Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 4 March 2025 Departmental update Lifelong learning in health: a global outlook from the WHO Academy

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Opened in December 2024, the WHO Academy is moving ahead with it ambition to become the global centre for lifelong learning in health. Last month, it held its inaugural conference in Lyon, France, where learning and health experts from around the world gathered to discuss the role of quality in health learning, training and capacity building.

    Currently, there are no widely accepted global standards for high-quality learning courses in health. Building on the World Health Organization’s 75 years of expertise in setting global norms and standards, the WHO Academy aims to promote quality assurance standards in developing, implementing and evaluating learning materials.

    “Quality is essential, and it is a key word for the entire operation of the Academy. Providing health and care workers with continuous access to upscaling and rescaling learning is crucial to achieving health for all,” explained Dr David Atchoarena, WHO Academy Executive Director, who also highlighted the Academy’s commitment to bringing together global expertise on learning in public health.

    In her keynote address, Professor Asha Kanwar from Beijing Normal University stressed the urgent need to address the projected global shortfall of 11 million healthcare workers by 2030. She also advocated for integrating technology into lifelong learning, including AI-generated and interactive content.

    A round table discussion featured global learning and health experts who shared best practices and success stories on improving learning opportunities and implementing online and blended courses. Through a series of in-person workshops in the afternoon, participants shared their inputs on the localization of learning content, the potential of team-based learning and assessments, and what learning recognition of WHO Academy courses could look like to ensure they are well-received by ministries of health or public accreditation bodies in their own contexts.

    “It is necessary to construct a shared vision for lifelong learning. Lifelong learning is a right for health workers. Health workers are committed to their training, so we have to take advantage of that. We need to make lifelong learning more relevant for their careers and ensure their training is more relevant. It is not a personal possession but a collective good,” explained conference participant Isabel Dure.

    Professor Janusz Janczukowicz from the Medical University of Lodz, Chair of the WHO Academy Quality Committee, concluded the conference by reiterating the importance of interprofessional and team-based learning in providing inclusive and high-quality patient care.

    The WHO Academy will promote the incorporation of best practices in learning in the design and delivery of training across WHO to optimize the impact of lifelong learning. The insights from the conference will inform the WHO Academy Quality Standards and Criteria for Learning Programmes, which will be published in 2025.

    The WHO Academy offers a range of free courses on its global online platform, open to anyone who would like to register at whoacademy.org.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Student wellbeing probed on biggest campus in Aotearoa New Zealand – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    One of the country’s biggest investigations into student wellbeing is being carried out by psychology students and their teachers at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.

    In-depth interviews with more than 100 undergraduate students from minority and marginalised groups such as Māori, Pasifika, Chinese, South Asian, and LGBTQIA+ will inform student support on the nation’s biggest campus, which has 47,000 students. Most of the research is being carried out by nine postgraduate students.

    Professor Kerry Gibson, who’s Pākeha, and Dr Sarah Kapeli, of Tongan descent, lead the project, which is backed by University leadership including the Vice-Chancellor and the Māori and Pacific Pro-Vice Chancellors. Recommendations on how to better support students are likely to come later this year and facilitating connection will be key.

    “When students come to university it is for more than just a degree. It’s a time when young people are working out who they want to be and how they fit in the world,” said Gibson. “This is more important than ever after Covid had such a disruptive effect on young people’s learning and socialising.”

    Rates of mental health problems are increasing among university students, according to international studies.

    “Changing the environment so that it supports students better will help their academic success and also help prevent the development of mental health problems in this age group and into adulthood,” Gibson said.

    Stresses reported by students in the Auckland study include:

    academic pressure
    academic competition
    financial insecurity
    balancing paid work and university work
    balancing home and family commitments with university
    feeling disconnected and isolated in a large institution
    wider worries such as a competitive job market and climate change

     
    “Finding a sense of belonging is central to young people’s success at university and later in life,” said Kapeli. “Feeling comfortable at university is important for all students but can be particularly challenging for marginalised groups of students.”

    Challenges for Sāmoan and Tongan students include juggling family-comes-first commitments with university life and working out where self-care fits within collectivist values, say masters students Seulele Vine and Malia Vaka’uta. Pasifika students value Pasifika spaces on campus and highlight the role of religiosity or spirituality in wellbeing.
     
    In the study, interviews, talanoa and kōrero have mostly been conducted by researchers from the same minority or marginalised groups as the interviewees.

    Jemma Dixon, Shelby Symons, and Jack Dobson are researching Māori students’ experiences; Skyler Hsieh, Rainbow students; Senuri Panditharatne, South Asian students; and Kahn Tasker, Chinese students. Emma Johnston is studying the impact of existential threats such as climate change.

    The first theses based on the research, which began in 2022, were submitted last month.

    “For some students, it’s been cathartic,” says Kapeli. “They’ve never been asked questions like this before. We know that some are struggling – they don’t know where to get help or don’t think they can ask for help.”

    Also contributing to the project are Kaiwhakaako Mātai Hinengaro Hineatua Parkinson and Dr Roshini Peiris-John, co-director of the University’s Centre for Asian and Ethnic Minority Health Research and Evaluation.  The Spencer Foundation, a US organisation funding education research, contributed US$50,000 toward Māori and Pasifika aspects of the study.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Longer breastfeeding linked to blood-pressure lowering effects of certain infant gut bacteria

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Media Advisory
    Tuesday, March 4, 2025

    Nursing for at least six months may spur beneficial gut bacteria connected to better heart health years later.
    What
    An observational study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that infants who had more diverse bacteria in their gut had lower childhood blood pressure, and this protective association was stronger if they were breastfed for at least six months. The findings published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
    For the research, investigators reviewed data from 526 children enrolled in a prospective study in Denmark. They looked for connections between infant gut bacteria, which can be influenced by nutrition and supports a variety of health functions, and childhood blood pressure. To assess this, they collected fecal samples to analyze bacteria in the infants’ intestines during their first week, month, and year of life. Three and six years later, they measured the children’s blood pressure.
    The researchers found children with more diverse gut bacteria at one month had lower blood pressure six years later. They then assessed the influence of breastfeeding, which was measured in this study for durations of at least six months. They discovered that among children breastfed for at least six months, the blood-pressure lowering effect of having more diverse bacteria in their gut was even stronger. Specifically, those with a greater diversity of gut bacteria throughout the first month of life had systolic blood pressure that was about 2 mm Hg lower six years later if they were breastfed for at least six months.
    Researchers believe there may be several reasons for these associations. Certain gut bacteria have evolved specialized biologic machinery that allows them to convert otherwise indigestible carbohydrates in breast milk into calories and substances that can be used by the body. Specific Bifidobacterium species, including B. infantis, are superstars when it comes to breaking down these carbohydrates and turning them into short-chain fatty acids that may influence blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.
    In infants who are not breastfed, bacteria that do not have breast milk carbohydrates to feed on may instead break down carbohydrates that line the intestines. This could result in a condition called a “leaky gut,” where bacteria and fat could enter the bloodstream. A leaky gut has been linked to inflammation and increased blood pressure in adults.
    Additionally, the researchers found that some types of bacteria, including H. pylori, were present in some infants and these bacteria were linked to increased blood pressure years later. H. pylori, which can be passed from a mother to child, can create persistent levels of low inflammation and may influence a “leaky gut.”
    To make participants in the study as comparable as possible, the researchers accounted for a mother’s medical history, their diet during pregnancy, pregnancy complications, when and how a child was born, and how long they were breastfed.
    About 4% to 7% of children worldwide have high blood pressure, which can start when the fetus develops in the womb. These rates have doubled since 2020, which is why researchers are studying factors that may offset these risks and improve cardiovascular health.
    The study was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) grant K01HL141589.
    Who
    Charlotte Pratt, Ph.D., R.D., Acting Chief, Clinical Applications and Prevention Branch, NHLBI
    Study
    Liu T, Stokholm J, Zhang M, et al. Infant Gut Microbiota and Childhood Blood Pressure: Prospective Associations and the Modifying Role of Breastfeeding. J Am Heart Assoc. 2025; doi: 10.1161/JAHA.124.037447.  About the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): NHLBI is the global leader in conducting and supporting research in heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders that advances scientific knowledge, improves public health, and saves lives. For more information, visit https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov.                            
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: West Virginia Ambulance Business Owner Sentenced for Tax Crimes

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A West Virginia man was sentenced yesterday to three years in prison for not paying the taxes withheld from employees’ wages at an ambulance service he operated and obstructing the IRS’ efforts to collect those taxes.

    According to court documents and evidence presented in court, from 2012 through part of 2017, Christopher Jason Smyth operated Stat EMS LLC, an ambulance service located in Pineville. Smyth created Stat EMS after a previous ambulance business Smyth operated accrued millions of dollars of employment tax liabilities and filed for bankruptcy. Smyth caused Stat EMS to be founded in the name of a nominee owner but continued operating the business in the same manner as before.

    At Stat EMS, Smyth was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from employees’ wages and paying them to the IRS.  For years, however, Smyth did not fully pay the taxes to the IRS. Instead, he paid various personal expenses and transferred funds to businesses held by his friends and family. The IRS determined that Stat EMS accrued approximately $3.3 million in unpaid taxes.

    Eventually, the IRS assessed the unpaid taxes against Smyth personally and attempted to collect those assessments from him. When interviewed by an IRS revenue officer attempting to collect Smyth’s unpaid tax debts, Smyth stated that he had no personal bank accounts and denied that he used anyone else’s. In reality, however, he regularly deposited his paychecks into an account in a relative’s name. He also attempted to mislead the revenue officer by representing that he had nothing to do with several other businesses, even though he had signature authority over their bank accounts.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston for the Southern District of West Virginia made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Assistant Chief David Zisserson and Trial Attorneys Kavitha Bondada and Andrew Ascencio of the Tax Division, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Erik Goes for the Southern District of West Virginia, prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Key Member of Drug Distribution Ring Linked to Aryan Prison Gangs Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    Defendant served as transporter, pill maker, and muscle for the leader of drug distribution cell

    Tacoma – A key member of a drug distribution ring selling fentanyl pills, methamphetamine, and heroin throughout the Puget Sound region was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 14 years in prison for his role in the conspiracy and for possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Michael Slocumb, 46, attempted to evade law enforcement and helped move the drug ring activities to Arizona after the Shelton, Washington, stash house he and his partners operated was raided in December 2022. When law enforcement moved in on the multi-faceted drug conspiracy in March 2023, Slocumb was arrested in his new home in Arizona.

    At today’s sentencing hearing Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo said about fentanyl pills, “People become addicted to these drugs . . . they end up taking a bad dose and that ends their time on this Earth.” Remarking on Slocumb’s guns, Judge Estudillo said, “The firearms involved here are extremely serious and the types of firearms make me wonder what they may have been used for.”

    According to records filed in the case, in the fall of 2022, Slocumb made multiple trips to Arizona to pick up and transport narcotics to the Shelton stash house. Slocumb used the stash house to manufacture fentanyl pills using two different pill presses. When the stash house property was searched on December 9, 2022, law enforcement

     seized more than 640,000 pills containing fentanyl, as well as a kilogram of fentanyl powder and 12 kilograms of methamphetamine, along with more than $81,000 in cash proceeds from drug trafficking. Slocumb was a key partner for the leader of the drug conspiracy.

    The stash house property also contained 23 firearms, including a shotgun kept where the drugs were stored, and the pills manufactured. In his car, Slocumb kept several firearms including a loaded .40 caliber pistol behind the front seat. In a suitcase in the trunk were a 9mm handgun with a high-capacity magazine and an AR-15 type rifle with a folding shoulder stock and a loaded 115-round drum magazine. Also in the suitcase was a 9mm firearm silencer.

    During this conspiracy, law enforcement intercepted Slocumb and the ringleader Bryson Gill discussing kidnapping a rival drug dealer. Slocumb was surveilling the target’s apartment when law enforcement made a show of being in the vicinity to get Slocumb to leave and ward off any violence.

    Following the stash house raid, Slocumb was heard on the wiretap discussing his plan to move drug operations to Arizona. Slocumb and Gill continued their drug trafficking in Arizona until they were arrested in March 2023. When law enforcement searched the Arizona property, they seized approximately 70 firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition.

    Slocumb pleaded guilty in November 2024 to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    In asking for a 15-year sentence, prosecutors wrote to the court, “Slocumb’s conduct in the drug conspiracy involved massive numbers of firearms, as well as ammunition, firearms accessories, large capacity magazines, and a firearm silencer. It is clear that he played a trusted role in partnership with Gill in not just distributing drugs but acting as an enforcer—he took direction from Gill in picking up guns following a trip to get drugs from the stash house, and on another occasion, he conspired with Gill to kidnap a co-conspirator who was a drug redistributor.”

    Bryson Gill entered a guilty plea February 7, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, and is scheduled for sentencing on May 9, 2025.

    Law enforcement made two dozen arrests on federal charges on March 22, 2023. The coordinated takedown involved ten swat teams and more than 350 law enforcement officers. On that day law enforcement seized 177 firearms, more than ten kilos of methamphetamine, 11 kilos of fentanyl pills and more than a kilo of fentanyl powder, three kilos of heroin, and more than $330,000 in cash from eighteen locations in Washington and Arizona. Earlier in the investigation law enforcement seized 830,000 fentanyl pills, 5.5 pounds of fentanyl powder, 223 pounds of methamphetamine, 3.5 pounds of heroin, 5 pounds of cocaine, $388,000 in cash, and 48 firearms.

    The top-level leader of the drug trafficking ring, Jesse Bailey, is scheduled to be sentenced on May 16, 2025, and his wife and co-conspirator Candace Bailey, is scheduled for sentencing on June 13, 2025.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    This investigation was led by the FBI with critical investigative teamwork from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Washington State Department of Corrections and significant local assistance from the Tacoma Police Department, Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, and the Thurston County Narcotics Task Force, led by the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office. Throughout this investigation the following agencies assisted the primary investigators: Washington State Patrol, Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, Lakewood Police Department, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Zach Dillon, Max Shiner, and Jehiel Baer.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Canto Kicks Off 2025 with Industry Recognition and Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canto, a leading provider of digital asset management (DAM) software, is entering 2025 with top industry recognition and a continued drive to push the boundaries of DAM innovation. The company has been named to G2’s 2025 Best Software List for Best Content Management Products and Constellation Research’s ShortList™ for Digital Asset Management for Digital Experiences, underscoring its impact on customers and the industry.

    “Brands today are managing more content than ever, and the challenge isn’t just volume—it’s complexity,” said Wain Kellum, CEO of Canto. “Recognition from G2 and Constellation Research affirms our focus on solving the real problems our customers face every day. We’re committed to making digital asset management more intuitive and efficient, so teams can maximize the value of their digital content rather than wrestling with their tools.”

    Building on this momentum, Canto is introducing Canto Innovation Labs, a research and development initiative dedicated to solving content teams’ most pressing challenges. With AI-driven solutions at its core, this initiative highlights Canto’s commitment to continuous product innovation—reimagining how brands organize, discover, and distribute digital assets to help teams move faster and work more efficiently in an increasingly complex content landscape.

    “The future of content management isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about staying ahead,” said Alan Beiagi, Chief Product & Technology Officer, Canto. “With Canto Innovation Labs, we’re developing AI-driven solutions that transform the way content teams work at every stage of the content lifecycle. Our goal is to eliminate bottlenecks—whether that means cutting search time in half, automating tedious tasks, or ensuring content remains consistent across every channel.”

    Canto Innovation Labs builds on a strong foundation of recent product advancements, including the successful launch of Canto PIM. As brands increasingly struggle to keep product data and digital assets aligned across multiple channels, Canto PIM delivers a unified solution for managing both seamlessly. By integrating product information management (PIM) with DAM, Canto is helping businesses eliminate silos, simplify workflows, and maintain brand consistency—without the complexity of managing disconnected tools.

    These advancements come at a critical time, according to Canto’s latest research report, The State of Digital Content: 2025 Edition. The survey of hundreds of content and creative professionals found that 77% of content teams expect to produce more content this year, but only 25% feel equipped with the right tools. “A unified content ecosystem is critical for brands that need to scale efficiently in an increasingly complex digital landscape,” said Beiagi. “Our research found that teams with integrated solutions were three times more likely to efficiently repurpose content across channels and twice as likely to maintain brand consistency. Whether it’s DAM, PIM, or future innovations, our focus is on eliminating fragmentation and giving content teams the seamless tools they need to work faster and smarter.”

    As brands’ content demands continue to grow, Canto remains focused on delivering innovations that help its customers work more efficiently across their digital content lifecycle. For more information, visit www.canto.com.

    About Canto

    Canto is a leader in digital asset management (DAM), helping global brands maximize the value of their digital content with an intuitive, AI-powered platform. Our solutions make it easy for businesses to centralize, organize, and share digital assets, streamlining workflows and driving real business impact. With a legacy of innovation—from launching one of the first DAM solutions to advancing AI Visual Search and unified DAM+PIM capabilities—we continue to shape the future of content management. Backed by best-in-class support and implementation, Canto empowers industries like retail, manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and more to manage their growing content libraries. Headquartered in Atlanta, with offices in Berlin, Cork, and Sydney, Canto supports teams worldwide in optimizing their content workflows. For more information, visit www.canto.com.

    Contact

    Kyle Peterson
    kyle@clementpeterson.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Gaza’s recovery must be built on more than steel and concrete: Guterres

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Peace and Security

    The UN Secretary-General on Tuesday stressed that the “true foundation” of recovery and reconstruction in Gaza must be based on a clear and agreed political framework, not just bricks and mortar.

    Speaking at the emergency summit of Arab nations on the situation in the Middle East and Gaza reconstruction in Cairo, António Guterres welcomed Arab-led efforts to mobilize support for Gaza’s recovery.

    He stressed that rebuilding the war-ravaged territory must be guided by principles that respect international law and prevent further cycles of violence.

    “The true foundation of recovery in Gaza will be more than concrete and steel,” he said.

    “It will be dignity, self-determination and security. This means staying true to the bedrock of international law. It means rejecting any form of ethnic cleansing. And it means forging a political solution.”

    Political framework essential

    Mr. Guterres highlighted that reconstruction efforts cannot be separated from the broader political situation.

    “Ending the immediate crisis is not enough. We need a clear political framework that lays the foundation for Gaza’s recovery, reconstruction and lasting stability,” he said.

    Acknowledging Israel’s security concerns, he added that there should not be a long-term Israeli military presence in Gaza.

    Unprecedented destruction

    The war in Gaza has left an unprecedented level of destruction, with an estimated 51 million tons of rubble blanketing the landscape where bustling neighborhoods once thrived.

    According to a new UN damage and needs assessment report, over 60 per cent of homes – amounting to some 292,000 – and 65 per cent of roads have been destroyed, across the approximately 360 square kilometre enclave.

    Working with Palestinian authorities, UN development and environmental agencies and non-governmental organizations are looking at how to safely clear the rubble so that families can rebuild. UN teams are drawing on similar experiences in Mosul, Iraq, and the Syrian cities of Aleppo and Latakia, all decimated by war.

    UN agencies along with partners, including the World Bank, estimate that $53 billion will be needed for recovery and reconstruction.

    Ceasefire must hold

    With humanitarian conditions still dire, Mr. Guterres warned that renewed hostilities would plunge millions back into suffering and further destabilize the region.

    “We must avoid at all costs the resumption of hostilities,” he urged, calling on both parties to uphold their commitments under the ceasefire and hostage deal, and to resume negotiations without delay.

    “All hostages must be released – immediately, unconditionally and in a dignified manner,” he said, adding that the release of Palestinian detainees must be carried out per the terms of the deal and also in a dignified way.

    “The parties must ensure humane treatment for all those held under their power.”

    Ensure unhindered aid

    The Secretary-General highlighted that importance of humanitarian aid for civilians in need in Gaza, calling for the removal of all obstacles to aid delivery.

    Humanitarian aid is not negotiable. It must flow without impediment,” he said, urging also donors to ensure adequate funding.

    He applauded the dedication of UN staff and all other humanitarian workers in providing essential services under the most difficult circumstances, appealing for the urgent and full support of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)’s work, including financial support.

    Secretary-General Guterres addressing the Summit.

    Escalation in the West Bank

    Beyond Gaza, Mr. Guterres expressed alarm at rising violence in the West Bank, where Israeli security forces have launched large-scale operations, including airstrikes and also the deployment of tanks.

    “Over 40,000 Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the last month — the largest displacement in the West Bank in decades. Meanwhile, demolitions, evictions and settlement expansions continue, with settler violence is on the rise,” he noted.

    He called for an urgent de-escalation of the situation, and the stopping of unilateral actions, including settlement expansion and threats of annexation.

    “Israel, as the occupying power, must comply with all its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law,” Mr. Guterres said.

    In addition, the Palestinian Authority must be supported to govern effectively, and “do so in compliance with its own obligations under international law.”

    Two-State solution the only path

    The UN chief reiterated that a two-State solution remains the only viable path to lasting peace.

    “The only path to lasting peace is one where two states – Israel and Palestine – live side-by-side in peace and security, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states,” he said.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Japan ‘Pillar of Multilateralism’, Secretary-General Tells Tokyo Conference

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the Tokyo Conference, held in Tokyo today:

    I am pleased to send warm greetings to the Tokyo Conference.  This year marks the eightieth anniversary of the end of the Second World War and the founding of the United Nations.

    This milestone is a crucial opportunity to reaffirm enduring principles that emerged from one of humanity’s darkest hours:  Peace through dialogue.  Respect for human rights and international law.  The promotion of social progress and sustainable development.

    Japan is a leader in advancing these values and a pillar of multilateralism.  Your commitment to international cooperation stands as a powerful example of how nations can transform historical legacies into positive change.

    As we look to our world today, we are confronted with myriad challenges — from multiplying conflicts to the raging climate crisis, from rampant inequalities to artificial intelligence (AI) without sufficient guardrails.

    Your conference’s theme this year reminds us that global challenges demand global solutions.  In September, Member States of the United Nations adopted the Pact for the Future. The Pact charts a bold course for reforming multilateral institutions for the twenty-first century;

    It calls for reforming the Security Council and the international financial architecture — so every nation, large and small, has a voice in shaping our collective future.

    It seeks to prioritize prevention, mediation and peacebuilding; enhance coordination with regional organizations; and develop innovative approaches to emerging security challenges.

    The Pact includes new strategies to end the use of chemical and biological weapons, the first global agreement on the international regulation of AI and the first multilateral agreement on nuclear disarmament in more than a decade.

    As we prepare to mark the eightieth anniversary of the devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, we will continue to be guided by the inspiring example and vision of the hibakusha for a world free of nuclear weapons.

    By bringing together government leaders and diverse voices from around the world, the Tokyo Conference offers an important platform to advance the Pact’s objectives and drive multilateralism into the future.

    Let us seize this moment to strengthen the foundations of trust, solidarity and cooperation and write a new chapter in our shared journey towards lasting peace, dignity and progress.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Celebrates Minnesota’s Ranking as a Top State to Retire, Top State to Raise a Family

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota was ranked the second best state to both retire and raise a family. The Wallet Hub studies ranked states on factors including affordability, health and safety, education and child care, and quality of life.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper Hosts Amelia Huffman, Veteran, Fired Forest Service Worker as Guest to Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    Huffman, a U.S. Navy veteran, was illegally terminated by the Trump Administration from her role at the United States Forest Service
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper announced that Amelia Huffman will join him as his guest at President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress tonight, Tuesday, March 4th.
    “Amelia has dedicated her life to serving our country, both as a naval officer and a public servant,” said Hickenlooper. “The administration illegally fired her and other hardworking Forest Service employees without any plan and put Colorado at risk right as we head into peak wildfire season.”
    “Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging. These jobs in the public lands sector provide an opportunity for veterans to stay connected to their sense of purpose and duty. We’re able to continue serving, not just in an abstract way, but in a tangible, real-world manner by conserving the land we once fought to protect,” said Huffman.
    Huffman began her military service as a Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy in May 2020. She subsequently served as the Combat Gunnery Division Officer aboard the USS Mason and transitioned to Beachmaster Unit Two, later acting as a Weapons Officer.
    In 2024, Huffman and her wife moved to Fort Collins, where she took a role with the United States Forest Service (USFS) at the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland. Her job was on the front lines, directly connecting the public to Colorado public lands. Whether it was answering phone calls about camping reservations, providing information about trail conditions, or offering guidance during wildfire events, she played a key role in ensuring the public received the support and information they needed.
    Last month, the Trump administration abruptly fired Huffman and over 3,400 USFS employees who were responsible for wildfire mitigation, range and timber management, habitat conservation, and outdoor recreation management. Hickenlooper, along with members of the Colorado Democratic delegation, sent a letter to the Trump administration to demand answers and call for reinstatement of the fired USFS employees.
    Hickenlooper also highlighted the threats that USFS firings will have on Colorado on Twitter/X: “USFS staff in Colorado work around the clock to manage our forests and help prevent wildfires. They know our landscapes and rural communities inside and out. The USFS was already stretched thin before this. Firing 3,400 public servants without providing justification or a plan to Congress is misguided. It will cost us more money in the long run and leave Colorado at a higher risk.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Vietnam sign joint communiqué at annual migration dialogue

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK and Vietnam sign joint communiqué at annual migration dialogue

    Today, the UK and Vietnam have signed a joint communiqué to build on joint work to tackle irregular migration.

    The UK has today (4 March) signed a joint communiqué with the Government of Vietnam at the third annual UK-Vietnam Migration Dialogue, hosted in Hanoi, agreeing to build on our joint work to prevent the exploitation of irregular migrants, disrupt criminal gang operations, strengthen intelligence sharing and return those with no right to be in the UK.  

    The joint communiqué includes a series of commitments to further co-operation.

    Preventing and responding to Vietnamese nationals migrating to the UK irregularly through:

    a) targeted deterrence communications

    b) raising awareness of legal routes

    c) working together to tackle human trafficking

    Strengthening co-operation in law enforcement, especially immigration crimes, through:

    a) increasing operational law enforcement co-operation

    b) co-operating with transit countries

    c) sharing information on human trafficking

    d) disrupting criminal gangs

    Returning Vietnamese nationals with no legal right to be in the UK to Vietnam through:

    a) expediting issuance of travel documents

    b) exploring further ways to improve returns co-operation

    c) holding regular returns working groups

    The UK and Government of Vietnam reaffirmed the strong bilateral partnership and agreed to ensure progress on the aforementioned areas at the next migration dialogue, to be hosted by the UK in 2026.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Connecting Leeds Transport Strategy marks major achievements over last three years – and outlines new action plan up to 2027

    Source: City of Leeds

    A report to senior councillors outlines the good progress being made on the council’s ambitious Connecting Leeds transport strategy, but highlights that more needs to be done and more funding allocated to meet its aims. 

    The report to the council’s Executive Board provides an update on progress on the Connecting Leeds transport strategy. Its vision is for Leeds to be a city where you don’t need a car, and where everyone has an affordable, accessible and zero carbon choice in how they travel, and since 2018 more than three quarters of a billion pounds has been invested in the city’s highways and transport network through the Connecting Leeds programme.

    The Connecting Leeds transport strategy’s initial action plan 2020 -2024 has delivered some key successes including:

    • Major highway improvements including the Armley Gyratory and the completion of the East Leeds Orbital Route, increasing road capacity to support changes in the city centre, along with other improvements to key transport corridors including the A647 and Outer Ring Road between Horsforth and Rodley.
    • Launching our Vision Zero Strategy which aims to eliminate all fatalities and serious injuries on Leeds roads by 2040. The number of people killed or seriously injured on Leeds roads has reduced since its launch.
    • Transforming City Square and wider public realm in the city centre, including the Headrow, Vicar Lane and the Corn Exchange, creating safer pedestrian-friendly spaces.  
    • The launch of Leeds City Bikes, the largest e-bike scheme in the UK which will see further roll-out later this year.
    • The Stourton Park & Ride has experienced continued growth since opening in late 2021, alongside the existing sites at Elland Road and Temple Green, and more than 90 electric buses are now serving the city’s busiest routes. Around 10,000 cars are taken off city roads each week with consistently over 20,000 passengers per week using the services and further improvements planned later in the year.
    • Improvements and significant funding in Leeds City Rail Station, with a significant increase in passenger numbers and footfall exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Local rail stations have experienced similar growth.
    • Fewer car commuters into the city centre since 2021, reducing congestion and improving local air quality.

    These successes have led to increasing numbers of people walking through the city centre, along with rising bus passenger numbers.

    Overall city centre footfall for the whole of 2024 increased by 1.3% compared to 2023, which in turn was up by 2.7% on 2022. Footfall at Leeds City Rail Station has also increased by 12% in 2024 compared to 2023, and with the city centre seeing significant and continued investment in its retail and hospitality offer it is hoped that footfall will keep rising and further boost the city’s economy.

    There has also been a 4.1% reduction in car mileage across the city since 2019, and a 6% year-on-year increase of public electric vehicle charging points.

    New Action Plan launched to 2027

    Some measures within the initial action plan are ongoing or still progressing, and are being taken forward with the launch of a new action plan which details our ambitions and activities up to 2027.

    This includes major schemes such as Dawson’s Corner and Stanningley Bypass, which has only recently secured c£36m government funding, the A660 improvements and the Lawnswood Roundabout scheme, along with more active travel and cycling schemes.

    The council will continue to support the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to progress the mass transit scheme and to implement bus reforms, and will continue its partnership work to deliver the Vision Zero strategy regionally.

    The challenges of delivering these measures is reflected in progress against the strategy’s ambitions. Although overall carbon emissions have reduced since 2019, the latest figures suggest that they have begun rising again and may reach pre-pandemic levels, so the council is still facing challenges to meet its net-zero targets by 2030.

    There was a significant decrease in motorists driving into the city centre between 2022 and 2023, and although this trend has not continued during the last year the number remains below 2022’s levels.

    Across the city the amount of HGV and LGV traffic is growing which is likely to relate to online shopping and home delivery trends.

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council and Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Sustainable Development, said: “We have made significant progress towards our vision of creating a city where you don’t need to own a car, and we are proud of our achievements so far.

    “Our places are becoming more people-friendly, inclusive and welcoming, we are delivering infrastructure which is fit for the 21st century, and we are encouraging more people to use active and sustainable travel methods and public transport.

    “We have big ambitions for our city and we recognise that progress towards these hasn’t been easy. We’ve faced significant challenges along the way and there is much to do. When the council adopted this very ambitious strategy it was made with the knowledge that this would be underpinned by significant funding over a sustained period. Investment levels have been good in recent years and there is a need to maintain these in the coming years so we can achieve our goals alongside delivering general transport improvements.

    “By launching our new action plan to 2027 we are making clear how we will ensure we achieve our vision for everyone who lives, works and visits our city, working closely with our partners and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.”

    Exploring new funding opportunities

    The report states that the ‘current level of funding is insufficient to cover all aspects’ of the new action plan. As a result, the council will be looking for alternative funding to deliver these activities, and will be looking to work with partners including the combined authority, the Department for Transport and the private sector to achieved its shared objectives.

    As part of this, the council is exploring the possibility of introducing a workplace parking levy to generate revenue which would used as local contributions to major transport investments, principally mass transit.

    Such a levy could charge city centre businesses for parking places they offer for staff use, with revenue ring-fenced to support significant transport improvements.

    The report is seeking agreement to carry out exploratory work including surveys around how a workplace parking levy could potentially be applied in Leeds city centre. This would include engaging with key partners and businesses in the first instance, and developing a rationale around which premises should be exempt from the scheme such as the city’s hospitals which employ round-the-clock shift workers delivering a vital emergency service.

    Following this exploratory work, should the council intend to proceed with the introduction of a workplace parking levy a further report would be submitted to executive board for approval.

    Should this be granted, a business case would need to be submitted to the Department for Transport and approved by the Secretary of State.

    The full report can be viewed here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government releases £129m for reform of NI public services

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    UK Government releases £129m for reform of NI public services

    Secretary of State has welcomed the release of £129 million by the UK Government to support public service transformation in Northern Ireland.

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn MP

    • The funding is the first tranche of the £235 million transformation fund committed to the Executive, and demonstrates the UK Government’s commitment to improving public services for people in Northern Ireland.
    • Targeted funding will support six Executive projects across the Departments of  Health, Justice, Education and Infrastructure. 
    • UK Government support to deliver Plan for Change.

    The funding will see £61m go towards expanding the multi-disciplinary team approach to primary care across Northern Ireland, and support five other projects across justice, education and infrastructure which represent key priorities in the Executive’s Programme for Government.

    This is the first tranche of funding to be allocated from the £235 million fund created by the UK Government as part of the financial package that led to the restoration of the Executive in February 2024. It comes in addition to a £1.5 billion increase through the Barnett formula, with £1.2 billion for day-to-day spending, and £270 million for capital investment. This investment shows the Government’s Plan for Change delivering reform and growth for the people of Northern Ireland. 

    Mr Benn said: “Everyone recognises that the task of stabilising and transforming Northern Ireland’s health and other public services is a priority. 

    “This allocation of UK Government funding is a really important step towards this, and in this UK Government, the Executive will always have a partner that is committed to supporting this work every step of the way.

    “I am delighted that Northern Ireland will this year receive its largest real terms financial settlement since devolution, supporting growth and investment. Today’s additional funding will go directly towards the transformation of public services, which the people of Northern Ireland want to see.”

    Background

    • The funding comes following the recommendations of the Public Sector Transformation Board to fund six projects across health, justice, education and infrastructure. 
    • The Board, comprising officials from the Northern Ireland Civil Service and UK Government, supported by independent experts, provides recommendations to the Executive about approval on £235 million ringfenced funding. 
    • Further funding decisions will be subject to the Public Sector Transformation Board’s recommendations, of which is led and agreed by the Northern Ireland Executive.
    • The transformation funding is part of the broader £3.3 billion restoration package for Northern Ireland.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Increased Tax Credit Provides Up to $24,000 to Support Post Secondary Graduates

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 4, 2025

    Post-secondary graduates building their careers in Saskatchewan can now benefit from up to $24,000 in tax credits from the Graduate Retention Program (GRP). Saskatchewan has increased the lifetime GRP maximum by 20 per cent for students who graduate on or after October 1, 2024.

    The GRP offers tuition rebates to graduates who live and file taxes in Saskatchewan after they complete their post-secondary program. Graduates receive the tax credits over a seven-year period and have up to 10 years after graduation to claim GRP or apply any unused credits.

    “The Graduate Retention Program has been supporting post-secondary graduates for over a decade and we are proud to increase this incentive,” Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. “Post-secondary graduates play a pivotal role in supporting Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan and Labour Market Strategyand we encourage them to take advantage of this tax credit and build their lives here in Saskatchewan.”

    Eligible graduates will begin receiving the increased tax credit when they file their 2025 taxes in spring 2026.

    “Growing up in Saskatchewan has been a privilege, and as I prepare to graduate from USask’s College of Engineering, I am excited about the many opportunities available to my peers and me,” University of Saskatchewan student Arliss Sidloski said. “The 20 per cent increase to the Saskatchewan Graduate Retention Program is a fantastic incentive for graduates to build their careers and families here. I encourage my fellow graduates to take advantage of this program and contribute to strengthening Saskatchewan’s workforce and economy.”

    Individuals who graduated before October 1, 2024 may still be eligible to receive GRP up to the original $20,000 maximum. Individuals with a graduation date between October 1 and December 31, 2024, should claim GRP at the original maximum on their 2024 taxes and will receive a top-up certificate to file with their 2025 taxes. 

    For more information on the changes, visit saskatchewan.ca/grp. For questions on filing income taxes, contact the Canada Revenue Agency directly or talk to an accounting professional.

    The GRP is the most generous program of its kind in Canada and has provided over $801 million in tuition tax credits to more than 85,200 graduates since 2008. Saskatchewan employers also benefit from the GRP as the program incentivizes graduates from both inside and outside the province to live and work in Saskatchewan.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Parkersburg Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug Crime

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – David Eric West II, 43, of Parkersburg, was sentenced today to seven years and eight months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with intent to deliver quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 8, 2024, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by West near Parkersburg. Officers found quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl in the vehicle and a Taurus G3C 9mm pistol on West’s person. West admitted that he possessed the controlled substances and intended to distribute them in and around the Southern District of West Virginia.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Parkersburg Police Department.

    United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-135.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greenbrier County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun Crime

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    BECKLEY, W.Va. – Grover D. Jordan, 57, of Charmco, was sentenced today to three years and one month in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 18, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Jordan in Fayetteville. Jordan admitted that he possessed three firearms discovered during the traffic stop: a Taurus model PT1911 .45-caliber pistol, an Armi Galesi model 9 6.35mm pistol, and a Beretta model 3032 Tom Cat .32-caliber pistol with a removed, altered or obliterated serial number.

    Jordan also admitted that he possessed a Smith & Wesson .38-caliber revolver discovered during an August 20, 2023 traffic stop by law enforcement of a motorcycle he was operating in Charmco. Jordan further admitted that he possessed a Dupont electric generator, which is explosive material under federal law, discovered during the traffic stop.

    Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Jordan knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for two counts of wanton endangerment in Raleigh County Circuit Court on March 15, 2019.

    Jordan has a long criminal history that also includes numerous other convictions for such offenses as grand larceny, domestic battery, DUI, and possession of controlled substances.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Fayetteville Police Department, the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

    Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Brian D. Parsons and Justin Marlowe prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-cr-29.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Kandji Continues Global Expansion with New East Coast Headquarters in Miami to Accelerate Growth, Innovation for Apple in the Enterprise

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kandji, the Apple endpoint security platform, today announced the opening of its new East Coast headquarters to further the company’s global scaling efforts, attract world-class talent, and support rapid customer growth. In addition to the East Coast headquarters in Miami, Kandji has offices in California, London, Sydney, and Japan.

    Located at The Plaza Coral Gables, 2811 Ponce de Leon in Coral Gables, Fla., Kandji’s East Coast headquarters boasts nearly 30,000 square feet to accommodate the company’s sizable recruiting efforts. More than 100 new openings are available to support Kandji’s mission of empowering secure and productive global work.

    “Miami is fueling the next frontier for technology advancement,” said Adam Pettit, co-founder and CEO of Kandji. “We’re thrilled to immerse ourselves in this dynamic community and look forward to welcoming its world-class talent to our expanding team. Our East Coast headquarters will not only allow us to contribute to the local economy, but will provide the space, talent, and resources to accommodate Kandji’s growth and ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions that enable our customers to manage and secure their Apple device fleets at scale.”

    Kandji’s dedication to supporting local talent development in Miami-Dade County is evident through its alignment with organizations such as: The Beacon Council, Creative Hub, Miami Tech Works, eMerge, Opportunity Miami, Miami Dade College, and more. Through these partnerships, Kandji has participated in community events, workforce development programs, and initiatives that drive local innovation.

    “Miami-Dade County is redefining what it means to be a global tech hub, and Kandji’s decision to open their East Coast headquarters in Miami-Dade is proof of that transformation,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Our strategic location, diverse talent pool and pro-business environment make Miami-Dade a natural home for innovators. Collaboration with companies like Kandji drive our county’s continued growth and continue to strengthen our competitive edge as a premier tech hub.”

    The opening of the East Coast headquarters follows continued company momentum for Kandji. In July 2024, the company raised $100 million in capital from General Catalyst – with $50 million allocated to equity financing for its Series D, and $50 million for go-to-market investment – bringing its total funding to over $280 million and its valuation to $850 million. Kandji has over 4,500 customers across 40+ industries, with 1,300 new customers signed in 2024. Notable customers include Canva, Deel, Twilio, Notion, and Wiz, and the company has partnerships with such industry giants as ServiceNow, AWS, and Okta. In addition, Kandji was recognized today on Forbes’ America’s Best Startup Employers 2025 list, which identified the top performing startups in the United States based on employer reputation, employee satisfaction and company growth.

    Along with corporate and customer growth, Kandji continues to bring new solutions to the market to further its mission of creating an integrated platform for enterprise Apple device management and security. Most recently, Kandji announced Vulnerability Management, a new security product that helps organizations identify and remediate security vulnerabilities due to out of date software on their Mac computers, Kai, a first-of-its-kind AI device management assistant for Apple devices, and Device Management for Apple Vision Pro, a groundbreaking solution that revolutionizes how businesses deploy and manage Apple Vision Pro devices at scale.

    “Kandji’s decision to establish its East Coast headquarters in Greater Miami is a testament to our region’s dynamic tech evolution,” said Rodrick T. Miller, President & CEO, Miami-Dade Beacon Council. “As one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the country, Miami continues to attract top investors, startups, and global leaders like Apple and Kandji who are fueling this momentum. By creating 200 high-value jobs and investing in our innovation ecosystem, Kandji is further strengthening Miami’s reputation as a pro-business community where talent and companies thrive. We look forward to continuing to partner on their growth as they make themselves at home in South Florida.”

    Kandji is actively recruiting for a variety of roles across engineering, product, and go-to-market. To learn more about employment opportunities at Kandji, visit https://www.kandji.io/company/careers/#open-roles.

    Helpful Links

    About Kandji
    Kandji is the Apple endpoint security platform. Kandji empowers companies to manage and secure Apple devices in the enterprise and at scale. By centrally securing and managing your Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV devices, IT and InfoSec teams can save countless hours of manual, repetitive work with features like one-click compliance templates and more than 150 pre-built automations, apps, and workflows. Learn more at http://www.kandji.io.

    Media Contact
    Erica Anderson
    pr@kandji.io

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian National Pleads Guilty to Role in $8 Million Federal Emergency Benefits Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Greenbelt, Maryland – On Friday, February 28, Newton Ofioritse Jemide, 47, a Nigerian national, pled guilty to a federal charge for wire fraud conspiracy.  Jemide, who was recently extradited from France, was involved in a scheme to fraudulently obtain federal benefits.

    Kelly O. Hayes, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Joseph V. Cuffari, Inspector General for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); Acting Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Colleen Lawlor, Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of Inspector General – Philadelphia Field Division; and Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool, U.S. Secret Service – Washington Field Office.

    “Mr. Jemide and his co-conspirators’ greed and utter disregard for the suffering of those who need national emergency assistance, by stealing from the government, will not be tolerated,” said United States Attorney Hayes. “The District of Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners will continue to hold those accountable who try to defraud our government through fraud, waste, and abuse during times of crisis.”

    “Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message that individuals who defraud the federal government for their own personal gain will be identified and held accountable,” said U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, PhD.  “DHS-OIG is grateful for our continued partnership with our law enforcement partners as we continue fighting waste, fraud, and abuse.”

    During the timeframe covered by the indictment, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided emergency benefits and compensation for damages to victims affected by declared national emergency disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires.  Among other benefits, an individual in an area affected was immediately eligible for Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) to purchase life-saving or life-sustaining materials.  Victims could decide how to receive assistance payments, which included deposits on prepaid debit cards.

    According to the guilty plea, in 2016 and 2017, Jemide and others from Nigeria directed co-conspirators living in the United States to purchase hundreds of Green Dot Debit Cards.  Co-conspirators living in Nigeria then registered the cards with Green Dot using stolen personal information from identity theft victims around the United States.  Jemide and his co-conspirators used an encrypted messaging application and other means to communicate.

    In 2017, following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and the California wildfires, Jemide, and other co-conspirators from Nigeria, used stolen personal information to apply online for FEMA and CNA benefits.  FEMA dispersed $500 per claim on the Green Dot Debit Cards that co-conspirators purchased for a total of at least $8 million.

    “Bringing these criminals to justice prevents further victimization of American taxpayers and abuse of the programs put in place as safety nets for the most vulnerable in our country,” said SAC McCool. “This investigation underscores the Secret Service’s global reach and steadfast commitment, in collaboration with our partner agencies, to combat cyber-enabled financial crimes and relentlessly pursue those committing them.”

    In addition to filing false disaster-assistance claims with FEMA, Jemide and co-conspirators also submitted false online claims for Social Security benefits, IRS tax refunds, and other government benefits using stolen identities of multiple individuals, including names, addresses, social security numbers, and other personal identifiers.

    “Newton Ofioritse Jemide and his co-conspirators misused Social Security numbers to steal government funds via SSA’s online services. The misuse of SSA’s e-Services to defraud SSA and rightful beneficiaries and recipients will not be tolerated at any level,” said Acting SAC Lawlor. “Our office will continue to investigate those who abuse SSA programs and operations, including its e-Services, for their own selfish gain. I thank our law enforcement partners for their assistance and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this complex case.”

    As a result of fraudulent submissions, FEMA and the other federal agencies deposited benefits onto the Green Dot Debit Cards.  The funds were deposited on the debit cards using multiple stolen identities, including identities different from the identities used to register the cards.  Jemide and select co-conspirators informed other co-conspirators when the fraudulent funds became available on the debit cards and gave them information to cash out the funds from the cards in exchange for a commission.  Additionally, the co-conspirators took steps to conceal their identities by enlisting others to make purchases and withdrawals; utilizing multiple store and bank locations and methods of withdrawal; and making money orders payable to other individuals and/or corporate entities.

    Jemide faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  Sentencing is currently scheduled for July 1, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., before U.S. District Court Judge Deborah K. Chasanow.  

    United States Attorney Hayes commended DHS-OIG, SSA-OIG, and USSS for their work in the investigation and thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the United States Marshals Service for their valuable assistance in securing the extradition of Jemide to the United States.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Wright and Darren Gardner who are prosecuting the federal case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Nurse Practitioner to Forfeit over $40 million from Foreign Accounts for Health Care Fraud, Money Laundering

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Trivikram Reddy, 43, a Waxahachie nurse practitioner previously convicted of wire fraud conspiracy and sentenced to 20 years in 2021, will now forfeit over $40 million from foreign accounts into which he moved the funds, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Chad E. Meacham.  

    Following Mr. Reddy’s conviction, the government filed a civil forfeiture action alleging that Mr. Reddy and others transferred and laundered the fraud proceeds to nearly 200 bank accounts located in India.  Through forensic financial analysis, the government traced the proceeds to these accounts and obtained seizure warrants to forfeit and restrain the funds.  On Monday, March 3, 2025, after Mr. Reddy and two family members stipulated up to $41,237,703.16 of the funds’ return from India, U.S. District Judge Ada Brown issued a judgment ordering the funds to be transferred to U.S. government custody.  

    According to court documents, Mr. Reddy, a licensed nurse practitioner, devised a scheme to defraud Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and Cigna.  Mr. Reddy and co-conspirators created false patient bills using the provider numbers of six doctors as the treating physicians on the claims.  All the claims were false, as none of the six doctors provided billable services to any of Mr. Reddy’s medical clinics.  In response to federal agents’ investigative inquiries, Mr. Reddy and his staff manufactured fake medical records in a failed attempt to justify the false claims.  Mr. Reddy pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in October 2020.  In May 2021, Judge Brown sentenced Mr. Reddy to 20 years imprisonment and ordered over $50 million in restitution to the victims of his offense.

    The civil forfeiture case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dimitri Rocha.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Beverly Chapman is handling the restitution.  The case was investigated by the FBI Dallas Field office and Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). 
     

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell in Washington Post: We Cannot Defeat Tomorrow’s Enemies With Yesterday’s Budgets

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) submitted the following op-ed to The Washington Post, printed in today’s edition, on the dangers of a clean, full-year Continuing Resolution (CR) at the Fiscal Year 2024 level:
    Every time Congress faces a government funding deadline, Washington reminds itself — eventually — that shutdowns are worth avoiding. This is a familiar, and all-too-frequent, conversation.
    What’s not familiar is the prospect of going an entire year without passing new appropriations — and the new programs and capabilities they comprise — for the national defense. Never in recent history has Washington forced the U.S. military to spend a full year applying yesterday’s budget to tomorrow’s challenges.
    Today, we’re closer than ever to making ignoble history on this front. And we owe it to our men and women in uniform, and to taxpayers, to be honest about the consequences.
    Consumer goods aren’t the only things that have grown more expensive in recent years. In times of high inflation, governance without updated appropriations means diminished Pentagon buying power. Forcing the U.S. military to equip itself for next year’s threats at this year’s prices with last year’s dollars is a recipe for disaster.
    Even as fresh eyes comb the Pentagon for new efficiencies and cost-savings, effective military acquisitions continue to require multiyear runways. A truly clean, full-year, continuing resolution at the level set for FY2024 would mean no new starts on critical programs the military needs to adapt to a rapidly changing battlefield, such as directed-energy drone and missile defenses. No new starts this year means fewer new capabilities in warfighters’ hands two, five and 10 years from now.
    To be clear, we’re not approaching this cliff — we’re careening over it. The fiscal year is almost half over. By March 14, the failure to pass full-year defense appropriations last fall will have cost taxpayers $17 billion in defense buying power. In other words, contending with current inflation and new requirements with old funding levels has already meant an effective shortfall of $103 million per day.
    Consigning the rest of the fiscal year to this austere reality would only compound the damage.
    Extending the 2024 budget through the end of FY2025 would mean the Defense Department would lack the funds to make payroll for 2 million service members — especially after accounting for the additional 10 percent junior enlisted pay raise authorized last year. Making up this shortfall will almost certainly involve siphoning funds the services have budgeted for other critical missions and capabilities.
    Spending the entire year under the FY2024 funding level will mean no money or authorization for 168 new programs — many of which are required to outcompete China in space and cyberspace. In the race to project power and deter aggression across the Indo-Pacific, it would put U.S. forces and our regional allies even further behind.
    Specifically, it would mean stopping the ongoing construction and refueling of up to 26 Navy warships. It would delay three new destroyers, up to 10 new Virginia-class submarines and four new Columbia-class submarines (which sustain a critical leg of the nuclear triad).
    The costs of deterring war pale in comparison to the costs of fighting one. If Congress is unwilling to make deterrent investments today, then discussion about the urgency of looming threats — particularly the “pacing threat” of China — carries little weight.
    Last year, on a bipartisan basis, Senate appropriators recommended we pass funding that would have exceeded President Joe Biden’s meager defense budget request by nearly $20 billion. That recommendation fell on deaf ears with the Senate’s Democratic majority. Now, we face the prospect of a clean continuing resolution that would spend roughly $8 billion less than Biden’s request.
    No senator or member of Congress can claim ignorance of the ways that outdated funds harm national security. Senior officials at the White House and Pentagon, for their part, are not absolved from their obligation to ensure full-year appropriations for the military. This administration took office with a mandate to restore peace through strength.
    Surely, no American who is concerned about threats abroad thinks that cutting billions from the military is the way to face them.
    Tying one hand behind our backs is no one’s idea of restoring the warrior ethos. It is alarming that we don’t hear anything from the Pentagon’s senior-most civilian leaders about the need to raise the defense budget’s topline — or the looming, self-inflicted harm to readiness and lethality that would come from failing to pass new, full-year defense appropriations for the first time in memory.
    China certainly isn’t hamstrung by these kinds of challenges. And U.S. allies, including those with far more expansive social welfare systems, continue to make tough choices to make their militaries even more capable. In fact, the rate at which European NATO allies are increasing defense spending far outpaces our own. Since 2022, they have committed more than $185 billion to buying U.S.-made weapons and defense systems.
    Meeting that demand, while modernizing U.S. forces at the same time, requires robust full-year appropriations. We cannot rebuild our military without bigger topline investments in defense.
    Mitch McConnell, a Republican, represents Kentucky in the U.S. Senate.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Open Borders, Pro EV Mandate Politician to Respond to Joint Address

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Elissa Slotkin will respond to President Donald J. Trump’s Joint Address to Congress tonight. Senator Slotkin stands opposed to President Trump’s agenda to lower costs, bring back manufacturing, and secure our borders.
    Slotkin voted against overturning Biden’s tailpipe emissions rule, a rule that would force automakers to sell more electric vehicles, killing auto manufacturing jobs. President Trump stood up for American consumers and autoworkers and repealed this de facto electric vehicle mandate.
    Slotkin voted against congressional disapproval of Biden’s EPA rule seeking to limit tailpipe emissions.
    The House Budget Committee called the regulation “a de facto ban on the sale of gas-powered and traditional hybrid vehicles.”
    Research shows that EV mandates would kill thousands of jobs:
    America First Policy Institute: New Report Exposes Biden-Harris’s Proposed EV Mandates to Cost 200,000 American Jobs
    “The Midwest will suffer the most, with Michigan (-37,000), Indiana (-24,000), and Ohio (-21,000) facing the highest job losses.”

    A UAW study from 2019 projected that EVs would kill 35,000 jobs at its plants.
    Slotkin has repeatedly voted for open borders. President Trump has moved swiftly to secure our borders with attempted crossings in February at the lowest number ever recorded.
    In May 2023, Slotkin voted against the H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act.
    In February 2019, Slotkin voted to terminate President Trump’s declaration of an emergency at the southern border.
    In March 2019, Slotkin again voted again to terminate the declaration in an attempt to override President Trump’s veto.

    In July 2024, Slotkin voted against a resolution “Strongly condemning the Biden Administration and its Border Czar, Kamala Harris’s, failure to secure the United States border.”
    Slotkin said, “I don’t believe that anyone really thinks a wall from sea to shining sea is needed to make us safer.”
    Slotkin is just another out-of-touch politician that wants to hollow out American manufacturing and let criminals flood into our communities.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Don’t miss the Family Hubs Festival for free family fun!

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council’s Family Hubs are holding a fantastic free event for children and young people. The first Family Hubs Festival takes place on Monday 10 March at the Museum of Making.

    During the day, there’ll be loads of free fun for families with under-fives. Then, from 4pm, there will be youth activities galore for older children to enjoy.

    The event kicks off at 11am in the beautiful surroundings of the Museum’s Italian Mill. There’s no need to book – parents, carers and little ones can just turn up and join in with whatever they fancy.

    Together with our partners, we’ve planned a full programme of activities that will run until 3pm. These include:

    • Storytelling with Derby Libraries
    • Family Hub Programme information and taster sessions with our teams
    • Nature Connect Sessions with the University of Derby and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
    • A Family Hub treasure hunt around the museum
    • Creative literacy sessions with Bridge the Gap
    • Sensory Stay and Play for neuro-diverse children
    • Move Me! taster sessions with CANVAS
    • Health drop-in sessions with midwifery, health visitors and the infant feeding teams

    Plus much more – so why not drop in and join in with the fun? Children will also be provided with a free lunch, while parents and carers can relax with a free hot drink.

    Our Family Hubs aren’t just for younger children. From 4pm until 5.30pm you can discover what’s on offer for older ones too. The activities are aimed at 11-19-year-olds, but younger children are welcome to come along with their parents and carers.

    There’ll be performances and a variety of workshops including music, sport, breakdancing, wellbeing, art and theatre – and it’s all free. You can even get free chips and hotdogs!

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

    The Family Hubs Festival is a brilliant opportunity for Derby families to come together and discover the wealth of free support and activities available right here in our city, for our youngest children right up to teenagers. 

    The sheer variety of activities on offer is testament to the strength of our partnerships. From storytelling to breakdancing, health drop-ins to nature sessions, this event shows the comprehensive support our Family Hubs provide. Come along and find out what’s on offer!

    The Family Hubs Festival takes place on Monday 10 March at the Museum of Making on Silk Mill Lane, Derby DE1 3AF. Families with under-fives are welcome from 11am until 3pm. From 4pm until 5.30pm, the activities will be aimed at 11-19-year-olds, but younger children can attend with a parent/carer. The free sessions are drop-in – no booking is required.

    You can find more information about Family Hubs on our website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A monument to Heydar Aliyev will appear in Moscow in honor of the anniversary of the construction of the BAM

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A memorial plaque was laid at the site of the installation of the monument to the outstanding statesman and political figure, Chairman of the USSR Council of Ministers Commission for the Construction and Development of the Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM), twice Hero of Socialist Labor Heydar Aliyev in the park next to the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Moscow. The ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Moscow Sergei Sobyanin, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Vitaly Savelyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Russian Federation Rahman Mustafayev, General Director – Chairman of the Board of JSC Russian Railways Oleg Belozerov, Advisor to the General Director on a voluntary basis of JSC Russian Railways Gennady Fadeyev, President of the All-Russian public organization “BAM” Efim Basin.

    Sergei Sobyanin recalled that last year Russia celebrated a major anniversary – 50 years since the start of one of the most grandiose construction projects of the Soviet Union – the Baikal-Amur Mainline. The mainline still plays a huge role in the country’s economy.

    “The BAM Builders’ Association has asked to erect a monument to Heydar Aliyev, one of the main organizers of this construction project. The Russian government and Russian Railways have actively supported this request. The Moscow City Duma Commission has decided to support this request. Today, I have signed an order to build a monument to Heydar Aliyev here, in the park next to the Azerbaijani embassy,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    In total, about two million people were involved in the BAM construction project. For many of them, the construction and then work on the highway became a life’s work and a feat. Heydar Aliyev not only supervised this construction on behalf of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, he lived this construction, emphasized Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Vitaly Savelyev.

    “And today I am happy to welcome the BAM veterans who have dedicated most of their lives to this construction. Of course, this is a landmark object for us, and we will continue the construction of the BAM in a new composition. Because it is difficult to overestimate the significance of this construction, this railway for our country. The eternal memory of Heydar Alievich Aliyev will forever be in the hearts of our people,” noted Vitaly Savelyev.

    The BAM builders remember and honor the memory of Heydar Aliyev, Efim Basin emphasized. The monument dedicated to him will be a symbol of his great service to the country.

    “Especially since it was necessary not only to build a four thousand kilometer railway, but also to develop the territory of the BAM, and this is an area under which about a third of Russia’s natural resources lie – the entire periodic table. That is why the entire country built the BAM. And many villages were built by the efforts of the Union republics and large cities of Russia, such as, for example, Tynda, built by Moscow. Leningrad built Severobaykalsk, and Azerbaijani envoys built Ulkan. But not only the Ulkan station, but also an additional Angoya, on which today there is a plaque (at the station of this station) that this is the station named after Heydar Aliyevich Aliyev. This is important for us. Even today, when passing by, train drivers give a honk in memory of this great man,” noted Efim Basin.

    For modern railway workers, BAM is a construction site where they learn, adopting the experience of their predecessors – people with prophetic and strategic vision, Oleg Belozerov emphasized.

    “Without BAM, it is impossible to transport cargo to the East today. We are learning, we honor the memory of our predecessors and are very grateful to Heydar Aliyevich Aliyev. We even consider him our railwayman, since he devoted so much time to this project, and 1974 – well, first of all, 1984 – were very difficult years for the Soviet Union. In order to complete the construction, it was necessary to have outstanding management talents. We are currently adopting this experience. We remind young people how the facility was built, what a labor feat is. Well, and we, managers, of course, remember Heydar Aliyev and try to be like him. And this monument is a great honor for us,” said Oleg Belozerov.

     

    Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Russian Federation Rahman Mustafayev expressed his deep gratitude to the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of Moscow for their attention to the memory of the national leader of Azerbaijan. He recalled that Heydar Aliyev headed strategic areas of economic, scientific, cultural and educational development in high positions in the Soviet Union.

    “I believe that the monument that is being laid today is a memory not only of Heydar Aliyev, but it is also, to a large extent, a monument to Azerbaijani-Russian friendship,” the ambassador emphasized.

    Construction of BAM

    As First Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, Heydar Aliyev supervised a large-scale infrastructure project — the Baikal-Amur Mainline. Heading the government commission, he personally visited the BAM construction site many times and made a significant contribution to the project’s implementation at the final stage.

    The Baikal-Amur Mainline is a 4,324-kilometer-long railway running through Eastern Siberia and the Far East.

    One of the largest transport arteries in the world runs north of the Trans-Siberian Railway. The strategic advantage of the BAM is that it is located in the depths of the country at a distance of 700-1000 kilometers from the state border.

    The BAM plays a vital role in the development of Siberia, the Far East and the Far North. It has enabled the richest deposits of coal, iron ore, tin, gold, copper, molybdenum, oil and gas to be put into circulation, and this powerful raw material base to be used for the operation of plants, factories, plants and the long-term development of domestic industry. At the turn of the 21st century, the BAM helped open the markets of the Asia-Pacific region for the Russian economy and provided a reliable transit route for all of Eurasia. Together with the Trans-Siberian Railway, it has become a strategic transport corridor of not only national but also global significance.

    On April 26, 2023, a solemn ceremony was held at the Yaroslavsky railway station in the capital at the memorial plaque to the BAM builders. That same year, an exhibition dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev and his contribution to the implementation of the project opened at the Kazansky railway station.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/1244505/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks at the Extraordinary Arab Summit on the situation in the Middle East/Gaza [scroll down for Arabic]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Your Majesties, Your Highnesses, Excellencies, all protocols observed.

    President El-Sisi, thank you for convening leaders from across the Arab world to unite at this Extraordinary Arab Summit dedicated to Palestine.

    Since the horrific attacks by Hamas in Israel on October 7, the ensuing Israeli military operations have unleashed an unprecedented level of death and destruction in Gaza, generating an immense trauma.

    Palestinians in Gaza have suffered beyond measure.

    And the risk of even greater devastation looms. 

    This Summit is an important signal that the world has a collective responsibility to support efforts to end this war, relieve profound human suffering and secure lasting peace.

    In the last few weeks, we have witnessed a meaningful improvement with the ceasefire and the hostage deal.

    Since the start of the implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire, Palestinian civilians in Gaza have experienced reprieve. Hostages were released and humanitarian aid dramatically increased.

    I urge the parties to uphold their commitments and implement them in full, and Member States to use all the leverage they have to support this, especially as we start the Holy Month of Ramadan.

    We must avoid at all costs the resumption of hostilities that would plunge the millions back into an abyss of suffering and further destabilize the region. And simultaneously, the territorial integrity of Lebanon and Syria must be respected.

    Serious negotiations for the ceasefire in all its facets must be resumed without delay.

    All hostages must be released — immediately, unconditionally and in a dignified manner.

    The release of Palestinian detainees must be carried out per the terms of the deal and also in a dignified way.

    The parties must ensure humane treatment for all those held under their power.

    And all obstacles to the effective delivery of lifesaving aid must be removed.

    Humanitarian aid is not negotiable. It must flow without impediment. The response needs to be adequately funded, and civilians — including humanitarians — must be protected.

    The United Nations has proven, together with our partners, namely the Egyptian Red Crescent, with access, the UN-coordinated response can deliver aid that people need.

    Your Majesties, Your Highnesses,
    Excellencies,

    Ending the immediate crisis is not enough.

    We need a clear political framework that lays the foundation for Gaza’s recovery, reconstruction and lasting stability. 

    That framework must be based on principles and respect for international law.

    Israel’s legitimate security concerns must be addressed, but that should not be through long-term Israeli military presence in Gaza.

    And I want to once again salute the dedication of UN staff and all other humanitarian workers — particularly, Palestinian colleagues — who have suffered so much and are working under near-impossible conditions.

    I appeal for the urgent and full support of UNRWA’s work, including financial support.

    Excellencies,

    Finally, as we widen the lens beyond Gaza, we see an alarming situation unfolding in the West Bank.
     
    Israeli security forces have launched large-scale operations, including airstrikes and also the deployment of tanks for the first time in over two decades.

    Over 40,000 Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the last month — the largest displacement in the West Bank in decades.

    Meanwhile, demolitions, evictions and settlement expansions continue, with settler violence is on the rise.

    All of this is further weakening the Palestinian Authority at a time when its role is more crucial than ever.

    I call for urgent de-escalation.

    Unilateral actions, including settlement expansion and threats of annexation, must stop.

    The attacks and mounting violence must end.

    Israel, as the occupying power, must comply with all its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.

    And the Palestinian Authority must be supported to govern effectively, and to do so in compliance with its own obligations under international law.

    Excellencies,

    The true foundation of recovery in Gaza will be more than concrete and steel.

    It will be dignity, self-determination and security. 

    This means staying true to the bedrock of international law.

    It means rejecting any form of ethnic cleansing.

    And it means forging a political solution.

    There is no sustainable future for Gaza that is not part of a viable Palestinian State.

    There can be no recovery without an end to the occupation.

    No justice without accountability for violations of international law.

    And no sustainable reconstruction without a clear and principled political horizon.

    The Palestinian people must have the right to govern themselves, to chart their own future, and to live on their land in freedom and security.

    There must be irreversible steps now toward the realization of the two-State solution — before it’s too late.

    The only path to lasting peace is one where two states — Israel and Palestine — live side-by-side in peace and security, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states.

    The United Nations stands with you in this essential effort. 

    Thank you.

    *** 

              أصحاب الجلالة والسمو والفخامة والمعالي،  مع حفظ الألقاب
             
    فخامة الرئيس السيسي، أشكركم على جمع القادة من مختلف أنحاء العالم العربي للتوحد في هذه القمة العربية الاستثنائية المخصصة لفلسطين.

              فمنذ الهجمات المروعة التي شنتها حماس في إسرائيل في 7 تشرين الأول/أكتوبر، أحدثت العمليات العسكرية الإسرائيلية التي أعقبت ذلك مستوى غير مسبوق من الموت والدمار في غزة.
              ولقد عانى الفلسطينيون في غزة معاناةً تفوق الوصف.

              وهم مهددون الآن بالتعرض لمستوى أفدح من الدمار.

              إن انعقاد هذه القمة يمثل دلالة هامة على أن على العالم تقع مسؤولية جماعية لدعم الجهود الرامية إلى إنهاء هذه الحرب وتخفيف المعاناة الإنسانية الهائلة والتوصل إلى سلام دائم.

              لقد شهدنا في الأسابيع القليلة الماضية تحسناً ملموساً مع وقف إطلاق النار وصفقة الرهائن.

              فمنذ بدء تنفيذ المرحلة الأولى من وقف إطلاق النار، شهد المدنيون الفلسطينيون في غزة انفراجاً في الأوضاع. وتم الإفراج عن رهائن وزادت المساعدات الإنسانية بشكل كبير.

              وأحث الأطراف على التمسك بالتزاماتها وتنفيذها بالكامل، كما أحث الدول الأعضاء على استخدام كل ما لديها من نفوذ لدعم ذلك، خاصةً ونحن نستهل شهر رمضان المبارك.

              ويجب علينا أن نتجنب بأي ثمن استئناف الأعمال العدائية التي من شأنها أن تغرق الملايين مرة أخرى في هاوية المعاناة وتزيد من زعزعة الاستقرار في المنطقة. وفي الوقت نفسه، يجب احترام وحدة أراضي لبنان وسوريا.

              ويجب استئناف المفاوضات الجادة لوقف إطلاق النار بجميع جوانبه دون تأخير.

              ويجب إطلاق سراح جميع الرهائن – فورا ودون شروط وبطريقة كريمة.

              يجب أن يتم الإفراج عن المعتقلين الفلسطينيين وفقا لشروط الصفقة وبطريقة كريمة أيضا.

              ويجب على الأطراف ضمان المعاملة الإنسانية لجميع المحتجزين الخاضعين لسلطتهم.

              ويجب إزالة جميع العقبات التي تحول دون إيصال المساعدات المنقذة للحياة بشكل فعال.

              المساعدات الإنسانية غير قابلة للتفاوض. يجب أن تتدفق دون عوائق. ويجب تمويل الاستجابة بشكل كافٍ، ويجب حماية المدنيين – بمن فيهم العاملون في المجال الإنساني.

              ولقد أثبتت الأمم المتحدة، بالتعاون مع شركائها وعلى وجه الخصوص الهلال الأحمر الفلسطيني، أن الاستجابة التي تتم بتنسيق منها يمكنها، إذا أتيح لها الوصول، أن توفر المساعدة التي يحتاجها الناس.

              أصحاب الجلالة والسمو والفخامة والمعالي،

              إن إنهاء الأزمة الحالية لا يكفي.

              فنحن بحاجة إلى إطار سياسي واضح يرسي الأساس لتعافي غزة وإعادة إعمارها واستقرارها الدائم.

              ويجب أن يستند هذا الإطار إلى مبادئ القانون الدولي واحترامه.

              يجب معالجة مخاوف إسرائيل الأمنية المشروعة، لكن لا ينبغي أن يكون ذلك عبر وجود عسكري إسرائيلي طويل الأمد في غزة.

              ويجب أن تظل غزة جزءاً لا يتجزأ من دولة فلسطينية مستقلة وديمقراطية وذات سيادة – دون أي تقليص لأراضيها أو ترحيل قسري لسكانها.

              ويجب أن تكون غزة والضفة الغربية – بما فيها القدس الشرقية – موحدة سياسياً واقتصادياً وإدارياً من قبل السلطة الفلسطينية التي تحظى بقبول الشعب الفلسطيني ودعمه.

              ويجب أن تكون أي ترتيبات انتقالية مصممة لتحقيق حكم فلسطيني موحد ضمن إطار زمني محدود ومتفق عليه.

              أصحاب الجلالة والسمو والفخامة والمعالي،

              إني أرحب بالجهود التي يقودها العرب لحشد الدعم لإعادة إعمار غزة وأؤيد تلك الجهود بقوة، والتي تم التعبير عنها بوضوح في هذه القمة.

              وتقف الأمم المتحدة على أهبة الاستعداد للتعاون الكامل في هذا المسعى.

              ونحن ندرك أن إعادة الإعمار تتطلب حوكمة وترتيبات أمنية يمكن أن تساعد في ضمان مستقبل أكثر إشراقاً واستقراراً للفلسطينيين والإسرائيليين على حد سواء.

              وندرك أيضا الدور الحاسم الذي تقوم به الأونروا التي تواصل تقديم خدماتها في أحلك الظروف.

              وأود مرة أخرى أن أحيي تفاني موظفي الأمم المتحدة وجميع العاملين في المجال الإنساني – وخاصة الزملاء الفلسطينيين – الذين عانوا كثيرا ويعملون في ظروف شبه مستحيلة.

              إنني أدعو إلى تقديم الدعم العاجل والكامل لعمل الأونروا، بما في ذلك الدعم المالي.

              أصحاب الجلالة والسمو والفخامة والمعالي،

              وأخيراً، فإننا إذا ما وسعنا نطاق البصر إلى ما هو أبعد من غزة، نرى وضعاً مثيرا للجزع يتكشف في الضفة الغربية.

              فقد شنت قوات الأمن الإسرائيلية عمليات واسعة النطاق، بما في ذلك الغارات الجوية فضلا عن نشر الدبابات لأول مرة منذ أكثر من عقدين من الزمن.

              وتم تهجير أكثر من 40،000 فلسطيني قسراً خلال الشهر الماضي – وهي أكبر عملية تهجير تتم في الضفة الغربية منذ عقود.

              وفي الوقت نفسه، تتواصل عمليات الهدم والإخلاء والتوسع الاستيطاني، بينما عنف المستوطنين في تزايد.

              كل هذا يزيد من إضعاف السلطة الفلسطينية في وقت أصبح فيه دورها أكثر أهمية منه في أي وقت مضى.

              إنني أدعو إلى التعجيل بخفض التصعيد.

              ويجب أن تتوقف الأعمال أحادية الجانب، بما في ذلك التوسع الاستيطاني والتهديدات بضم الأراضي.

              ويجب أن تنتهي الهجمات والعنف المتصاعد.

              ويجب على إسرائيل، بصفتها سلطة قائمة بالاحتلال، أن تتقيد على نحو صارم بجميع التزاماتها بموجب القانون الدولي، بما في ذلك القانون الدولي الإنساني.

              ويجب دعم السلطة الفلسطينية لكي تباشر مهام الحكم بفعالية، ولكي تقوم بذلك وفقاً لالتزاماتها بموجب القانون الدولي.

              أصحاب الجلالة والسمو والفخامة والمعالي،

              إن الأساس الحقيقي للتعافي في غزة أكبر من الخرسانة والفولاذ.

              إنه الكرامة وتقرير المصير والأمن.

              وهذا يعني الالتزام بأساس القانون الدولي.

              ويعني رفض أي شكل من أشكال التطهير العرقي.

              ويعني بلورة حل سياسي.

              فلن يكون هناك مستقبل مستدام لغزة إلا كجزء من دولة فلسطينية قابلة للحياة.

              ولن يكون هناك تعافٍ إلا إذا انتهى الاحتلال.

              ولن تكون هناك عدالة إلا إذا جرت المساءلة عن انتهاكات القانون الدولي.

              ولن تكون هناك إعادة إعمار مستدامة إلا مع أفق سياسي واضح ومحكوم بمبادئ.

              يجب أن يكون للشعب الفلسطيني الحق في أن يحكم نفسه بنفسه، وأن يرسم مستقبله بنفسه، وأن يعيش على أرضه في حرية وأمان.

              ويجب القيام الآن بخطوات لا رجعة فيها نحو تحقيق حل الدولتين – قبل فوات الأوان.

              إن الطريق الوحيد للسلام الدائم هو ذلك الذي فيه تعيش دولتان – إسرائيل وفلسطين – جنباً إلى جنب في سلام وأمن، بما يتماشى مع القانون الدولي وقرارات الأمم المتحدة ذات الصلة، وتكون فيه القدس عاصمةً للدولتين كلتيهما.

              وأُعلن وقوف الأمم المتحدة إلى جانبكم في هذا الجهد الأساسي.

              شكراً لكم.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Laredo, federal partner investigation results in the arrest of a Texas woman for attempting to smuggle 9-year-old twins through Laredo

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LAREDO, Texas – A Texas woman was charged with conspiring to transport, attempting to transport and transporting two illegal alien minors illegally in the United States for financial gain following an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Laredo Office. ICE worked this case in coordination with U.S. Border Patrol Laredo Sector.

    Jovanna Netzay Diaz, 31, from Dallas, is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Renee Harris Toliver in Dallas. She will then be expected in Laredo federal court shortly thereafter.

    A federal grand jury returned the three-count indictment Feb. 19 which was unsealed upon her arrest Feb. 27.

    According to court documents, the charges allege that on Oct. 26, 2024, Diaz arrived at the Border Patrol checkpoint in Laredo. Upon initial inspection, authorities allegedly observed a blanket moving between the second and third row of the vehicle. Law enforcement soon found one minor underneath the blanket and another concealed on the floorboard of the vehicle’s front passenger seat, according to the charges. The minors were allegedly determined to be nine-year-old twins, who were nationals and citizens of Mexico with no familial connection to Diaz.

    If convicted, Diaz faces up to 10 years in federal prison as well as a $250,000 maximum possible fine.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa A. Lopez from the Southern District of Texas is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: iLobby Acquires Leading Logistics Management Provider SCLogic and Rebrands as FacilityOS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iLobby, a global leader in enterprise facility and visitor management solutions, today announced the acquisition of SCLogic, a leading logistics management solution provider, and its rebrand to FacilityOS.

    For over two decades, SCLogic has been at the forefront of last-yard logistics, delivering innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction. By integrating SCLogic’s proven technology and expertise into the FacilityOS platform, the combined company is now positioned as the most comprehensive solution for facility management.

    “Bringing SCLogic into FacilityOS is a game-changer for the industry,” said Ariel Mashiyev, Chairman and CEO of FacilityOS. “Facility management is evolving, and organizations need an integrated, intelligent platform to streamline operations and drive better outcomes. The addition of SCLogic’s expertise in logistics and asset management strengthens our ability to provide end-to-end solutions that improve efficiency, security, and compliance for our customers worldwide.”

    “This acquisition is a significant step forward in accelerating SCLogic’s growth and enhancing the value we deliver to our customers,” said Mike Saldi, CEO of SCLogic. “Integrating our Intra solution into the FacilityOS platform creates a more robust and comprehensive offering, allowing both existing and future customers to benefit from expanded capabilities.”

    A New Era: iLobby Rebrands as FacilityOS

    Alongside the acquisition, iLobby has officially rebranded as FacilityOS. Originally launched in 2022, the FacilityOS platform was designed to unify iLobby’s suite of products into a single, cohesive interface. Adopting FacilityOS as the company’s name marks a pivotal milestone, reinforcing its expanded vision of delivering end-to-end facility management solutions.

    “iLobby has experienced remarkable growth since its inception, evolving from a niche visitor management solution into a comprehensive, modular facility management platform,” said Mashiyev. “With offices in the United States, Canada, and Europe, we now serve over 25% of Fortune 500 companies. FacilityOS better reflects the breadth of our solutions and the dynamic, innovative company we’ve become.”

    Introducing LogisticsOS & ContractorOS

    Coinciding with the rebrand, FacilityOS has launched two new platform modules:

    • LogisticsOS – An evolution of SCLogic’s Intra platform, LogisticsOS streamlines operations across mailroom handling, central receiving, and asset management, enhancing transparency and eliminating inefficiencies.
    • ContractorOS – A contractor compliance management solution that centralizes documentation, automates key workflows, and ensures audit readiness, providing organizations with improved visibility and compliance confidence.

    New Website & Expanded Resources

    To support this transformation, the company has launched a new corporate website, www.facilityos.com. The new site provides a centralized resource for facility, asset, and visitor management, while also incorporating insights from the SCLogic acquisition.

    For more information, visit www.facilityos.com.

    About FacilityOS

    Deployed across more than 7,000 sites worldwide, FacilityOS powers complex work environments by optimizing and automating key facility processes to achieve regulatory compliance, enforce safety protocols, improve operational efficiencies, and drive site security requirements.

    The integrated FacilityOS platform is supported by robust reporting, turnkey onboarding, and extensive configurability that ensures a strong impact in many industries, such as manufacturing, industrial, healthcare, higher education, and other mission-critical environments. Each module within FacilityOS is designed to work standalone or together with other modules to maximize the impact of the platform.

    FacilityOS is a global company with offices in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Learn more at www.facilityos.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c4b5dbaf-5a93-4cc9-afd4-164b58fb1e10

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: The People’s Joker remixes familiar characters to create a new kind of comic book movie

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Alex Fitch, Lecturer and PhD Candidate in Comics and Architecture, University of Brighton

    The ultimate villain of DC Comics, the Joker, has been brought to screen many times. From Cesar Romero’s 1960s camp prankster in Batman: The Movie (1966), to Jack Nicholson’s villain-with-flare in Tim Burton’s iconic Batman (1989) and Heath Ledger’s wonderfully textured psychotic criminal in The Dark Knight (2008).

    Though he’s never the hero, the “crown prince of crime” usually dominates whatever film he’s in.

    Other versions of the character have been less well received. Critics disliked Jared Leto’s take in Suicide Squad (2016), calling the film “shallow”, and many fans loathed his gang-style tattoos and makeup.

    Joaquin Phoenix’s downtrodden schizophrenic Arthur Fleck in Joker (2019) was initially championed by audiences and critics. But the film felt disconnected from Joker’s history and more like a critique of poverty and social isolation than a comic book movie.

    Phoenix’s reappearance in sequel Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) was widely panned, due to an incoherent plot and unusual choice of the jukebox musical genre.

    This is the landscape that welcomes The People’s Joker, a parody film with an LGBTQ+ twist. Written by Vera Drew and Bri LeRose, and directed by and starring Drew in the lead role, it has just started a screening tour of the UK.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.


    Set in an alternate (unaffiliated and unofficial) DC universe, this semi-autobiographical dark comedy explores Drew’s real-life gender transition, using a fictional alter-ego, “Joker the Harlequin”. This character is used as a metaphor for the difficulties of transgender adolescence.

    The film is a re-imagining of Drew’s coming of age story. She moves to Gotham City, trying to launch a comedy act in a place where comedy has been outlawed. After a poor audition, she decides to create “anti comedy”, supported by a slew of recognisable Batman villains such as the Riddler, Mr Freeze and Poison Ivy.

    Alternate versions of famous characters

    As the film conjures provocative versions of familiar characters – both similar and radically different to previous incarnations seen on screen – The People’s Joker is well timed to compete with changes to the official cinematic superhero universes made by Marvel and DC.




    Read more:
    Multiverse films take characters to increasingly dark places – as Robert Downey Jr’s Doctor Doom casting shows


    These film universes have leant into multiverse storytelling, with different versions of the same characters (such as Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland’s Spider-Men) leaving their respective universes to team-up or cause havoc.

    As such, it seems apt that The People’s Joker name-checks multiple versions of Batman characters, and includes them in the same film.

    The trailer for The People’s Joker.

    Drew’s character is a mix of both Harley Quinn and the Joker, while a former comic-book Robin, Jason Todd, becomes a Leto-style Joker. The film uses this opportunity to satirise Leto’s characterisation including the “damaged” forehead tattoo that annoyed fans.

    Drew dances to a song called Party Woman, a not-so-subtle reworking of Party Man by Prince, which soundtracked the arrival of Nicholson’s Joker in Batman (1989). The film also satirises Phoenix’s dance on a flight of steps in both of his Joker movies.

    Reimagining continuity

    The People’s Joker mines Batman comic lore and gleefully stirs it up. Todd announces: “Before I was Jason Todd my name was Carrie Kelley” (a young, female iteration of Robin who appeared in Frank Miller’s landmark graphic novel The Dark Knight Returns).

    Old speculation around the nature of Batman and Robin’s relationship is also referenced when Todd notes that after he transitioned, Batman made a pass at him.

    These name-checks and motifs are cleverly used and a perfect fit for their new context. Smylex (the Joker’s rictus grin inflicting poison) becomes a teen medication riffing on Ritalin, and metaphor for the repression of identity. This ironically also leads Drew to discover that she can use Smylex-induced humour to deflect attention from her secret identity and transition.

    A film starring two different versions of the Joker has a surprising precedent. DC Comics has run a storyline since 2016 that suggested Batman had actually come up against three different Jokers. All three then teamed up in a 2020 mini-series.

    This goes hand in hand with Joker: Folie à Deux, and the Gotham TV series which both suggest a new Joker will arrive when a previous one dies.

    A clip from The People’s Joker.

    The People’s Joker matches its anarchic content with stylistic surrealism: blurred backgrounds, extensive use of green screen, bargain basement makeup, periodic slips into animation or action figures, and CGI effects to create the rictus grins. These all give the film a hallucinogenic feel, culminating in an ending where Drew sails through the sky with fifth-dimensional imp Mister Mxyzptlk, floating between an infinite number of possible timelines.

    With various superhero franchises leaning into different media, continuities and multiverses, The People’s Joker follows in the tradition of previous re-imagingings of Batman.

    As many authorised comic book films are starting to feel like they’re retreading too familiar ground, hopefully the critical appreciation of this film will point towards stranger and more unique comic adaptations yet to come.

    Alex Fitch previously received funding from Design Star for PhD research.

    Julia Round 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 People’s Joker remixes familiar characters to create a new kind of comic book movie – https://theconversation.com/the-peoples-joker-remixes-familiar-characters-to-create-a-new-kind-of-comic-book-movie-250693

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘I’ve never paid myself’: why the reality for female entrepreneurs doesn’t always match the rhetoric

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sarah Marks, Lecturer in HRM and Organisational Behaviour, Swansea University

    BongkarnGraphic/Shutterstock

    Inspiring stories of female entrepreneurs are a familiar part of International Women’s Day. Typically, these portraits follow a narrative arc of adversity, resilience, passion and success. The message is that women are skilled, resourceful and successful entrepreneurs.

    However, one thing you are unlikely to learn from these role model stories is how much (or perhaps more pertinently, how little) money the founder pays herself. While this partly reflects taboos on discussing money, it contributes to a gendered veil of silence regarding the very poor personal incomes of most women entrepreneurs.

    My research on female founders in the UK suggests that entrepreneurship rarely pays for women. It may also exacerbate gendered financial precarity, particularly as women get older. This hidden picture of women’s entrepreneurial poverty will form part of my submission to the UK government’s public inquiry into female entrepreneurship this spring.

    I spent two years interviewing more than 50 women in London from various backgrounds. They had established their enterprises in diverse sectors, with the hope of generating at least a living-wage income.

    But a self-sustaining income proved an elusive goal for most. Only four had matched or surpassed their former salary in employment. This was less than 8% of my sample. A further three managed to bring in about £2,000 a month – similar to a living-wage income in London at the time.

    Eight women paid themselves (sometimes) around £1,000 a month, despite working for their business full time. A similar number generated up to £100 a week. The rest – more than half the sample – took no income at all.

    While some were in early-stage entrepreneurship, many had been investing labour and resources into their venture for four or more years without generating pay for themselves. Some women were supported by partners or savings, others relied on state benefits, paid employment or drastically reduced their living standards.

    Lian, for example, moved into her business premises to slash her living costs. Lucy had not socialised for four years and Rebecca complained that her house was “falling apart”.

    Bleak about the future

    Coping on a low entrepreneurial income was not simply a question of foregoing discretionary spending. At 49, Rebecca admitted she often felt “really bleak about the lack of a pension”, while Lucy, 39, worried that she would end up “penniless in the gutter”. As few women were investing in a pension, the research suggests that, in the UK at least, women’s entrepreneurship could worsen both gender income gaps and long-term financial equality.

    Notably, most women had received support from enterprise programmes and business advisers. Four women took loans from the UK government’s Start-up Loan Company, which lends up to £25,000 at commercial rates, and targets non-traditional founders such as women and young people.

    However, three had returned to paid employment to service the loan, reducing the time they had to grow the business. This included Stacie, who said: “Forget my time, I’ve never paid myself. Never. Basically, the money that came in went straight back to the loan.” Stacie’s entrepreneurship journey had nonetheless been packaged into a celebratory success story on the Start-Up Loan’s website.




    Read more:
    How the gender pay gap evolves into a gender pension gap


    Analysing social patterns in household economic structures and women’s entrepreneurial income suggests two things.

    First, it is now relatively easy for women in the UK to borrow money to start a business. But it is very difficult for them to raise enough funds to develop an income-generating enterprise.

    Second, women who had salaried partners or family wealth could afford to invest their labour into growing their business. This gives them a substantial advantage over single women. Single mothers especially face a stark choice between investing their time in their business or in employment to meet household needs.

    While many male entrepreneurs also struggle to generate income, my research highlights specific gendered issues.

    Notably, gendered norms around social value mean women often disguise disappointment with low incomes and make a virtue out of non-financial rewards.

    Reflecting on the £100 a week she earned from her craft business, Maggie said: “I just love … talking to people and hearing about their lives and just having a good chat.” But having a good chat does not pay bills. Maggie, a widower, was anxious to grow the business to replace her former income of £38,000 a year and come off benefits.

    Second, fear of violating gendered norms may inhibit some women from pursuing profit. Most women were adamant they must not appear “greedy”.

    Greta, for example, had switched her for-profit business plan to a social value buy-one-give-one model because she feared that being seen as “profiteering” would derail her brand story. Yet, the extra costs of a social-value buiness model imposed serious constraints on her future income.

    The income disappointment of female entrepreneurs can be overlooked when their stories are repackaged into inspirational stories of innovation.
    Me dia/Shutterstock

    The income disappointment women revealed is not reflected in the public discourse. Lian, Stacie and many other non-earning interviewees were publicly hailed as successful, contented, female entrepreneurial role models at enterprise events as well as in digital and traditional media outlets.

    As Deanna remarked: “Founders are the new celebrities.” Such role model stories, devoid of any facts about income, feed a pernicious myth that entrepreneurship is a desirable, feasible and sustainable career for all women.

    But my research also indicates ways of approaching the hidden financial impact. We need much better evidence about incomes for women business owners – and we need to make this public. Conversations about what holds women back from talking about the income they need is important. Paying yourself a decent income is not greed.

    It should also be made clear that social value goals can harm income prospects.

    And, given the UK’s goals of financial equality, we should be honest and ask if encouraging women to open businesses is even the right thing to do.

    All research participants’ names have been changed.

    Sarah Marks received funding from the Economic and Social Research Council for this research.

    ref. ‘I’ve never paid myself’: why the reality for female entrepreneurs doesn’t always match the rhetoric – https://theconversation.com/ive-never-paid-myself-why-the-reality-for-female-entrepreneurs-doesnt-always-match-the-rhetoric-249189

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: PKK leader’s call to disarm fuels hope for end to Kurdish conflict – but peace is not imminent

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Pinar Dinc, Associate Professor of Political Science, Department of Political Science & Researcher, Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University

    Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK), has called on the group to disarm and dissolve itself. In a letter read out by his political allies in Istanbul, Turkey, on February 27, he wrote: “I take on the historical responsibility for this call … All groups must lay down their arms and the PKK must dissolve itself.”

    Two days later, the PKK’s executive committee declared a ceasefire to its armed struggle against the Turkish state. The conflict, which began in 1984 with the aim of establishing an independent Kurdish state in response to state oppression, has claimed the lives of more than 40,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands more.

    Öcalan has been imprisoned on an island south of Istanbul since 1999, when he was captured by Turkish security forces in Kenya. But he has remained the leader of the PKK throughout and has kept his strong personality cult among the Kurdish freedom movement.

    He was the force behind the PKK’s shift away from its separatist goals in the 2000s. He argued that the solution to the Kurdish question in the Middle East was for greater autonomy and Kurdish rights through the idea of “democratic confederalism”, built on the pillars of direct democracy rather than a nation-state model.

    In his letter, Öcalan repeated this argument. He blamed the past 200 years of capitalist modernity for the break up of the alliance between the Kurds and the Turks. And he highlighted the importance of a truly democratic society and political space for a lasting solution to the Kurdish struggle.

    Öcalan’s letter mainly addressed the Turkish public and international community, and is likely to have been “approved” by the Turkish state. As such, it was rather short, at times vague, and did not propose a detailed framework about the peace process between Turkey and the PKK.

    But after Öcalan’s letter was read out, Sırrı Süreyya Önder, a member of the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy party (DEM), shared with journalists an additional remark Öcalan had made.

    Öcalan had apparently said: “Undoubtedly, in practice, the laying down of arms and the dissolution of the PKK require the recognition of democratic politics and a legal framework”. This point suggests that Öcalan’s call to disarm is merely the beginning of a long process to bring the conflict to a close.

    The PKK has announced that, in order for disarmament and dissolution to be put into practice, Öcalan needs to lead this congress personally. This indicates an expectation for Öcalan to gain some sort of freedom to communicate and direct the process.

    Support for dissolution

    Leading figures from several pro-Kurdish groups have welcomed the order for the PKK to disarm. This has included Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and Salih Muslim, the former co-chairperson of the Democratic Union party (PYD) in Syria.

    Öcalan’s call has also received support from the international community. This includes the US and UK, which alongside many other nations, recognise the PKK as a terrorist organisation. On February 27, US National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes told CNN that the announcement was “a significant development” that “we believe will help bring peace to this troubled region”.

    Perhaps most importantly, Öcalan’s announcement has been welcomed almost unanimously by political parties in Turkey. Only the ultra-nationalist Good and Victory parties oppose the call to dissolve the PKK, seeing any negotiations with the group as compromising national integrity.

    But, despite this important step towards peace, it remains difficult to see an imminent end to the Kurdish struggle in Turkey. The Justice and Development party (AKP) and the Nationalist Movement party, which have ruled Turkey together since 2023, have been continuing their oppression of the democratic sphere.

    They have replaced elected Kurdish mayors with government officials, while also imprisoning democratically elected Kurdish politicians. And people in the media, civil society and other democratic movements, such as the People’s Democratic Congress, have been criminalised and detained.

    At the same time, Turkey considers the SDF and other Kurdish organisations like the People’s Protection Units (YPG) and the PYD as offshoots of the PKK. It has supported its militia force in Syria, the Syrian National Army, to stop the Kurdish autonomous region on its border from achieving political status, seeing it as a direct threat to national security.

    Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has warned the PKK of further action if the process of disarmament is stalled. In a post on X on March 1, Erdoğan wrote: “If the promises are not kept … such as delaying, deceiving, changing names … we will continue our operations, if necessary, until we eliminate the last terrorist”.

    This signals an expectation from the Turkish state that they want all of the groups they associate with the PKK, armed and non-armed, to also disband. However, Abdi has asserted that Öcalan’s call for the PKK to dissolve does not apply to the group he leads. “If there is peace in Turkey, that means there is no excuse to keep attacking us here in Syria”, Abdi said.

    The Syrian National Army has been launching attacks in northern Syria to capture territory from the SDF, with fighting particularly intense around the Tishreen Dam.

    The Turkey-backed SNA has been attacking SDF positions in northern Syria.
    Institute for the Study of War

    So far, the only positive approach from the Turkish government has been signalling a possible change in the constitutional definition of citizenship to go beyond ethnic criteria. This would be a first step towards a more pluralist and inclusive description of citizenship in Turkey, where people from several ethnic groups have lived for centuries.

    There are various concerns over the ways in which the dissolution process will be carried out. But the possibility of peace is valuable as it opens up democratic avenues for struggle. Resolving the Kurdish question, one of Turkey’s most pressing unresolved issues, will pave the way for progress in other areas such as democratisation and freedom of expression.

    Pinar Dinc is the principal investigator of the ECO-Syria project, which receives funding from the Strategic Research Area: The Middle East in the Contemporary World (MECW) at the Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University, Sweden.

    ref. PKK leader’s call to disarm fuels hope for end to Kurdish conflict – but peace is not imminent – https://theconversation.com/pkk-leaders-call-to-disarm-fuels-hope-for-end-to-kurdish-conflict-but-peace-is-not-imminent-251281

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the risk of AI weapons could spiral out of control

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Akhil Bhardwaj, Associate Professor (Strategy and Organisation), School of Management, University of Bath

    marina.rodrigues/Shutterstock

    Sometimes AI isn’t as clever as we think it is. Researchers training an algorithm to identify skin cancer thought they had succeeded until they discovered that it was using the presence of a ruler to help it make predictions. Specifically, their data set consisted of images where a pathologist had put in a ruler to measure the size of malignant lesions.

    It extended this logic for predicting malignancies to all images beyond the data set, consequently identifying benign tissue as malignant if a ruler was in the image.

    The problem here is not that the AI algorithm made a mistake. Rather, the concern stems from how the AI “thinks”. No human pathologist would arrive at this conclusion.

    These cases of flawed “reasoning” abound – from HR algorithms that prefer to hire men because the data set is skewed in their favour to propagating racial disparities in medical treatment. Now that they know about these problems, researchers are scrambling to address them.

    Recently, Google decided to end its longstanding ban on developing AI weapons. This potentially encompasses the use of AI to develop arms, as well as AI in surveillance and weapons that could be deployed autonomously on the battlefield. The decision came days after parent company Alphabet experienced a 6% drop in its share price.

    This is not Google’s first foray into murky waters. It worked with the US Department of Defense on the use of its AI technology for Project Maven, which involved object recognition for drones.

    When news of this contract became public in 2018, it sparked backlash from employees who did not want the technology they developed to be used in wars. Ultimately, Google did not renew its contract, which was picked up by rival Palantir instead.

    The speed with which Google’s contract was renewed by a competitor led some to note the inevitability of these developments, and that it was perhaps better to be on the inside to shape the future.

    Such arguments, of course, presume that firms and researchers will be able to shape the future as they want to. But previous research has shown that this assumption is flawed for at least three reasons.

    The confidence trap

    First, human beings are susceptible to falling into what is known as a “confidence trap”. I have researched this phenomenon, whereby people assume that since previous risk-taking paid off, taking more risks in the future is warranted.

    In the context of AI, this may mean incrementally extending the use of an algorithm beyond its training data set. For example, a driverless car may be used on a route has not been covered in its training.

    This can throw up problems. There is now an abundance of data that driverless car AI can draw on, and yet mistakes still occur. Accidents like the Tesla car that drove into a £2.75 million jet when summoned by its owner in an unfamiliar setting, can still happen. For AI weapons, there isn’t even much data to begin with.




    Read more:
    Is Tesla’s sales slump down to Elon Musk?


    Second, AI can reason in ways that are alien to human understanding. This has led to the paperclip thought experiment, where AI is asked to produce as many paper clips as possible. It does so while consuming all resources – including those necessary for human survival.

    Of course, this seems trivial. After all, humans can lay out ethical guidelines. But the problem lies in being unable to anticipate how an AI algorithm might achieve what humans have asked of it and thus losing control. This might even include “cheating.” In a recent experiment, AI cheated to win chess games by modifying system files denoting positions of chess pieces, in effect enabling it to make illegal moves.

    But society may be willing to accept mistakes, as with civilian casualties caused by drone strikes directed by humans. This tendency is something known as the “banality of extremes” – humans normalise even the more extreme instances of evil as a cognitive mechanism to cope. The “alienness” of AI reasoning may simply provide more cover for doing so.

    Third, firms like Google that are associated with developing these weapons might be too big to fail. As a consequence, even when there are clear instances of AI going wrong, they are unlikely to be held responsible. This lack of accountability creates a hazard as it disincentivises learning and corrective actions.

    The “cosying up” of tech executives with US president Donald Trump only exacerbates the problem as it further dilutes accountability.

    Tech moguls like Elon Musk cosying up to the US president dilutes accountability.
    Joshua Sukoff/Shutterstock

    Rather than joining the race towards the development of AI weaponry, an alternative approach would be to work on a comprehensive ban on it’s development and use.

    Although this might seem unachievable, consider the threat of the hole in the ozone layer. This brought rapid unified action in the form of banning the CFCs that caused it. In fact, it took only two years for governments to agree on a global ban on the chemicals. This stands as a testament to what can be achieved in the face of a clear, immediate and well-recognised threat.

    Unlike climate change – which despite overwhelming evidence continues to have detractors – recognition of the threat of AI weapons is nearly universal and includes leading technology entrepreneurs and scientists.

    In fact, banning the use and development of certain types of weapons has precedent – countries have after all done the same for biological weapons. The problem lies in no country wanting another to have it before they do, and no business wanting to lose out in the process.

    In this sense, choosing to weaponise AI or disallowing it will mirror the wishes of humanity. The hope is that the better side of human nature will prevail.

    Akhil Bhardwaj 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. How the risk of AI weapons could spiral out of control – https://theconversation.com/how-the-risk-of-ai-weapons-could-spiral-out-of-control-251167

    MIL OSI – Global Reports