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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Cornyn Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Crack Down on Online Exploitation of Private Images

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    The Stopping Harmful Image Exploitation and Limiting Distribution (SHIELD) Act ensures that federal prosecutors have appropriate and effective tools to address serious privacy violations
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced bipartisan legislation to take on the online exploitation of explicit, private images. The Stopping Harmful Image Exploitation and Limiting Distribution (SHIELD) Act would provide federal law enforcement with the tools they need to crack down on serious privacy violations. The bill establishes federal criminal liability for people who distribute others’ private or explicit images online, or threaten to do so, without consent. The bill also fills in existing gaps in federal law so that prosecutors can hold all those who exploit children accountable. Current state laws offer incomplete and inconsistent protection for victims of image exploitation. Last year, the SHIELD Act passed the Senate unanimously. Companion legislation in the House of Representatives is led by Representatives Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Madeleine Dean (D-PA).
    “We need to provide victims of online abuse with the legal protection they deserve, and to hold their exploiters accountable,” said Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation does just that. Providing law enforcement with the tools they need will help prevent these serious privacy violations from going unpunished or even happening in the first place. We will build on the progress we made last year to finally get these critical protections passed into law.”
    “Those who have had their digital privacy violated shouldn’t have to fear that their abusers will go unpunished,” said Cornyn. “Our legislation will help ensure criminals who share private images of others online, including explicit photos of children, are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
    The SHIELD Act is endorsed by over 50 organizations, including the National Association of Police Organizations, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, and the National District Attorneys Association.
    “In a world where smart phones and other devices are used to record and share every moment in life, it is vital to protect against the malicious, nonconsensual sharing of private, explicit images. These privacy violations disproportionately target women and minors. By establishing federal liability for those who share private images without consent, the SHIELD Act will help law enforcement bring justice to the victims of these crimes. We thank Senators Klobuchar and Cornyn for their leadership and stand with them in support of this important bill,” said Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations.
    “The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) applauds Senator Klobuchar and Senator Cornyn for their leadership on the SHIELD Act. This essential piece of legislation protects children and closes a gap in current law by criminalizing the distribution of sexually explicit and nude images of a child. In 2024, NCMEC received more than 500,000 reports of online enticement, including sextortion, to our CyberTipline. The SHIELD Act will provide a crucial legal remedy for children in many of these cases. We look forward to working with the Senate and House sponsors to ensure that the SHIELD Act is enacted into law this term. NCMEC is appreciative of all Congressional supporters of the SHIELD Act who are working to prioritize child safety online,” said Michelle DeLaune, President and CEO of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
    “As technology advances at a rapid pace, so too does the exploitation of some of our most vulnerable victims in our communities—children. The Stopping Harmful Image Exploitation and Limiting Distribution (SHIELD) Act takes an important step to hold those who prey on children and others accountable. The legislation also addresses the challenges of ‘sextortion’ and closes a loophole where child pornography falls short of meeting the definition of sexual content. We appreciate Senator Klobuchar and Senator Cornyn’s efforts to provide the necessary tools to law enforcement and prosecutors to keep our communities safe,” said Nelson Bunn, Executive Director of the National District Attorneys Association.
    The SHIELD Act would:
    Ensure that the Department of Justice has an appropriate and effective tool to address serious privacy violations;
    Establish federal criminal liability for individuals who share, or threaten to share, private, sexually explicit or nude images without consent;
    Fill in gaps in existing law that prevent prosecutors from holding those who share explicit images of children accountable; and
    Protect the victims of serious privacy violations, while leaving room for sharing consensual images and images of public concern.
    Last year, at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing titled “Big Tech and the Online Child Sexual Exploitation Crisis,” Senator Klobuchar was part of a hearing that questioned tech executives about their companies turning a blind eye when young children join their platforms, ignoring the risk of sexual exploitation, using algorithms that push harmful content, and providing a venue for drug traffickers to sell deadly narcotics like fentanyl. In 2017, Klobuchar and former Senators Richard Burr (R-NC) and Kamala Harris (D-CA), introduced the first version of this legislation, the bipartisan Ending Nonconsensual Online User Graphic Harassment (ENOUGH) Act. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Capito Opening Statement at Hearing on Advancing CCUS Technology, Proper Implementation of USE IT Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    [embedded content]
    To watch Chairman Capito’s opening statement, click here or the image above.
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, held a hearing on advancing carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) technologies, and examining the implementation of the Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies Act or USE IT Act. The EPW Committee led efforts to get the USE IT Act signed into law in December 2020. 
    In her opening remarks, Chairman Capito spoke to the bipartisan support for CCUS technology and the need to continue efforts to advance these technologies, while emphasizing the importance of implementing the USE IT Act at a faster pace. Additionally, Chairman Capito highlighted the significance of timely project approval and Class VI well primacy for states, as well as the role of CCUS in ensuring a reliable electric grid.
    Below is the opening statement of Chairman Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) as delivered.
    “I’m excited to start this year with a hearing on a bipartisan topic that Ranking Member Whitehouse and I have worked together on over the years to address, and I look forward to continuing bipartisan efforts to champion meaningful legislation on this issue with Ranking Member Whitehouse and the rest of the Committee. Certainly, [Senator Cramer] knows a lot about this at the same time in the great state of North Dakota. Innovative CCUS technologies will play a critical role in reducing emissions, particularly for facilities that face unique challenges because of their size, location, or industrial application.
    “In my state of West Virginia, several CCUS efforts are underway. West Virginia University is currently exploring direct air capture technologies, and the Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory, which is located in Morgantown, is supporting a suite of CCUS research.
    “West Virginia is also a partner in the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub –known as ARCH2 – that includes project partners who are working to deploy CCUS technologies. Collectively, these projects position West Virginia to continue as a national energy leader, while also reducing our air emissions.
    “But, we cannot realize the full benefits of these projects and emerging technologies like CCUS if there is not a permitting framework that will allow for the rapid and safe deployment of these projects. That’s why Ranking Member Whitehouse and I, working together with Senator Barrasso and former Senator Carper, moved forward to get the Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies Act – or the USE IT Act – signed into law in December of 2020.
    “This legislation was intended to ensure that carbon capture projects, at all types of facilities, can be permitted in a timely and efficient manner. Despite the progress made by the USE IT Act, there have been significant problems with its implementation that have held back the deployment and the development of CCUS.
    “First, while the Council on Environmental Quality – or CEQ – released a report in 2021 and subsequent interagency guidance for the deployment of CCUS in 2022, as the USE IT Act required, the guidance failed to present a clear pathway to expedite permitting for these projects. 
    “Second, the law required at least two federal tasks forces be established to help identify challenges to and solutions for permitting these projects. The Department of Energy and CEQ missed the required 18-month deadline to establish these tasks forces. 
    “They were not chartered until April of 2024, more than twice as long as the Congress mandated in the USE IT Act. The delay in standing up these task forces has hindered our progress in supporting CCUS, but at least they are finally working on recommendations to improve the permitting process.
    “After the USE IT Act, Congress and the EPW Committee worked in a bipartisan way to expedite carbon capture projects by including $25 million in the IIJA for the EPA to review and approve Class VI well applications.
    “The IIJA also included $50 million to help our states obtain primacy for permitting such Class VI wells. This funding gave the EPA needed resources to clear its backlog of individual Class VI applications, and reduce the total number of applications that the EPA must review by granting states primacy. 
    “Despite receiving additional help and funding with the process, the Biden administration only approved two Class VI projects, and only granted primacy to two states, Louisiana, and after more than three and half years…my home state, really the last day of the Biden administration, received their permit for primacy on Class VI wells.
    “I’m very excited that [West Virginia] got our primacy over that permitting process. I hope EPA Administrator Zeldin will prioritize reducing the current backlog of pending applications and support additional states that are seeking to obtain primacy.
    “The North American Electric Reliability Corporation has found that over the next ten years, due to a rise in energy consumption and the early retirement of our existing fossil fuel generation, our country could face major electric reliability concerns.  
    “The deployment of CCUS can be a tool to not only maintain, but expand reliable electric generation capacity and ensure the reliability of our electric grid, while improving the environment and growing our economy. I believe that’s a win-win situation.
    “I look forward to our discussion today on this important topic, so we can figure out how we can continue to work in a bipartisan manner to advance CCUS deployment.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Peacekeeper dies in CAR, Gaza and DR Congo latest, preventing violent extremism

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Peace and Security

    The UN Secretary-General has strongly condemned the killing of a Tunisian peacekeeper serving with the UN Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic, MINUSCA. 

    The ‘blue helmet’ was part of a long-range MINUSCA patrol to protect civilians, that was near the village of Zobassinda, in Bamingui-Bangoran prefecture, which came under attack on Tuesday night by an unidentified armed assailant.

    António Guterres expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeeper, and to the Government and the people of Tunisia.

    “The Secretary-General recalls that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law,” said a statement issued by the UN spokesperson’s office. 

    Call for swift justice

    “He calls on the Central African authorities to spare no effort in identifying the perpetrators of this tragedy so that they can be brought to justice swiftly.”

    The UN chief also reaffirmed the solidarity of the United Nations with the people and Government of CAR.

    Head of MINUSCA and UN Special Representative Valentine Rugwabiza also condemned the attack and said the “cowardly” act would not undermine the mission’s determination to implement its mandate “in the service of peace and stability” in CAR. 

    © UNICEF/Jospin Benekire

    A UNICEF-supported cholera team add chlorine to water collected from a reservoir in Goma, in the DR Congo.

    Peacekeeping, relief efforts, continue to face challenges in DR Congo 

    The United Nations on Wednesday called on the M23 armed group to allow the unimpeded movement of UN personnel and humanitarian aid, as the violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to displace civilians.

    At a press briefing in New York on Wednesday, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said that the UN peacekeeping mission in the country, MONUSCO, was facing increasing restrictions in the Kivu provinces.

    M23 fighters denied the mission’s contractors access to Goma to deliver food to the MONUSCO bases and obstructed efforts to safely dispose of unexploded ordnance, including one posing a direct threat to peacekeepers and unarmed Congolese forces within a MONUSCO facility.

    “The UN Mission calls on the M23 to allow the unimpeded movement of UN personnel and to fully respect established humanitarian corridors,” Mr. Haq said.

    He added that on Wednesday, the remains of 18 soldiers – including two MONUSCO peacekeepers and 16 troops from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission – were repatriated to South Africa. 

    A MONUSCO peacekeeper from Uruguay, also killed in recent clashes, was flown home on Tuesday.

    Humanitarian crisis deepens

    Meanwhile, ongoing violence in South Kivu has led to further displacement. Earlier on Wednesday, local time, fighting in Ihusi, about 70 kilometres north of Bukavu, forced residents to flee to nearby towns and islands in Lake Kivu, Mr. Haq said.

    In North Kivu, UN and humanitarian workers continue to assess needs and provide emergency aid where security allows. However, transportation remains a major challenge, complicating efforts to deliver food and supplies.

    In Ituri province, attacks since 8 February have killed at least 59 civilians in Djugu, with many others wounded or missing. 

    “The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reiterates that all parties must protect civilians and allow access to the essential services they need to survive,” Mr. Haq said. 

    Greater inclusion and cooperation critical to prevent violent extremism

    For the third consecutive year, the UN commemorated the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, observed on 12 February. 

    In a social media post on Wednesday, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed said that preventing violent extremism requires addressing its root causes, which are inequality and injustice. 

    “On this International Day, let’s commit to fostering inclusion, development, and human rights to build a future free from extremism and terrorism,” she said.

    Dialogue, trust and respect

    In a video message, the head of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), Vladimir Voronkov, said that prevention of violent extremism requires long-term multifaceted solutions that are rooted in cooperation across all sectors.

    He listed governments, international and regional organizations, civil society, educators, religious leaders, and the private sector, in this regard.

    “This involves strengthening communities, addressing grievances, empowering women, and youth, investing in education, and ensuring inclusive development for all,” he said.

    “It demands that we challenge hatred, misinformation, and the forces that seek to divide us, and instead foster dialogue, trust, and respect for human dignity.”

    Later at a commemorative event, Mr. Voronkov outlined some of his Office’s work to counter terrorism, such as providing capacity building assistance to beneficiaries to enhance their knowledge and skills in prevention.

    Future initiatives include partnering with the UN Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) to examine the emerging risks and opportunities of video gaming in Africa, as part of efforts to invest in new frontier issues. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Commitment to Inclusive Political Transition Vital for Syria’s Success, Special Envoy Says, Warning Further Conflict Could Hinder Fight against Da’esh

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Concerns Raised over Discrimination against Women, Minorities

    Acknowledging the Syrian caretaker authorities pledges to achieve an inclusive Syrian-owned and -led political transition in line with the key principles of Council resolution 2254 (2015), the United Nations senior mediator in the country warned the Security Council today that further conflict could have a drastic impact on the fight against Da’esh and international peace and security.

    The current transition in Syria is unfolding amid territorial division in the north-east and a complex security environment in the rest of the country, said Geir O. Pedersen, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria.

    “The leadership of the caretaker authorities have repeatedly committed publicly and to me that the new Syria will be for all Syrians and built on inclusive and credible foundations,” he said.

    On 29 January, a broad range of military factions assembled in Damascus and issued a declaration dissolving the 2012 Constitution, exceptional laws, the former Parliament, the former army, former regime-allied militias and the Ba’ath Party, he said.  Ahmad al-Sharaa — declared “interim President and head of State for a transitional period” — pledged to “work to form a comprehensive transitional Government that expresses the diversity of Syria” towards “free and fair elections”.

    The Special Envoy said that, while in Syria, he was “deeply struck” by the shared conviction among Syrians that the success of the country’s political transition is essential, and that “it cannot afford to fail”.

    However, many are concerned that there has been no rule of law, no constitutional or legal framework for appointments and policy decisions and no systematic communication or transparency.  Some expressed concerns that the caretaker authorities — staffed mostly with affiliates of the Idlib Salvation Government — are taking decisions that go “beyond a caretaker mode”, including in terms of restructuring State institutions, with potential impact on specific communities.

    Additionally, many Syrians expressed concern at reports of discriminatory practices targeting women, and of increasing social pressure towards certain norms, he said, stressing that Syrian women want “more than protection”; they want meaningful participation in decision-making and transitional institutions.

    He further observed that the situation in north-east Syria complicates the political transition, pointing to daily front-line hostilities impacting civilians and civilian infrastructure.  Many Syrians expressed fears about security fragmentation and that external actors could exploit it — particularly “if the transition goes awry”.  And many expressed parallel concerns that ongoing efforts for public sector restructuring may push hundreds of thousands into need – including former security elements — potentially jeopardizing future stability.  Equally concerning is the inclusion of foreign fighters in the senior ranks of the new armed forces, as well as individuals associated with violations.

    Relatedly, he spotlighted concerning reports of incidents still taking place against the backdrop of the authorities’ security operations, including men killed in the exchange of fire and reported serious ill-treatment in detention.  In addition, residents are reportedly facing incidents of kidnapping, looting, expropriation of property and forced evictions of families from public housing.

    Against this backdrop, he called on the caretaker authorities to ensure all armed actors cease these actions, amplify their assurances into concrete procedures and work on a comprehensive transitional justice framework.  He also underscored that Israel must withdraw from Syria, noting the UN’s engagement with that country and the caretaker authorities to that end.  Further, he urged sanctioning States to ease sanctions in the critical sectors of energy, investments and finance — including the Central Bank.

    Syria ‘at Top of Priority List’ for UN, Humanitarian Aid Partners

    Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, highlighted the impact of continued hostilities, especially in the north of Syria, on the country’s immense humanitarian crisis. Fighting in and around Mennbij in eastern Aleppo has displaced over 25,000 people, while hostilities have continued in Ar-Raqqa and Al-Hasakeh Governorates, affecting civilian infrastructure. “Since late November [2024], the United Nations and humanitarian partners have provided more than 3.3 million people with bread assistance, as well as other food aid,” she said, highlighting the work of mobile health and nutrition teams.  The cross-border operation from Turkiye remains essential, she noted, adding that, in January, 94 trucks carrying essential supplies crossed through the Bab al-Hawa and Bab al-Salam crossings.

    “Syria remains at the top of our priority list,” she said, adding that senior representatives of humanitarian agencies have visited the country to engage with partners and caretaker authorities.  Outlining efforts to move towards a streamlined coordination architecture, which should be in place by June, she said it will be led by the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Damascus.  Turning to engagement with the caretaker authorities, she highlighted their assurances “to facilitate access, ease bureaucratic procedures and engage in practical dialogue with the humanitarian community”.  Last week, cash-withdrawal limits for aid organizations were lifted, and transactions were authorized in Syrian pounds or United States dollars.

    “Now is the time to invest in Syria’s future,” she emphasized, adding that many of the 6 million Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries are “weighing the momentous decision of whether to return”.  Alongside life-saving support, it is essential to restore critical health water and other services, she added, expressing concern about funding shortfalls and calling for “generous financial pledges”.  “The UN and partners are appealing for $1.2 billion to reach 6.7 million people through March of this year,” she said.  Further clarity is needed on the implications of the freeze on US-funded activities and associated humanitarian waivers, she said, noting that, in 2024, funding from that country accounted for more than a quarter of support for the humanitarian response plan in Syria.  She underscored that delays or suspension of funding will affect whether vulnerable people can access essential services.

    …

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Lions Gate Hospital tower opens next month

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People on the North Shore and in neighbouring communities will soon have enhanced access to health care services in the new, modern acute care tower at Lions Gate Hospital, opening March 9, 2025.

    “I’m thrilled this new hospital tower is now complete, and families in North Vancouver and beyond will have better access to high-quality health-care services, closer to home,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our government is making record investments to support growing communities, and we’re committed to delivering more hospitals, health-care centres, and other important infrastructure.”

    The new six-storey tower is named after local philanthropist and businessperson Paul Myers. It has eight state-of-the-art operating rooms with a new medical device reprocessing department, as well as a pre-operative and post-operative care area, including anesthesia intervention and isolation rooms. There will be 108 beds in private patient rooms, all with ensuite washrooms.

    Vancouver Coastal Health worked in collaboration with Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) advisers on key aspects of the project to honour the host Nations and help create safer, welcoming and culturally appropriate spaces for Indigenous patients and families.

    “It’s terrific news for people living on the North Shore and area that the new patient care tower at Lions Gate Hospital is opening to meet the needs, comfort and well-being of people receiving care,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “By investing in state-of-the-art facilities around B.C., including the new Paul Myers Tower, we are truly investing in better health outcomes for British Columbians. This is part of our commitment to strengthen B.C.’s public health-care system.”

    The acute tower was designed to provide patient- and family- centred care. It features a variety of spaces to support patients, family and staff well-being, including lounges, a House of Elders office, a sacred space, additional bike storage and a rooftop garden with a walking path. Further, innovative technologies and an upgraded nurse call system, improve patient experiences and enhance safety for patients and staff.

    Construction began on the project in fall 2021. The total capital cost of the project is approximately $325 million. Funding is shared between the Province, Vancouver Coastal Health and the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation. Myers donated $25 million to the foundation’s $100-million campaign.

    “We’re excited to care for patients in this new space,” said Jillian Morland, clinical nurse educator, Lions Gate Hospital at Vancouver Coastal Health. “The clinical spaces are larger and designed for flexibility and efficiency to better accommodate our teams. The technology upgrades, such as access to Vocera and Masimo, will enable us to deliver the highest quality care possible.”

    Lions Gate Hospital provides a full range of acute-care services and many specialized services. With the 108 beds and eight operating rooms in this new tower, the Lions Gate Hospital will have a total of 329 beds, 10 operating rooms, and a variety of diagnostic services and equipment. The hospital also offers emergency and critical care, maternity, pediatrics, psychiatric, chemotherapy, cardiac care, palliative care and rehabilitative services.

    This hospital will continue to serve patients from the Sea-to-Sky corridor, Sunshine Coast, Bella Bella and Bella Coola on the Central Coast, including the Heiltsuk, Kitasoo-Xai’xais, Lil’wat, N’Quatqua, Nuxalk, Samahquam, shíshálh, Skatin, Squamish, Tla’amin, Tsleil-Waututh, Wuikinuxv, and Xa’xtsa communities.

    Quotes:

    Chief Jen Thomas, səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) –

    “It is heartening to know the Paul Myers Tower in North Vancouver will soon open its doors as it will provide improved culturally informed health care for our Tsleil-Waututh Nation members and all Indigenous patients. VCH has demonstrated they are walking the path of reconciliation by engaging with us as partners to advise on how our traditional lands and waters could be reflected in the tower’s design. I’m proud to know the building will tell the story of our culture, incorporate our hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ language, and hold space for Elders as they access important health services.”

    Sxwixwtn, Wilson Williams, spokesperson and council member, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw –

    “Through close collaboration with both the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, Vancouver Coastal Health was able to create a modern space that still reflects our values, traditions and cultures. From the façade resembling our Long Houses, to our stories and languages reflected throughout the interior and healing spaces, Paul Myers Tower is a thoughtful example of what can be accomplished when working meaningfully with First Nations to create a state-of-the-art medical facility that will benefit everyone across the North Shore community.”

    Susie Chant, MLA for North Vancouver-Seymour –

    “The completion of the Paul Myers Tower in North Vancouver will significantly improve health-care services for people on the North Shore. This new acute care tower will modernize community health services enabling faster, more accessible services closer to home.”   

    Dr. Penny Ballem, chair of the board, Vancouver Coastal Health –

    “The Paul Myers Tower’s patient-centred design will improve the care experience for patients and their families and will help both present and future needs of a growing and aging population. We are grateful for the collaboration with host Nations, patients and community organizations as well as our dedicated staff and medical staff in co-creating a site that will transform the future of health care in our region and beyond.”

    Judy Savage, president and CEO, Lions Gate Hospital Foundation –

    “The remarkable lead gift of $25 million from North Shore Philanthropist Paul Myers inspired people to give what they could to help bring this much-needed facility to the North Shore. From official foundation events, and multi-million-dollar contributions, to community fundraisers and the proceeds from lemonade stands, every donation was essential in helping us raise $100 million toward the cost of a new medical and surgical centre and an additional $20 million to support technology transformation for the Lions Gate Hospital campus.”

    Learn More:

    For a Vancouver Coastal Health backgrounder on the new Paul Myers Tower, visit:
    https://www.vch.ca/en/background-information-paul-myers-tower-lions-gate-hospital

    For more information about Lions Gate Hospital, visit: https://www.vch.ca/en/location/lions-gate-hospital

    For more information about health capital projects in B.C., visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/capital-projects

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to New Zealand Economics Forum

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Tēna koutou katoa. Greetings everyone.
    Thank you Matt for the introduction and can I acknowledge the presence of former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. It’s a pleasure to have you back in the country.
    It’s also a pleasure to be here to speak at this event for the third year in a row. 
    The world is changing. Fast. Orthodoxies are being challenged. De-globalisation, tariffs, counter tariffs, artificial intelligence, conflict, cynicism about national institutions, extreme climatic events, increasing competition for food, energy, minerals and other resources.  
    Leaders around the world are being compelled to act more boldly than they have for several decades.
    Where once countries could take for granted their position in the world, it is now unquestionable that we need to place ourselves in the driver’s seat for our national interests.
    These issues are not just the concern of diplomats, leaders and elites.  
    People the world over are increasingly feeling the effects of declining living standards, soaring prices, unaffordable housing and incomes that are not  keeping up. 
    Is it any wonder that there is a growing sense that the benefits of progress are not being evenly shared or that citizens are questioning the institutions and conventions they were raised to rely on?  
    It’s hard not to look back on the past few decades and see complacency. 
    Where once there was an assumption about the inevitability of economic growth – a given to be traded off against a host of other values – that stance now seems blissfully naïve.  
    From the United Kingdom, to the European Union, to China, to the United States, there is a growing realisation that growth must be fought for and that, even once achieved, can easily slide away.
    We in New Zealand are not immune to these trends. In fact, we are at a moment of inflection.  
    After three years of struggle, many Kiwis feel poorer, less financially secure and less hopeful about their futures. The cost of living is a daily concern.
    New Zealanders have been through the wringer. Where once there was triumphalism about our response to, and recovery, from the COVID-19 pandemic, there is now a realisation that we are still paying the economic price for the disruption it wreaked.  
    The aftershocks of extended lock-downs included a generational spike in inflation and the cost of living, extraordinary interest rate hikes, ongoing disruption to migration flows, massive increases in Government debt and a structural deficit in the government books.  
    These blows landed on an economy that had being showing cracks for decades. 
    New Zealand already faced longstanding issues of low productivity growth, low capital intensity in our firms, low levels of competition in many sectors, challenges in attracting and retaining skills and talent, low uptake of innovation, declining housing affordability and a growing tail of New Zealanders leaving school without basic skills. Today, as Kiwis suffer the real-life effects of economic problems, it’s become even more urgent that we address these complex challenges. 
    For the economists in this room these observations about our economic problems can be understood as data points.
    For many Kiwis, it is more personal, more visceral and far harder to stomach. The cost of living is too high and they need to see a path out.
    Despite falling inflation and interest rates and rising business and consumer confidence, many New Zealanders tell me they still can’t get on top of their bills – even though they’re working harder than ever, that they are worried about whether they’ve saved enough for their retirement, and are concerned about their kids’ prospects should they stay in New Zealand.
    My message to those New Zealanders is this: it’s tough right now, but our country has far better years ahead of it.  
    It’s easy to lose sight of the reasons to be optimistic, but let’s be confident about how great New Zealand’s potential is.
    In a world facing multiple challenges, we have some extraordinary advantages. We’re a safe, secure country with established trading relationships and a reputation as a good place to do business. We are blessed with abundant natural resources – everything from ocean to freshwater, fertile land to minerals and temperate weather. 
    In a world worried about food security, we have the world’s best farmers, feeding more than 40 million people with levels of efficiency and sustainability that are the envy of the world. We have a long history of stable democracy, strong institutions and rule of law. We’ve produced world-leading scientific breakthroughs from splitting the atom to the Hamilton Jet Boat. Our entrepreneurs and innovators have converted their ideas into world-beating successes – from  Oscar-winning digital effects to rockets in space.
    New Zealand has what it takes to succeed, but for too long we’ve put up stop signs and road cones when we should have been putting our pedal to the metal. 
    Our Government’s mission is to make the most of New Zealand’s potential so we can grow the economy and ease the cost of living for New Zealanders. 
    Our plan is simple: remove the barriers that have held back growth and create the conditions that will allow businesses to create better paying jobs, more financial security for our families, and more income to pay for world-class education and health services.
    Today I am releasing a document that shows how our Government is putting that plan into action. “Going for Growth” is a snapshot of the Government’s activity in five key areas, all designed to ease the cost of living and grow our economy.
    The document identifies more than 80 separate initiatives that have been completed or are underway.  Don’t worry, I’m not about to list them all. 
    But I do encourage you to give it a read.  Going for Growth will be updated on a regular basis and we are actively seeking your feedback on its content and any actions you think should be added or prioritized. 
    The document focusses on five areas which are essential to improving the performance of the New Zealand economy.

    Developing talent by lifting education and skills:  Too many of our kids have been leaving school without the basics they need to succeed in an increasingly demanding world. This is a moral failure.  It’s also a fiscal and economic timebomb. Our Government is improving our education system to deliver a better deal for Kiwi kids.
    Competitive business settings: Excessive and badly-designed regulations have slowed New Zealand down, added costs and prevented too many good ideas from become reality. Several of our major sectors lack competition and consumers are paying the price. Our Government is removing red tape, reducing compliance costs and promoting competition to deliver a better deal for Kiwi consumers.
    Promoting global trade and investment: New Zealand is a small country, geographically distant from many of the world’s large economies. We need to keep pursuing trade relationships and international connections not only to get good prices for our exports, but also to keep up with emerging technologies and to access the world’s talent and capital. Our Government is growing our trade relationships and rolling out the welcome mat for international investment so we can deliver better paying jobs for Kiwis.
    Innovation, technology and science:  New Zealand’s science system is not geared up for the future economy. Our businesses have often been slow to invest in the technology needed to make them more productive. We’re modernizing our science and innovation system so we can deliver a better deal for Kiwi businesses who want to use science and tech to grow.
    Infrastructure for growth:  New Zealand’s Resource Management system has been weaponised against development, adding cost, slowing things down and stopping too many projects. Despite abundant land, housing remains unaffordable for too many. Major infrastructure projects are too slow, too expensive and too few. Our Government is removing roadblocks to delivery of housing and infrastructure and fast-tracking major developments so we can deliver better living standards for New Zealanders.

    Some of you will be familiar with the work we already have underway in each of these areas. Today I want to share some thoughts about a few areas where I think more reform is needed.
    Number One. Driving greater competition in sectors that are vital to our national interests, including banking, grocery and electricity.  
    The economic impetus for this is clear. Strong competition protects consumer interests, it puts downward pressure on costs, it incentivises innovation and investment, it supports efficient allocation of resources and it drives productivity.
    When I look around the business landscape today I see too many sectors where market power has been entrenched to the detriment of everyday people.
    New Zealand has seen significant mergers and consolidation across major industries. Big fish have been swallowing the little fish and regulatory barriers have stopped new fish from entering the pond. 
    While many super-sized businesses have flourished, in too many cases the Kiwis they sell to have experienced higher prices, fewer choices and a worse deal all round.
    In my view, law-makers and regulators have been far too complacent about diminishing levels of competition in vital areas. Large-scale mergers have been repeatedly allowed in major industries, with so-called efficiency prioritised over the interests of consumers.
    Well-intended regulations have become a moat, stopping challengers from disrupting the status quo. 
    The result?  A raw deal for Kiwi consumers. 
    The dominance of big fish has also made it difficult for many small businesses to grow into larger businesses. 
    We see it in the banking industry which the Commerce Commission has described as a highly profitable, two-tier oligopoly. The Government is taking action to address this.
    And we see it in the supermarket sector in which three large entities, two of whom don’t compete in the same island, effectively control 82 per cent of the market. 
    The result, as the Commerce Commission reported in 2022, is that competition between grocery retailers is muted, profits are high, product ranges are limited and shoppers pay higher prices than people in many other countries. 
    In this environment it is almost impossible for a new entrant to establish a foothold in the New Zealand market.
    Even if they are able to battle their way through the thicket of resource management and overseas investment regulation, they are confronted in many cases by an absence of suitable land for new supermarket developments. It has been land-banked by the established players.
    Some of our best food producers also tell me they are struggling because of the duopolistic practices of the major players. 
    If Kiwi food producers can’t afford to keep their products on New Zealand supermarket shelves, how are they ever going to grow to the point where they can export overseas?
    The supermarket lobby will find 1000 different ways to say this is not the case, but it is. 
    The OECD has this to say about the New Zealand supermarket sector:
    “Two major players dominate the market through their portfolio of different brands.  As a result, they can extract higher prices from consumers (oligopoly power) but also exert ‘oligopsony power’ on their suppliers, passing on costs and uncertainty to them, with the threat of removing products from shelves if suppliers disagree”
    Studies have shown that New Zealand supermarkets were the most expensive for kitchen staples compared with the UK, Ireland and Australia.
    If you doubt the findings of the OECD, research papers, or the Commerce Commission, just ask the everyday Mums and Dads at the checkout:
    Kiwi shoppers feel ripped-off.  
    I think of PK, the Kiwi man who went viral on Tik Tok, sharing how he cried when he discovered how much cheaper the food was when he moved to Australia. I think of the parents in the supermarket aisle, putting back the chocolate biscuits as the weekly shop blows their budget – again.  And I think of all those people who endure gut-wrenching anxiety as they watch their items being scanned and the numbers tallying up on the till.
    The weekly supermarket shop makes up a significant proportion of most people’s weekly budget and contributes massively to their cost of living.
    They deserve to know they are getting a fair deal.
    Right now, I don’t think they are.  I’m ready to pull out all the stops to get them a fairer deal.
    The supermarkets will fight back I’m sure. It’s a fight worth having.
    So what can the Government do?
    Let me reassure you, we are not going to open our own grocery chain. There will be no KiwiShop. 
    Instead I’d like to see another competitor enter the supermarket scene to  disrupt the major players, drive down prices and increase options for Kiwi shoppers.
    Over the past 12 months, international supermarket chains and local investors have expressed interest in entering the New Zealand grocery market. 
    I want to help them succeed.
    We owe it to Kiwi shoppers to help remove the barriers that could get in the way of a new entrant.
    That could include removing unnecessary regulatory hurdles in the Overseas Investment Act, Resource Management Act and the entire regulatory maze; helping them to access suitable land and properties for development; helping them to attract capital; cracking down on predatory pricing and ensuring they have fair access to products. 
    If a new grocery chain opened up here it would deliver massive gains for Kiwi shoppers.  So I’m up for actions needed to help make it happen.
    At the same time, the Government must continue our efforts to hold the existing supermarket chains accountable to their customers and suppliers. 
    That means enhancing consumer protections and correcting power imbalances between suppliers and supermarkets. It means strengthening the Grocery Supply Code, enforcing action against non-compliance and illegal conduct, introducing a Wholesale Code to enhance access for smaller retailers, introducing disclosure standards for consumer complaints and responding to further recommendations the Commerce Commission makes.
    Commerce Minister Andrew Bayly has already been pushing hard in this space. This year we’re dialling up the pressure.
    The major supermarket chains should listen up: our Government is on the side of Kiwi shoppers and we will act to defend their interests.
    Number two:  The Government’s approach to procurement.
    The Government is a huge player in the New Zealand economy. Every year it procures billions of dollars worth of goods and services.
    Those doing the procuring understandably play close attention to prices.  That is as it should be. We want value for money. 
    But getting value is not just about cost. Getting value is also about assessing the contribution particular contracts can make to New Zealand as a whole.
    The Government wants the Government agencies doing the procuring to assess the value as well as the cost of contracts. 
    Small and medium-sized businesses say that too often they can’t effectively bid for Government contracts because of the complexity of official procurement processes. 
    I am reviewing the Government procurement rules that cause this and will soon be recommending changes to Cabinet. I want to ensure value to New Zealand is properly considered when government agencies are picking suppliers, ensuring a more level playing field, improving the ability of smaller businesses to bid and giving more small and medium sized Kiwi businesses the opportunity to grow and become global players.
    Third, tax settings.
    New Zealand must ensure our tax settings are competitive with other countries who seek to lure our talent, ideas and jobs.
    We need to ensure the New Zealand tax system does not discourage businesspeople from investing in their businesses and does not deter foreign investment. 
    I am considering a range of proposals to make our tax settings more competitive over time.
    Fourth, affordable energy.
    Alongside the supermarket bill, electricity prices are a major pain point for Kiwi households.  Spiking prices and uncertain supply are also a major barrier to industry and the jobs it supports.
    As we look out to the world, it’s clear that those choosing to invest in manufacturing, data centers and technological parks will increasingly ask themselves: does the country that we want to invest in have secure, affordable and renewable energy? 
    New Zealand is pretty well-positioned for that. We already have abundant levels of renewable energy. 
    The question is, are we well positioned to bring on new generation at the pace needed to keep both security of supply and affordability? 
    That’s a question the Government is very much engaged in. 
    The Energy Competition Task Force has published proposals to give consumers more control over energy costs. In addition, independent reviewers will report to Ministers in the middle of the year on the performance of the energy market.  
    My view is that the world’s surging demand for renewable energy has changed the game. It’s time to think much more boldly about the actions the Government may need to take to incentivise new generation, security of supply and affordable electricity.
    Fifth, savings.
    Finally, I want to see KiwiSaver working as well as possible for New Zealanders. Commerce Minister Andrew Bayly already has work underway to enable Kiwisaver providers to make greater investments in private assets, to generate good returns for savers and ensure more Kiwi savings can be deployed for investment here at home.  
    I want to see KiwiSaver balances grow, both to make Kiwis better off in retirement and to grow our collective national savings. I am taking advice on options for achieving that with a view to taking recommendations to Cabinet.
    Let me finish by providing you with some perspective. 
    Our domestic context is challenging. Internationally we are arguably operating in a more complex, faster changing world than at any time in history. 
    But, when I look around the world, there is nowhere I would rather build a business or raise a family than here in New Zealand.
    But the world doesn’t owe us a living. We have to compete hard to deliver for our national interests and the interests of New Zealanders. 
    Our Government’s plan to grow the economy is about making the most of New Zealand’s many advantages, removing barriers that are holding Kiwis back and competing for our share of the world’s wealth.
    This is not an abstract mission.  It goes to the heart of what matters to New Zealanders. 
    To create better paying jobs and make Kiwis more financially secure, we must grow our economy.
    To deliver better health services and schools, we must grow our economy.
    To make New Zealand more resilient to global challenges, we must grow our economy.
    This Government backs New Zealanders to succeed. I know you do too. I wish you a successful conference and look forward to hearing your ideas.  Let’s go for growth.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER DEMANDS VA RE-OPEN CASTLE POINT VETS MEDICAL CENTER UNIT AFTER ABRUPT CLOSURE; SENATOR SAYS VA MUST IMMEDIATELY BEGIN WORK WITH LOCAL LEADERS TO INCREASE COMMUNICATION TO IMPACTED PATIENTS &…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Castle Point VA’s Acute Inpatient Care Unit Abruptly Closed Medical Unit Temporarily For Veterans Suffering From Substance Use Disorder This Month, Prompting Concern And Outrage From Vets Across The Hudson Valley Schumer Said Center Failed to Adequately Publicize Closing And Alternative Treatment Options For Vets And Must Promptly Re-Open With Adequate Staffing
    Senator Says We Cannot Risk Leaving Our Hudson Valley Vets Without Proper Access To The Care They Need And Is Demanding The VA Take Immediate Action To Re-Open The Unit, Increase Communication, And Ensure Vets Receive Care They Need
    Schumer: VA Must Quickly Reopen Castle Point VA’s Acute Inpatient Care Unit And Continue Vital Healthcare Services For Hudson Valley Veterans
    U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today slammed the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for, “Unacceptably poor communication with Hudson Valley vets regarding the sudden closure of the Castle Point VA acute inpatient care unit,” and called on the VA to immediately re-open the unit with adequate staffing, which abruptly closed earlier this month for an anticipated 120 days.
    The Castle Point VA Medical Center (VAMC), located in Dutchess County, plays a vital role in providing care for 7,000 Hudson Valley veterans. The acute inpatient care unit provides care to those who are dealing with substance use disorder. As part of the VA system, VAMC enhances patient outcomes by offering continuous care within the same system, resulting in more timely treatment compared to cases where patients are referred to non-VA facilities.
    “Earlier this month, without warning, the Castle Point VA Medical Center left Hudson Valley veterans without access to potentially life-saving medical care when the center shut down its acute inpatient care unit. The lack of communication with veterans who rely on the unit for substance use disorder services is tremendously concerning. The Department of Veterans Affairs needs to re-open this unit as soon as possible with adequate staffing – and do a much, much better job of communicating what it is doing to our Hudson Valley vets – or our New York veterans could be left in the lurch and in the dark without access to vital health care,” said Senator Schumer. “Our veterans deserve access to the highest quality of care at VA facilities, including Castle Point. I will fight tooth and nail against any efforts to permanently limit access to care to New York veterans. In the meantime, the center must ensure adequate communications with its patients to ensure they can continue to access medical care during this closure, and they need to reopen the Castle Point acute inpatient care unit ASAP. Hudson Valley’s veterans deserve nothing less.”
    “The closure of the E2 Unit at Castle Point VA Hospital is absolutely unacceptable.   Worse yet is the closure was done without even letting veterans know it was happening,” said Adam Roche, Director of Dutchess County Office of Veteran Affairs.   “I’ve witnessed firsthand the unbelievable care the nurses and doctors provide and how much they truly care about our veterans.  This unit serves as a lifeline for our veterans between Albany and the Bronx, and it is incredibly important for our Dutchess County veterans.   To yank away this lifeline is an injustice to those who have risked so much for our country.   This decision must be reversed.”
    “The inpatient ward at Castle Point provides an integral service to the Veterans of the Hudson Valley,” said Alyssa Carrion, Director of Veterans Programs at Mental Health America of Dutchess County. “When Veterans come to us at rock bottom ready for treatment, we immediately transport them to Castle Point and stay with them until they are admitted.  Then we have the ability to visit with the Veteran at E-2 until they are transferred to Montrose.  Closing E-2 has left us in a very difficult situation.  Where do we take a Veteran who is ready NOW for treatment when the detox ward is closed?  When there are no beds available at Montrose for them to go right to, the VA connection will be lost if we send them to the community.  While the VA states this was an under-utilized resource and is not needed, there are an average of 3-5 Veterans each month that this closure will affect care for – potentially resulting in gaps in care, increased suicide rates, and overdoses.  This ward provides an important service to our Veteran community, and should be reopened. “
    Schumer has a long history of fighting for Hudson Valley veterans and protecting services at the Castle Point VA. In March 2022,  after the VA released a preliminary proposed as a part of the Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission process, which recommended closing the Castle Point VA Medical Center in Dutchess County. Schumer stood shoulder to shoulder with Hudson Valley veterans outside the facility to fight this proposal and prevent them from losing critical local care access. Later that year, after months of Schumer’s advocacy, the bipartisan Senate members announced their formal opposition to the VA AIR Commission Process, signifying the end of the AIR Commission, and thus preserving the Castle Point VA from full closure.
    Schumer’s letter to VA Secretary Collins below:
    Dear Secretary Collins:
    I am writing to express deep concerns surrounding the sudden announcement of the closure of the Castle Point VA Medical Center (VAMC) acute inpatient care unit. This closure will reduce access to substance use disorder services for the 7,000 veterans who receive care at the Castle Point VAMC for at least 120 days. We cannot risk the healthcare of our veterans and I strongly request you immediately take all steps to reopen this critical unit and ensure its services can continue on a permanent basis.
    In the interim, it is crucial that the Castle Point VAMC continuously inform veterans of alternative sites of care, ensure that non-VA care providers can administer the care provided by the VAMC, arrange transportation services for patients, and work to quickly reopen this unit with adequate staffing levels. Anything else would be an abdication of responsibility to those who have served our country most honorably.
    No veteran should have to travel farther than necessary for life-saving medical care. The closure of the acute inpatient care unit leaves Hudson Valley veterans without a vital resource that administers lifesaving care at necessary points in their lives. Local providers and veterans can attest to the importance of the acute inpatient care unit in the region, and are disturbed by the development of its closure. Our nation’s veterans experience a wide range of mental health disorders due to trauma experienced during their military service, all of which require accessible, continuous care. It is critical that existing inpatient care units remain functional and efforts are made to return to appropriate staffing levels.
    It is especially troubling that this closure, mainly caused by inadequate staffing levels, was announced during the federal agency hiring freeze ordered by President Trump on January 20, 2025. This reckless directive exacerbates challenges already experienced at VA facilities, and will prevent veterans from receiving continuous, adequate care all across the country. I strongly encourage the Castle Point VAMC to utilize any exemptions to this hiring freeze, explicitly listed out by the Department of Veterans Affairs, in order to bolster staff levels to ensure the Castle Point VAMC acute inpatient care unit can quickly reopen.
    There has been a tremendously concerning lack of communication with veterans who rely on health services at Castle Point VAMC. Due to the abrupt nature of this closure, Castle Point failed to notify veterans in advance that the unit was closing. This undermined veterans’ continuity of care and created the burden of extra measures, including travel coordination, to access care at other VA facilities or community hospitals. Therefore, it is imperative that the Castle Point VAMC notify veterans and caretakers of potential closures in advance of the expected closure date. Additionally, veterans should be notified of what steps the VAMC will take to ensure there is no disruption in care during this current closure, including how transportation services will be coordinated and which alternative sites of care patients will be able to access.
    Our nation’s veterans deserve access to the highest quality of care at VA facilities. I strongly oppose any efforts to permanently limit access to care to New York veterans, and urge the Castle Point VAMC to reopen its acute inpatient care unit as soon as possible with appropriate staffing levels. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Urges Senate Colleagues to Support RFK Jr. to be HHS Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered remarks on the Senate Floor urging his Senate colleagues to support Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

    Watch Chairman Crapo’s remarks here.

    As delivered:

    “Thank you, Mr. President.

    “In a moment, the Senate will proceed to a cloture vote on the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  I rise to encourage my colleagues to support this motion.

    “As Secretary of HHS, Mr. Kennedy would oversee our nation’s expansive health care system, from sources of coverage to advancement of public health. 

    “Mr. Kennedy’s decades of experience and deep drive to advocate on behalf of consumers will set a patient-centered tone at the Department.

    “As he has demonstrated in both public and private settings, Mr. Kennedy is committed to reorienting our approach to health care and restoring faith in our institutions.

    “His passion for addressing America’s chronic disease epidemic will save lives, reduce costs and establish a foundation for a healthier, stronger country. 

    “His dedication to transparency will empower patients to make more informed decisions about their health care and form a responsive rapport with Congress.  As Mr. Kennedy stated during his hearing, ‘…if Congress asked me for information, you will get it immediately.’

    “Over the course of his vetting process, Mr. Kennedy met with dozens of Members on both sides of the aisle, spoke with bipartisan Senate Finance Committee staff, appeared before two committee hearings and answered over nine hundred questions for the record.  Not to mention, presenting thousands of pages of documents.

    “Mr. Kennedy has gone through the same Office of Government Ethics process as all nominees who come before the Finance Committee. 

    “Similar to all other nominees, we have a letter from director of the Office of Government Ethics stating: ‘Based thereon, we believe that this nominee is compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing conflicts of interest.’ 

    “He even amended his ethics agreement, going beyond what is required by the Office of Government Ethics, in response to a request from Finance Committee Members.

    “I urge my colleagues to join me in advancing his nomination so we can begin to make our country healthier.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Congratulates Jonathan Gould on Nomination to Lead the OCC

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee and former Chairman of the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, today applauded the nomination of Jonathan Gould to be Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).

    “Jonathan is an experienced, dedicated individual whose leadership will be essential in carrying out the OCC’s mission of ensuring safety, soundness and fair access in the financial services industry.  He will be a strong advocate for correcting the unacceptable practices that have gone against principles of fairness and market access over the last few years.  His extensive background in the public and private sectors make him highly qualified for the task ahead, and I look forward to working with him once confirmed.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Commend the Republic of the Congo on the Mouébara Act, Raise Questions on Women’s Access to Justice and Clandestine Abortions

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today considered the eighth periodic report of the Republic of the Congo, with Committee Experts commending the State on the Mouébara Act which combatted violence against women, while raising questions on women’s access to justice and on clandestine abortions in the country. 

    Esther Eghobamien, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for the Congo, said extensive constitutional, legal and public policy reforms, and strategic approaches adopted by the Congo were commendable, including the celebrated Mouébara Act no. 19 of 2022 to combat violence against women, which specifically defined discrimination against women as in article 11 for the first time.  Many unique provisions of the law aligned with international human rights law and if effectively implemented, should guarantee protection for women on many fronts, including against sexual harassment. 

    A Committee Expert asked how the State was working with customary courts and informal justice actors to form a path for the protection of the rights of women and girls under customary law?  What concrete steps were being taken to improve and enhance access to quality justice, including through the provision of legal aid and addressing awareness in the justice sector?  How was the State party ensuring that the Mouébara Act was implemented, so that gaps could be closed? 

    Another Committee Expert said complications from clandestine abortions were responsible for up to 30 per cent of maternal deaths.  Use of contraceptives in the country was very low.  What specific measures were being taken to ensure people knew about the risks of early pregnancies?  What measures were being taken to ensure that women facing complications relating to insecure abortions received full medical support?  How was access to health services without criminalisation ensured, particularly for women involved in clandestine abortion? What measures would be taken to legalise abortion? 

    The delegation said work was being carried out at the grassroots level with community leaders on the rights of women.  Access to justice was guaranteed under the law and bolstered via the Mouébara Act. The national action plan for tackling gender-based violence had a staff, who were also active in ensuring women had access to justice.  There had been training sessions for judges and judicial staff so they understood the new laws and how their provisions needed to be applied in the courts.  More than 1,000 judicial staff had undergone training so far.  The Mouébara Act contained specific actions for judges, and judges received specific training on it. 

     

    The delegation said the Republic of the Congo banned the voluntary interruption of pregnancy, due to terrible past situations relating to abusive abortions in inappropriate locations.  The State monitored specific cases.  There had been a case involving incest where a girl was pregnant with twins and her father was responsible.  In this case, to have access to an abortion, she would need to go through the courts and the judge should accept the procedure for termination of pregnancy, taking into consideration the health of the mother.  These were exceptional cases, and the State was following this policy to limit any potential health problems. 

    Introducing the report, Inès Bertille Nefer Ingani Voumbo Yalo, Minister for the Promotion of Women, Integration of Women in Development and Informal Economy of the Republic of the Congo and head of the delegation, said many steps had been taken to enhance women’s participation in political and public life, including the national programme for the promotion of women’s leadership in political life, which strengthened the capacities of more than 3,000 women in politics, leadership, and communication.  The representation of women in institutions and decision-making spheres in the Republic of the Congo was experiencing a real improvement.  The Republic of the Congo aimed to be a model in the implementation of the Convention.

    In her closing remarks, Nahla Haidar, Committee Chair, said the Committee was impressed by the number of legal initiatives and texts being developed by the State party and the work being undertaken on the ground to translate those texts into something real. 

    Ms. Ingani Voumbo Yalo thanked the Committee for the efforts and the constructive dialogue. The Republic of the Congo was committed to moving forwards to improve the wellbeing and rights of women. 

    The delegation of the Congo was comprised of representatives from the Ministry for the Promotion of Women, the Integration of Women in Development and the Informal Economy; the Ministry of Social Affairs, Solidarity and Humanitarian Action; the Ministry of Justice, Human Rights and the Promotion of Indigenous Peoples; the National Action Programme for the Fight against Violence against Women; the Communications and Information Technology Services Department; the Directorate of Cooperation; the Association of Women Lawyers in the Congo; the National Human Rights Commission; and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Congo to the United Nations Office at Geneva. 

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s ninetieth session is being held from 3 to 21 February.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet at 10 a.m. on Thursday, 13 February to begin its consideration of the ninth periodic report of Sri Lanka (CEDAW/C/LKA/9).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the eighth periodic report of the Congo (CEDAW/C/COG/8).

    Presentation of Report

    INÈS BERTILLE NEFER INGANI VOUMBO YALO, Minister for the Promotion of Women, Integration of Women in Development and Informal Economy of the Republic of the Congo and head of the delegation, said the promotion of equal human and women’s rights was one of the major pillars of the Congolese Government’s action.  Many steps had been taken to enhance women’s participation in political and public life, including the national programme for the promotion of women’s leadership in political life, which strengthened the capacities of more than 3,000 women in politics, leadership, and communication. The representation of women in institutions and decision-making spheres in the Republic of the Congo was experiencing a real improvement.  There were now 100 per cent of women on the Women’s Advisory Council, 47 per cent of women in the judiciary, 25 per cent of women in the high court of justice, and 15 per cent of women credited as ambassadors, among others. 

    Since the last dialogue with the Committee, the Republic of the Congo had strengthened and evolved its normative and institutional framework by adopting several texts, including the law establishing the right of asylum and refugee status; the law on combatting trafficking in persons; the law on sustainable environmental management; the Mouébara Act on combatting violence against women and its implementing texts; and the law establishing the Mouébara Centre for the reception and rehabilitation of women and girls victims of violence, among others.  The draft law on parity was in the process of being adopted. 

    Many activities had been carried out to promote and protect women’s rights, such as the establishment of the National Committee of Women Mediators for Peace; the adoption of the national strategy (2021-2025) to combat gender-based violence; the training of women magistrates in the courts of appeal on domestic violence; and the training of more than 1,000 magistrates and other judicial personnel under the jurisdiction of the five courts of appeal on the application of the Convention, the Mouébara Act on combatting violence against women, and the holistic care of victims of violence against women.  The Mouébara Centre for the rehabilitation of women victims of violence would benefit from a two-hectare plot of land in the centre of Brazzaville and a budget line of two billion FCFA for its construction in 2025.

    With regard to maternal and child health, the national health development plan 2023-2026 covered caesarean section and other complications related to pregnancy and childbirth, free antimalarial drugs for children aged 0 to 15 years old, as well as the care of children with sickle cell anaemia.  Other strategies to combat maternal and child mortality had been developed, including the integrated strategic plans for reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health 2022-2026.  These actions made it possible to reduce the maternal mortality ratio from 304 deaths to less than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births over a period of three years. 

    Regarding the fight against HIV/AIDS, there had been a considerable reduction in the prevalence rate of mother-to-child transmission, as well as an increase in antiretroviral coverage among pregnant women, from 10 per cent in 2019 to 43 per cent in 2023. Awareness campaigns were being conducted in schools and in grassroots communities to combat teenage pregnancies in the Congo.

    To improve women’s access to education, the Republic of the Congo adopted the national policy for integrated early childhood development 2022-2030; the national strategy for girls’ schooling; and the education sector strategy 2021-2030. Schooling was compulsory for all until the age of 16, textbooks were free, and wearing a uniform was compulsory to fight against discrimination against the most disadvantaged children. The positive masculinity approach to combat violence against women and girls had raised awareness among nearly 4,000 students from different departments on family life, education, gender stereotypes and awareness against violence in schools. 

    The Congo was continuing efforts to ensure women’s empowerment through support for women’s and mixed groups as part of the programme for the development of protected agricultural areas.  Funding had been granted to women carrying out income-generating activities.  The Congo had also established a public support structure for small and medium-sized enterprises, called the “Impulse, Guarantee and Support Fund”, allowing women entrepreneurs to benefit from training on entrepreneurial leadership.

    Despite the progress made by the Republic of the Congo, significant challenges remained. The State was calling for multifaceted support from the international community for better management of issues related to the fight against all forms of discrimination against women and for the construction of the Mouébara Centre for the holistic care of victims of violence.  The Republic of the Congo aimed to be a model in the implementation of the Convention.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    ESTHER EGHOBAMIEN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for the Congo, said the State possessed vast oil and forest resources but still faced challenges in providing a high quality of life to citizens, particularly women and girls. Extensive constitutional, legal and public policy reforms, and strategic approaches adopted by the Congo were commendable, notably the 2017-2021 national gender policy and action plan; the promotion of women’s leadership in politics and public life (2017-2021); the UNCR 1325 national action plan on women and peace and security (2021–2023); and the celebrated Mouébara Act no. 19 of 2022 to combat violence against women, which, specifically defined discrimination against women as in article 11 for the first time.  Many unique provisions of the law aligned with international human rights law and if effectively implemented, should guarantee protection for women on many fronts, including against sexual harassment. 

    However, key policies had expired, progress was slow, and the rights of women and girls were continually threatened by violence.  It was hoped the outcome of today’s dialogue would highlight thematic areas to build a future where gender equality was tangible and accessible to all women in the Congo.

    How systematic was the training for judges?  Was gender integrated into the curriculum for training?  Did the Congo have legal aid as a service for women?  What kind of capacity building was being given to the legislator? 

    A Committee Expert commended the State party for the Mouébara Act, and for the Constitution, which decreed equality between men and women.  Had the State party conducted an assessment on existing laws to identify legal frameworks which contradicted existing policies on equality?  What efforts was the State party taking to build the capacity of judges, prosecutors and the judiciary to apply the Convention in their work?  How was the State working with customary courts and informal justice actors to form a path for the protection of the rights of women and girls under customary law? 

    What was the situation of women and human rights defenders working on the human rights of women in the country?  What concrete steps were being taken to improve and enhance access to quality justice, including through the provision of legal aid and addressing awareness in the justice sector?  How was the State party ensuring that the Mouébara Act was implemented, so that gaps could be closed? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said the Mouébara Act was a significant legislative step, serving to resolve the different issues when it came to the protection of women.  Previously there were no specific guarantees protecting women from violence.  The Act allowed the State to criminalise various types of behaviour which did not respect the human rights of women.  It was enacted two years ago and was increasingly being referred to and cited. 

    Work was being carried out at the grassroots level with community leaders on the rights of women. Departmental networks had been established in every department in the Congo, and in every department there was a network to eradicate violence against women and girls.  Access to justice was guaranteed under the law and bolstered via the Mouébara Act.  Gender-based violence focal points had been appointed in the courts.  The national action plan for tackling gender-based violence had a staff, who were also active in ensuring women had access to justice. 

    There had been training sessions for judges and judicial staff so they understood the new laws and how their provisions needed to be applied in the courts.  This included training on the Convention and the State’s strategy to eliminate violence against women.  More than 1,000 judicial staff had undergone training so far. Regular criminal court hearings were held which allowed all those found guilty of violence against women to be prosecuted. 

    The Congo had been taking steps to improve prison settings, and women’s prisons were monitored and surveyed.  Visits were conducted every year to ensure female prisoners were being treated appropriately.  The Mouébara Act was the first comprehensive act in all of French-speaking Africa which criminalised violence against women.  Steps had been taken to ensure the suspension of judges who did not fulfil their duties, to reassure all women they would receive a fair hearing.  The Mouébara Act contained specific actions for judges, and judges received specific training on it. 

    Gender parity was provided for in the Constitution.  The Congo had an Electoral Code which provided for parity and things were improving gradually.  With each election, there was an increase in the number of women.  There were dedicated lawyers to provide support to women during legal proceedings. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert commended the State party on its updated national action plan on women, peace and security with four specific pillars in line with the United Nations trust facility supporting cooperation on arms regulation 1325.  How would civil society and women’s organizations be engaged in the implementation and monitoring of the plan?  And what about the involvement of the security sector? How did the plan align with national development priorities and the establishment of an inclusive security architecture?  What steps was the State party taking to adopt a legal framework for gender responsive budgeting?  What measures were being taken to enact a legal framework for women human rights defenders and ensure accountability for threats made against them?  What was the timeline for the Gender Observatory? 

    Another Expert asked about the status of the parity law?  Were there any political officials mandated to address the concept of temporary special measures?  Were any studies planned to assess the impact of temporary special measures on social development?  Were there any measures to address the gaps within the digital economy?  What concrete sanctions had been put in place for political parties to work towards parity? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said parity was progressive in the Congo.  It required a change in mentality and encouraging women along that path. Women needed to express their will to participate in politics, and the State was trying to raise awareness to help them not to be afraid that men would cheat and win anyway.  Around 3,000 women had been elected through municipal and local elections and in the Senate.  A Ministry had been established for the promotion of indigenous peoples, which was a huge step forward.  The legal regime which governed the human rights commission had been strengthened. The Government had been developing a national strategy on indigenous peoples, which had led to the adoption of a national action plan to improve their wellbeing. 

    The Republic of the Congo had made major headway when it came to peacekeeping.  As a result of the recent economic crisis, there had been a psychosis creeping in regarding peacekeeping, but women continued to play a full role in peacekeeping for the country.  The current economic crisis weighed heavily on the budget of the country. A national strategy had been rolled out on transitioning the informal sector towards a formal sector.  A fund was in place which would allow female market vendors to benefit from preferential rates to enable them to have access to financing which would allow them to become empowered. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said the Family Code contained provisions reinforcing women’s subordinate role in the household.  The introduction of new laws and policies, particularly the Mouébara Act was commendable. What progress had been made under this law in addressing gender stereotypes?  What efforts had the State party made to combat gender stereotypes? While progress had been made in the eradication of female genital mutilation, the practice still existed. What measures had been adopted towards ensuring the absolute prohibition of child marriage?  What steps was the State party taking to eliminate harmful practices?  Could data be provided on female genital mutilation for the past two years?  What support was provided to victims of female genital mutilation and child marriage? 

    Violence disproportionately affected indigenous women and women with disabilities.  How would the State party ensure regular awareness raising campaigns for women, who were the most vulnerable, to protect them against violence?  What mechanisms would be put in place to facilitate the reporting of gender-based violence?  What progress had been achieved under the Mouébara Act in prosecuting violence against women, particularly for indigenous women and for women with disabilities? 

    Another Expert said the Committee remained concerned about the lack of information available about trafficking.  Information would be welcomed on the number of cases and prosecutions.  Were steps being taken to improve coordination between law enforcement professionals working in the sphere of trafficking? What was being done to ensure victims of trafficking were not treated as criminals? 

    How were victims guaranteed access to services across the entire country?  Were the services accessible for rural and indigenous women? Prostitution was not legalised in the Republic of the Congo, however, States were obliged to scrap laws which discriminated against women, including laws against women who were prostitutes. Were women who were prostitutes able to be charged with a crime?  What steps was the State taking to decriminalise women working as prostitutes? What programmes were in place for women and girls who wished to leave prostitution? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said under the Mouébara Act, the Ministry of Women drafted an annual report which included statistics on the Act.  The Mouébara Act provided for new sets of exacerbating circumstances to ensure perpetrators of violence against women were duly charged.  This included law enforcement officials who tried to prevent victims from reporting the crime. 

    Work was being carried out to change culture and mindsets, including modernising the mindsets of women at the outset, which was no easy task.  However, progress was being made, including that the Minister of Indigenous Affairs was now a woman.  Significant work was being done with indigenous women to work with them to change minds in communities. 

    Female genital mutilation was not part of Congo tradition.  Foreigners sometimes set up residence in the country and conducted this practice, and this was monitored.  There had been cases at the border where young girls who had been brought into the Congo to marry were apprehended.  This had occurred within the Malian community who sought young girls and brought them into the Congo for marriage.  If there was a child who did not speak French, border control officers would make efforts to check the child was related to the person they were travelling with.  Forced marriages were prohibited in the Republic of the Congo; however, this practice was still seen in rural and agricultural areas. 

    There was no specific law prohibiting or condemning prostitution in the Congo.  Prostitution was very far removed from the State’s cultural values.  If there were conversations about prostitution in the public space, the State was concerned they would open a pandora’s box and result in an increase in sexually transmitted diseases, which would overwhelm services.  The State was aware that there may need to be a change in approach. 

    In 2019, the Congo had published a law on trafficking, and training was organised with members of the judiciary on this topic.  Polygamy was permitted and men could have up to four wives.  If couples wanted to be polygamous, this needed to be declared.

    The Mouébara Centre provided services for victims, and also acted as a forum for dialogue and an opportunity to follow-up with perpetrators responsible for such acts. The Republic of the Congo had not yet implemented the law on genocide.

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert commended the minimum 30 per cent quota for candidate lists set by the State. The number of female members of the national assembly had risen to more than 15 per cent.  However, the current bureau established in 2022 included only one woman.  What were the recent programmatic measures to promote women’s leadership?  What had the State identified as the cause of the noticeable underrepresentation of women in the diplomatic area?  What endeavours had been undertaken to increase women’s awareness on the availability of opportunities as well as the importance of women’s representation in international leadership?  The State party’s efforts to raise awareness to combat gender stereotypes to overcome women’s low representation in decision-making positions were recognised.  What did these campaigns entail?  What were the resources allocated?  Had their impact been assessed?  What were their outcomes?  Were the campaigns targeting the younger generation? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said today women were heads of villages and districts.  The Consultative Committee on Women was the only body which had the right to make suggestions to the President.  Work was being done to ensure that before the next election, the articles related to the percentages of women would be modified.  The Consultative Committee had made several suggestions, including on women governors.  Thanks to these suggestions, two women had become governors. 

    The Committee made it possible to promote women in science as there had been few women scientists before that.  It also made it possible to prepare programmes on the education of young women and to improve the situation of girls in all schools.  Without awareness raising, girls were often mocked during their menstrual cycles, so it was necessary for schools to have social workers to deal specifically with issues for young girls.  This would be made mandatory in 2025 as a direct result of the work of the Consultative Committee.  

    The gender parity observatory had been established to monitor progress.  There needed to be female candidates who were capable of representing their constituents.  Work was also being carried out with political parties to ensure they were willing to put forward female candidates.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said the Congo had made headway when it came to issues of nationality. However, women of Congolese nationality faced issues when transmitting nationality to their foreign husbands. Would the State modify the laws in this regard?  Could women transmit their nationality to their children, like men could?   Was there a different level of birth registration between the different sexes?  What were the outcomes of any campaigns to boost the levels of birth registration? What measures would be implemented in rural areas to boost levels of registration?  Would civil status procedures be digitalised to make them more streamlined?

    The State should be commended for ratifying the two conventions on statelessness in 2023, and for establishing a committee to address statelessness.  What were the activities of the committee and what had it achieved? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said a reform was currently being debated, which if adopted would result in a new legal framework which would overhaul certain provisions in the Family Code. The Government was pushing to ensure that this reform was regalvanised and enjoyed some fresh momentum. 

    Failure to uphold the electoral law resulted in sanctions.  Alternating lists for male and female candidates had been drawn up to beef up the success of the parity law.  If parties failed to uphold the 30 per cent quota on the list, the entire list of candidates would be rejected.  This meant that at the most recent elections, parties took this seriously and ensured that more female candidates were put forward, resulting in the training of 3,000 female candidates. 

    In the Congo, there was a Minister for the Digital Economy.  In 2025, the goal had been set to digitalise all services and work was underway to deliver on this. 

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert said the Committee appreciated the State party’s commitment to advancing equality. Had the national action plan on education and its accompanying strategy been extended?  Could the State party clarify why indigenous children and orphans could not be enrolled in regular schools?  How was it ensured that all children had access to schooling?  What was being done to increase the retention of girls in secondary education, particularly indigenous girls? 

    The Committee commended the strategy to increase girls’ enrolment in maths and sciences, but was concerned at the low numbers mandated for the quotas.  How were girls being encouraged to enrol in maths and science subjects?  What initiatives had been implemented to combat gender stereotyping and increase the number of girls enrolled in industrial subjects?  Did literacy programmes aim only for the functional literacy of women?  Were there remedial programmes for girls who dropped out of school?

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said education was equal for boys and girls, and significant steps had been taken to reduce the gaps between the genders in education.  There was a plan for early childhood 2022-2030 that focused on ensuring that girls stayed in school, with several initiatives, including free education and textbooks.  The State also provided free school meals.  To ensure girls did not drop out due to menstruation, all school facilities in the country now had toilets separated by sex.  There were also showers built to allow for better menstrual hygiene.  Scholarships and fellowship grants were made available to young girls who wished to pursue a career in science.  Countries such as Cuba provided girls with the opportunity to pursue medical scholarships. There were vocational colleges set up to help girls who had dropped out of school. 

    Data indicated that as of 2020, there were more than 14,000 indigenous children, more than 7,500 of whom were girls, who were educated in the Congo.  A budget was specifically set aside for the celebration of International Women’s Day.  On the day, activities were organised, including for rural women. 

    The literacy programme covered all women in the Congo.  There were four institutions in the country providing specialised education and training for children with disabilities.  Students in indigenous communities benefitted from the Aura education programme, which ran until the end of primary school, or early secondary school.  Once they had attained that level of education, they could then go to the same schools as other children.  Educational awareness programmes were conducted with parents to ensure children were not pulled out of school to participate in the harvest. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said the labour law of the Republic of the Congo guaranteed equal pay for equal work regardless of sex.  There were issues with sexual harassment in the workplace; could the delegation clarify the status of sexual harassment laws in the country?  What strategies were in place to raise awareness about sexual harassment in the workplace?  What measures would be adopted to reduce the pay gap and collect data in this regard? 

    ESTHER EGHOBAMIEN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for the Congo, asked if there were any mechanisms which regulated the private sector? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said women and men earnt the same wages when they had the same responsibilities. A national strategy had been crafted to shift the informal economy to a formal economy.  The Republic of the Congo wanted to boost its gross domestic product, which could be done by formalising work which previously took place in the informal sector or on the black market.  The right to a retirement pension held true to all.  The Mouébara Act punished sexual abuse and sexual violence in the workplace as well as public spaces, including religious institutions. Fines and punishment were doubled if this involved a hierarchical responsible official. 

    A new law made it mandatory for all projects to have a social, economic and environmental impact statement and review. 

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert said the leading cause of death in the Congo was HIV/AIDS, with the rate of deaths almost 50 per cent higher for women than men.  Complications from clandestine abortions were responsible for up to 30 per cent of maternal deaths.  Use of contraceptives in the country was very low.  What specific measures were being taken to ensure people knew about the risks of early pregnancies?  What measures were being taken to ensure that women facing complications relating to insecure abortions received full medical support?  How was access to health services without criminalisation ensured, particularly for women involved in clandestine abortion?  What measures would be taken to legalise abortion? 

    What was being done to reduce stigmatisation around HIV/AIDS?  What measures were being taken by the State to deal with challenges in terms of infrastructure in rural areas?  What was the overall number of persons benefitting from the universal health insurance fund, and how many were women and girls?  What measures had been put into place by the State to ensure indigenous women had access to safe drinking water? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said there was a programme for sexual and reproductive health which had been reintroduced in schools.  The State ensured the promotion of modern contraceptives and ensured they were free of charge in health centres.  The Republic of the Congo banned the voluntary interruption of pregnancy due to terrible past situations relating to abusive abortions in inappropriate locations. The State monitored specific cases. There had been a case involving incest where a girl was pregnant with twins and her father was responsible.  In this case, to have access to an abortion, she would need to go through the courts and the judge should accept the procedure for termination of pregnancy, taking into consideration the health of the mother.  These were exceptional cases, and the State was following this policy to limit any potential health problems. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    ESTHER EGHOBAMIEN, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for the Congo, said women found it difficult to participate equitably in the socio-economic development of the country.  Unfortunately, poverty remained a leading cause of social exclusion for women. Existing and planned support programmes to help women entrepreneurs access finance and microfinance, develop their businesses, and provide services tailored to meet the needs of rural women were commendable. 

    What measures were being taken to enhance social protection systems for Congolese women, especially those in the informal sector and vulnerable groups?  How did the Government plan to address financial and infrastructural challenges which hindered women’s access to social services? Would the State party consider ratifying key International Labour Organization conventions?  What programmes existed to support women in core economic sectors such as energy, oil and gas, the extractive industry, and the blue economy in the Congo.  What measures were in place to strengthen the private sector’s accountability to the Committee? 

    Another Expert commended the State party for progress registered in advancing the rights of rural women and women in agriculture.  What concrete efforts was the State party taking to mobilise adequate financing to increase equal access to electricity and clean energy and technology for women and girls, especially women and girls in rural areas, women with disabilities, indigenous women, women living in poverty, and refugee, migrant, and asylum-seeking women and girls?  What efforts was the State party taking to increase access to inclusive water hygiene and sanitation programmes and activities in all parts of the country? To what extent were women and girls in rural areas; refugee, migrant and asylum-seeking women and girls; those living in poverty; and women and girls with disabilities involved in the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of rural and agricultural developmental programmes that were meant to benefit them?

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said the President of the Republic of the Congo was a champion of environmental causes.  Steps had been taken to ensure women were playing their full role in climate action. A fund was in place for the artisanal sector, which was also available to female artisans.  The medical insurance fund covered the needs of women in the informal sector.  At the rural level, the programme “water for all” encouraged the use of solar resources to achieve water and electricity goals.   Women benefited from credits and loans and women entrepreneurs had access to a fund which provided cash transfers. 

    A project was currently underway which would be launched in specific zones, focusing on environmental protection.  It aimed to be a grassroots project with ownership by the local communities, including indigenous communities.  There were interschool competitions to encourage all pupils to take an interest in sports.  There were also sporting academies for girls, particularly a handball academy, which was popular in the country.  There was a project involving 300 women who would undergo a self-defence training course, as a way of tackling violence against women.  The gender dimension was included throughout the environmental framework. 

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert said adultery was illegal for men and women, but sanctions were harsher for women.  In the absence of an agreement between the spouses, the husband would choose the place of residence for the family.  How did the State ensure that customary marriages were recorded in the civil registry and all married women enjoyed the same rights when it came to civil procedures? What was the status of the current review process and the adoption of the code for the family?  What training was provided to those in the administration of justice to intervene in cases of child marriage?  The situation surrounding widows were very precarious, and they were not covered by the law.  What awareness raising activities were being undertaken to eradicate discriminatory practices against widows?  When would the new legal provisions be ready? 

    Responses by the Delegation 

    The delegation said there were several provisions within the Mouébara Act which focused on the rights of widows, ensuring they could not be thrown out of the home. Efforts were also being undertaken to make women more aware of their rights, so they could invoke the Act. The State was reviewing legal instruments, including the Family Code, which would take into account the Committee’s concerns.  There could be no official marriage which was just a customary marriage; however, steps were taken to ensure customary marriage was protected in law.  The Mouébara Act addressed discrimination while the State was waiting for the new codes to be adopted. 

    A review of several codes was being carried out.  Since 2022, the law relating to the Penitentiary Code was published.  The Committee’s concerns would be taken into account as this work continued. 

    Today everyone understood across the country that widows should be left alone, that their succession rights needed to be ensured, and that children should stay with their mothers. 

    Closing Remarks

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said the Committee was impressed by the number of legal initiatives and texts being developed by the State party and the work being undertaken on the ground to translate those texts into something real. The Committee was grateful for the dialogue which had helped the Experts better understand the situation of women and girls in the Republic of the Congo.

    INÈS BERTILLE NEFER INGANI VOUMBO YALO, Minister for the Promotion of Women, Integration of Women in Development and Informal Economy of the Congo and head of the delegation, thanked the Committee for the efforts and the constructive dialogue. The Republic of the Congo had carried out many efforts to protect the rights of women, particularly the Mouébara Act, which was innovative and binding and was a first in Africa.  The State was proud of this law, which filled the existing legal gaps relating to specific protection and took into account the definition of all forms of violence.  The Republic of the Congo was committed to moving forwards to improve the wellbeing and rights of women. 

     

     

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

     

    CEDAW25.008E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: RAR24: Lack of investment in disaster prevention threatens Latin America and the Caribbean’s future

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Latin America and the Caribbean face a critical imbalance in resource allocation for disaster risk reduction (DRR). According to the 2024 Regional Assessment Report on Disaster Risk in Latin America and the Caribbean (RAR24), developed by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) – Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean, only 6% of the public budget classified as DRR in the examined cases is allocated to preventing future risks, while 16% is dedicated to mitigating existing risks. The vast majority of funding is concentrated on response and reconstruction after disasters.

    This reactive approach carries a heavy economic toll, with annual disaster losses expected to reach $58 billion across the region. Climate-related hazards now account for 83% of disasters, a trend compounded by rapid, unplanned urbanization. With 81% of the population living in cities—many in high-risk areas exposed to floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes—the urgency to shift from response to prevention has never been clearer.

    RAR24 examines Brazil, Guatemala, and Mexico as case studies, recognizing their efforts in implementing budget classifiers that allow for better tracking and analysis of DRR investments. However, the findings reveal that most resources remain allocated to response and reconstruction. These tools represent a crucial step toward identifying gaps and improving investment strategies.

    In Brazil, 0.06% of the national budget was allocated to DRR, with over 70% directed toward response and reconstruction. In Guatemala, 2.32% of the national budget was allocated to DRR between 2014 and 2023, but more than 98% of those funds went to response and reconstruction. In Mexico, 0.29% of the national budget was allocated to DRR, with 99% of it dedicated to response and reconstruction. Tracking these expenditures is essential for redirecting efforts toward prevention and demonstrating the potential for a more balanced approach.

    The report also highlights missed opportunities due to the imbalance in risk management strategies. Early warning systems, which can reduce economic disaster impacts by 30%, and nature-based solutions, which are up to 50% more cost-effective than traditional interventions, remain underutilized due to insufficient investment in prospective risk management—actions aimed at preventing the creation of new risks rather than merely responding to disasters.

    Furthermore, only 5% of disaster losses in developing countries are covered by insurance, compared to 40% in developed nations. This underscores the need for accessible and sustainable insurance schemes, as well as stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector to anticipate risks rather than merely react to them.

    “Latin America and the Caribbean are facing a critical funding gap in disaster risk reduction, with most resources dedicated to response and reconstruction instead of prevention,” said Nahuel Arenas, Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean. “Investing in prospective risk management is not only more cost-effective but also an urgent necessity to protect communities, economies, and ensure a resilient future.”

    RAR24 outlines a roadmap for correcting this imbalance, emphasizing the need to integrate disaster risk reduction as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. Key recommendations include prioritizing investment in prospective risk management, strengthening intersectoral governance, adopting nature-based solutions, and expanding early warning systems.

    Incorporating DRR into development policies will not only ensure more equitable and resilient growth but also save lives and significantly reduce disaster-related costs. According to the report, every dollar invested in DRR saves four dollars in future losses, reinforcing its strategic role in long-term sustainability.

    Addressing the challenges posed by unequal investment in disaster risk reduction requires a collective and committed effort. DRR should not be seen as an expense but as a critical investment in the well-being of present and future generations. RAR24 not only exposes existing weaknesses but also highlights the tremendous opportunities to build a safer, more equitable, and resilient future for all. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Complex disaster risks call for urgent action in the Arab region

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Leaders call to collectively strengthen resilience at the 6th Arab Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

    Kuwait City, Kuwait, 12 February 2025 – UNDRR’s Arab States region – covering 22 countries mostly in the Middle East and northern Africa – faces a range of hazards, exacerbated by climate change.

    Over the past 50 years, the region has suffered economic losses nearing $60 billion, with droughts, earthquakes, and floods taking the most severe human and economic toll.

    Recent disasters – such as the 2023 earthquakes in Syria and Morocco, catastrophic floods in Libya, and numerous severe droughts – are grim reminders of the urgent need for stronger risk governance and climate resilience strategies.

    Transboundary risks need transboundary solutions

    The hazards that the region faces move freely across borders, and so efforts to manage and reduce risks likewise need to be transboundary. This means working together as a region.

    This spirit of cooperation was evident in Kuwait this week, where disaster risk reduction experts, government officials, and resilience-building stakeholders from across the region came together for the 6th Arab Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction. The four-day event aimed to strengthen policies and partnerships, in order to reduce disaster risk and enhance resilience collectively. The Platform culminated in the adoption of the Kuwait Declaration for Disaster Risk Reduction, reaffirming the urgency of resilience building across the region.

    Hosted by the Government of Kuwait and co-organized by UNDRR’s Regional Office for Arab States and the League of Arab States, the Platform is a forum to assess progress, exchange best practices, and drive regional commitments to disaster risk reduction (DRR).

    Innovative financing and early warnings

    A preparatory day ahead of the Platform proper tackled two important topics, in parallel: the need for new and innovative financing solutions for disaster risk reduction; and implementing the Early Warnings For All initiative in the region. 

    The Resilient Infrastructure and DRR Financing Conference explored ways to address the challenges of DRR financing, including innovative financial instruments like catastrophe bonds, resilience bonds, and parametric insurance; public-private partnerships; and a comprehensive approach integrating DRR strategies into climate finance.

    Alongside this, the Early Warnings for All Multistakeholder Forum for the Arab States, led by UNDRR and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), discussed progress in implementing Early Warnings for All in the region, with a focus on early warning technologies and risk communication strategies.

    Speaking to the Forum, WMO President Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous affirmed that the Early Warning for All initiative is a top priority for WMO.

    “We firmly believe that strengthening early warning systems, improving climate services, and enhancing regional and international partnerships are essential pillars for effective disaster risk reduction,” he said.

    An appeal for collective action

    Opening the Platform on 10 February, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG) Kamal Kishore stressed the need for urgent action:

    “The Arab region should be proud of the progress it has made in advancing disaster risk reduction, especially around strengthening risk governance frameworks, which is a prerequisite for achieving sustainable development. That said, there are still many areas for improvement.”

    He outlined three key objectives for the regional platform:

    1. Strengthening risk understanding – Improved knowledge exchange across the region will improve risk assessments, especially in the face of climate change.
    2. Enhancing partnerships and collaboration – More multi-sectoral engagement and regional cooperation is essential for addressing transboundary risks.
    3. Committing to action – Accelerated implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction requires taking concrete steps, in order to meet its targets before 2030.

    Better governance and more investment in risk reduction

    Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Minister of Interior, welcomed delegates, reaffirming Kuwait’s commitment to DRR, and noted the special challenges that the region faces:

     “We are in a world that is witnessing an unprecedented acceleration in the pace of natural and human risks, and the challenges facing our societies are increasing in terms of size and complexity,” he said

    “Disasters have become more frequent and diverse, as a result of climate change, rapid and unregulated urban growth, and environmental degradation, which makes it necessary for us to adopt a comprehensive and integrated approach to dealing with these risks.”

    During the Platform’s busy schedule, participants engaged in sessions giving updates and discussion on a variety of topics especially pertinent to the region, including: innovative DRR financing; urban resilience; risk knowledge; extreme heat; disaster preparedness, recovery and “building back better”; and the Santiago network for loss and damage.

    Scroll through the photo gallery of the Regional Platform

    Innovative, actionable strategies

    To inform the dialogue at the Platform, the UNDRR presented the findings of 2024 Regional Assessment Report (RAR) on Disaster Risk Reduction in the Arab Region, updating analysis of the region’s evolving risk landscape. These findings warn of a “perfect storm” of interconnected risks, driven by climate change, water scarcity, governance challenges, and institutional fragility.

    The authors noted:

    • Temperatures in the region are rising at an alarming rate of +0.5°C per decade, intensifying droughts, extreme heat, and food insecurity.
    • Governance and institutional challenges remain major obstacles to effective disaster risk management.
    • The increasing frequency of climate-related disasters threatens human security, economic stability, and public health.
    • Many cities in the Middle East may become uninhabitable before the end of the century if urgent measures are not taken.

    The report aims to guide governments, policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders in disaster risk reduction and sustainable development,  and calls for collaborative efforts to transform an understanding of risk into actionable strategies that prioritize community wellbeing and environmental sustainability.

    Regional cooperation to implement the Sendai Framework

    The Platform culminated with Member States and stakeholders issuing the Kuwait Declaration for Disaster Risk Reduction, which notes the need for accelerated implementation of the Sendai Framework; enhanced DRR governance; more investment in resilient infrastructure; extended early warning system coverage; better data for evidence-based policymaking; and improved integration of science, technology and artificial intelligence.

    The Kuwait Declaration stresses the need for greater regional cooperation to support crisis-affected countries; call for an inclusive approach that engages governments, civil society and the private sector in reducing disaster risks and protecting communities.

    Announcing the adoption of the Kuwait Declaration, Ambassador Khalil Ebrahim Al-Thawadi, Assistant Secretary-General for Arab Affairs and National Security for the League of Arab States, said the Platform, and its Declaration, signalled a “big leap forward” for resilience in the region.

    “I urge you to take all of the lessons from this Platform, and to transform them into real actions on the ground,” he told the assembled delegates.

    Time is of the essence

    In his closing remarks, SRSG Kamal Kishore thanked the State of Kuwait for hosting the event, and praised the region for its innovation in disaster risk reduction:

    “Take the good practices from this region and share them with the world. With just five years left to achieve the goals of the Sendai Framework – if this region can make it happen, then the world can make it happen,” he said

    With more than 450 participants from governments, UN agencies, civil society, academia, and the private sector, the 6th Arab Regional Platform for DRR will help strengthen the region’s capacity to prevent and mitigate disasters, for a safer and more resilient future for all.

    “You have to change this region, but you also have to change the world,” Mr Kishore said.

    The Platform will feed the region’s challenges, solutions, and commitments into the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, taking place in Geneva from 2–6 June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sixth Arab Regional Platform for DRR concludes with the adoption of Kuwait Declaration

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Kuwait City, Kuwait, 12 February 2025 – The Sixth Arab Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction concluded today in Kuwait City, marking a pivotal step forward in the region’s efforts to enhance resilience and mitigate disaster risks. Hosted by the Government of Kuwait in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the League of Arab States, the platform brought together over 600 participants from governments, civil society, academia, the private sector, and international organizations. Convened under the theme, “Building Resilient Arab Communities: From Understanding to Action,” the platform offered an inclusive space to discuss solutions to the complex risk landscape facing the Arab region.

    The highlight of the event was the adoption of the Kuwait Declaration for Disaster Risk Reduction, which reaffirms the urgent need to strengthen resilience across the Arab region in the face of increasing disaster risks. The declaration underscores the importance of accelerating the implementation of the Sendai Framework, enhancing governance for risk reduction, increasing investments in disaster-resilient infrastructure, and leveraging science, technology, artificial intelligence, and early warning systems. It also emphasizes the need to develop and update comprehensive disaster loss databases and risk assessments to support evidence-based policymaking. Additionally, the declaration calls for greater regional cooperation, particularly in supporting countries affected by crises, and highlights the need for inclusive and sustainable approaches that engage governments, civil society, and the private sector in reducing disaster risks and protecting communities.

    The platform saw the adoption of the Voluntary Action Statements of Stakeholder Groups engaged in DRR. Alongside the Kuwait Declaration, these commitments align with the Prioritized Action Plan for DRR (2025-2027) in the Arab region, which outlines concrete priorities and strategies to strengthen disaster risk management at both regional and national levels.

    Key highlights

    Over four days, the platform featured 2 side conferences, 3 plenary sessions, 4 thematic sessions, and 6 special sessions, providing a space for high-level dialogue on strengthening disaster resilience in the Arab region. With 18 side events, a press conference, and a dedicated marketplace, participants explored innovative solutions, shared best practices, and reinforced commitments to advancing disaster risk reduction efforts.

    Two critical pre-conference events took place ahead of the official launch of the platform. Resilient Infrastructure and Disaster Risk Reduction Financing conference addressed one of the most pressing challenges facing the Arab region that is mobilizing sufficient financial resources for disaster resilience. While the Early Warnings for All Multistakeholder Forum for the Arab States underscored the importance of inclusive, people-centered early warning systems across the region. In a world where climate-related disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity, effective early warning systems can mean the difference between life and death.

    Throughout the four days of the platform, participants engaged in dynamic discussions during plenary, thematic, special sessions, and side events. These sessions addressed critical issues such as urban resilience, risk-informed financing, disaster preparedness, and strengthening governance to achieve sustainable development. 

    The platform marked the introduction of the Santiago Network in the Arab region through a dedicated session focused on enhancing efforts to avert, minimize, and address loss and damage associated with the adverse effects of climate change. Bringing together high-level stakeholders and experts from the Arab region and beyond, this session provided a platform to discuss the operationalization of the Santiago Network and its role in delivering technical assistance to countries facing climate-induced challenges, insights on capacity gaps, opportunities for regional collaboration, and ways to strengthen the synergy between disaster risk reduction and climate action.

    A special high-level session for mayors highlighted innovative approaches to urban resilience, drawing on best practices and lessons learned across the Arab region. In the Arab Leaders Dialogue for DRR session, which brought together donors, governments, the private sector, and humanitarian organizations to address funding gaps and advance sustainable financing for disaster risk reduction in the Arab region, participants explored innovative financing models, key funding challenges, and solutions, particularly for conflict-affected and fragile states.

    Another key moment of the platform was the launch of the key findings of the Regional Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction in the Arab States, which presents a comprehensive analysis of disaster risk in the Arab region and actionable recommendations to policymakers, highlighting systemic risks driven by climate change, urbanization, water scarcity, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. It underscores the interconnected nature of these risks and calls for urgent action to strengthen governance, enhance early warning systems, and invest in resilience-building measures.

    The platform underscored the integration of disaster risk reduction with broader development frameworks, including climate change adaptation and the Sustainable Development Goals. Discussions reflected on the progress made in implementing the Sendai Framework, while also addressing persistent challenges such as urbanization, socio-economic disparities, and the effects of climate change.

    Closing session

    The platform closed with a high-level session, featuring Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Al-Sabah, Acting Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, Kuwait; Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction; Ambassador Khalil Ebrahim Al-Thawadi, League of Arab States Assistant Secretary-General for Arab Affairs and National Security; and Major General Talal Mohammed Al-Roumi, Chief of the General Fire Force, Kuwait.

    Reflecting on the Arab region’s progress and its role in advancing global disaster risk reduction efforts, Kamal Kishore emphasized the importance of sharing lessons learned and scaling up action. “Take the good practices from this region and share them with the world. With just five years left to achieve the goals of the Sendai Framework, if this region can make it happen, then the world can make it happen,” he said in his closing remarks.

    The outcomes of the Sixth Arab Regional Platform, including the Kuwait Declaration and the Arab Action Plan, will inform discussions at the Eighth Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, scheduled to take place in Geneva in June 2025. These achievements serve as a foundation for the region’s ongoing efforts to reduce risks, protect lives, and foster sustainable development.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Statement from NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM

    Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

    This morning, I was made aware of an utterly disgusting video circulating on social media. NSW Health immediately launched an investigation and contacted NSW Police, who are also investigating.
    The appalling comments and hate speech from the individuals in this video do not represent, and never have, the views or values of NSW Health – this includes the 180,000 dedicated, caring and kind people who make up our workforce.
    NSW Health is committed to fostering an environment of respect and inclusivity. We are proud to provide safe, compassionate and high-quality care to all people across the diverse communities of NSW we serve. 
    We understand this disturbing video has caused distress. I can assure you we are treating this matter incredibly seriously.
    There is absolutely no place in NSW Health for these views or behaviour.
    NSW Health condemns the views expressed and behaviour demonstrated in this video and I assure everyone that every person in NSW receives safe, respectful care in our hospitals and health services.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Expanding Affordable Broadband Access

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a $26 million ConnectALL grant to Oswego County to construct a fiber-to-the-home network that will expand broadband access to about 10,792 homes, businesses and community institutions across 22 towns and villages. The project will construct 345 miles of fiber infrastructure, significantly expanding high-speed internet access throughout rural areas of the county. This grant is part of New York State’s Municipal Infrastructure Program, which has now awarded over $240 million in funding for broadband expansion projects. Collectively, these investments support the construction of nearly 2,400 miles of broadband infrastructure, reaching about 98,000 locations across New York State.

    “This $26 million investment in Oswego County’s broadband infrastructure represents our commitment to building a more connected New York, where every family and business can access affordable, high-speed internet,” Governor Hochul said. “By partnering with local governments to expand broadband coverage, we’re creating opportunities for economic growth, improving access to health care and education, and ensuring our rural communities are fully equipped to participate in our digital future.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Expanding reliable broadband connectivity is crucial for New York State’s economic growth. Through ConnectALL’s transformative work in Oswego County, we will help bridge the digital divide and connect thousands of Central New York residents and businesses to the modern digital economy. Through the ConnectALL initiative, we are building the infrastructure needed to provide all New Yorkers with reliable, affordable internet access.”

    Oswego County will own the broadband network and make it available for lease to internet service providers, including Empire Access, on a non-discriminatory and non-exclusive basis. The revenue generated from these leases will support the network’s ongoing maintenance and future expansion. This innovative public infrastructure model ensures sustainable, affordable access while promoting competition among service providers.

    The project specifically targets rural areas with high poverty rates and geographic isolation, addressing critical needs for affordable and reliable broadband service. The expanded connectivity will enhance residents’ access to essential services including:

    • Telehealth resources
    • Remote education opportunities
    • Digital employment platforms
    • Online business services

    Funding for ConnectALL’s Municipal Infrastructure Program has been awarded through the U.S. Department of the Treasury under the American Rescue Plan’s Capital Projects Fund. Broadband infrastructure in the Municipal Infrastructure Program will be owned by a public entity or publicly controlled. Internet Service Providers will use the new broadband infrastructure to provide New Yorkers with affordable, high quality service options.

    Oswego County Legislature Chairman James Weatherup said, “For more than a decade, we have been working to identify a funding source that would enable us to reach the areas in our county that, for various reasons, had been ignored by the major corporate Internet Service Providers. The Municipal Infrastructure Program offered by New York’s ConnectAll broadband office fit our needs nicely, allowing us to reach nearly 100 percent of the addresses that had been identified as unserved, as well as many that lacked service sufficient to carry out the needs of an average household. The project, when complete, will support the existing business community, enhance future economic development opportunities, provide a more robust learning environment for children and elevate the quality of life throughout the County. We are very grateful for this affordable opportunity to enhance our communities with these critical infrastructure assets.”

    Governor Hochul’s ConnectALL Initiative

    Governor Hochul has made expanding broadband access a cornerstone of her administration’s efforts to create a more equitable New York. Through the ConnectALL initiative, New York State is investing $1 billion to transform the State’s digital infrastructure, enhance competition among providers and ensure that every New Yorker has access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet.

    To date, ConnectALL has overseen the successful launch and implementation of several programs to advance broadband access, including:

    • The Digital Equity Program, which will invest $50 million, including a federal allocation of at least $37 million, to implement the New York State Digital Equity Plan to close the digital divide. ConnectALL is accepting responses to the Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant Request for Applications through March 24, 2025. ConnectALL will award about $15.5 Million through this Request for Applications to entities and partnerships working to bridge the digital divide.
      The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program, which will bring new broadband infrastructure to homes in affordable and public housing, leveraging a $100 million federal investment from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Capital Projects Fund. The program is currently accepting applications from internet service providers and expressions of interest from housing owners and public housing authorities.
      The ConnectALL Deployment Program, which will fund internet service providers to reach unserved and underserved locations, drawing on an allocation of $664.6 million in federal funding from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, as described in the ConnectALL Broadband Deployment Initial Proposal.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nashville Man Charged with being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm Following Robbery at the Mall at Green Hills

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NASHVILLE – Omari Rashad Moore, 30, of Nashville, has been charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm as part of a shooting incident near the Green Hills mall, announced Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    “Citizens in our community need to feel confident that they can go shopping at a mall without fearing gunfire,” said McGuire. “We are unwavering in our commitment to secure a safe city and hold those who would threaten that safety fully accountable for their actions.”

    According to the complaint, on February 4, 2025, officers with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (“MNPD”) responded to the Mall at Green Hills in Nashville, in response to a possible robbery and shots-fired complaint. As the officers responded, 911 dispatch also received a complaint about a shooting near the I– 65 South and I–440 Interstate interchange in Nashville, which is about five miles driving distance from the Mall.

    When MNPD officers arrived at the Mall, they found two .10 millimeter cartridge casings on the ground along with a high capacity magazine containing .10 millimeter ammunition near where the shooting and robbery had occurred. Officers could not locate a victim or suspect of the shooting at the Mall. About that time, MNPD officers arrived in the area of the I–65 South and I–440 Interstate interchange and saw a silver Tesla, which had been traveling away from the direction of the Mall, that had crashed into a tree. MNPD officers recovered two Louis Vuitton bags from inside the Tesla and located two men near the crash scene, who were later identified as Moore and SUBJECT 1. A bystander, who witnessed the aftermath of the crash, told MNPD officers that he/she had seen Moore approach a nearby guardrail on foot after the Tesla crashed. MNPD officers found a Glock Model: 29, Caliber: .10 millimeter pistol with the magazine missing near the guardrail.

    SUBJECT 1 had multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Vanderbilt Hospital by emergency medical services, where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

    MNPD Detectives reviewed security footage of the robbery and shooting at the Mall. It showed a man walking away from the mall carrying two shopping bags. As he approached his car, a silver Tesla drove up to and stopped near the man’s car. A man, later identified as Moore, got out of the Tesla with an object in his pocket that was consistent with the appearance of a handgun loaded with a high-capacity magazine. Moore approached the other man’s car, and they fought before the other man broke free and ran. Moore then leaned into the other man’s car, then ran back to the Tesla carrying the two shopping bags.

    Moore has multiple prior felony convictions in Henderson County and Davidson County, Tennessee.

    If convicted, Moore faces a maximum of 15 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.

    This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Hinkle is prosecuting the case.  

    A federal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

    # # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects more than $1.5 Billion in Criminal and Civil Actions in Fiscal Year 2024

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Criminal Payment by Crypto Exchange Binance for failing to have money laundering protections boosts collections to new record

    Seattle — U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman announced today that the Western District of Washington collected $1,518145,143 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $1,509,282,780 was collected in criminal actions and $8,862,362 was collected in civil actions. 

    The Western District of Washington worked with the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and the National Security Division  to obtain the $1.5 billion payment from cryptocurrency exchange Binance. 

    “Our office worked closely with Department of Justice components on the criminal case against Binance, in which Binance pleaded guilty to failing to register as a money transmitting business, willfully violating the Bank Secrecy Act and willfully causing violations of U.S. sanctions,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “That $1.5 billion coming through our office, is part of the $4.3 billion criminal fine and forfeiture. It is a record in the Western District of Washington.”

    Independently, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington collected $3.8 million in criminal restitution payments, and an additional $8.8 million civil collections. Many of the criminal collections were for cases in which people intentionally failed to pay their income taxes. The owner of a string of coffee stands paid $96,000 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service for intentionally underreporting his income from the business. A  Snohomish County restaurant owner paid over $511,000 for tax fraud and a Tukwila restaurant owner paid $376,000 so that his $926,902 tax fraud debt was paid in full.

    Of the civil collections, the district obtained $217,000 following the sale of Dr. Frank Li’s Spokane medical office building. The payment was applied to Dr. Li’s $2.85 million civil settlement for health care fraud.

    Additionally, we collected $1.23 million from Yakima Products, Inc.  These payments (which were in addition to payments made in 2023) satisfied Yakima’s $3 million settlement with the United States, for failing to pay duties on aluminum components imported from the People’s Republic of China. Learn more about the case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/automobile-accessory-company-yakima-products-inc-settles-allegations-failed-pay-duties

    The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

    Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in the Western District of Washington, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $2,864,850 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2024. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.  A large portion of the forfeitures relate to the indictment of two men operating a business that posted stolen items for sale via online websites. You can learn more about the case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/two-indicted-buying-stolen-goods-and-selling-them-online-amazon-or-ebay-more-3-million.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: r* in the monetary policy universe: navigational star or dark matter? | Lecture at the London School of Economics and Political Science

    Source: Bundesbank

    Check against delivery.

    1 Introduction

    Ladies and gentlemen, It’s a pleasure and an honour for me to speak here before such a distinguished audience.

    Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. This was advice from Stephen Hawking, the famous English physicist and author of numerous books on the cosmos. And who would want to contradict the genius?

    So today I invite you to join me on a stargazing tour. If you don’t have a telescope with you, no worries. However, I should add a disclaimer here: When a couple look up at the stars, things could get romantic. When astronomers observe the stars, impressive images can come into view. When economists talk about stars, it usually gets complicated. Now you know what you’re getting into! 

    I’m sure you’ve already guessed what topic I have in mind: the natural rate of interest – also known as r-star. It is a concept that economists have been grappling with for more than 125 years.[1] And it has perhaps never received more attention than in the current era of monetary policy.

    From a central banker’s perspective, I would like to discuss what role r-star can and should play in the monetary policy universe. I will structure my lecture around four key questions: What is r-star and why is it of interest for monetary policy? How have estimates for r-star evolved over the past decades? What drives uncertainty about current estimates and the future evolution of r-star? What conclusions should monetary policy draw from this?

    2 Definition of r-star and use for monetary policy

    Let’s start with the definition. The natural rate is the real interest rate that would prevail if the economy were operating at its potential and prices were stable. R-star is commonly thought to be driven by real forces that structurally affect the balance between saving and investment. Think of technological progress and demographics, for example. This also means that r-star should, by definition, be independent of monetary policy. The latter follows from the widely held belief that monetary policy can affect real variables only temporarily, but is neutral in the long term.

    At first glance, the natural rate could be a guiding star for the conduct of monetary policy. If a central bank sets its policy rates so that the real interest rate is above r-star, monetary policy is restrictive or “tight”. Consequently, economic activity slows and the inflation rate should decrease. If the real rate is below r-star, monetary policy is expansionary or “loose”. It provides incentives for consumers to purchase more and for enterprises to step up investment and output. Hence, this should result in more economic activity and a higher inflation rate.

    However, the idea of the natural rate serving as a guiding star for monetary policy comes with profound challenges. Perhaps the name r-star evokes associations with astronomy and navigation. But these would be misleading. If r-star were like a star in the sky, it would be relatively easy to locate. Stars emit light and are therefore observable.

    The natural rate is a theoretical concept. It is based on a hypothetical state of the world. That means the natural rate is, by nature, unobservable. It can only be estimated. For example, models use assumptions about the relationship between measurable variables and r-star. In this respect, the natural rate is not so much like a star shining brightly in the sky. It is more a case of dark matter. As it is invisible, astronomers infer dark matter indirectly by observing its gravitational effects.

    If something is hard to find, it only spurs researchers to look even harder – whether they are astronomers or economists. Therefore, we can draw on a variety of estimation methods for the evolution of the natural rate.

    3 Estimates for r-star over time

    Since around the 1980s various estimates of different types have been pointing to a downward trend for r-star over several decades and across many advanced economies.[2] In the wake of the global financial crisis, the estimates slumped to exceptionally low levels.[3] This development was roughly in line with the observed trajectory of actual real interest rates of short- and long-term government bonds during this period. And no wonder: In the long run, both should be driven by the same fundamental forces affecting the balance between saving and investment.

    So the question is this: what has lifted saving and depressed investment? A simple answer would be: in the long term, the most important driver is potential growth. But this finding is not very enlightening. Potential growth is also not observable. It is determined by underlying forces such as demographics and technological progress. This is where we need to look for the causes.

    Indeed, according to a number of recent studies, waning productivity growth and population ageing were the key factors in pushing saving up and investment down.[4] Lower productivity reduces the return on investment, so people are less willing to invest. As they expect to live longer, they are more willing to save.

    In addition, inequality, risk aversion and fiscal policy could be other factors. For example, growing inequality raises saving, as richer households save a larger share of their income. Similarly, higher risk aversion leads to higher saving, especially in safe assets, while lowering investment.[5] 

    Many of the estimates for r-star reached their lowest point in the pandemic years 2020 and 2021. After that, there were signs of a partial reversal. A recent analysis by Eurosystem economists across a suite of models and data up to the end of 2024 suggests that estimates of r-star range from − ½ % to ½ % in real terms. In nominal terms, they find that it ranges between 1¾ % and 2¼ %.[6]

    It is clear that these ranges depend on the estimating approaches considered. Taking into account an even wider array of measures, Bundesbank staff calculations using data up to the end of 2024 reveal a range of 1.8 % to 2.5 %.[7] And the ECB found for the third quarter of 2024: When three estimates derived from versions of the Holston-Laubach-Williams model are factored in, the range of real r-star is − ½ % to 1 % and the nominal range is 1¾ % to 3 %.

    All in all, the results suggest that the range of r-star estimates most likely increased by about one percentage point from their lows. The latest estimates by economists from the Bank for International Settlements come to similar findings.[8]

    The reasons for the increase after the pandemic are not yet fully clear. For example, high fiscal spending with rising public debt levels could play a role. Or higher needs for capital, as companies make their value chains more resilient by duplicating structures and increasing stock levels.

    4 Uncertainties around r-star estimates

    Stargazing tours in economics are a journey into the uncertain. This is also and especially true for r-star. Estimates of the natural rate of interest are subject to major uncertainties, shaped by three M’s: megatrends, methodology and monetary policy.

    First, we are facing a number of megatrends. Think of climate change, ageing societies, digitalisation, and the risks of de-globalisation and increasing geopolitical divisions. The effects of these megatrends on natural rates are difficult to gauge and may change over time.

    On the one hand, they could contribute to a higher natural rate. Here are some examples: The widespread uptake of artificial intelligence could boost productivity growth. The green transition could lead to higher investment. Fiscal deficits could persist at an elevated level due to higher defence spending given geopolitical tensions. The entry of the baby boomer generation into retirement could reduce savings.

    On the other hand, life expectancy is predicted to keep rising; the high hopes for the productivity-enhancing effect of AI could turn out to be too optimistic; and given high public debt levels, fiscal space for additional spending is limited in many countries. Overall, it is virtually impossible to predict which developments will prevail in affecting r-star.

    The second factor of uncertainty is methodology. The methods used to define and estimate r-star differ in important ways, especially in terms of time and risk. 

    Ricardo Reis demonstrates this impressively in a recent paper.[9] He presents four different “r-stars”. They are based on four different conceptual approaches. And they developed quite differently between 1995 and 2019. 

    One major difference is the risk dimension. Knut Wicksell’s original definition of the natural rate was the rate of return on physical capital in equilibrium.[10] The rate of return on physical capital is the return on investment in the real economy. And this rate is very much associated with risks. 

    However, this perspective has been lost in virtually all of the model approaches. Generally, they use rather secure government bond yields as a starting point. Again, with regard to the real economy, a risky return on capital would be a more appropriate yardstick. When we look at measures for the return on private capital, we see a strong contrast with risk-free rates. Returns on private capital have remained broadly stable over the last decades in the US,[11] Germany[12] and the euro area as a whole.[13] 

    From these observations, Ricardo Reis draws the following conclusion: focusing exclusively on the return on government bonds as the measure of r-star, while neglecting the return on private capital, leads to the wrong policy advice.[14]

    Another case in point is the time horizon that is considered. Commonly cited estimates seek to assess the real rate that prevails in the longer run, when all shocks have dissipated. Most of these estimates are highly imprecise. Many methods simply project the current or the historical level of real rates into the future. This may confound permanent trends with cyclical factors, which may not be representative for the future. As a result, such methods could miss important turning points in real rate trends. 

    Other approaches characterise a short-run real rate in a hypothetical world without frictions. While interesting, this concept is of limited value for actual policymaking in the real world. Methods based on a short-term equilibrium tend to produce more volatile estimates of r-star.

    There is a third reason for caution: monetary policy itself may play a role in shaping the natural rate or its estimates. A number of studies challenge the view that money is neutral in the long run.[15] 

    There are different channels through which monetary policy could have lasting effects on real interest rates. Prolonged tight monetary policy, for example, may lower investment, innovation and productivity growth.[16] By contrast, persistent monetary easing could fuel financial imbalances and contribute to zombification.[17] 

    Moreover, recent research suggests that central bank announcements provide guidance about the trend in real rates. For instance, a narrow window around Fed meetings captures most of the trend decline in US real long-term yields since 1980.[18] This could mean: when central banks look for r-star in financial market prices, they might actually be looking in a mirror.[19] Feedback loops between monetary policy and markets could unduly reinforce their perceptions about r-star. And shifts in perceived r-star could affect actual r-star as it influences saving and investment decisions.

    5 Conclusions for monetary policy

    Against the backdrop of these major uncertainties, the final key question of my speech is this: what role can and should r-star play for monetary policy in practice?

    Let’s approach the answer with a thought experiment: Put yourself in the shoes of a monetary policymaker who only looks at r-star. The relevant interest rate with which you steer the monetary policy stance is currently 2.75 %. After a previous series of interest rate cuts, you consider whether a further cut would be appropriate.

    Your staff inform you that various point estimates of r-star range from around 1.8 % to 2.5 % in nominal terms. If r-star were at the upper end of the estimates, the policy rate would become neutral with the next rate cut. Things would be different if r-star were at the lower end of the estimates: Monetary policy would continue to be restrictive, even after several further rate cuts.

    So how would you proceed, given a certain stance you want to achieve? Beware: If you rely on a wrong estimate, your decision may have a different effect on inflation than you intended. Simply choosing the middle of the range might not be a happy medium. Around the point estimates, there are often uncertainty bands of different sizes and with asymmetries.

    As you have probably guessed: It is no coincidence that I have described this particular decision-making situation. It looks similar in the euro area ahead of the next monetary policy meeting of the ECB Governing Council at the beginning of March. After several rate cuts, the neutral rate could already be near – or there may still be some way to go.

    The President of the New York Fed, John Williams, put the problem in a nutshell when he said: as we have gotten closer to the range of estimates of neutral, what appeared to be a bright point of light is really a fuzzy blur.[20]

    The bottom line here is this: The closer we get to the neutral rate, the more appropriate it becomes to take a gradual approach. For this purpose, r-star is a helpful concept: it indicates when we need to be more cautious with policy rate moves so that we don’t take a wrong step. 

    At the same time, the limits of the concept are also clear: it would be risky to base decisions mainly on r-star estimates. Much more is needed to assess the current monetary policy stance and the optimal policy path for the near future.

    That is why the Eurosystem uses a variety of financial, real economic and other indicators along the monetary policy transmission mechanism. We want the fullest picture possible. And, of course, r-star also has a place in this picture. For instance, r-star is included in model-based optimal policy projections that we use in the decision-making process.

    In my opinion, proceeding in a data-driven and gradual manner has served the ECB Governing Council well. There is no reason to act hastily in the present uncertain environment. The data will tell us where we need to go.

    Away from day-to-day monetary policymaking, the concept of the natural rate of interest provides a useful framework. This is also exemplified in the policy scenarios that Ricardo Reis presented last week in Brussels.[21]

    He works with the assumption that government bond rates remain around current levels. I would add the assumption that inflation stays on target – actually, that is what I am in office for and committed to. Assuming output is at capacity, policy rates would be persistently higher than in the past. But the recommendations on actual monetary policy depend on the driving forces: is the new setting caused by less demand for safe and liquid assets or by an increase in productivity? And he has two more scenarios in his paper!

    That provides a good example of why we should take a close look at the factors behind r-star estimates. Here it is important to even better understand the forces that are shifting real interest rate trends. We need to find out how these forces and trends affect our work to ensure price stability.

    Reviewing our monetary policy strategy from time to time is therefore vital. That is precisely what we are doing right now in the Eurosystem. And, of course, in this process, we look at all the questions I mentioned about r-star.

    Our stargazing tour is drawing to a close. It turns out we were dealing more with dark matter than with a shining star. Just as dark matter is an exciting field for astronomers, r-star is a rewarding topic for economists.

    Using r-star alone to navigate the monetary policy universe could be like flying almost blind. But having it as one of many instruments in your cockpit is highly useful.

    I would like to end by quoting Stephen Hawking again: Mankind’s greatest achievements have come about by talking, and its greatest failures by not talking.

    Footnotes: 

    1. Wicksell, K. (1898), Geldzins und Güterpreise: eine Studie über die den Tauschwert des Geldes bestimmenden Ursachen, Jena, G. Fischer (English version as ibid. (1936), Interest and prices: a study of the causes regulating the value of money, London, Macmillan).
    2. Obstfeld, M., Natural and Neutral Real Interest Rates: Past and Future, NBER Working Paper, No 31949, December 2023.
    3. Brand, C., M. Bielecki and A. Penalver (2018), The natural rate of interest: estimates, drivers, and challenges to monetary policy, ECB Occasional Paper, No 217.
    4. Cesa-Bianchi, A., R. Harrison and R. Sajedi (2023), Global R*, CEPR Discussion Paper No 18518; Davis, J., C. Fuenzalida, L. Huetsch, B. Mills and A. M. Taylor (2024), Global natural rates in the long run: Postwar macro trends and the market-implied r* in 10 advanced economies, Journal of International Economics, Vol. 149; International Monetary Fund (2023), The natural rate of interest: drivers and implications for policy, World Economic Outlook, April, Chapter 2.
    5. On the development of risk appetite in financial markets, see Deutsche Bundesbank, Risk appetite in financial markets and monetary policy, Monthly Report, January 2025.
    6. Brand, C., N. Lisack and F. Mazelis (2025), Natural rate estimates for the euro area: insights, uncertainties and shortcomings, ECB Economic Bulletin, 1/2025.
    7. Additional models would also provide values outside this range, but are currently not deemed sufficiently robust.
    8. Benigno, G., B. Hofmann, G. Nuño and D. Sandri (2024), Quo vadis, r*? The natural rate of interest after the pandemic, BIS Quarterly Review, March.
    9. Reis, R. (2025), The Four R-stars: From Interest Rates to Inflation and Back, draft working paper. 
    10. Wicksell, K. (1898), op. cit.
    11. Caballero, R., E. Farhi and P.-O. Gourinchas (2017), Rents, Technical Change, and Risk Premia Accounting for Secular Trends in Interest Rates, Returns on Capital, Earning Yields, and Factor Shares, American Economic Review: Papers & Proceedings 107(5), pp. 614‑620.
    12. Deutsche Bundesbank, The natural rate of interest, Monthly Report, October 2017.
    13. Brand, C., M. Bielecki and A. Penalver (2018), The natural rate of interest: estimates, drivers, and challenges to monetary policy, ECB Occasional Paper, No 217.
    14. Reis, R., Which r-star, public bonds or private investment? Measurement and policy implications, Unpublished manuscript, September 2022.
    15. Jordà, Ò., S. Singh and A. Taylor, The long-run effects of monetary policy, NBER Working Papers, No 26666, January 2020, revised September 2024; Benigno, G., B. Hofmann, G. Nuño and D. Sandri (2024), Quo vadis, r*? The natural rate of interest after the pandemic, BIS Quarterly Review, March.
    16. Baqaee, D., E. Farhi and K. Sangani, The supply-side effects of monetary policy, NBER Working Paper, No 28345, January 2021, revised March 2023; Ma, Y. and K. Zimmermann, Monetary Policy and Innovation, NBER Working Paper, No 31698, September 2023.
    17. Borio, C., P. Disyatat, M. Juselius and P. Rungcharoenkitkul (2022), Why so low for so long? A long-term view of real interest rates, International Journal of Central Banking, Vol. 18, No 3.
    18. Hillenbrand, S. (2025), The Fed and the Secular Decline in Interest Rates, The Review of Financial Studies, forthcoming. 
    19. Williams, J. C. (2017), Comment on “Safety, Liquidity, and the Natural Rate of Interest”, by M. Del Negro, M. P. Giannoni, D. Giannone, and A. Tambalotti, Brookings Papers on Economic Activity, Vol. 1, pp. 235‑316; Rungcharoenkitkul, P. and F. Winkler, The natural rate of interest through a hall of mirrors, BIS Working Paper No 974, November 2021.
    20. Williams, J. C., Remarks at the 42nd Annual Central Banking Seminar, Federal Reserve Bank of New York, New York City, 1 October 2018.
    21. Reis, R. (2025), op. cit.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Trade Policy Review: Madagascar

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Trade Policy Review: Madagascar

    The following documents are available:
    Secretariat report
    A detailed report written independently by the WTO Secretariat.

    Government report
    A policy statement by the government of the member under review.

    From the meeting
    The Secretariat and Government reports are discussed by the WTO’s full membership in the Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB).
    Concluding remarks

    Background
    Trade Policy Reviews are an exercise, mandated in the WTO agreements, in which member countries’ trade and related policies are examined and evaluated at regular intervals. Significant developments that may have an impact on the global trading system are also monitored. All WTO members are subject to review, with the frequency of review depending on the country’s size.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: over 60% of people agree it should not be a crime for sex workers to work together – new poll

    Source: Amnesty International –

    61% of adults believe it should not be a crime for two or more sex workers to work together  

    Over half believe consensual sex work should be fully decriminalised  

    “Full decriminalisation is the only option to keep sex workers safe” – Chiara Capraro  

    Sex work should be fully decriminalised in the UK to protect sex workers’ human rights and safety, Amnesty International UK has said today.  

    In England and Wales, the buying and selling of sexual services is legal, but some activities around sex work are not – sex workers who decide to work together for safety can be charged with brothel keeping and it is a criminal offence to ‘solicit’ clients in public spaces. As a result, sex workers are forced to work on their own, at increased risk of violence.   

    A new poll* commissioned by Amnesty UK has shown that the majority of the UK public (61%) believe that it should not be a crime for two or more sex workers to work together, and more than half (53%) of UK adults agree that consensual adult sex work should be fully decriminalised.  

    Chiara Capraro, Amnesty International UK’s Gender Justice Programme Director, said:   

    “Our poll shows that the majority of the UK public wants the law to protect, not punish sex workers.  

    “Most people go into sex work due to poverty. Years of austerity and the cost-of-living crisis are pushing more and more women into sex work to support themselves and their families. Rather than keeping these women safe and helping them to leave sex work if they so wish, the current law forces sex workers into harmful, dangerous and isolating situations and can trap them in a cycle of poverty.  

    “Sex workers should be able to work together for safety, but instead criminalisation forces them to work in precarious situations alone, making them vulnerable to violence and abuse and blocking them from accessing health care and other vital services. 

    “Full decriminalisation is the only option to keep sex workers safe – it would allow them to work together for security, improve their ability to report violence to the authorities and access justice and support.” 

    Amnesty International UK is calling for decriminalisation alongside a coalition of sex worker led and human rights organisations, including Decrim Now and the English Collective of Prostitutes.  

    Megan Isaac, a spokesperson from Decrim Now, said:  

    “This polling shows that the general public agrees with what sex workers have long been calling for: we need full decriminalisation so that sex workers can work together for safety, without having to fear fines, eviction, or arrest. The government has abandoned millions of people in the UK to living in poverty – it’s deeply unfair to criminalise people who turn to sex work so that they can survive. 

    “We know that it’s possible for the law to change. New Zealand decriminalised sex work in 2003 and Belgium did so in 2022, recently implementing laws that would give sex workers access to maternity leave, sick pay, and protection from harassment. Politicians must take action to decriminalise sex work in the UK, to protect sex workers’ safety, health, and human rights.” 

    Laura Watson, a spokesperson from the English Collective of Prostitutes, said:  

    “Most of the women in our group are mothers working to support children and we are furious that we are pushed into this job by poverty and then criminalised for trying to survive and keep our families together. Those of us who are migrant and/or women of colour get particularly targeted.  

    “Sex workers are facing epidemic levels of rape and other violence but we can’t report to the police because we are frightened about being arrested ourselves for soliciting or brothel-keeping.  

    “If we are working on the street, we end up running from the police and being pushed into more isolated areas. Many of us would like to work together with another woman inside because it is safer but if we do that we can be arrested for brothel-keeping.” 

    ENDS 

    Background 

    *Savanta interviewed 2,208 UK adults aged 18+ online between the 29 November and 2 December 2024. Data were weighted to be representative of the UK by age, gender, and region. Savanta is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: London: Activists stage ‘Ecocide Babe’ stunt outside courts as Shell trial begins

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Photo op: Activist to hold a ‘baby’ that has simulated crude oil congealed around its mouth highlighting the public health impact of environmental devastation caused by Shell in Nigeria

    Location & date: Royal Courts of Justice, Thursday 13 February at 9am

    Ogale and Bille communities vs Shell trial starts that day

    On Thursday 13 February, Amnesty International UK, the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), AFRICA: Seen & Heard and Justice 4 Nigeria are marking the start of the Ogale and Bille communities vs Shell trial with the stunt ‘Ecocide Babe’ by British-Nigerian artist-activist The Crude Madonna outside the Royal Courts of Justice.

    In the performance, The Crude Madonna – representing Niger Delta womanhood and resistance – will wear traditional Nigerian dress and gold-painted Shell-shaped medallions saying ‘hell’ and ‘oil’ coated with ‘crude oil’ and hold the Ecocide Babe Alera (which means ‘it is enough’ in the local Khana language) with crude oil congealed around the baby’s mouth.

    Created by artists The Crude Madonna and THE DnA FACTORY MRSS, the Ecocide Babe  symbolises the devastating effect of oil pollution on fertility, pregnancy and infant health in the region as well as its overall impact on communities and the environment caused by Shell’s 60 years of oil spills and leaks due to poorly maintained pipelines, wells and inadequate clean-up attempts that have ravaged the health and livelihoods of many of the 30 million people living in the Niger Delta – most of whom live in poverty.

    This is the first stage of the trial that will take place in London throughout 2025. More than 13,500 Ogale and Bille residents in the Niger Delta have filed claims against Shell over the past decade demanding the company clean up oil spills that they say have wrecked their livelihoods and caused widespread devastation to the local environment. They can’t fish anymore because their water sources, including their wells for drinking water, are poisoned and the land is contaminated which has killed plant life, meaning communities can no longer farm.    

    Shell plc is domiciled in London and should be legally responsible for the environmental failures of its subsidiary company, the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria. 

    Details of event

    Who: Amnesty International UK, Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, AFRICA: Seen & Heard and Justice 4 Nigeria

    ​What: Spokespeople available for comment, and photo opportunity outside court. Supporters will hold a banner and placards saying: ‘Shell: Own up, Clean up, Pay up’.

    ​Where: Royal Courts of Justice, the Strand, London, WC2A 2LL

    ​When: Thursday 13 February. Photo opportunity 9:00-10:30am; court proceedings start at 10:30am.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Munich Security Conference: Amnesty’s Secretary General calls on states to resist attacks on human rights protections

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard will be attending the Munich Security Conference from 14 to 16 February, where she will be available for interview and will call on world leaders and senior officials to resolutely come together to resist attacks on human rights and the global multilateral architecture and avoid further harm to human rights protections and the rules-based order.

    “The past 12 months have laid bare precisely how hellish the world can be when states don’t apply universal standards and insist that international law and multilateral decisions do not apply to their actions. Consider Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine, the conflict still raging in Sudan, the worsening catastrophe in Myanmar, and the recent uptick in fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo,” Agnès Callamard said.

    “Following the long overdue ceasefire in Gaza and the transition of power in Syria, the question turns to how lasting peace and justice can be achieved in such contexts. States must commit their full support to bodies like the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court in their efforts to uphold the law, as failure to hold perpetrators accountable will only embolden other aggressors and fuel further cycles of violence and destruction.

    The past 12 months have laid bare precisely how hellish the world can be when states don’t apply universal standards and insist that international law and multilateral decisions do not apply to their actions.

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General

    “In these precarious times, humanity can ill afford further breakdowns in the international order. We do not need more instability, division or turmoil; we do not need more attacks on human rights values and further undermining of our already fragile commitments to address climate change. We need sustainable, future-focused solutions. The multilateral system may be failing us, but the answer is not to abandon it to the abyss. The answer is to strengthen and reform it, grounding it in a common vision so it can make good on its promise of global stability and universal human rights protections. The Munich Security Conference presents a timely opportunity for world leaders to begin to address these challenges and pave the way for a future free of the harrowing conflicts that blight today’s world.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Legislation to Ensure Community Care Access for Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) is continuing his efforts to make community care more accessible for veterans by reintroducing the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act. Senator Tuberville’s legislation would amend Title 38 of the United States Code to require the VA to consider continuity of healthcare when deciding whether seeing a provider in the community is in a veteran’s best medical interest.  
    Washington Examiner first reported on Senator Tuberville’s efforts earlier today.
    “Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and deserve access to quick and quality care,” said Senator Tuberville. “Under the Biden-Harris VA, we witnessed an exasperation of bureaucratic red tape, which has put our veterans’ health at risk. Allowing veterans to see their local doctor alleviates wait and drive times, especially for those who do not live close to a VA facility. I’m proud to introduce the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act and will keep fighting to put our veterans first.”
    U.S. Representative Scott Franklin (R-FL-15) reintroduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “Those who bravely served our nation deserve a healthcare system that provides timely access to quality care,” saidCongressman Franklin. “Our veterans should be empowered to choose the care that works best for them, whether inside or outside the VA. I’m proud to reintroduce my bill, the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act, which builds upon President Trump’s MISSION Act.  It will eliminate red tape that disrupts VA benefits and remove any Biden Administration hurdles that forced veterans back into inconvenient healthcare options.  It will also make it easier for veterans to receive timely access to personalized treatment and services regardless of where they live. I thank Senator Tommy Tuberville for leading this effort in the Senate and for my colleagues’ support of this critical legislation.”
    Specifically, the legislation would:
    Allow veterans to continue accessing community care for services they already receive;
    Prevent disruptions for veterans receiving specialized treatments from community care providers, such as mental health care; and
    Provide veterans with the most convenient providers.
    BACKGROUND
    Senator Tuberville represents Alabama’s more than 400,000 veterans on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, where he’s worked to streamline the community care process for the men and women who’ve worn the military uniform. 
    He recently helped introduce the Veterans’ Assuring Critical Care Expansions to Support Servicemembers (ACCESS) Act of 2025, which would increase access to care for veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) providers in the community.
    Last year, Senator Tuberville joined Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) in sending a letter to former VA Secretary McDonough urging him to reassess actions taken by the Biden-Harris VA to cut referrals to community care. He also pressed Sec. McDonough about this and the rehiring of 4,000 VA employees who were dismissed under the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 for their failure to provide swift and safe care to veterans. 
    MORE:
    Tuberville Continues Fight to Protect Veterans’ Access to Community Care
    Tuberville, Blackburn Reintroduce Bill to Improve Veterans’ Access to Health Care
    Tuberville, Blackburn Introduce Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Access to Free-Market Health Care
    Tuberville Pushes Legislation to Improve Quality, Access to Care for Veterans
    Tuberville Questions Collins, Wants to Restore VA to its Original Mission
    The VA is broken, and Doug Collins can fix it
    The Dangerous Biden-Harris Plan to Leave our Veterans Behind
    Tuberville, Colleagues Push Back Against Cuts to Prescription Reimbursements for TRICARE Members
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Gets Gavel for HELP Subcommittee on Education and the American Family

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) today announced he will serve as Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Education and the American Family. Last Congress, Sen. Tuberville served as Ranking Member of this Subcommittee, which was previously the Subcommittee on Children and Families. As Chairman, one of Senator Tuberville’s first actions was renaming the Subcommittee to reflect two things Alabamians hold dear: education and family values.
    As Chairman, Senator Tuberville will empower parents to make the best educational decisions for their children, fight to preserve Title IX protections for women and girls, end woke curriculum in schools, and invest in workforce development and job training programs to set our young people up for success.
    Senator Tuberville made the following statement about his appointment as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Education and the American Family:
    “As a former educator, coach, and mentor for more than 40 years, I know firsthand that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. Unfortunately, our education system has been failing our kids. As of the most recent data, we’re 26th in the world in math and 6th in reading. That’s unacceptable.
    As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Education and the American Family, I am laser-focused on creating more high-quality education options for students that fit their unique needs and unlock their God-given potential, rather than forcing everyone into a one-size-fits-all system. This is why I’ve consistently advocated for school choice during my time in the U.S. Senate.
    I will also continue fighting to protect women’s sports and ensure Title IX protections remain in place for women and girls everywhere. Title IX is one of the best pieces of legislation to ever come through Congress, however, it has been under attack. Thanks to President Trump’s Executive Order, women and girls’ sports are now protected, but Executive Orders can be reversed. I will keep fighting for the Senate to pass my bill, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, to make President Trump’s Executive Order permanent.
    We also need to get rid of woke gender ideology, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and Critical Race Theory (CRT) curriculum that has infected our schools. Children should be able to go to school and learn to read, write, and think for themselves—not be indoctrinated by a left-wing agenda. President Trump made it clear on day one in office that there are two genders—male and female—and divisive, racist DEI ideology has no place in America.
    On the higher education side, our country needs to do a much better job of preparing students to enter the workforce. That starts by recognizing not everyone needs to attend a traditional four-year college, but everyone has the right to such an opportunity. Career and technical education programs like dual enrollment, apprenticeships, and short-term certifications should be recognized as the respectable paths for opportunity that they are, not treated as second-rate.”
    Subcommittee on Education and the American Family:
    The Senate Subcommittee on Education and the American Family is tasked with all issues involving children and families, including education, child care and support, foster care and adoption, youth mental health, workforce development and more.
    As Ranking Member on this subcommittee, Senator Tuberville will be well-positioned to work on these Alabama-specific issues:
    Empowering Alabama parents and families to make the best educational choices for their children.
    Fighting to preserve Title IX protections for women and girls everywhere.
    Getting rid of woke gender ideology, DEI, and anti-American CRT teaching in our schools.
    Investing in workforce education and job training to ensure students are prepared to enter the workforce.
    Senator Tuberville will also serve on the HELP Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety.
    Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety:
    The Senate Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety is tasked with workplace education and training, worker health and safety, wage and hour laws, and workplace flexibility.
    Senator Tuberville’s position on this subcommittee will enable him to work on these Alabama-specific issues:
    Empowering effective workforce development programs to grow Alabama’s workforce.
    Protecting Alabama’s economy from federal overreach that would undermine innovation and growth in the labor sector.
    Ensuring Alabama’s industries can partner with local education institutions to help build the workforce of the future.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, Aging, and HELP Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Paul Affirm Alabamians’ Right-to-Work

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) in reintroducing the National Right to Work Act to preserve and protect the rights of individual employees to choose whether or not to form, join, or assist labor organized unions.
    Sen. Tuberville cosponsored this legislation last Congress.
    “No one should be peer pressured or forced to join a union,” said Sen. Tuberville.“That may work in some states, but not in Alabama. Alabama workers should have the freedom to do what is best for them and their families. I’m proud to partner with Sen. Paul to stand up for Alabama’s Right-to-Work laws.”
    “The National Right to Work Act ensures all American workers have the ability to choose to refrain from joining or paying dues to a union as a condition for employment,” said Sen. Paul. “Kentucky and 26 other states have already passed Right-to-Work laws. It’s time for the federal government to follow their lead.”
    Joining U.S. Senators Tuberville and Paul are U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Read full text of the legislation here. 
    BACKGROUND:Alabama is one of 28 Right-to-Work states that have enacted laws to protect employees from forced union membership. Sen. Tuberville has long advocated to put more power in the people’s hands, not the federal government. This legislation does not add to existing federal law but instead deletes existing federal forced unionism provisions.
    The National Right to Work Act repeals six statutory provisions that allow private-sector workers and airline and railroad employees to be fired if they don’t surrender part of their paychecks to a union. Sens. Tuberville and Paul’s legislation will put bargaining power back where it belongs: in the hands of the American workers. 
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trefusis Park works to begin this year

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Work to transform Trefusis Park into a green solution to nearby flooding issues is set to begin later this year.

    The scheme, which was consulted on for a second time in 2024, will see the park become home to a new sustainable drainage system.

    As part of the works a seasonal wetland area will be installed to help reduce the risk of flooding to homes and businesses in the local area by safely storing water during heavy rainfall.

    Having received funding for the scheme from the Environment Agency, we are working towards appointing a contractor in the near future, with the aim of starting work in in the Spring.

    Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “I’m really pleased that this project is able to progress and that we’ll be able to get spades in the ground in the very near future.

    “This project is not just crucial from an aesthetics and nature point of view but it’s also a key natural solution to flooding.

    “We see time and again what happens when there is heavy rainfall in this area and I hope that residents and businesses in Lipson Vale will welcome this news.”

    The Trefusis Park Flood Relief Scheme has been in development for several years.

    It will provide new wildlife-rich habitats, including the planting of new trees and hedgerow, as well as new paths and seating. In addition, a new amenity pond will be created on the site of the old lake at the southern end of the park. A new half-sized basketball court will also be installed.

    The scheme is required to alleviate flooding in Lipson Vale, particularly at its junction with Bernice Terrace, which has seen high rainfall cause persistent flooding for many years.

    The seasonal wetland basins within the park will store surface water during heavy rainfall, which will then be slowly released back into the drainage system once the rain has passed and the system has capacity again. This will enable the drainage system downstream of the park to cope better and will also mean that roads and pavements will be less likely to close because of flood water.

    The scheme will also allow South West Water to carry out work to stop surface water entering the combined foul sewer upstream of the park. This will further reduce the risk of flooding and improve water quality in the River Plym by reducing the number of combined sewer overflow (CSO) spills that occur during heavy rainfall.

    Once South West Water’s works have been completed, 147 homes in the Lipson Vale area will be better protected from flooding.

    A consultation on the scheme initially took place in November/December 2021 and with the feedback gathered, detailed designs and further environmental plans and surveys were produced. It soon became apparent that to continue with the scheme in its original form, nearly 100 trees would need to be felled, which was clearly at odds with the environmental focus of the project.

    As a result, and following advice from a specialist arboriculturist, a revised design was drawn up, which while still requiring the removal of five trees, significantly reduces the amount that need to be felled. A second public consultation on the revised design took place in October 2024.

    The five trees that need to be removed are set to be felled in late February 2025.

    The Trefusis Park Ponds Project is being delivered by Plymouth City Council in partnership with the Environment Agency and South West Water,

    More details about the scheme and ways in which you can share your views can be found at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/trefusisparkfloodreliefscheme

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Advancements in Space Continue Generating Products on Earth  

    Source: NASA

    The latest edition of NASA’s Spinoff publication, which highlights the successful transfer of agency technology to the commercial sector, is now available online.
    For nearly 25 years, NASA has supported crew working in low Earth orbit to learn about the space environment and perform research to advance deep space exploration. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station have learned a wealth of lessons and tried out a host of new technologies. This work leads to ongoing innovations benefiting people on Earth that are featured in NASA’s annual publication.  
    “The work we do in space has resulted in navigational technologies, lifesaving medical advancements, and enhanced software systems that continue to benefit our lives on Earth,” said Clayton Turner, associate administrator, Space Technology Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Technologies developed today don’t just make life on our home planet easier – they pave the way to a sustained presence on the Moon and future missions to Mars.” 
    The Spinoff 2025 publication features more than 40 commercial infusions of NASA technologies including: 

    A platform enabling commercial industry to perform science on the space station, including the growth of higher-quality human heart tissue, knee cartilage, and pharmaceutical crystals that can be grown on Earth to develop new medical treatments.  
    An electrostatic sprayer technology to water plants without the help of gravity and now used in sanitation, agriculture, and food safety.  
    “Antigravity” treadmills helping people with a variety of conditions run or walk for exercise, stemming from efforts to improve astronauts’ fitness in the weightlessness of space.  
    Nutritional supplements originally intended to keep astronauts fit and mitigate the health hazards of a long stay in space.  

    As NASA continues advancing technology and research in low Earth orbit to establish a sustained presence at the Moon, upcoming lunar missions are already spinning off technologies on Earth. For example, Spinoff 2025 features a company that invented technology for 3D printing buildings on the Moon that is now using it to print large structures on Earth. Another group of researchers studying how to grow lunar buildings from fungus is now selling specially grown mushrooms and plans to build homes on Earth using the same concept.  
    Spinoffs produce innovative technologies with commercial applications for the benefit of all. Other highlights of Spinoff 2025 include quality control on assembly lines inspired by artificial intelligence developed to help rovers navigate Mars, innovations in origami based on math for lasers and optical computing, and companies that will help lead the way to hydrogen-based energy building on NASA’s foundation of using liquid hydrogen for rocket fuel.  
    “I’ve learned it’s almost impossible to predict where space technology will find an application in the commercial market,” said Dan Lockney, Technology Transfer program executive at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “One thing I can say for sure, though, is NASA’s technology will continue to spin off, because it’s our goal to advance our missions and bolster the American economy.”  
    This publication also features 20 technologies available for licensing with the potential for commercialization. Check out the “Spinoffs of Tomorrow” section to learn more.
    Spinoff is part of NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate and its Technology Transfer program. Tech Transfer is charged with finding broad, innovative applications for NASA-developed technology through partnerships and licensing agreements, ensuring agency investments benefit the nation and the world.  
    To read the latest issue of Spinoff, visit: 
    https://spinoff.nasa.gov
    -end-
    Jasmine HopkinsHeadquarters, Washington321-431-4624jasmine.s.hopkins@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 15 Years Ago: STS-130 Delivers Tranquility and Cupola to Space Station

    Source: NASA

    On Feb. 8, 2010, space shuttle Endeavour began its 24th trip into space, on the 20A assembly mission to the International Space Station, the 32nd shuttle flight to the orbiting lab. The STS-130 crew included Commander George Zamka, Pilot Terry Virts, and Mission Specialists Kathryn Hire, Stephen Robinson, Nicholas Patrick, and Robert Behnken. During the nearly 14-day mission, they worked jointly with the five-person Expedition 22 crew during nearly 10 days of docked operations. The mission’s primary objectives included delivering the Tranquility module and the cupola to the space station, adding 21 tons of hardware to the facility. Behnken and Patrick conducted three spacewalks to aid in the installation of Tranquility.  

    Endeavour rolled out to Launch Pad 39A on Jan. 6, 2010, targeting a Feb. 7 launch. The crew arrived at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Feb. 3 to prepare for launch. Inclement weather delayed the initial launch attempt by 24 hours. On Feb. 8, at 4:14 a.m. EST, space shuttle Endeavour lifted off, carrying its six-person crew. The flight marked Robinson’s fourth trip into space, previously serving as a mission specialist on STS-85, STS-95, and STS-114, Zamka’s, Hire’s, Patrick’s, and Behnken’s second time in space, having flown on STS-120, STS-90, STS-116, and STS-123, respectively, while Virts enjoyed his first taste of weightlessness. 

    After reaching orbit, the astronauts opened the payload bay doors, deployed the shuttle’s radiators, and removed their bulky launch and entry suits, stowing them for the remainder of the flight. They spent six hours on their second day in space conducting a detailed inspection of Endeavour’s nose cap and wing leading edges, taking turns operating the shuttle remote manipulator system, or robotic arm, and the Orbiter Boom Sensor System.  
    On the mission’s third day, Zamka assisted by his crewmates brought Endeavour in for a docking with the space station. During the rendezvous, Zamka stopped the approach at 600 feet and completed a pitch maneuver so astronauts aboard the station could photograph Endeavour’s underside to look for any damage to the tiles. Zamka then manually guided Endeavour to a docking at the Pressurized Mating Adapter-2 attached to the Harmony module. After docking, the crews opened the hatches and the five-person station crew welcomed the six-member shuttle crew. Patrick and Expedition 22 Flight Engineer Timothy “T.J.” Creamer used the space station robotic arm to remove the inspection boom and hand it off to the shuttle arm operated by Hire and Virts. At the end of the day, Behnken and Partick entered the station’s airlock, reduced its pressure and breathed pure oxygen for an hour before and an hour after sleep to rid their bodies of nitrogen to prevent the bends. 

    The astronauts completed the major transfer activity of the mission on flight day five, a highly choreographed spacewalk and robotics effort to move the Tranquility and cupola modules from the shuttle to the station. Behnken and Patrick exited the airlock to begin the mission’s first excursion, first venturing to the shuttle payload bay to remove launch locks from Tranquility. Virts and Hire used the station arm to remove the joined modules from the payload bay and attach it to the Unity module’s port side. Behnken and Partick connected temporary heater and data cables to the new module. This first spacewalk lasted six hours 32 minutes. The next day, the joint crews began outfitting Tranquility and preparing to relocate the cupola from the end of the module to its Earth-facing port. 
    On the mission’s seventh day, some of the astronauts continued outfitting and configuring the new modules. In the meantime, Behnken and Patrick stepped outside for a five-hour 54-minute excursion, to install ammonia coolant loops and thermal blankets to protect the ammonia hoses, and outfitted Tranquility’s Earth-facing port to accept the cupola. 

    The next day, Hire and Virts, assisted by Expedition 22 Commander Jeffery Williams, used the station’s robotic arm to relocate the cupola. On flight day 9, Behnken and Patrick operated the station arm to relocate the Pressurized Mating Adapter-3 from Harmony to Tranquility. The crews continued internal cargo transfers and began outfitting the cupola.  
    On the mission’s 10th day, Patrick and Behnken completed their third and final spacewalk. During the five-hour 48-minute excursion, they removed thermal blankets and launch locks from the cupola, installed handrails, connected the second cooling loop on Tranquility, and connected heater and data cables. Inside the cupola, Hire and Virts installed the robotics workstation. Across their three spacewalks, Behnken and Patrick spent 18 hours 14 minutes outside. 

    The crews spent flight day 11 outfitting Tranquility with systems racks and other equipment moved from the Destiny U.S. Laboratory module. Virts finished installing robotic workstation equipment in the Cupola. Behnken and Partick transferred their spacesuits back to the shuttle for return to Earth. The crew received a phone call from President Barack Obama and several schoolchildren. Zamka and Virts used the shuttle’s thrusters to reboost the space station.  
    The next day, after holding a news conference with reporters on the ground, shuttle commander Zamka and station commander Williams held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally declare Tranquility and the cupola open for business. After a final meal together, the two crews held a farewell ceremony, returned to their respective spacecraft, and closed the hatches.  

    On flight day 13, with Virts at the controls, Endeavour undocked from the space station, having spent nearly 10 days as a single spacecraft. The astronauts used the shuttle’s arm and boom sensors to perform a late inspection of Endeavour’s thermal protection system. On flight day 14, Zamka and Virts tested the orbiter’s reaction control system thrusters and flight control surfaces in preparation for the next day’s entry and landing.  
    On Feb. 22, Hire and Robinson closed Endeavour’s payload bay doors. The six astronauts donned their launch and entry suits and strapped themselves into their seats. Zamka and Virts fired Endeavour’s two Orbital Maneuvering System engines to bring them out of orbit and Zamka guided Endeavour to a smooth touchdown at Kennedy’s Shuttle Landing Facility. The landing capped off a successful mission of 13 days, 18 hours, six minutes and 217 orbits of the Earth. Workers at Kennedy towed Endeavour to the processing facility to prepare it for its next and final flight, STS-134 in May 2011, and the astronauts returned to Houston for a welcoming ceremony at Ellington Field. 
    Watch the crew narrate a video about the STS-130 mission.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Why Does the Moon Look Larger at the Horizon? We Asked a NASA Scientist: Episode 50

    Source: NASA

    Why does the Moon look larger on the horizon? The short answer is, we don’t know.

    [embedded content]

    We’ve been talking about this for 2,000 years. Aristotle mentions it. And in our own time, scientists are designing experiments to figure out exactly what’s going on. But there’s no consensus yet.
    Here’s what we do know.
    The atmosphere isn’t magnifying the Moon. If anything, atmospheric refraction squashes it a little bit. And the Moon’s not closer to us at the horizon. It’s about 1.5 percent farther away. Also, it isn’t just the Moon. Constellations look huge on the horizon, too.
    One popular idea is that this is a variation on the Ponzo illusion. Everything in our experience seems to shrink as it recedes toward the horizon — I mean clouds and planes and cars and ships. But the Moon doesn’t do that. So our minds make up a story to reconcile this inconsistency. Somehow the Moon gets bigger when it’s at the horizon. That’s one popular hypothesis, but there are others. And we’re still waiting for the experiment that will convince everyone that we understand this.
    So why does the Moon look larger on the horizon? We don’t really know, but scientists are still trying to figure it out.
    [END VIDEO TRANSCRIPT]
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  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Telescopes Deliver Stellar Bouquet in Time for Valentine’s Day

    Source: NASA

    A bouquet of thousands of stars in bloom has arrived. This composite image contains the deepest X-ray image ever made of the spectacular star forming region called 30 Doradus.
    By combining X-ray data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory (blue and green) with optical data from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope (yellow) and radio data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (orange), this stellar arrangement comes alive.

    Otherwise known as the Tarantula Nebula, 30 Dor is located about 160,000 light-years away in a small neighboring galaxy to the Milky Way known as the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). Because it one of the brightest and populated star-forming regions to Earth, 30 Dor is a frequent target for scientists trying to learn more about how stars are born.
    With enough fuel to have powered the manufacturing of stars for at least 25 million years, 30 Dor is the most powerful stellar nursery in the local group of galaxies that includes the Milky Way, the LMC, and the Andromeda galaxy.
    The massive young stars in 30 Dor send cosmically strong winds out into space. Along with the matter and energy ejected by stars that have previously exploded, these winds have carved out an eye-catching display of arcs, pillars, and bubbles.
    A dense cluster in the center of 30 Dor contains the most massive stars astronomers have ever found, each only about one to two million years old. (Our Sun is over a thousand times older with an age of about 5 billion years.)
    This new image includes the data from a large Chandra program that involved about 23 days of observing time, greatly exceeding the 1.3 days of observing that Chandra previously conducted on 30 Dor. The 3,615 X-ray sources detected by Chandra include a mixture of massive stars, double-star systems, bright stars that are still in the process of forming, and much smaller clusters of young stars.
    There is a large quantity of diffuse, hot gas seen in X-rays, arising from different sources including the winds of massive stars and from the gas expelled by supernova explosions. This data set will be the best available for the foreseeable future for studying diffuse X-ray emission in star-forming regions.
    The long observing time devoted to this cluster allows astronomers the ability to search for changes in the 30 Dor’s massive stars. Several of these stars are members of double star systems and their movements can be traced by the changes in X-ray brightness.
    A paper describing these results appears in the July 2024 issue of The Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series. NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Chandra X-ray Center controls science operations from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts.
    Read more from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
    Learn more about the Chandra X-ray Observatory and its mission here:

    chandra

    https://chandra.si.edu
    Visual Description
    This release features a highly detailed composite image of a star-forming region of space known as 30 Doradus, shaped like a bouquet, or a maple leaf.
    30 Doradus is a powerful stellar nursery. In 23 days of observation, the Chandra X-ray telescope revealed thousands of distinct star systems. Chandra data also revealed a diffuse X-ray glow from winds blowing off giant stars, and X-ray gas expelled by exploding stars, or supernovas.
    In this image, the X-ray wind and gas takes the shape of a massive purple and pink bouquet with an extended central flower, or perhaps a leaf from a maple tree. The hazy, mottled shape occupies much of the image, positioned just to our left of center, tilted slightly to our left. Inside the purple and pink gas and wind cloud are red and orange veins, and pockets of bright white light. The pockets of white light represent clusters of young stars. One cluster at the heart of 30 Doradus houses the most massive stars astronomers have ever found.
    The hazy purple and pink bouquet is surrounded by glowing dots of green, white, orange, and red. A second mottled purple cloud shape, which resembles a ring of smoke, sits in our lower righthand corner.

    Megan WatzkeChandra X-ray CenterCambridge, Mass.617-496-7998mwatzke@cfa.harvard.edu
    Lane FigueroaMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama256-544-0034lane.e.figueroa@nasa.gov

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