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to High-Level Side Event: Ways to Include Women in the Future of Afghanistan [as delivered]

Source: United Nations secretary general

The women and girls of Afghanistan face a deep crisis of gender-based discrimination and oppression.

The new law enacted last month formalized the systematic erasure of women and girls from public life.

Afghan women and girls are largely confined to their homes, with no freedom of movement and almost no access to education or work.

They are even banned from singing or raising their voices in public.

The law is the latest in a series of edicts and decrees that strip Afghan women and girls of their rights and freedoms across the board.

At the same time, Afghan women suffer high rates of gender-based violence, so-called honour killings, and rising maternal mortality.

They have told the United Nations that they feel unsafe, isolated and powerless as they lose the ability to provide for their families or contribute to their communities.

Many Afghan women speak of losing hope and living like shadows, moving around silently in the darkness, and always fearing punishment.

Dear friends,

Extreme gender-based discrimination is not only a systematic abuse of women and girls and a violation of human rights conventions and laws.

It is self-harm on a national scale.

It completely undermines the de facto authorities’ stated objective of economic self-reliance.

Educating girls is one of the fastest ways to kick-start economic development and improve the health, wellbeing and prosperity of communities and entire societies.

Women’s participation and leadership has proven benefits for peace and security, social protection, environmental stability and more.

Afghanistan faces serious challenges in all these areas.

Without educated women, without women in employment, including in leadership roles, and without recognizing the rights and freedoms of one-half of its population, Afghanistan will never take its rightful place on the global stage.

Countries and organizations around the world, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, have called strongly for respect for the fundamental rights of Afghan girls and women.

I join them in demanding that the de facto authorities remove all discriminatory restrictions against women and girls immediately, and reopen schools and universities to girls beyond grade six.

Dear friends,

The United Nations continues to engage with Afghan women and women’s groups, to preserve the space for them to operate, and to serve as a conduit for dialogue with the de facto authorities.

Afghan women show remarkable courage in demanding and pursuing their rights, running businesses in difficult conditions, delivering humanitarian aid, and in online campaigns.

The international community stands in solidarity with them.

We will continue to amplify the voices of Afghan women and call for them to play a full role in the country’s life, both inside its borders and on the global stage.

We will never allow gender-based discrimination to become normalized anywhere in the world.

What is happening in Afghanistan can be compared with some of the most egregious systems of oppression in recent history.

I thank the Permanent Missions of Ireland, Qatar, Indonesia and Switzerland and the Women’s Forum on Afghanistan for convening these important discussions on how women and girls can play a full role in Afghanistan’s future.

Thank you.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks to High-Level Side Event: Ways to Include Women in the Future of Afghanistan [as delivered]

Source: United Nations – English

he women and girls of Afghanistan face a deep crisis of gender-based discrimination and oppression.

The new law enacted last month formalized the systematic erasure of women and girls from public life.

Afghan women and girls are largely confined to their homes, with no freedom of movement and almost no access to education or work.

They are even banned from singing or raising their voices in public.

The law is the latest in a series of edicts and decrees that strip Afghan women and girls of their rights and freedoms across the board.

At the same time, Afghan women suffer high rates of gender-based violence, so-called honour killings, and rising maternal mortality.

They have told the United Nations that they feel unsafe, isolated and powerless as they lose the ability to provide for their families or contribute to their communities.

Many Afghan women speak of losing hope and living like shadows, moving around silently in the darkness, and always fearing punishment.

Dear friends,

Extreme gender-based discrimination is not only a systematic abuse of women and girls and a violation of human rights conventions and laws.

It is self-harm on a national scale.

It completely undermines the de facto authorities’ stated objective of economic self-reliance.

Educating girls is one of the fastest ways to kick-start economic development and improve the health, wellbeing and prosperity of communities and entire societies.

Women’s participation and leadership has proven benefits for peace and security, social protection, environmental stability and more.

Afghanistan faces serious challenges in all these areas.

Without educated women, without women in employment, including in leadership roles, and without recognizing the rights and freedoms of one-half of its population, Afghanistan will never take its rightful place on the global stage.

Countries and organizations around the world, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, have called strongly for respect for the fundamental rights of Afghan girls and women.

I join them in demanding that the de facto authorities remove all discriminatory restrictions against women and girls immediately, and reopen schools and universities to girls beyond grade six.

Dear friends,

The United Nations continues to engage with Afghan women and women’s groups, to preserve the space for them to operate, and to serve as a conduit for dialogue with the de facto authorities.

Afghan women show remarkable courage in demanding and pursuing their rights, running businesses in difficult conditions, delivering humanitarian aid, and in online campaigns.

The international community stands in solidarity with them.

We will continue to amplify the voices of Afghan women and call for them to play a full role in the country’s life, both inside its borders and on the global stage.

We will never allow gender-based discrimination to become normalized anywhere in the world.

What is happening in Afghanistan can be compared with some of the most egregious systems of oppression in recent history.

I thank the Permanent Missions of Ireland, Qatar, Indonesia and Switzerland and the Women’s Forum on Afghanistan for convening these important discussions on how women and girls can play a full role in Afghanistan’s future.

Thank you.

MIL OSI Africa –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Economics: Dispute panel established to review certain tax credits under US Inflation Reduction Act

Source: World Trade Organization

DS623: United States — Certain Tax Credits Under the Inflation Reduction Act

China submitted its second request to establish a panel to determine whether certain tax credits under the United States Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are in line with WTO rules. The United States said it was not in a position to agree to China’s first request in July, justifying its actions as necessary to combat climate change. China stated that the IRA’s subsidies favour US goods over imports, violating WTO rules prohibiting such discrimination.

The United States expressed disappointment over China’s decision to pursue a panel request and reiterated that the IRA is its most significant step toward clean energy, aimed at ensuring secure and sustainable supply chains for a global clean energy future.

The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel. Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, the European Union, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Korea, Norway, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and Venezuela reserved their third party rights to participate in the panel proceedings.

DS597: United States – Origin Marking Requirement (Hong Kong, China)

For the 12th time, the United States raised the matter of the panel ruling in DS597 at a DSB meeting. The US said it was raising the matter again as a result of recent developments in Hong Kong, China regarding free speech and human rights. The US referred back to its previous statements regarding its position on essential security and its reasons for placing this item on the DSB agenda.

Hong Kong, China criticized the US for once again raising this matter at the DSB. It referred to previous WTO panels that dismissed US claims that invoking national security in defense of a trade-restrictive measure is entirely self-judging. Any objections should be heard by the WTO’s Appellate Body, which remains blocked due to the US refusal to allow appointment of new Appellate Body members, said Hong Kong, China.

China reiterated its firm belief that a restored appeal mechanism is the proper place to address claims of panel error made by the US and rejected in the strongest terms what it said was US interference in the internal affairs of another WTO member.

Appellate Body appointments

Speaking on behalf of 130 members, Colombia introduced for the 79th time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

The United States repeated that it does not support the proposed decision to commence the appointment of Appellate Body members as its longstanding concerns with WTO dispute settlement remain unaddressed.

Twenty members then took the floor to comment. Many of these members referred to their previous statements made on this matter at earlier DSB meetings and underlined the urgent need to meet the mandates set out at the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences in 2022 and early 2024 respectively to conduct discussions with the view to having a fully and well-functioning dispute settlement system accessible to all members by 2024.

Several members welcomed the progress being made in the formal dispute settlement reform process now underway and the need to accelerate discussions to achieve the 2024 goal.

Colombia, speaking on behalf of the 130 members, said it regretted that for the 79th occasion members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and members shall comply with their obligation under the DSU to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said for the group.

The DSB chair, Ambassador Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel (Saudi Arabia), concluded by expressing his full support for the facilitator in the dispute settlement reform discussions, Ambassador Usha Dwarka-Canabady of Mauritius, in her efforts towards achieving a positive outcome within the mandated time frame.

Other business

Surveillance of implementation

The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “US — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”, DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.”

Next meeting

The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 28 October.

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MIL OSI Economics –

September 29, 2024
MIL-Evening Report: The power of nostalgia: why it’s healthy for you to keep returning to your favourite TV series

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anjum Naweed, Professor of Human Factors, CQUniversity Australia

Janet Julie Vanatko/Shutterstock

How often do you find yourself hitting “play” on an old favourite, reliving the same TV episodes you’ve seen before – or even know by heart?

I’m a chronic re-watcher. Episodes of sitcoms like Blackadder (1983–89), Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013–21), Doc Martin (2004–22) and The Office US (2005–13) – a literal lifetime of TV favourites – are usually dependable in times of stress.

But recently, ahead of an exceptionally challenging deadline, I found myself switching up my viewing. Instead of the escapist comedy I normally return to, I switched to Breaking Bad (2008–13), a nail-biting thriller with a complex reverse hero narrative – and immediately felt at ease.

What do our re-viewing choices tell us about ourselves? And is it OK that we keep returning to old favourites?

Fictional stories, real relationships

Although one-sided, the relationships we form with characters in our favourite TV shows can feel very real. They can increase a sense of belonging, reduce loneliness – and keep pulling us back in.

When we rewatch, we feel sadness, wistful joy and longing, all at the same time. We call the sum of these contradictions nostalgia.

Originally coined in the 17th century to describe Swiss soldiers impaired by homesickness, psychologists now understand nostalgic reflection as a shield against anxiety and threat, promoting a sense of wellbeing.

We all rely on fiction to transport us from our own lives and realities. Nostalgia viewing extends the experience, taking us somewhere we already know and love.

Bingeing nostalgia

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a wave of nostalgia viewing.

In the United States, audience analyst Nielsen found the most streamed show of 2020 was the American version of The Office, seven years after it ended its television run. A Radio Times survey found 64% of respondents said they had rewatched a TV series during lockdown, with 43% watching nostalgic shows.

We were suddenly thrown into an unfamiliar situation and in a perpetual state of unease. We had more time on our hands, but also wanted to feel safe. Tuning into familiar content on television offered an escape – a sanctuary from the realities of futures unknown.

Revisiting connections with TV characters gave us a sense of control. We knew what lay in their futures, and the calm and predictability of their arcs balanced the uncertainty in ours.

Nostalgia as a plot point

Nostalgia has been in the DNA of television since some of the earliest programming decisions.

Every December, broadcasters scramble to screen one of the many versions of A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ much-retold and family-friendly ghost story, which also features nostalgia as a plot device.

First screened on live TV in New York City in 1944, on the still-new technology, the broadcast continued a 100-year-old tradition of the classic appearing on stage and cinema screens.

Settling in around the telly for A Christmas Carol connects us to the holiday period and a heartwarming metamorphosis. Ebeneezer Scrooge revisits long-lost versions of himself and turns from villain to hero and our old friend in a single night.

For viewers, revisiting this character at the same time every year can also reconnect us with our past selves and create a predictable pattern, even in the frenzy of the silly season.

Real-world (re)connection

The neuroscience of nostalgic experiences is clear. Nostalgia arises when current sensory data – like what you watch on TV – matches past emotions and experiences.

It triggers a release of dopamine, a reward-system neurotransmitter involved in emotion and motivation. Encountering nostalgia is like autoloading and hitting play on past positive experiences, elevating desire and regulating mood.

So, nostalgia draws on experiences encoded in memory. The TV shows we choose to rewatch reflect our values, our tastes, and the phases of life we have gone through.

Perhaps this is a reason why reboots of our favourite shows sometimes fall flat, and ultimately set fans up for disappointment.

I still remember the crushing disillusion I felt while watching the reboot of Knight Rider (2008–09). I immediately turned to social media to find a community around my nostalgic setback

Stronger through stress

Going back to my challenging deadline, what was it about the nostalgic experience of watching Breaking Bad that made it different?

Breaking Bad evokes a particular phase in my life. I binged the first three seasons when writing up my PhD thesis. Walter White’s rise and fall journey towards redemption is enmeshed in the nostalgia of a difficult time I made it through.

The predictability of Walter White’s arc on second viewing was an unlikely haven. It’s escalating high-stakes drama mirrored my rising stress, while connecting me to who I was when I first enjoyed the show.

The result? “Dread mode” switched off – even as my anti-heroes marched again to their dire cinematic comeuppance. Reality, past and present, could be worse.

Anjum Naweed 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. The power of nostalgia: why it’s healthy for you to keep returning to your favourite TV series – https://theconversation.com/the-power-of-nostalgia-why-its-healthy-for-you-to-keep-returning-to-your-favourite-tv-series-237753

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI: WISeKey Announces OISTE’s Participation at the Summit of the Future

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

WISeKey Announces OISTE’s Participation at the Summit of the Future

New York, New York – September 23, 2024: WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leader in cybersecurity, AI, Blockchain, and IoT operating as a holding company, today announced that OISTE.org, a non-governmental organization, recently participated in a pivotal event at the UN Headquarters in New York, where world leaders gathered for the Summit of the Future.

OISTE holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and actively engages with multiple key international bodies, such as the Human Rights Council, the International Telecommunications Union, Clinton Initiative and the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). These interactions position OISTE as a significant player in the global conversation around digital identity and the protection of human rights in the digital age.

During the summit, the “Pact for the Future”, a potentially transformative global agreement designed to reshape multilateral governance for a new era, was unanimously adopted. The pact aims to provide a framework for addressing ongoing global commitments, such as sustainable development, human rights, and climate action, while tackling long-term challenges such as digital equity and global security.

The Summit of the Future represents a unique opportunity to rethink the multilateral system and forge new solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing issues, including the ever-evolving role of technology in global governance and human rights. Although the pact was broadly accepted, a small group of seven countries opposed a last-minute amendment, delaying its full implementation.

OISTE’s involvement at such high-level forums underscores its commitment to fostering digital trust and inclusion across borders, emphasizing the need for secure digital identities that uphold human dignity in the digital era. The organization’s work aligns closely with the global goals of achieving fairness, accountability, and sustainability in digital infrastructures, ensuring no one is left behind in the new digital age.

The foundation’s critical analysis emphasized the urgent need for a decentralized approach to AI, advocating for systems that align with local legislations and prioritize the protection of individual freedoms and self-sovereignty in cyberspace.

As global reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) increases, OISTE highlights the dangers posed by the concentration of AI technological control in the hands of a select few tech giants. These entities, often more focused on unchecked progression, overlook the critical aspect of individual data protection, leading to a landscape where advancements in AI are viewed as an unregulated step in evolution.

The intervention by OISTE underscores the necessity for multiple, diversified AI systems, particularly those that respect and adhere to national laws and future international norms. The foundation brought attention to several pivotal reasons, emphasizing ethical considerations, bias mitigation, societal implications, and the diversity inherent in legal systems worldwide.

For more information about OISTE’s initiatives and its role in shaping the future of digital governance, visit https://oiste.org.

About WISeKey
WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

Disclaimer
This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

Press and Investor Contacts

WISeKey International Holding Ltd
Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
Chairman & CEO
Tel: +41 22 594 3000
info@wisekey.com

WISeKey Investor Relations (US)
The Equity Group Inc.
Lena Cati
Tel: +1 212 836-9611 / lcati@equityny.com
Katie Murphy
Tel: +1 212 836-9612 / kmurphy@equityny.com

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024

MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on Enforced Disappearances Opens Twenty-Seventh Session

Source: United Nations – Geneva

Hears that Enforced Disappearances Are on the Increase as a Result of National and International Conflicts and Growing Polarisation Within and Between Countries

The Committee on Enforced Disappearances this morning opened its twenty-seventh session, during which it will examine the reports of Morocco, Norway and Ukraine on their implementation of the provisions of the International Convention on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.

Opening the session, Mahamane Cisse-Gouro, Director, Human Rights Council and Treaty Mechanisms Division, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Representative of the Secretary-General, said the Committee’s agenda deserved the world’s full attention at a time when enforced disappearances were on the increase as a result of national and international conflicts, and growing polarisation within and between countries. In times like these, the vital role of human rights mechanisms to protect and promote human rights became even more obvious.

Mr. Cisse-Gouro welcomed that, since the last session, Thailand, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Bangladesh became parties to the Convention, which now had 76 States parties. He expressed hope that the World Congress on Enforced Disappearances, which would be held in Geneva, Switzerland on 15 and 16 January 2025, would contribute to efforts to achieve universal ratification.

He also said he was pleased that, since the beginning of the Committee’s urgent action procedure, 512 urgent actions had been closed following the location of the disappeared person, including 15 since the last session. Out of the 512 located persons, it was particularly heartening that 408 were located alive.

Olivier de Frouville, Committee Chairperson, in his opening statement, said the session was opening in a context that was worrying for the future. Conflicts of all kinds were multiplying and claiming thousands of victims on all continents. In this context, the practice of enforced disappearances, far from receding, was spreading throughout the world.

Mr. de Frouville said there could be no human rights without an effective rights protection system, but the treaty bodies system was dramatically under-resourced. The Committee was therefore pleased by the adoption yesterday of the Pact for the Future by the General Assembly. The Pact instructed the Secretary-General “to assess the need to provide the human rights protection mechanisms of the United Nations system, including the Office of the High Commissioner, with adequate, predictable, increased and sustainable funding to enable them to carry out their mandates efficiently and effectively.”

Mr. de Frouville concluded by expressing solidarity with the victims of enforced disappearances, including the disappeared, their families and loved ones, who, day after day, suffered the torture of not knowing what had become of the victims.

During the meeting, Shui-Meng Ng, the wife of Sombath Somphone, a victim of enforced disappearance in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, recounted her husband’s disappearance and her subsequent efforts seeking truth, justice and reparation.

Committee Expert Barbara Lochbihler provided the Committee’s response to Ms. Ng’s statement, thanking her for sharing her story and presenting actions undertaken and planned by the Committee concerning Mr. Somphone’s case and the broader fight against enforced disappearances.

Before closing the meeting, the Committee adopted its agenda for the session.

All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage. Webcasts of the meetings of the session can be found here, and meetings summaries can be found here.

The Committee will next meet in public at 3 p.m. this afternoon, Monday, 23 September, to consider the initial report of Ukraine (CED/C/UKR/1).

Statements

MAHAMANE CISSE-GOURO, Director, Human Rights Council and Treaty Mechanisms Division, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Representative of the Secretary-General, said the Committee’s agenda was as busy as ever and deserved the world’s full attention at a time when, sadly, enforced disappearances were on the increase as a result of national and international conflicts, and growing polarisation within and between countries.

There were multiple crises affecting the globe today. In times like these, the vital role of human rights mechanisms to protect and promote human rights became even more obvious. They communicated to States their human rights records and recommended ways to rectify what had gone wrong, bring justice to victims, and adopt measures to protect human rights and prevent their violation. Mr. Cisse-Gouro said human rights were regulators and correctors of power dynamics gone awry. International cooperation, grounded in human rights, was the channel all had to effect change and to address the massive challenges of the time.

The work of the treaty bodies, including this Committee, was key to make this a reality. The guidance and recommendations they provided, and the ongoing interaction they had with States, victims, civil society organizations, and national human rights institutions through the different mandated procedures, helped to identify ways to prevent and address human rights violations.

In times like these, the human rights mechanisms benefitted from increased synergy and mutual reinforcement. Mr. Cisse-Gouro noted with pleasure that reference was made to the Committee’s general comment on enforced disappearances in the context of migration in the report of the Human Rights Council’s intersessional panel discussion on the human rights of migrants. This was an excellent example of mutual reinforcement.

The Committee had continued to promote mutual reinforcement in all its activities. Since the last session in February, it had responded positively to more than 15 requests for training and consultations submitted by States and civil society actors around the world to promote the ratification and implementation of the Convention.

On 30 August, the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, the Committee issued a joint statement with the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, and the representatives of Indonesia and Thailand to the Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. In this statement, the Committee urged all actors to immediately join forces to support victims of enforced disappearances and ensure that their rights and obligations, as codified in regional and international treaties, became a reality for all. The Committee called on actors to take part in the World Congress on Enforced Disappearances, which would be held in Geneva, Switzerland on 15 and 16 January 2025.

On the same occasion, the High Commissioner for Human Rights said that there was no justification for enforced disappearances. Yet, every day, this heinous crime continued to silence and destroy lives. The World Congress in January 2025 was an opportunity to establish a strategy and network so that the world could finally end this tool of terror. Bringing together experts, victims, States and other key actors in the context of this first World Congress on Enforced Disappearances to share their experiences and good practices, and to establish a common strategy to promote the ratification of the Convention and its implementation, was indeed a unique opportunity that needed to be fully seized.

In times like these, it was particularly welcome that, since the last session, Thailand, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Bangladesh became parties to the Convention, which now had 76 States parties. The Office celebrated these ratifications, while continuing its efforts to achieve universal ratification. It hoped that the World Congress would contribute to reaching this objective.

The Office of the High Commissioner continued to actively support efforts to strengthen the treaty body system, which was the key topic at the thirty-sixth annual meeting of the treaty body Chairpersons in New York in June 2024. The Chairpersons met with the Secretary-General and other senior United Nations officials, civil society and Member States. The Chairs made marked progress in terms of aligning working methods, and they advocated together for enlarged support for the implementation of the treaty body strengthening process. At a well-attended meeting with Member States, the Chairs called for resources to implement the predictable review schedule and other key strengthening proposals.

A heavy programme for the next two weeks was before the Committee. It would examine three States parties under the Convention: Ukraine, Morocco and Norway. It would also adopt lists of issues and lists of themes for Belgium, Lesotho, Seychelles and Serbia and consider requesting ad hoc additional information.

Also before the Committee was the report on urgent actions. As of today, the Committee had registered a total of 1,893 urgent actions. Out of these, 1,101 were “living cases” on which the Committee needed to carry out comprehensive follow-up, either individually or in groups. Mr. Cisse-Gouro said he was particularly pleased that since the beginning of the procedure, 512 urgent actions had been closed following the location of the disappeared person, including 15 since the last session. Out of the 512 located persons since the beginning of the implementation of the procedure, it was particularly heartening that 408 of them were located alive. The Committee would also examine one individual complaint, and further discuss projects related to short-term enforced disappearances and to women and enforced disappearances.

Mr. Cisse-Gouro recalled the United Nations’ zero tolerance policy on intimidation and reprisals. The Secretary-General had asked all entities to be vigilant and committed in this area. Civil society and victims provided crucial information and testimony to the treaty bodies and provided contextual information essential to their work. States needed to ensure adequate protection against any act of intimidation or reprisal against those who cooperated or had cooperated with the United Nations and its mechanisms.

Mr. Cisse-Gouro concluded by expressing his support to the Committee and wished it a fruitful and productive session.

OLIVIER DE FROUVILLE, Chairperson of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances, said the session opened in a context that was worrying for the future. Conflicts of all kinds were multiplying and claiming thousands of victims on all continents. Power politics seemed to be back in international relations more than ever and, within States, merchants of hatred were stirring up mistrust between communities and preparing for tomorrow’s conflicts. The disastrous consequences of global warming were increasingly being felt, causing natural disasters that were additional factors of instability.

In this context, the practice of enforced disappearances, far from receding, was spreading throughout the world. Even when enforced disappearance took different forms, the objective always remained the same: to deny the disappeared person any humanity both as a legal person and as a natural person, and to spread terror among those close to them, who suffered the torture of uncertainty, a terror that quickly spread throughout society. But victims were resilient, as were societies.

Experience showed that every time criminals wanted to impose silence and obedience through enforced disappearance, victims’ families assembled in public squares and brandished their photos, asking the simple and fundamental question: “where are they?” Above all, it was women, mothers, sisters, wives who had the courage to call out armed men, because no amount of oppression or extreme violence could make them accept that their loved ones had evaporated into thin air. Their determination eventually gave rise to a new norm of international law: the complete prohibition of enforced disappearance. Their struggle had also led to the adoption of the Convention, in which States pledged to take all measures to make this prohibition effective and to eliminate the practice of enforced disappearance.

It was with a view to fulfilling this promise that several actors joined forces to organise the first World Congress on Enforced Disappearances, which would be held in Geneva on 15 and 16 January 2025. Mr. de Frouville thanked the High Commissioner Völker Turk for agreeing to be present at the opening session of the Congress, as well as his Office and States that were co-sponsoring the event. The Congress’ programme and plan of action were the result of a consultation process carried out since March 2024 with States and all other stakeholders, including victims’ associations, civil society organizations. and national human rights institutions. Mr. de Frouville invited all States, including parties and non-parties to the Convention, and all stakeholders who were willing to commit themselves to acting, even modestly, against enforced disappearance to come to the meetings of the Congress.

The fight for respect for human rights needed to be based on robust institutions and procedures. There could be no human rights without an effective rights protection system. However, the treaty bodies system was dramatically under-resourced; its budget was ridiculous in view of the magnitude of its task. In 2023, its budget was 459 million United States dollars, of which only 178 million was financed from the United Nations regular budget, forcing the Office of the High Commissioner to find 280 million in extra-budgetary resources. This sum did not cover all the estimated needs, which would have required an additional 171 million. This amount seemed ludicrous in view of the major role that the United Nations system played today in defending human rights and helping States and civil society to defend them in a world where they were threatened more than ever.

The Committee was therefore pleased by the adoption yesterday in New York of the Pact for the Future by the General Assembly. Among other interesting provisions, Measure 46 of the Pact instructed the Secretary-General “to assess the need to provide the human rights protection mechanisms of the United Nations system, including the Office of the High Commissioner, with adequate, predictable, increased and sustainable funding to enable them to carry out their mandates efficiently and effectively.”

This was in line with the call made by the Chairpersons of the treaty bodies at their thirty-sixth meeting held last July in New York. The Chairs told the Secretary-General and Member States that the treaty bodies needed, before the end of the year, a decisive resolution that would enable them to quickly implement the predictable timetable for the consideration of States’ reports. The immediate costs associated with this change would in fact represent a saving in the medium and long term, since the change would be accompanied by a longer reporting period of eight years, and economies of scale resulting from better coordination and complementarity between the 10 Committees and the rest of the system. The Committee Chairs expressed their hope that States would seize this opportunity to strengthen the treaty system decisively.

A year ago, a conference was held on a joint declaration on illegal intercountry adoptions drafted by the Committee on Enforced Disappearances, the Committee on the Rights of the Child, and several Special Procedures. The conference was an opportunity to hear from victims from all parts of the world, including adoptees and biological parents searching for their missing children. A documentary about the victims’ story and their quest for the truth would be premiered in Geneva, in parallel with this session, on 1 October 2024 in Auditorium A2 of the Maison de la Paix. The screening would be followed by a debate featuring the victims, who would testify about their experiences. A short excerpt from the documentary would also be shown at the closing of this session on 4 October.

Mr. de Frouville concluded by expressing solidarity with the victims of enforced disappearances, including the disappeared, their families and loved ones, who, day after day, suffered the torture of not knowing what had become of the victims.

SHUI-MENG NG, wife of Sombath Somphone, victim of enforced disappearance in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, said her husband was disappeared in December 2012 in front of a police post, where he was pushed into a white vehicle and taken away. Everything that happened at the time of the disappearance was recorded by police traffic cameras. He was a community worker who helped poor farmers to improve their livelihoods. He also worked with young people to find solutions for themselves and become more resilient, and with local communities to help them prepare and respond to climate change. Ms. Ng said she did not know why he had been disappeared, but said his work may have annoyed powerful people, who felt he was threatening their interests.

Ms. Ng did not know if her husband was still alive. This was the pain that victims of enforced disappearance suffered. The pain remained with her every day, despite the passing of time. The fear that he would not come back loomed larger and larger with each day, and the hope that he would return was fading.

Enforced disappearance was the most criminal violation of human rights. Ms. Ng called on the Committee and all States to appeal to the Government of Lao People’s Democratic Republic to reveal the truth regarding this enforced disappearance. Ms. Ng had appealed to the authorities and received no information, with authorities simply stating that the investigation was ongoing. The hope that she would receive truth and justice was becoming more remote, but she said that she would not give up. She would continue to raise the case of her husband at every opportunity, seeking news about what happened to him, as well as truth, justice and reparation until her last breath.

Ms. Ng urged the Committee to not forget the victims and their families. There were more than 14,000 cases of enforced disappearance before the United Nations. This was unacceptable in a world where governments claimed to protect their citizens from enforced disappearance. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic was a signatory to the Convention but had not ratified it. It nevertheless needed to uphold the spirit of the Convention. In closing, Ms. Ng appealed for the safe return of her husband.

BARBARA LOCHBIHLER, Committee Expert, thanked Ms. Ng for sharing the day that changed her life, the struggle that had defined her life ever since, and the pain that remained with her every day. This case was particular in several respects. Sombath Somphone was a well-known, dedicated and passionate community worker. He was honoured with awards beyond his country. His disappearance did not happen mysteriously in an unknown place but was recorded by police traffic cameras.

International non-governmental organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch had campaigned on his behalf, and international media had reported on the case. The European Parliament had called for his release, as had parliamentarians from the region. United Nations bodies, including the Human Rights Committee, had questioned the Lao Government on the issue. Ms. Ng’s tireless efforts were based on her professional expertise, her profound knowledge of international structures, and her experience in international solidarity networking. Despite these efforts, Sombath Somphone remained disappeared, his fate and whereabouts still unknown to his family and friends.

Pain and suffering remained with the victims of enforced disappearance every day despite the passing of time, because with time hope faded. Ms. Ng and Mr. Somphone’s supporters had been confronted with ignorance, disregard, inaction, negligence and outright lies from authorities. This was what so many victims of enforced disappearance had to deal with, often exacerbated by reprisals and existential distress. Mr. Somphone’s case clearly showed that an enforced disappearance had not only serious consequences for victims’ family and friends but also had a chilling effect on the civil society of the given community or country. After Mr. Somphone’s disappearance, civil society organizations in Lao People’s Democratic Republic were in fear, becoming more careful in their work or even inactive. This surely pleased those responsible for Mr. Somphone’s disappearance.

Ms. Ng, as with victims in so many countries, rightly had high expectations of the Committee. However, the Government of Lao People’s Democratic Republic had signed but not ratified the Convention, so the Committee had no formal means to review the situation in the State or ask for information on particular cases. Unfortunately, this applied to many countries in Asia, where only a few States had ratified the Convention.

The Committee was sincerely committed to change this, intensifying its outreach to governments and the broader human rights movement. Last year, it had a fruitful meeting with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights. In November, the regional office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Committee would organise several workshops with State and civil society organization representatives in Bangkok, and in January, the World Congress on Enforced Disappearance would gather activists and diplomats, victims and United Nations representatives to discuss ways forward in the fight against enforced disappearances.

Regrettably, the impact of a United Nations treaty body had its limitations. Essential for things to change was serious political will by the Government to act. The Committee would appeal to the Lao Government to demonstrate this political will and would never forget the victims. Ms. Lochbihler thanked Ms. Ng wholeheartedly for addressing the Committee, congratulating her for her passion and energy, and for not being discouraged by years of ignorance and denial. She expressed hope that the search for Ms. Ng’s husband would one day bring to light what really happened, as Ms. Ng had the right to know the truth.

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CED24.006E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Europe: In 2023, one in every four single-family houses was equipped with a heat pump.

Source: Switzerland – Department of Home Affairs

Federal Statistical Office

Neuchâtel, 23.09.2024 – Switzerland had 1.79 million residential buildings and 4.79 million dwellings in 2023. 37% of buildings were heated by oil and 17% by gas. 21% of buildings were equipped with heat pumps, a fivefold rise since 2000. One single-family house in four is equipped with a heat pump. These are some of the results from the Building and Dwelling Statistics compiled by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

This press release and further information on this topic can be found on the FSO website (see link below)

Address for enquiries

Info StatBL, BFS, Population section, tel.: +41 58 467 25 25, e-mail: info.gws@bfs.admin.ch

Publisher

Federal Statistical Office
http://www.statistics.admin.ch

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MIL OSI Europe News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: 500 Years of the Three Leagues Free State – Exactly 500 Years Ago: The Three Leagues Seal Their Union

MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Grisons in Italian

Exactly 500 years ago, on 23 September 1524, the Three Leagues, namely the Grey League, the Caddean League and the League of Ten Jurisdictions, united to form the Free State of the Three Leagues and affixed their seals to the League Charter. From this aggregation, the Canton of Graubünden was created over time. In addition to numerous activities for the people of Graubünden, the Government is celebrating this historic event with guests from Switzerland and abroad.

On 23 September 1524, three leagues united, forming an independent state and laying the foundation for today’s Canton of Graubünden. This event is attested by the League Charter. This is a document bearing the seals of the Three Leagues and those of the Lord of Rhäzüns and the Abbot of Disentis. The Bishop of Chur joined later. The document is now kept in the State Archives of Graubünden. The most important provision is that no League may start a war without the consent of the others. The League Charter also guarantees mutual aid and assistance, the protection of roads and free trade. The central units of the Three Leagues are the jurisdictional municipalities, with their own jurisdiction. In the event of disputes, conciliation procedures are provided for. All this is agreed “forever”, without time limits.

Graubünden had long been linked to the Confederation as an allied country. In 1799, the Free State was forcibly integrated into the Helvetic Republic, and since 10 March 1803, Graubünden has been part of Switzerland as a Canton. At that time, Switzerland was still a Confederation of States, which left extensive powers to the Cantons. However, an independent foreign policy was no longer possible.

Government celebrates with guests In the anniversary year 2024, numerous events will allow you to see and experience the history of the Canton of Graubünden. In addition to projects and activities in all language regions, the Government of the Canton of Graubünden has invited the Federal Council, guests from neighboring countries and cantons, and numerous representatives of various institutions in Graubünden to Lantsch/Lenz for an anniversary event on Saturday, 21 September 2024.

After the welcome speech by the Prime Minister Jon Domenic Parolini, Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider addressed the government and the guests. The guests were then introduced to the open-air theatre performance «1524» by Origen director Giovanni Netzer and were able to experience the first performance on the plateau in a spectacular setting. The event was rounded off with a sumptuous aperitif, created by the renowned chef Hansjörg Ladurner and served by hotel communication specialists in training at the EHL Passugg hotel school.

Open-air theatre performance «1524»Origen’s open-air theatre performance tells the story of the foundation of the Free State at the beginning of the 16th century. The country and the lives of the people are exposed to the lust for power of individual «great lords». A narrator, inspired by the historical figure of Gian Travers, guides the audience through the performance and interprets the era. Like a diary, he recalls the events of his life, which take shape on stage. A large ensemble of amateurs and professionals moves across the stage. In the lively performance, the performers engage with the history of Graubünden and reflect on the future of the Free State and the future Canton.The stage, a refined wooden structure, stands within a gentle arena created by nature. A high, irregular framework of dancing triangles supports the open roof. The theatre opens onto the unspoiled landscape on all sides.

Further information on the performance and advance tickets are available at www.origen.ch/theater. Performances from today until October 12, at 6:30 pm.

Other activities for the JubileeThe numerous activities in all linguistic regions continue and can be consulted at https://500.gr.ch/it.

The site also features a chronological representation of historical events: https://500.gr.ch/chronologie

Attached images:

The Government in corpore with the League Charter (Photo: Mattias Nutt)

Link to photos of the jubilee event (©Mattias Nutt)

Contact persons:

Questions about the 500th anniversary celebrations:

Prime Minister Dr. Jon Domenic Parolini, Director of the Department of Education, Culture and Environmental Protection, e-mailJondomenic.Parolini@ekud.gr.ch
Daniel Camenisch, Project Manager 500 Years of the Three Leagues Free State, Tel. 41 78 659 63 60, e-mailcamenisch@vinavant.ch

Questions about the open-air theatre performance «1524»:

Dr. Giovanni Netzer, author and director of the open-air theatre performance, director of Origen, tel. 41 81 637 16 81, e-mailinfo@origen.ch; g.netzer@origen.ch

Competent body: Department of Education, Culture and Environmental Protection

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Swissmedic – Thuasne recalls Globe-Trotter walking sticks for people weighing more than 130 kg

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

Federal Consumer Affairs Office

Bern, 23.09.2024 – Thuasne is recalling certain models of “Globe-Trotter” walking sticks for people weighing more than 130 kg. There is a risk of the walking stick becoming deformed or breaking, which could lead to a fall and serious injuries. Affected patients should stop using the walking sticks immediately and return them to their supplier.

What danger arises from the product concerned?

There is a risk of the cane becoming deformed or broken, which could cause the patient to fall and suffer serious injury.

Which products are affected?

The following rods are concerned:

– Globe-Trotter W2016021010 (blue)

– Globe-Trotter W2016022010 (gray)

– Globe-Trotter W2017021006

What should affected consumers do?

Persons weighing more than 130 kg should stop using the canes immediately and return them to their supplier. They can obtain a replacement or refund for the canes from the supplier.

Patients weighing less than 130 kg may continue to use canes. However, these individuals should have the safety of their cane checked by their supplier.

In doing so, they must take careful note of the information sent to suppliers by Thuasne (affix the sticker and add the addendum to the instructions for use).

Address for sending questions

If you have any questions, consumers can contact Thuasne SCL Export TFR: Telephone: 33 477 81 40 01 Email: sclexport@thuasne.fr URL: https://www.thuasne.com/

Author

Federal Office of Consumer Affairshttp://www.konsum.admin.ch/

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MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: By 2023, one in four single-family homes was equipped with a heat pump

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

Federal Statistical Office

Neuchâtel, 23.09.2024 – Switzerland had 1.79 million residential buildings and 4.79 million dwellings in 2023. 37% of the buildings were heated by oil and 17% by gas. 21% of the buildings were equipped with heat pumps. The share of the latter has increased fivefold since 2000. One in four single-family homes is equipped with a heat pump. These are some of the results of the building and housing statistics, compiled by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

You will find this press release and further information on this topic on the OFS website (see link below)

Address for sending questions

Info StatBL, OFS, Population Section, tel.: 41 58 467 25 25, e-mail: info.gws@bfs.admin.ch

Author

Federal Statistical Officehttp://www.statistique.admin.ch

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MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Switzerland participates in G20 discussions on research and innovation

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

State Secretariat for Training, Research and Innovation

Bern, 23.09.2024 – On 19 September 2024, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation Martina Hirayama attended the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Research and Innovation in Manaus, Brazil. Switzerland had previously been invited by Brazil, which currently holds the G20 Presidency, to join the new working group set up this year.

The ministerial meeting was held under the slogan “Open Innovation for a Just and Sustainable Development”. International cooperation in science and innovation, with a particular focus on open innovation, was the main theme. In the context of the Sustainable Development Goals, discussions focused on the contribution of science and innovation to the decarbonization of the economy, research dedicated to the Amazon, and diversity, equity, inclusion and access to research. The ministers attending the meeting adopted the Manaus Declaration, which reflects the political consensus of the G20 countries on these issues.

During the event, Secretary of State Martina Hirayama engaged with heads of delegation from Brazil, the G20 presidency, as well as other countries and organizations.

Address for sending questions

State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SEFRICommunicationmedien@sbfi.admin.ch 41 58 462 96 90

Author

State Secretariat for Training, Research and Innovationhttp://www.sbfi.admin.ch

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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Interparliamentary meeting in Neuchâtel: artificial intelligence at the heart of the debates

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Canton of Neuchatel Switzerland

09/23/2024

On the occasion of the 61st annual meeting of the offices of the parliaments of French-speaking Switzerland, Bern and Ticino, delegations bringing together around seventy people were received in Neuchâtel on 20 and 21 September 2024 for a reception, visits and a working seminar. The discussions focused in particular on the theme of artificial intelligence and its impact on parliamentary activity.

As a reminder, the offices constitute the executive committees of the parliaments. Bringing together representatives of the different political groups as well as the functions of presidency and vice-presidency, these bodies ensure the administrative management of the Grand Councils as well as various missions set by law such as the allocation of objects to the committees, the setting of the agenda of the sessions, or the representations.

Every year, the offices of the Latin cantons meet for two days. This year, it was the turn of the Neuchâtel parliament to host the event. On Friday, September 20, the delegations were received at a friendly reception in the city of Neuchâtel during which Neuchâtel’s heritage and local products were honored. On this occasion, Mr. Jonathan Gretillat, municipal councilor, sent a message on behalf of the municipal authorities. On Saturday, September 21, the participants were received at the Château de Neuchâtel by the President of the Grand Council, Ms. Mary-Claude Fallet, and by the President of the Council of State, Ms. Florence Nater. With the contribution of experts in the field, the parliamentarians discussed the impact of artificial intelligence on parliamentary activity.

The President of the Grand Council of Neuchâtel noted in her introduction to what extent “parliaments, pillars of democracy, are faced with immense challenges in the face of rapid technological developments”, while exploring existing solutions to assert “their role as regulatory bodies, capable of protecting citizens while promoting positive and democratic innovation”. The way in which AI could facilitate parliamentary work by automating certain administrative tasks, synthesizing information or allowing better promotion of parliamentary debates among citizens was also discussed.

As in previous editions, this visit allowed for rich and useful exchanges on the practices and realities of cantonal parliaments, in a fine spirit of intercantonal understanding.

BodyRight

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Europe: Switzerland participates in G20 discussions on research and innovation

Source: Switzerland – Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research

State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation

Bern, 23.09.2024 – On 19 September, Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation, attended the G20 Research and Innovation Ministerial Meeting in Manaus, Brazil. Switzerland was invited by Brazil, which currently holds the G20 presidency, to participate in the new working group set up this year.

The theme of the meeting was Open Innovation for a Just and Sustainable Development. The main topic of discussion was international cooperation in science and innovation, in particular with regard to open innovation. In the context of the Sustainable Development Goals, the contribution of science and innovation to decarbonisation, research in the Amazon, and the topics of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in research were discussed. The ministers adopted the Manaus Declaration, which reflects the political consensus of the G20 countries on the above issues.

In the course of the event, Ms Hirayama exchanged views with the heads of delegations from the G20 presidency, Brazil, as well as other countries and organisations.

Address for enquiries

State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI
Communication
medien@sbfi.admin.ch
+41 58 462 96 90

Publisher

State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation
http://www.sbfi.admin.ch

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MIL OSI Europe News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sellafield apprentice nominated for prestigious award
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Lucy Jarvis is a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year category at the Engineering Construction Industry Training and Development Awards.
Lucy Jarvis, Sellafield Ltd

Lucy, from Cockermouth, West Cumbria, is a technical degree apprentice and started at Sellafield Ltd in 2022.

She works in a team managing quality assurance documents which ensure nuclear safety is protected when nuclear waste is packaged and stored.

One of the highlights of her apprenticeship so far, was being involved in a project designed to overcome robot obsolescence on the Sellafield site.

Another was representing Sellafield Ltd at the Nuclear Week in Parliament Skills and Apprenticeship Fair 2023.

She said:

I was quite surprised when I found out about the nomination. It was a really exciting time when I got the email and I’m looking forward to attending the ceremony.

I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship so far. There have been lots of opportunities to network with different people and learn from subject matter experts. There’s a vast range of roles to venture into and my manager has been really supportive of my development throughout.

The Sellafield Education and Skills team have been really supportive, they helped to arrange trips to the Vandellos reactor site in Barcelona and the CERN research centre in Switzerland as well as many national EDF sites.

These visits have allowed me to reach my level 6 apprenticeship competencies as well as gain knowledge from other areas in the sector.

But Lucy isn’t resting on her laurels, she already has plans for future career development.

She said:

Next year I will be starting my secondment in project management at Sellafield, and I will be finishing my foundation degree and starting my degree in plant engineering.

The Engineering Construction Industry Training and Development Awards are an annual celebration of outstanding achievements in skill enhancement, highlighting exceptional young talent in the sector.

Lucy will find out if she’s been successful at a ceremony in London on 5 November 2024.

Her nomination is the third piece of good news for Sellafield’s apprentice scheme in as many months.

In July, the company was named one of the top 100 apprenticeship employers in England.

And earlier this month, another 300 vocational and degree apprentices and 150 graduates joined the business.

The bumper intake underlined Sellafield Ltd’s commitment to investing in young careers and nurturing future talent to ensure the company continues to drive towards its century-long clean up mission.

Michelle Lambon-Wilks, head of education and skills for Sellafield Ltd, said:

We’re so proud of Lucy’s achievements. We’re all crossing our fingers she wins the award.

But even if she doesn’t, she’s still a fabulous role model for other apprentices and young people considering a career in our industry.

We’ll begin recruiting for next year’s cohort of apprentices in November 2024. Lucy is an example of how far you can go if you’re willing to take a chance and push yourself to achieve.

Further reading

Hundreds of new starters begin their careers at Sellafield

Sellafield Ltd careers – graduates, placements and apprenticeships

6 things that might surprise you about being a graduate engineer at Sellafield

How to join our talent community

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Published 23 September 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Digital transition of Vaud SMEs: an initial assessment of the SyNNergy program

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

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News
Digital transition of Vaud SMEs: an initial assessment of the SyNNergy program

Published on 23.09.2024

Two years after its launch, 19 consortia have already been created and supported through the programme.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Federal Gaming Commission and Basel-Stadt Police Uncover Illegal Gambling Premises

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

Federal Gaming Commission

Bern, 23.09.2024 – In cooperation with the Basel police, the Federal Gaming Commission (FGC) searched a premises in Basel on Friday evening where it suspected illegal casino gaming was being operated. It seized various objects and questioned the people present.

On Friday, September 20, 2024, the CFMJ and the Basel-Stadt police dismantled an illegal gambling premises. The Basel police had previously received several reports from individuals that poker and computers could be played for money there. There was therefore a suspicion that casino games were being offered there without the necessary license. This contravenes the Gambling Act, as only casinos with a license are allowed to offer casino games.

During the search, the intervention forces seized gaming equipment, computers and mobile devices. The people present were identified and questioned.

The CFMJ is continuing its investigation. It is analyzing the seized devices as well as the statements of the people questioned. The accused risk custodial sentences of up to five years or financial penalties for violating the law on gambling.

Address for sending questions

Charlotte Schläpfer, communications specialist, T 41 58 465 63 15, charlotte.schlaepfer@esbk.admin.chNicole Odermatt, communications specialist, T 41 58 463 58 78, nicole.odermatt@esbk.admin.ch

Author

Federal Gaming Commissionhttp://www.esbk.admin.ch

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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: The Federal Gaming Commission and the Basel-Stadt police uncover an illegal gambling premises

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

Federal Gaming Commission

Bern, 23.09.2024 – In cooperation with the Basel police, the Federal Gaming Commission (FGC) searched a premises in Basel on Friday evening where it suspected illegal casino gaming was being operated. It seized various objects and questioned the people present.

On Friday, September 20, 2024, the CFMJ and the Basel-Stadt police dismantled an illegal gambling premises. The Basel police had previously received several reports from individuals that poker and computers could be played for money there. There was therefore a suspicion that casino games were being offered there without the necessary license. This contravenes the Gambling Act, as only casinos with a license are allowed to offer casino games.

During the search, the intervention forces seized gaming equipment, computers and mobile devices. The people present were identified and questioned.

The CFMJ is continuing its investigation. It is analyzing the seized devices as well as the statements of the people questioned. The accused risk custodial sentences of up to five years or financial penalties for violating the law on gambling.

Address for sending questions

Charlotte Schläpfer, communications specialist, T 41 58 465 63 15, charlotte.schlaepfer@esbk.admin.chNicole Odermatt, communications specialist, T 41 58 463 58 78, nicole.odermatt@esbk.admin.ch

Author

Federal Gaming Commissionhttp://www.esbk.admin.ch

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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong movies shine in Berlin (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong movies shine in Berlin (with photo)
Hong Kong movies shine in Berlin (with photo)
*********************************************

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Berlin (HKETO Berlin) supported the film festival Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema in Berlin, Germany, from September 20 to 22 (Berlin time). The film festival presented six Hong Kong films, namely “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”, “The Lyricist Wannabe”, “Time Still Turns The Pages”, “Throw Down (Restored)”, “Love Lies”, and “Fly Me To The Moon”. Actors Philip Ng, Lo Chun-yip, actress Angela Yuen, and director Norris Wong engaged with local audiences after the screenings of the respective movies. HKETO Berlin hosted a reception before the screening of the opening film “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”. The Director of HKETO Berlin, Miss Jenny Szeto, delivered the opening remarks, welcoming some 100 guests. Miss Szeto thanked the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the Hong Kong International Film Festival and its local partner, the Berlin NewGen Film Festival, for bringing outstanding Hong Kong movies to Berlin. “The Government is dedicated to promoting Hong Kong’s cultural footprint and in particular, supporting the development of our film industry. Among other things, we actively encourage and support industry professionals to participate in film festivals around the world to elevate the visibility of Hong Kong films and showcase our talented creators. The Making Waves programme is a shining example of this commitment.” Launched in 2022, Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema is funded by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency to help Hong Kong films go global. To date, it has showcased the work of many promising Hong Kong filmmakers in over 20 cities. About HKETO Berlin HKETO Berlin is the official representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in commercial relations and other economic and trade matters in Germany as well as Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia and Switzerland.

Ends/Monday, September 23, 2024Issued at HKT 19:28

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: Beat Jans in Luxembourg for the meeting of justice ministers of German-speaking countries

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

Federal Department of Justice and Police

Bern, 23.09.2024 – Federal Councillor Beat Jans took part in the meeting of justice ministers of German-speaking countries in Luxembourg on 22 and 23 September 2024. The traditional meeting covered current issues such as the digitalisation of justice, the challenges of juvenile criminal law and experiences with the recognition of a third gender. On this occasion, Federal Councillor Beat Jans emphasised the importance of an efficient and accessible justice system that is in line with societal developments.

The justice ministers noted that all participating countries are currently working on digitalising their judicial systems in order to improve access to courts, but also to reduce the administrative burden.

Legislative work is also underway in Switzerland to modernise justice and make it even more efficient. This digital transition will also facilitate access to the courts, in particular through the electronic communication of judicial documents. The digitalisation of justice also represents a societal challenge: not all citizens have the necessary tools to benefit from the advantages of digital technology. Justice must therefore remain accessible through ordinary channels for these people.

Juvenile criminal law and youth protection were also on the agenda for discussion. Swiss juvenile criminal law is an example of effectiveness: in Switzerland, the adult recidivism rate of previously convicted minors is 31%, a relatively low figure in international comparison. Discussions also focused on guardianship law, more specifically in connection with the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. One of the issues to be resolved in the context of the work currently underway in Switzerland concerns the repeal of general guardianship.

The justice ministers also discussed the recognition of a third gender. Germany and Austria have already adopted regulations to this effect. In Switzerland, various measures are being considered to improve the situation of non-binary people. A reform in force since 2022 also allows transgender people to change their gender indication in the civil status register simply and free of charge.

The traditional meeting of German-speaking justice ministers took place this year in Luxembourg at the invitation of Luxembourg’s Minister of Justice Elisabeth Margue. In addition to Federal Councillor Beat Jans, the working visit brought together Liechtenstein’s Minister of Justice Graziella Marok-Wachter, German State Secretary for Justice Angelika Schlunck and representatives of the Austrian Ministry of Justice.

Address for sending questions

DFJP communications department, info@gs-ejpd.admin.ch, T 41 58 462 18 18

Author

Federal Department of Justice and Policehttp://www.ejpd.admin.ch

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI: dsm-firmenich to present at the dbVIC – Deutsche Bank ADR Virtual Investor Conference on September 25 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MAASTRICHT, The Netherlands, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — dsm-firmenich (AMS: DSFIR; OTCQX: DSFIY) based in Kaiseraugst, Switzerland and focused on nutrition, health and beauty, today announced that Anna Morello, Director Investor Relations at dsm-firmenich will present at the dbVIC – Deutsche Bank American Depositary Receipt (ADR) Virtual Investor Conference on September 25. This virtual investor conference is aimed exclusively at introducing global companies with ADR programs to investors.

DATE: September 25, 2024
TIME: 11:30 AM ET
LINK: https://bit.ly/47xPcjS

This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time – both in the presentation hall as well as the organization’s “virtual trade booth.” If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.

Participation is free of charge.

https://investors.dsm-firmenich.com/en/investors/dsm-firmenich-at-a-glance.html

About dsm-firmenich

As innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients, flavors, and fragrances for the world’s growing population to thrive. With our comprehensive range of solutions, with natural and renewable ingredients and renowned science and technology capabilities, we work to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. dsm-firmenich is a Swiss-Dutch company, listed on the Euronext Amsterdam, with operations in almost 60 countries and revenues of more than €12 billion. With a diverse, worldwide team of nearly 30,000 employees, we bring progress to life™ every day, everywhere, for billions of people.

About Virtual Investor Conferences®
Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

Contacts
dsm-firmenich
Investor Relations
T: +31 (0)45 578 2864
E: investors@dsm-firmenich.com

Virtual Investor Conferences
John M. Viglotti
SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
OTC Markets Group
(212) 220-2221
johnv@otcmarkets.com

The MIL Network –

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Translation: In October in Geneva, let’s cultivate democracy!

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

From October 4 to 12, 2024, Geneva invites the population to “Cultivate Democracy” as part of the 10th edition of its traditional week celebrating popular sovereignty. A rich and varied program, intended for all audiences, is offered by the many public and private entities gathered for the occasion around this theme.

Democracy Week 2024 Logo

With over forty partners and nearly as many events, including thirty-two open to the public, Democracy Week 2024 promises to be a must-attend event for anyone interested in civil rights. Two separate programs will be offered: one for the general public, the other reserved for schools.

Multiple themes

The population will have a wide choice of activities available: conferences, debates, workshops, round tables, exhibitions or even guided tours and evening discussions. Among the many themes proposed, visitors will be able to explore local, Swiss and international democracy; take an interest in the awakening of citizen consultation; try to determine the implications of digital technology and artificial intelligence on our democracies; reflect on the impact of democracy on the youngest, with the celebration of the hundred years of children’s rights; encourage the political participation of the greatest number or discover the behind the scenes of political communication. Finally, they will have the opportunity to discuss ways to improve our society through foresight and the role of philanthropy in democratic societies.

Distinguished guests

Eminent personalities will participate in this new edition. To name but a few, let us mention Federal Councillor Beat Jans, Professor Loïc Blondiaux, specialist in local democracy, Irene Khan, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Pascal Crittin, Director General of RTS and Professor Rodney Benson, specialist in electoral communication from New York University, who will discuss the upcoming American elections.

Join us and cultivate democracy with us during this 10th edition of Democracy Week in Geneva!

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

September 29, 2024
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Ng promotes trade and investment ties at Association of Southeast Asian Nations economic ministers meeting in Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Source: Government of Canada News

Over the weekend, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, concluded her participation in the 13th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Ministers-Canada Consultation, in Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR).
September 23, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Over the weekend, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, concluded her participation in the 13th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Ministers-Canada Consultation, in Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR).

During the consultation, Minister Ng highlighted the progress Canada and ASEAN member states have made toward an ASEAN-Canada free trade agreement, and underscored the importance of intensifying efforts to conclude the agreement negotiations in 2025.

At the meeting, Minister Ng and ASEAN partners discussed the increased trade and economic cooperation since the launch of Canada-ASEAN Strategic Partnership a year ago, including the advancement of initiatives under Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy in key areas such as inclusive trade, digital trade, agriculture and agri-food and sustainability.

The Minister also acknowledged the Canada-ASEAN Business Council’s participation in the consultations and recognized its support of Canada’s commitment to creating new opportunities for Canadian businesses and investors.

On the margins of the consultations, Minister Ng also interacted with several international partners to advance discussions on trade priorities of mutual interest.

These included:
- Malaithong Kommasith, Minister of Industry and Commerce, Lao PDR
- Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Malaysia
- Filipus Nino Pereira, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Timor-Leste
- Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN
- Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce, Cambodia
- Helene Budliger Artieda, State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Switzerland
- Tim Ayres, Assistant Minister for Trade, Australia
- Douglas Alexander, Minister of State (Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security), the United Kingdom
“These in-person engagements in the Lao PDR were an excellent opportunity for us to continue strengthening the ASEAN-Canada bilateral commercial relationship and contribute to our mutual economic prosperity and growth. Canada will keep working with ASEAN partners to deepen trade ties that will benefit Canadian businesses and workers, create good jobs and generate strong, inclusive and sustainable economic growth from coast to coast to coast.”

– Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development

Huzaif Qaisar
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
343-575-8816
Huzaif.Qaisar@international.gc.ca

MIL OSI Canada News –
September 29, 2024

Category: Switzerland

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Multiple themes

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