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Category: Transport

  • MIL-Evening Report: Prabowo’s presidency sparks fear and faint hope in Indonesia’s contested Papua

    By Victor Mambor in Jayapura

    With Prabowo Subianto, a controversial former general installed as Indonesia’s new president, residents in the disputed Papua region were responding to this reality with anxiety and, for some, cautious optimism.

    The remote and resource-rich region has long been a flashpoint for conflict, with its people enduring decades of alleged military abuse and human rights violations under Indonesian rule and many demanding independence.

    With Prabowo now in charge, many Papuans fear that their future will be marked by further violence and repression.

    In Papua — a region known as “West Papua” in the Pacific — views on Prabowo, whose military record is both celebrated by nationalists and condemned by human rights activists, range from apathy to outright alarm.

    Many Papuans remain haunted by past abuses, particularly those associated with Indonesia’s counterinsurgency campaigns that began after Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 through a disputed UN-backed referendum.

    For people like Maurids Yansip, a private sector employee in Sentani, Prabowo’s rise to the presidency is a cause for serious concern.

    “I am worried,” Yansip said. “Prabowo talked about using a military approach to address Papua’s issues during the presidential debates.

    ‘Military worsened hunman rights’
    “We’ve seen how the military presence has worsened the human rights situation in this region. That’s not going to solve anything — it will only lead to more violations.”

    In Jayapura, the region’s capital, Musa Heselo, a mechanic at a local garage, expressed indifference toward the political changes unfolding in Jakarta.

    “I didn’t vote in the last election—whether for the president or the legislature,” Heselo said.

    “Whoever becomes president is not important to me, as long as Papua remains safe so we can make a living. I don’t know much about Prabowo’s background.”

    But such nonchalance is rare in a region where memories of military crackdowns run deep.

    Prabowo, a former son-in-law of Indonesia’s late dictator Suharto, has long been a polarising figure. His career, marked by accusations of human rights abuses, particularly during Indonesia’s occupation of Timor-Leste, continues to evoke strong reactions.

    In 1996, during his tenure with the elite Indonesian Army special forces unit, Kopassus, Prabowo commanded a high-stakes rescue of 11 hostages from a scientific research team held by Free Papua Movement (OPM) fighters.

    Deadly operation
    The operation was deadly, resulting in the deaths of two hostages and eight pro-independence fighters.

    Markus Haluk, executive secretary of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), described Prabowo’s presidency as a grim continuation of what he calls a “slow-motion genocide” of the Papuan people.

    “Prabowo’s leadership will extend Indonesia’s occupation of Papua,” Haluk said, his tone resolute.

    “The genocide, ethnocide, and ecocide will continue. We remember our painful history — this won’t be forgotten. We could see military operations return. This will make things worse.”

    Although he has never been convicted and denies any involvement in abuses in East Timor or Papua, these allegations continue to cast a shadow over his political rise.

    He ran for president in 2014 and again in 2019, both times unsuccessfully. His most recent victory, which finally propels him to Indonesia’s highest office, has raised questions about the future of Papua.

    President Prabowo Subianto greets people as he rides in a car after his inauguration in Jakarta, Indonesia, last Sunday. Image: Asprilla Dwi Adha/Antara Foto

    Despite these concerns, some see Prabowo’s presidency as a potential turning point — albeit a fraught one. Elvira Rumkabu, a lecturer at Cendrawasih University in Jayapura, is among those who view his military background as a possible double-edged sword.

    Prabowo’s military experience ‘may help’
    “Prabowo’s military experience and strategic thinking could help control the military in Papua and perhaps even manage the ultranationalist forces in Jakarta that oppose peace,” Rumkabu told BenarNews.

    “But I also worry that he might delegate important issues, like the peace agenda in Papua, to his vice-president.”

    Under outgoing President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, Papua’s development was often portrayed as a priority, but the reality on the ground told a different story. While Jokowi made high-profile visits to the region, his administration’s reliance on military operations to suppress pro-independence movements continued.

    “This was a pattern we saw under Jokowi, where Papua’s problems were relegated to lower levels, diminishing their urgency,” Rumkabu said.

    In recent years, clashes between Indonesian security forces and the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) have escalated, with civilians frequently caught in the crossfire.

    Yohanes Mambrasar, a human rights activist based in Sorong, expressed grave concerns about the future under Prabowo.

    “Prabowo’s stance on strengthening the military in Papua was clear during his campaign,” Mambrasar said.

    Called for ‘more troops, weapons’
    “He called for more troops and more weapons. This signals a continuation of militarized policies, and with it, the risk of more land grabs and violence against indigenous Papuans.”

    Earlier this month, Indonesian military chief Gen. Agus Subiyanto inaugurated five new infantry battalions in Papua, stating that their mandate was to support both security operations and regional development initiatives.

    Indeed, the memory of past military abuses looms large for many in Papua, where calls for independence have never abated.

    During a presidential debate, Prabowo vowed to strengthen security forces in Papua.

    “If elected, my priority will be to uphold the rule of law and reinforce our security presence,” he said, framing his approach as essential to safeguarding the local population.

    Yet, amid the fears, some see opportunities for positive change.

    Yohanes Kedang from the Archdiocese of Merauke said that improving the socio-economic conditions of indigenous Papuans must be a priority for Prabowo.

    Education, health care ‘left behind’
    “Education, healthcare, and the economy — these are areas where Papuans are still far behind,” he said.

    “This will be Prabowo’s real challenge. He needs to create policies that bring real improvements to the lives of indigenous Papuans, especially in the southern regions like Merauke, which has immense potential.”

    Theo Hesegem, executive director of the Papua Justice and Human Integrity Foundation, believes that dialogue is key to resolving the region’s long-standing issues.

    “Prabowo has the power to address the human rights violations in Papua,” Hesegem said.

    “But he needs to listen. He should come to Papua and sit down with the people here — not just with officials, but with civil society, with the people on the ground,” he added.

    “Jokowi failed to do that. If Prabowo wants to lead, he must listen to their voices.”

     Pizaro Gozali Idrus in Jakarta contributed to the report. Copyright © 2015-2024, BenarNews. Republished with the permission of BenarNews.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Germany Trinity House Agreement on Defence – Joint Communique

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A commitment to improve and enhance bilateral defence co-operation between the Ministry of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

    In July this year, the Ministry of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland committed to improve and further enhance bilateral defence co-operation to better meet the common challenges of the 21st Century and to best secure the common interests of both countries in defence-related areas. We outlined escalating security concerns, exacerbated by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. We said that the deteriorating strategic environment demanded a unified response to ensure the preservation of European security.

    As we confront these challenges together with Allies and partners, we are guided by our shared values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Recognising the imperative for closer collaboration in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges and shared security threats, we aim to promote stability on NATO’s eastern flank, in Europe as a whole, and beyond for the Euro-Atlantic area. Strategic defence co-operation is an important first pillar in the new relationship between Germany and the United Kingdom, which will be codified in the forthcoming bilateral treaty in 2025.

    Recognising the imperative, we have worked at pace to create our response through this historic, first-of-its kind, defence agreement between our two great nations. Our shared strategic objective is to sustain effective deterrence against would-be aggressors by building credible, resilient defence forces and defence industries, working towards the vision of a peaceful and stable Euro-Atlantic area. To do this, our agreement will become a crucial element in the broader architecture of European security; it is explicitly designed to support our Allies and strengthen the European contribution to NATO. In particular, it complements our respective existing bilateral agreements with France, laying the foundation for increasingly close co-operation between the E3.

    Through this agreement, we have brought focus, resource, and ambition to our previously stated objectives: Strengthening Defence Industries, Reinforcing Euro-Atlantic Security, Enhancing Interoperability, Addressing Emerging Threats, Supporting Ukraine, and Deep Precision Strike. In addition to new governance structures, we will bring these objectives to life through the creation of totemic lighthouse projects, which will serve as beacons for unprecedented levels of co-operation and integration between our respective Armed Forces.

    Deep Precision Strike and Defence: The UK and Germany will work jointly to rapidly develop extended Deep Precision Strike capabilities, to provide a conventional deterrent in Europe and strengthen European Integrated Air and Missile Defence. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Undertaking a comprehensive exercise to compare capability needs and identify synergies.
    • Developing common requirements and military doctrine to aid the development of long-range systems, working in co-operation with Allies and partners, in particular through the European Long Range Strike Approach.
    • Identifying opportunities for industrial collaboration and investment to achieve closer working on countering threats through Integrated Air and Missile Defence.

    And in the medium term through:

    • Joint development and procurement of new extended Deep Precision Strike capabilities in close co-ordination with Allies and partners, giving special focus to new capabilities which far exceed today’s ranges.
    • Joint development of a common approach to deploying extended Deep Precision Strike in all physical domains.
    • Cohering Integrated Air and Missile Defence activity through the European Sky Shield Initiative, NATO’s Multinational Procurement Initiatives, and the UK’s DIAMOND initiative.

    Uncrewed Aerial Systems and Future Connectivity: The UK and Germany will work jointly, in close co-ordination with Allies and partners, to develop and employ Uncrewed Aerial and Offboard Air Systems to ensure interoperability between Future Combat Air Systems. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Joint integration of common missile systems into drone fleets to enhance precision strike capabilities, drawing benefit from each nations’ previous experience, e.g. the integration of Brimstone to UK Uncrewed Air Systems.
    • Sharing plans on integration of capabilities between Current and Future Combat Air Systems, to enable development of interoperable offboard systems.

    And in the medium term through:

    • Joint exploration and development of cross-system Combat Cloud capabilities across aircraft fleets.
    • Joint exploration and development of new Maritime Uncrewed Air System capabilities.
    • Joint exploration and development of common offboard systems compatible with respective Future Combat Air Systems to enable, inter alia, data sharing, to support interoperability and integration of those systems.
    • Supporting implementation of NATO-agreed common standards to ensure connectivity and collaboration between fighter aircraft, reinforcing inter-generation and (un)crewed teaming.

    Strengthening the Eastern Flank through a new Land Strategic Partnership: Using our Forward Land Forces and shared enduring commitment to NATO’s eastern flank as a catalyst, the UK and Germany will work to strengthen NATO by developing doctrine, uncrewed systems, and enabling capabilities to transform our land forces; sustaining continuous land-based deterrence within Europe. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Working jointly in the Armour Capability Coalition to drive innovation in the land domain, through support to Ukraine.
    • Working jointly with Canada and the Baltic States, including through the 3+3 format, to rapidly transform the capability and effectiveness of our respective Forward Land Forces and tap the full potential of synergies of the Forward Land Forces in the Baltic States
    • Co-ordination of UK and German exercises between the Forward Land Forces, with the goal of combined exercises.
    • Working together to tackle the challenges in the shortage of NATO Corps troops across the Alliance. Equipping, training, and exercising the German-British Amphibious Engineer Battalion 130 in Minden to fulfil tasks as one entity within the NATO Force Model.
    • Fostering a deep Industrial Partnership between UK and German Defence Industries, including assisting respective prime contractors wishing to expand production facilities in each other’s countries. Our will to develop industrial co-operation is illustrated by developing plans between the UK MOD and Rheinmetall for a new barrel factory to be opened in the UK, further strengthening the defence industrial links between the UK and Germany.
    • Close collaboration in the BOXER User Group, conducting regular consultations on the “strategic pipeline”, and joint exploration of new capabilities and variants, striving for a closer exchange of BOXER In-Service-Experience topics, and close co-operation in the area of BOXER training and operation. Beyond BOXER, we will pursue joint procurement and through-life capability management initiatives around land vehicles.

     And in the medium term through:

    • Joint development of common offboard systems for Future Ground Combat Systems to support interoperability between those systems, in co-ordination with Allies and Partners
    • Joint development of military doctrines for future land warfighting, supported by Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Disruptive Technologies.

    Undersea Co-operation in the Northern Seas: The UK and Germany will work jointly to strengthen UK-German naval co-operation with a focus on the North Atlantic and North Sea. We will aim to establish and share a clear and concise picture of underwater activity, significantly contributing to the protection of Critical Undersea Infrastructure and Sea Lines of Communications. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Co-ordination of combined and joint operations in the North Atlantic, in close co-operation with Allies and partners, focussing on Anti-Submarine Warfare with ships, submarines, and aircraft. We will enable forward deployments of each other’s units and goods between our countries when required.
    • Episodic deployments of German P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft in the UK to support interoperability and collaborative Anti-Submarine Warfare operations in the North Atlantic, following their entry into service.
    • Joint development of common training for our Maritime Patrol Aircraft crews.
    • Promoting a common co-operative procurement of the UK’s Lightweight Torpedo STINGRAY MOD 2 for our Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
    • Contributing to the strengthening of NATO’s work strand on Critical Undersea Infrastructure.

    And in the medium term through: 

    • Exploring new offboard undersea surveillance capabilities to improve detection of adversary activity and support the protection of Critical Undersea Infrastructure, supported by Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Disruptive Technologies.

    In addition, we are committed to working together for as long as it takes to support and enable Ukraine to counter Russian aggression. Our combined will is unequivocal, we will continue to ensure Ukraine has the military capabilities it requires. Our specialist teams and our Defence Industries will work ever more closely to ensure that Ukraine will prevail and achieve a fair and lasting peace. In the short term, we will collectively provide Ukraine with a new offensive capability, supporting fitting German donated Sea King Helicopters with modern missile systems. In the longer term, we will work increasingly closely through the Capability Coalitions for Ukraine using the lessons learnt there to continuously develop our co-operation. The UK will increase its support to the German and Polish-led Armour Coalition, Germany will support the UK and Latvian led drone coalition.

    Through our agreed mechanisms, enhanced dialogue, and increased political leadership, we will drive co-operation for decades to come. We will regularly review the content and our collaboration. We will consistently raise our ambitions to meet tomorrow’s threats wherever they come from: on Land, at Sea, or in the Air, in Space or in the Cyber domain; and irrespective of whether these threats are caused by hostile actors or are a result of natural disasters or Climate Change.

    We will confront such threats across all domains and between each of our Armed Forces and joint organisations, with co-operation in Cyber, Communications, and Information Systems forming the backbone and connective tissue required to embark on such an ambitious programme of work.

    John Healey Boris Pistorius
    Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom Federal Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany

    UK-Germany Trinity House Agreement on Defence

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: USEE attends Third Belt and Road Energy Ministerial Conference (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    USEE attends Third Belt and Road Energy Ministerial Conference (with photos)
    USEE attends Third Belt and Road Energy Ministerial Conference (with photos)
    ****************************************************************************

         The Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong, attended the Third Belt and Road Energy Ministerial Conference in Qingdao today (October 23) and was invited to speak at a thematic forum.     The Conference was organised by the National Energy Administration and the Shandong Provincial People’s Government. The theme of the Conference this year is “Together for an Innovative and Win-Win Future”, promoting high-quality green energy co-operation under the Belt and Road Initiative. In delivering her speech at the “Embracing the Green Development Trend and Enhancing Innovation in Energy Policy and Mechanism” thematic forum, Miss Wong highlighted the energy policy measures of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government to support the country’s contribution to combating global climate change, as well as the decarbonisation strategies to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050.     Miss Wong said, “The HKSAR Government is actively developing renewable energy, exploring new energy sources for electricity generation and strengthening regional co-operation, with a view to increasing zero-carbon electricity supply, reducing carbon emissions at source and achieving the goal of carbon neutrality in the long run. Our country’s headway in building a sustainable future is also providing the HKSAR with bountiful development opportunities. With our country’s development of top-notch green products and advanced technologies, the HKSAR Government could leverage our unique position and distinctive edge to play a pivotal role in stepping up efforts to promote new energy.”     She added that the Chief Executive has promulgated the 2024 Policy Address, themed “Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together”, with the announcement that the HKSAR Government will earmark around $750 million under the New Energy Transport Fund to subsidise the taxi trade and franchised bus companies to purchase electric vehicles, and will launch the Subsidy Scheme for Trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Heavy Vehicles. Furthermore, the HKSAR Government will earmark $300 million for a new scheme, providing subsidies to the private sector for installing fast-charging facilities. The target is to have a total of 3 000 fast chargers installed by 2030. Regarding hydrogen energy development, the HKSAR Government announced the Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong in June and will actively support the industry to establish a solar-to-hydrogen facility for demonstration. It also plans to introduce a bill next year to ensure the safe use of hydrogen fuel, and will also formulate the approach of hydrogen standard certification suitable to Hong Kong.     She said that co-operation between the Government and various parties is crucial for spearheading innovation, enacting policies, and cultivating an environment conducive to green transformation. The HKSAR Government will work together with nearby cities and regions under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative to actualise a sustainable future.     Miss Wong will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning (October 24).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 18:12

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smart Traffic Fund approves seven projects

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Smart Traffic Fund approves seven projects
    Smart Traffic Fund approves seven projects
    ******************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) today (October 23) announced that a 16th batch of seven projects has been approved by the Management Committee on Smart Traffic Fund, involving a total grant of around $86.4 million.     The seven approved projects in the latest batch cover safety enhanced autonomous driving artificial intelligence bus with self intelligence, smart taxi ecosystem for efficient electric taxi operations, dynamic reward mechanism for taxi drivers, driving risk detection for taxi, electric taxi dynamic charging solution, optimisation of taxi dispatching and reposition through real-time circumstances monitoring and next generation taxi operating system. Details of the projects are available on the Fund’s website (www.stf.hkpc.org).     The Fund accepts applications throughout the year to provide funding support to local organisations and enterprises for conducting research and application of innovation and technology with the objectives of enhancing commuting convenience, enhancing efficiency of the road network or road space, and improving driving safety. All applications are considered and assessed in batches by the Management Committee, which is chaired by the Deputy Commissioner for Transport (Planning and Technical Services) and comprises representatives from the Government, experts in the industry and relevant stakeholders.     The TD appeals to interested organisations and enterprises for participation to help make the Fund a success, and to build Hong Kong into a more liveable and sustainable city by driving Hong Kong toward a new era of transportation.      Application details are available on the Fund’s website. For enquiries, please contact the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the Secretariat of the Fund, on 2788 5536 or stf_sec@hkpc.org. 

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 18:15

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CEDD deeply saddened by passing of worker

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Director of Civil Engineering and Development, Mr Michael Fong, today (October 23) was deeply saddened by the passing of a subcontractor’s worker who fell into the sea at the Tuen Mun Area 38 Fill Bank earlier. Mr Fong expressed his deepest condolences to the deceased’s family. The Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) is working with the contractor to provide appropriate assistance to the deceased’s family.

         The worker fell into the sea after assisting with the berthing of a vessel on October 21. The Fire Services Department recovered a body underwater around 7.30am today near a pier at the Tuen Mun Area 38 Fill Bank. The body was later confirmed to be the worker who fell into the sea and went missing earlier.

         The CEDD is rendering full assistance to investigations by the Labour Department and the Police on the cause of the incident. The CEDD requires contractors and subcontractors to strictly comply with safety guidelines. After the incident, the CEDD immediately requested the contractor and subcontractor to suspend relevant works and carry out a thorough review on safety measures to prevent a reoccurrence of similar incidents.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SWD highly concerned about incident of suspected abuse of service users by RCHD staff

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SWD highly concerned about incident of suspected abuse of service users by RCHD staff
    SWD highly concerned about incident of suspected abuse of service users by RCHD staff
    *************************************************************************************

         The Social Welfare Department (SWD) stated today (October 23) that it is highly concerned about an incident of suspected abuse of service users by a staff member of a residential care home for persons with disabilities (RCHD). The RCHD and the organisation concerned have been requested to conduct a thorough investigation and submit improvement plans to avoid similar incidents from happening again and protect the well-being of service users.     The subject RCHD submitted special incident reports to the Licensing Office of Residential Care Homes for Persons with Disabilities of the SWD in August, reporting that a male staff member was suspected of having abused two service users while he was on duty. The RCHD had made a report to the Police and terminated the employment of the relevant staff member. The male staff member concerned had been arrested by the Police. Legal proceedings are underway.     The SWD took immediate follow-up actions upon noting the incident, including deployment of officers to conduct an unannounced inspection at the RCHD as well as requesting the operator to handle the incident in a serious manner and suitably follow up on the emotional and welfare needs of the two victims and their families.     To express deep concern over the incident, the Labour and Welfare Bureau and the SWD met with the Council of Management and the management of the operator and received a briefing about the handling of the incident. A warning letter has also been issued by the SWD to the operator, which is required to submit a detailed investigation report and implement a series of improvement measures to ensure proper care and protection for the service users and prevent similar incidents. These measures include a manpower review by the operator, enhancement of supervision by management officers on the operation of the RCHD, provision of strengthened guidance and training for frontline staff and persistent supervision over the work ethics of staff members.     The SWD noted that the operator has formed an independent review committee to look into its measures to protect service users. The SWD looks forward to the early completion of the review and the implementation of the improvement measures in a serious manner.     To enhance RCHDs’ vigilance and raise the understanding of RCHD staff members on the prevention and handling of abuse incidents, the SWD hosted a sharing session on October 9 for management officers and staff members of all RCHDs on protecting residents from being abused. Relevant training will continue to be provided to the staff of RCHDs. Meanwhile, the SWD has strengthened the requirement on RCHDs’ monitoring and review of CCTV to further safeguard the well-being of the service users.     The SWD will continue to monitor the operation and service quality of the RCHD concerned and urge the RCHD to earnestly implement the improvement measures.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 18:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: TransUnion Announces Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Exceeded third quarter 2024 financial guidance for revenue and earnings
    • Accelerated revenue growth to 12 percent, driven by U.S. Financial Services, Insurance, Consumer Interactive and International, while executing on technology modernization and transformation program savings
    • Voluntarily prepaid $25 million in debt, bringing total prepayments to $105 million in 2024
    • Raising 2024 financial guidance, we now expect to deliver 9 percent revenue growth for the year

    CHICAGO, Oct. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) (the “Company”) today announced financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.

    Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Revenue:

    • Total revenue for the quarter was $1,085 million, an increase of 12 percent (12 percent on a constant currency basis), compared with the third quarter of 2023.

    Earnings:

    • Net income attributable to TransUnion was $68 million for the quarter, compared with a loss of $319 million for the third quarter of 2023. Diluted earnings per share was $0.35, compared with a loss per share of $1.65 in the third quarter of 2023. Net income attributable to TransUnion margin was 6.3 percent, compared with a loss of 32.9 percent in the third quarter of 2023. Our third quarter 2023 net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion, diluted loss per share and net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion margin were impacted by a $414 million non-cash goodwill impairment expense for our United Kingdom reporting unit in the period.
    • Adjusted Net Income was $205 million for the quarter, compared with $177 million for the third quarter of 2023. Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share was $1.04, compared with $0.91 in the third quarter of 2023.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $394 million for the quarter, compared with $356 million for the third quarter of 2023, an increase of 11 percent (11 percent on a constant currency basis). Adjusted EBITDA margin was 36.3 percent, compared with 36.8 percent in the third quarter of 2023.

    “In the third quarter, TransUnion exceeded financial guidance,” said Chris Cartwright, President and CEO. “U.S. Markets grew by double-digits against stable market conditions, driven by mortgage strength, improving non-mortgage financial services, accelerating insurance growth and large breach remediation wins. Our International segment delivered double-digit organic constant currency revenue growth across India, Latin America, Asia Pacific and Africa.”

    “We continue to progress well against our transformation program. We now expect to capture $85 million of operating expense savings in 2024, driven by strong execution against our operating model optimization to expand our Global Capability Center network. Additionally, our technology modernization is accelerating our pace of innovation with several new capabilities and products launched in the quarter, powered by OneTru.”

    “We are raising our 2024 guidance and now expect to deliver 9 percent revenue growth, reflecting third quarter outperformance, stronger mortgage volumes and broad-based strength across the portfolio.”

    Third Quarter 2024 Segment Results

    U.S. Markets:

    U.S. Markets revenue was $848 million, an increase of 12 percent compared with the third quarter of 2023.

    • Financial Services revenue was $367 million, an increase of 17 percent compared with the third quarter of 2023.
    • Emerging Verticals revenue was $307 million, an increase of 3 percent compared with the third quarter of 2023.
    • Consumer Interactive revenue was $174 million, an increase of 21 percent compared with the third quarter of 2023.

    Adjusted EBITDA was $320 million, an increase of 9 percent compared with the third quarter of 2023.

    International:

    International revenue was $242 million, an increase of 11 percent (12 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.

    • Canada revenue was $39 million, an increase of 7 percent (9 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.
    • Latin America revenue was $33 million, an increase of 7 percent (13 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.
    • United Kingdom revenue was $58 million, an increase of 6 percent (4 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.
    • Africa revenue was $17 million, an increase of 12 percent (10 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.
    • India revenue was $68 million, an increase of 21 percent (23 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.
    • Asia Pacific revenue was $26 million, an increase of 11 percent (11 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.

    Adjusted EBITDA was $110 million, an increase of 14 percent (15 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the third quarter of 2023.

    Liquidity and Capital Resources

    Cash and cash equivalents was $643 million at September 30, 2024 and $476 million at December 31, 2023.

    For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, cash provided by operating activities was $579 million, compared with $444 million in 2023. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to improved operating performance, partially offset by employee separation payments and a penalty paid for the early termination of a facility lease, both of which were in connection with our operating model optimization program. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, cash used in investing activities was $195 million, compared with $231 million in 2023. The decrease in cash used in investing activities was due primarily to prior year investments in non-consolidated affiliates and lower capital expenditures. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, capital expenditures were $199 million, compared with $213 million in 2023. Capital expenditures as a percent of revenue represented 6% and 7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, cash used in financing activities was $220 million, compared with $375 million in 2023. The decrease in cash used in financing activities was primarily due to a decrease in debt prepayments.

    Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Outlook

    Our guidance is based on a number of assumptions that are subject to change, many of which are outside of the control of the Company, including general macroeconomic conditions, interest rates and inflation. There are numerous evolving factors that we may not be able to accurately predict. There can be no assurance that the Company will achieve the results expressed by this guidance.

        Three Months Ended December 31, 2024   Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2024
    (in millions, except per share data)   Low   High   Low   High
    Revenue, as reported   $ 1,014     $ 1,034     $ 4,161     $ 4,181  
    Revenue growth1:                
    As reported     6 %     8 %     9 %     9 %
    Constant currency1, 2     6 %     8 %     8 %     9 %
    Organic constant currency1, 3     6 %     8 %     8 %     9 %
                     
    Net income attributable to TransUnion   $ 65     $ 77     $ 284     $ 295  
    Net income attributable to TransUnion growth     n/m       n/m       238 %     243 %
    Net income attributable to TransUnion margin     6.4 %     7.4 %     6.8 %     7.1 %
                     
    Diluted Earnings per Share   $ 0.34     $ 0.39     $ 1.45     $ 1.51  
    Diluted Earnings per Share growth   n/m       n/m       237 %     243 %
                     
    Adjusted EBITDA, as reported5   $ 360     $ 375     $ 1,488     $ 1,503  
    Adjusted EBITDA growth, as reported4     10 %     15 %     11 %     12 %
    Adjusted EBITDA margin     35.5 %     36.2 %     35.8 %     36.0 %
                     
    Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share5   $ 0.92     $ 0.98     $ 3.87     $ 3.93  
    Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share growth     14 %     21 %     15 %     17 %
    1. Additional revenue growth assumptions:
      1. The impact of changing exchange rates is expected to have an insignificant impact for Q4 2024 and FY 2024.
      2. There is no impact from recent acquisitions for Q4 2024 and FY 2024.
      3. The impact of mortgage is expected to be approximately 5 points of benefit for Q4 2024 and approximately 4 points of benefit for FY 2024.
    2. Constant currency growth rates assume foreign currency exchange rates are consistent between years. This allows financial results to be evaluated without the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
    3. Organic constant currency growth rates are constant currency growth excluding inorganic growth. Inorganic growth represents growth attributable to the first twelve months of activity for recent business acquisitions. There is no impact from recent business acquisitions in Q4 2024 and FY 2024.
    4. Additional Adjusted EBITDA assumptions:
      1. The impact of changing foreign currency exchange rates is expected to have an insignificant impact for Q4 2024 and FY 2024.
    5. For a reconciliation of the above non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures, refer to Schedule 7 of this Earnings Release.

    Earnings Webcast Details

    In conjunction with this release, TransUnion will host a conference call and webcast today at 8:30 a.m. Central Time to discuss the business results for the quarter and certain forward-looking information. This session and the accompanying presentation materials may be accessed at http://www.transunion.com/tru. A replay of the call will also be available at this website following the conclusion of the call.

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this with a Tru™ picture of each person: an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care. Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    http://www.transunion.com/business 

    Availability of Information on TransUnion’s Website

    Investors and others should note that TransUnion routinely announces material information to investors and the marketplace using SEC filings, press releases, public conference calls, webcasts and the TransUnion Investor Relations website. While not all of the information that the Company posts to the TransUnion Investor Relations website is of a material nature, some information could be deemed to be material. Accordingly, the Company encourages investors, the media and others interested in TransUnion to review the information that it shares on http://www.transunion.com/tru.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This earnings release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on the current beliefs and expectations of TransUnion’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Any statements made in this earnings release that are not statements of historical fact, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include information concerning possible or assumed future results of operations, including our guidance and descriptions of our business plans and strategies. These statements often include words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “guidance,” “suggest,” “plan,” “believe,” “intend,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “may,” “will,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “potential,” “continues,” “seeks,” “predicts,” or the negatives of these words and other similar expressions.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, or that could materially affect our financial results or such forward-looking statements include:

    • macroeconomic effects and changes in market conditions, including the impact of inflation, risk of recession, and industry trends and adverse developments in the debt, consumer credit and financial services markets, including the impact on the carrying value of our assets in all of the markets where we operate;
    • our ability to provide competitive services and prices;
    • our ability to retain or renew existing agreements with large or long-term customers;
    • our ability to maintain the security and integrity of our data;
    • our ability to deliver services timely without interruption;
    • our ability to maintain our access to data sources;
    • government regulation and changes in the regulatory environment;
    • litigation or regulatory proceedings;
    • our ability to effectively manage our costs;
    • our efforts to execute our transformation plan and achieve the anticipated benefits and savings;
    • our ability to remediate existing material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures;
    • economic and political stability in the United States and international markets where we operate;
    • our ability to effectively develop and maintain strategic alliances and joint ventures;
    • our ability to timely develop new services and the market’s willingness to adopt our new services;
    • our ability to manage and expand our operations and keep up with rapidly changing technologies;
    • our ability to acquire businesses, successfully secure financing for our acquisitions, timely consummate our acquisitions, successfully integrate the operations of our acquisitions, control the costs of integrating our acquisitions and realize the intended benefits of such acquisitions;
    • our ability to protect and enforce our intellectual property, trade secrets and other forms of unpatented intellectual property;
    • our ability to defend our intellectual property from infringement claims by third parties;
    • geopolitical conditions and other risks associated with our international operations;
    • the ability of our outside service providers and key vendors to fulfill their obligations to us;
    • further consolidation in our end-customer markets;
    • the increased availability of free or inexpensive consumer information;
    • losses against which we do not insure;
    • our ability to make timely payments of principal and interest on our indebtedness;
    • our ability to satisfy covenants in the agreements governing our indebtedness;
    • our ability to maintain our liquidity;
    • share repurchase plans; and
    • our reliance on key management personnel.

    There may be other factors, many of which are beyond our control, that may cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements, including factors disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and any subsequent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should evaluate all forward-looking statements made in this report in the context of these risks and uncertainties.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this earnings release speak only as of the date of this earnings release. We undertake no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this earnings release.

    For More Information

    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
    (in millions, except per share data)

        September 30,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023
    Assets        
    Current assets:        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 643.2     $ 476.2  
    Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance of $18.2 and $16.4     798.4       723.0  
    Other current assets     228.2       275.9  
    Total current assets     1,669.8       1,475.1  
    Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $858.3 and $804.4     181.5       199.3  
    Goodwill     5,184.5       5,176.0  
    Other intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $3,055.8 and $2,719.8     3,356.9       3,515.3  
    Other assets     661.1       739.4  
    Total assets   $ 11,053.8     $ 11,105.1  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity        
    Current liabilities:        
    Trade accounts payable   $ 319.4     $ 251.3  
    Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt     66.5       89.6  
    Other current liabilities     609.8       661.8  
    Total current liabilities     995.7       1,002.7  
    Long-term debt     5,134.9       5,250.8  
    Deferred taxes     481.8       592.9  
    Other liabilities     120.2       153.2  
    Total liabilities     6,732.6       6,999.6  
    Stockholders’ equity:        
    Common stock, $0.01 par value; 1.0 billion shares authorized at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, 201.4 million and 200.0 million shares issued at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, and 194.9 million and 193.8 million shares outstanding as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively     2.0       2.0  
    Additional paid-in capital     2,524.3       2,412.9  
    Treasury stock at cost, 6.6 million and 6.2 million shares at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively     (333.0 )     (302.9 )
    Retained earnings     2,312.6       2,157.1  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (289.5 )     (260.9 )
    Total TransUnion stockholders’ equity     4,216.4       4,008.2  
    Noncontrolling interests     104.8       97.3  
    Total stockholders’ equity     4,321.2       4,105.5  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 11,053.8     $ 11,105.1  
     

    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)
    (in millions, except per share data)

        Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
         2024     2023     2024     2023 
    Revenue   $ 1,085.0     $ 968.7     $ 3,147.0     $ 2,876.9  
    Operating expenses                
    Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization below)     448.7       368.8       1,261.7       1,136.8  
    Selling, general and administrative     305.7       290.8       922.1       867.7  
    Depreciation and amortization     133.6       131.3       400.5       391.1  
    Goodwill impairment     —       414.0       —       414.0  
    Restructuring     40.5       —       66.8       —  
    Total operating expenses     928.6       1,205.0       2,651.0       2,809.6  
    Operating income (loss)     156.4       (236.3 )     495.9       67.3  
    Non-operating income and (expense)                
    Interest expense     (66.6 )     (72.7 )     (203.2 )     (217.2 )
    Interest income     7.8       5.0       19.9       15.1  
    Earnings from equity method investments     4.7       3.7       14.0       11.7  
    Other (expense) and income, net     (5.4 )     8.7       (26.2 )     (16.3 )
    Total non-operating income and (expense)     (59.6 )     (55.4 )     (195.4 )     (206.8 )
    Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes     96.8       (291.7 )     300.5       (139.5 )
    Provision for income taxes     (24.9 )     (22.2 )     (68.9 )     (60.1 )
    Income (loss) from continuing operations     71.9       (313.9 )     231.6       (199.6 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       (0.5 )     —       (0.7 )
    Net income (loss)     71.9       (314.4 )     231.6       (200.3 )
    Less: net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests     (3.9 )     (4.3 )     (13.4 )     (11.9 )
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 68.0     $ (318.8 )   $ 218.2     $ (212.2 )
                     
    Basic earnings (loss) per common share from:                
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.12     $ (1.09 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       —       —       —  
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.12     $ (1.10 )
    Diluted earnings (loss) per common share from:                
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.11     $ (1.09 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       —       —       —  
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.11     $ (1.10 )
    Weighted-average shares outstanding:                
    Basic     194.6       193.4       194.3       193.3  
    Diluted     197.0       193.4       196.3       193.3  
                                     

    As a result of displaying amounts in millions, rounding differences may exist in the table above.

    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
    (in millions)

        Nine Months Ended September 30,
         2024    2023
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Net income (loss)   $ 231.6     $ (200.3 )
    Less: Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       0.7  
    Income (loss) from continuing operations     231.6       (199.6 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization     400.5       391.1  
    Goodwill impairment     —       414.0  
    Loss on repayment of loans     2.6       3.0  
    Deferred taxes     (94.1 )     (101.3 )
    Stock-based compensation     85.6       72.9  
    Loss on early termination of lease     40.5       —  
    Other     17.9       13.1  
    Changes in assets and liabilities:        
    Trade accounts receivable     (88.9 )     (104.2 )
    Other current and long-term assets     31.4       (42.4 )
    Trade accounts payable     44.2       16.9  
    Other current and long-term liabilities     (92.8 )     (19.7 )
    Cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations     578.5       443.8  
    Cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations     —       (0.2 )
    Cash provided by operating activities     578.5       443.6  
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Capital expenditures     (198.7 )     (213.2 )
    Proceeds from sale/maturities of other investments     —       63.9  
    Purchases of other investments     —       (43.7 )
    Investments in nonconsolidated affiliates     (5.9 )     (36.9 )
    Proceeds from the sale of investments in nonconsolidated affiliates     3.8       —  
    Payment related to disposal of discontinued operations     —       (0.5 )
    Other     5.7       (0.1 )
    Cash used in investing activities     (195.1 )     (230.5 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Proceeds from term loans     934.9       —  
    Repayments of term loans     (927.9 )     —  
    Repayments of debt     (141.0 )     (310.9 )
    Debt financing fees     (13.5 )     —  
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock and exercise of stock options     24.5       23.1  
    Dividends to shareholders     (61.7 )     (61.4 )
    Employee taxes paid on restricted stock units recorded as treasury stock     (30.1 )     (17.6 )
    Distributions to noncontrolling interests     (4.7 )     (8.5 )
    Cash used in financing activities     (219.5 )     (375.3 )
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents     3.1       (2.2 )
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents     167.0       (164.4 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     476.2       585.3  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 643.2     $ 420.9  
     

    As a result of displaying amounts in millions, rounding differences may exist in the table above.

    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    We present Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share, Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes, Adjusted Effective Tax Rate and Leverage Ratio for all periods presented. These are important financial measures for the Company but are not financial measures as defined by GAAP. These financial measures should be reviewed in conjunction with the relevant GAAP financial measures and are not presented as alternative measures of GAAP. Other companies in our industry may define or calculate these measures differently than we do, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures. Because of these limitations, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for performance measures calculated in accordance with GAAP, including operating income, operating margin, effective tax rate, net income attributable to the Company, diluted earnings per share or cash provided by operating activities. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are presented in the tables below.

    We present Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share, Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate as supplemental measures of our operating performance because these measures eliminate the impact of certain items that we do not consider indicative of our cash operations and ongoing operating performance. These are measures frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in their evaluation of the operating performance of companies similar to ours.

    Our board of directors and executive management team use Adjusted EBITDA as an incentive compensation measure for most eligible employees and Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share as an incentive compensation measure for certain of our senior executives.

    Under the credit agreement governing our Senior Secured Credit Facility, our ability to engage in activities such as incurring additional indebtedness, making investments and paying dividends is tied to our Leverage Ratio which is partially based on Adjusted EBITDA. Investors also use our Leverage Ratio to assess our ability to service our debt and make other capital allocation decisions.

    Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA

    Management has excluded the following items from net income attributable to TransUnion in order to calculate Adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented:

    • Discontinued operations, net of tax, as reported on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We exclude discontinued operations, net of tax because we believe it does not reflect the underlying and ongoing performance of our business operations.
    • Net interest expense is the sum of interest expense and interest income as reported on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
    • Provision for income taxes, as reported on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
    • Depreciation and amortization, as reported on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
    • Stock-based compensation is used as an incentive to engage and retain our employees. It is predominantly a non-cash expense. We exclude stock-based compensation because it may not correlate to the underlying performance of our business operations during the period since it is measured at the grant date fair value and it is subject to variability as a result of performance conditions and timing of grants. These expenses are reported within cost of services and selling, general and administrative on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
    • Operating model optimization program represents employee separation costs, facility lease exit costs, and other business process optimization expenses incurred in connection with the transformation plan discussed further in “Results of Operations – Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business. Further, these costs will vary and may not be comparable during the transformation initiative as we progress toward an optimized operating model. These costs are reported primarily in restructuring and selling, general and administrative on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
    • Accelerated technology investment includes Project Rise and the final phase of our technology investment announced in November 2023. Project Rise was announced in February 2020 and was originally expected to be completed in 2022. Following our acquisition of Neustar in December 2021, we recognized the opportunity to take advantage of Neustar’s capabilities to enhance and complement our cloud-based technology already under development as part of Project Rise. As a result, we extended Project Rise’s timeline to 2024 and increased the total estimated cost to approximately $240 million. In November 2023, we announced our plans to further leverage Neustar’s technology to standardize and streamline our product delivery platforms and to build a single global platform for fulfillment of our product lines. The additional investment is expected to be approximately $90 million during 2024 and 2025 and represents the final phase of the technology investment in our global technology infrastructure and core customer applications. We expect that the accelerated technology investment will fundamentally transform our technology infrastructure by implementing a global cloud-based approach to streamline product development, increase the efficiency of ongoing operations and maintenance and enable a continuous improvement approach to avoid the need for another major technology overhaul in the foreseeable future. The unique effort to build a secure, reliable and performant hybrid cloud infrastructure requires us to dedicate separate resources in order to develop the new cloud-based infrastructure in parallel with our current on-premise environment by maintaining our existing technology team to ensure no disruptions to our customers. The costs associated with the accelerated technology investment are incremental and redundant costs that will not recur after the program has been completed and are not representative of our underlying operating performance. Therefore, we believe that excluding these costs from our non-GAAP measures provides a better reflection of our ongoing cost structure. These costs are primarily reported in cost of services and therefore do not include amounts that are capitalized as internally developed software.
    • Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization expenses are non-recurring expenses associated with specific transactions (exploratory or executed) and consist of (i) transaction and integration costs, (ii) post-acquisition adjustments to contingent consideration or to assets and liabilities that occurred after the acquisition measurement period, (iii) fair value and impairment adjustments related to investments and call and put options, (iv) transition services agreement income, and (v) a loss on disposal of a business. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business operations and vary depending upon the timing of such transactions. These expenses are reported in costs of services, selling, general and administrative and other income and (expenses), net, on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
    • Net other adjustments principally relate to: (i) deferred loan fee expense from debt prepayments and refinancing, (ii) currency remeasurement on foreign operations, (iii) other debt financing expenses consisting primarily of revolving credit facility deferred financing fee amortization and commitment fees and expenses associated with ratings agencies and interest rate hedging, (iv) legal and regulatory expenses, net, and (v) other non-operating (income) expense. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business and create variability between periods based on the nature and timing of the expense or income. These costs are reported in selling, general and administrative and in non-operating income and expense, net as applicable based on their nature on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

    Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA Margin

    Management defines Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA divided by total revenue as reported.

    Adjusted Net Income

    Management has excluded the following items from net income attributable to TransUnion in order to calculate Adjusted Net Income for the periods presented:

    • Discontinued operations, net of tax (see Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA above).
    • Amortization of certain intangible assets presents non-cash amortization expenses related to assets that arose from our 2012 change in control transaction and business combinations occurring after our 2012 change in control. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business operations and vary dependent upon the timing of the transactions that give rise to these assets. Amortization of intangible assets is included in depreciation and amortization on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
    • Stock-based compensation (see Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA above).
    • Operating model optimization program (see Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA above).
    • Accelerated technology investment (see Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA above).
    • Mergers and acquisitions, divestiture and business optimization (see Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA above).
    • Net other is consistent with the definition in Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA above except that other debt financing expenses and certain other miscellaneous income and expense that are included in the adjustment to calculate Adjusted EBITDA are excluded in the adjustment made to calculate Adjusted Net Income.
    • Total adjustments for income taxes relates to the cumulative adjustments discussed below for Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes. This adjustment is made for the reasons indicated in Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes below. Adjustments related to the provision for income taxes are included in the line item by this name on our consolidated statement of operations.

    Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share

    Management defines Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share as Adjusted Net Income divided by the weighted-average diluted shares outstanding.

    Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes

    Management has excluded the following items from our provision for income taxes for the periods presented:

    • Tax effect of above adjustments represents the income tax effect of the adjustments related to Adjusted Net Income described above. The tax rate applied to each adjustment is based on the nature of each line item. We include the tax effect of the adjustments made to Adjusted Net Income to provide a comprehensive view of our adjusted net income.
    • Excess tax expense (benefit) for stock-based compensation is the permanent difference between expenses recognized for book purposes and expenses recognized for tax purposes, in each case related to stock-based compensation expense. We exclude this amount from the Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes in order to be consistent with the exclusion of stock-based compensation from the calculation of Adjusted Net Income.
    • Other principally relates to (i) deferred tax adjustments, including rate changes, (ii) infrequent or unusual valuation allowance adjustments, (iii) return to provision, tax authority audit adjustments, and reserves related to prior periods, and (iv) other non-recurring items. We exclude these items because they create variability that impacts comparability between periods.

    Adjusted Effective Tax Rate

    Management defines Adjusted Effective Tax Rate as Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes divided by Adjusted income from continuing operations before income taxes. We calculate adjusted income from continuing operations before income taxes by excluding the pre-tax adjustments in the calculation of Adjusted Net Income discussed above and noncontrolling interest related to these pre-tax adjustments from income from continuing operations before income taxes.

    Leverage Ratio

    Management defines Leverage Ratio as net debt divided by Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the most recent twelve-month period including twelve months of Adjusted EBITDA from significant acquisitions. Since the Leverage Ratio is calculated on a trailing twelve month basis, prior period goodwill impairment is excluded as this expense may not directly correlate to the underlying performance of our business operations during that period and may vary significantly between periods. Net debt is defined as total debt less cash and cash equivalents as reported on the balance sheet as of the end of the period.

    This earnings release presents constant currency growth rates assuming foreign currency exchange rates are consistent between years. This allows financial results to be evaluated without the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. This earnings release also presents organic constant currency growth rates, which assumes consistent foreign currency exchange rates between years and also eliminates the impact of our recent acquisitions. This allows financial results to be evaluated without the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and the impacts of recent acquisitions.

    Free cash flow is defined as cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures and is a measure we may refer to.

    Refer to Schedules 1 through 7 for a reconciliation of our non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.

    SCHEDULE 1
    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Revenue and Adjusted EBITDA growth rates as Reported, CC, and Organic CC
    (Unaudited)

        For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 compared with
    the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023    		   For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 compared with
    the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023
        Reported   CC Growth1   Organic CC
    Growth2    		   Reported   CC Growth1   Organic CC
    Growth2
    Revenue:                        
    Consolidated   12.0 %   12.2 %   12.2 %   9.4 %   9.4 %   9.4 %
    U.S. Markets   12.5 %   12.5 %   12.5 %   8.4 %   8.4 %   8.4 %
    Financial Services   17.1 %   17.1 %   17.1 %   13.5 %   13.5 %   13.5 %
    Emerging Verticals   3.3 %   3.3 %   3.3 %   4.0 %   4.0 %   4.0 %
    Consumer Interactive   21.4 %   21.3 %   21.3 %   6.0 %   6.0 %   6.0 %
    International   11.3 %   12.1 %   12.1 %   13.4 %   13.5 %   13.5 %
    Canada   6.8 %   8.6 %   8.6 %   11.5 %   12.7 %   12.7 %
    Latin America   7.2 %   12.7 %   12.7 %   11.8 %   10.9 %   10.9 %
    United Kingdom   6.0 %   3.7 %   3.7 %   4.9 %   2.5 %   2.5 %
    Africa   12.3 %   9.5 %   9.5 %   8.3 %   10.4 %   10.4 %
    India   21.5 %   23.1 %   23.1 %   25.4 %   27.0 %   27.0 %
    Asia Pacific   11.1 %   11.5 %   11.5 %   13.6 %   14.2 %   14.2 %
                             
    Adjusted EBITDA:                        
    Consolidated   10.5 %   10.9 %   10.9 %   10.9 %   11.0 %   11.0 %
    U.S. Markets   9.0 %   9.0 %   9.0 %   8.2 %   8.2 %   8.2 %
    International   13.9 %   15.3 %   15.3 %   17.4 %   17.9 %   17.9 %
    1.  Constant Currency (“CC”) growth rates assume foreign currency exchange rates are consistent between years. This allows financial results to be evaluated without the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
       
    2.  We have no inorganic revenue or Adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented. Organic CC growth rate is the CC growth rate less the inorganic growth rate.

    SCHEDULE 2
    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated and Segment Revenue, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA Margin (Unaudited)
    (dollars in millions)

      Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
       2024    2023    2024    2023
    Revenue:              
    U.S. Markets gross revenue              
    Financial Services $ 367.2     $ 313.7     $ 1,077.6     $ 949.6  
    Emerging Verticals   307.2       297.3       913.1       877.9  
    Consumer Interactive   173.7       143.1       455.1       429.4  
    U.S. Markets gross revenue $ 848.1     $ 754.0     $ 2,445.9     $ 2,256.9  
                   
    International gross revenue              
    Canada $ 39.4     $ 36.9     $ 115.9     $ 103.9  
    Latin America   33.5       31.2       100.9       90.2  
    United Kingdom   57.8       54.5       168.6       160.7  
    Africa   17.1       15.2       48.0       44.3  
    India   68.2       56.1       202.8       161.8  
    Asia Pacific   25.6       23.1       77.1       67.9  
    International gross revenue $ 241.6     $ 217.1     $ 713.3     $ 628.9  
                   
    Total gross revenue $ 1,089.6     $ 971.2     $ 3,159.2     $ 2,885.8  
                   
    Intersegment revenue eliminations              
    U.S. Markets $ (2.8 )   $ (1.0 )   $ (7.4 )   $ (4.6 )
    International   (1.9 )     (1.5 )     (4.8 )     (4.3 )
    Total intersegment revenue eliminations $ (4.7 )   $ (2.5 )   $ (12.3 )   $ (8.9 )
                   
    Total revenue as reported $ 1,085.0     $ 968.7     $ 3,147.0     $ 2,876.9  
                   
    Adjusted EBITDA:              
    U.S. Markets $ 319.9     $ 293.7     $ 920.9     $ 850.9  
    International   110.5       97.0       318.1       271.0  
    Corporate   (36.7 )     (34.5 )     (110.6 )     (104.3 )
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin:1              
    U.S. Markets   37.7 %     38.9 %     37.6 %     37.7 %
    International   45.7 %     44.7 %     44.6 %     43.1 %
    1.  Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margins are calculated using segment gross revenue and segment Adjusted EBITDA. Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated using total revenue as reported and consolidated Adjusted EBITDA.
      Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
       2024     2023     2024    2023 
    Reconciliation of Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion to consolidated Adjusted EBITDA:              
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion $ 68.0     $ (318.8 )   $ 218.2     $ (212.2 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax   —       0.5       —       0.7  
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion $ 68.0     $ (318.3 )   $ 218.2     $ (211.5 )
    Net interest expense   58.9       67.8       183.3       202.1  
    Provision for income taxes   24.9       22.2       68.9       60.1  
    Depreciation and amortization   133.6       131.3       400.5       391.1  
    EBITDA $ 285.4     $ (97.0 )   $ 870.8     $ 441.8  
    Adjustments to EBITDA:              
    Stock-based compensation   33.8       27.0       85.7       73.3  
    Goodwill impairment1   —       414.0       —       414.0  
    Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization2   7.3       (6.0 )     17.1       24.5  
    Accelerated technology investment3   21.8       16.3       58.6       53.5  
    Operating model optimization program4   47.3       —       86.4       —  
    Net other5   (2.0 )     1.8       9.7       10.6  
    Total adjustments to EBITDA $ 108.3     $ 453.1     $ 257.5     $ 575.8  
    Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA $ 393.7     $ 356.1     $ 1,128.4     $ 1,017.6  
                   
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion margin   6.3 %     (32.9 )%     6.9 %     (7.4 )%
    Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA margin5   36.3 %     36.8 %     35.9 %     35.4 %
                                   

    As a result of displaying amounts in millions, rounding differences may exist in the tables above and footnotes below.

     1.  During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recorded a goodwill impairment of $414.0 million related to our United Kingdom reporting unit in our International segment.
     2.  Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization consisted of the following adjustments:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
           2024    2023     2024    2023 
      Transaction and integration costs   $ 3.6   $ 5.8     $ 7.0   $ 21.0  
      Fair value and impairment adjustments     —     (10.7 )     0.8     0.8  
      Post-acquisition adjustments     3.7     —       9.4     5.1  
      Transition services agreement income     —     (1.1 )     —     (2.4 )
      Total mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization   $ 7.3   $ (6.0 )   $ 17.1   $ 24.5  
     3.  Represents expenses associated with our accelerated technology investment to migrate to the cloud. There are three components of the accelerated technology investment: (i) building foundational capabilities, which includes establishing a modern, API-based and services-oriented software architecture, (ii) the migration of each application and customer data to the new enterprise platform, including the redundant software costs during the migration period, as well as the efforts to decommission the legacy system, and (iii) program enablement, which includes dedicated resources to support the planning and execution of the program. The amounts for each category of cost are as follows:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
          2024   2023   2024   2023
      Foundational Capabilities   $ 9.9   $ 8.0   $ 25.0   $ 27.7
      Migration Management     11.0     7.2     29.9     21.9
      Program Enablement     0.9     1.1     3.8     3.9
      Total accelerated technology investment   $ 21.8   $ 16.3   $ 58.6   $ 53.5
     4.  Operating model optimization consisted of the following adjustments:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
           2024    2023    2024    2023
      Employee separation   $ —   $ —   $ 24.7   $ —
      Facility exit     40.5     —     42.1     —
      Business process optimization     6.8     —     19.6     —
      Total operating model optimization   $ 47.3   $ —   $ 86.4   $ —
     5.  Net other consisted of the following adjustments:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
           2024     2023     2024     2023 
      Deferred loan fee expense from debt prepayments and refinancing   $ 0.1     $ 1.0     $ 9.2     $ 3.1  
      Other debt financing expenses     0.5       0.3       1.6       1.5  
      Currency remeasurement on foreign operations     (1.7 )     0.8       (0.4 )     6.5  
      Other non-operating (income) expense     (0.8 )     (0.3 )     (0.7 )     (0.5 )
      Total other adjustments   $ (2.0 )   $ 1.8     $ 9.7     $ 10.6  
     6.  Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA by total revenue.


    SCHEDULE 3
    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share (Unaudited)
    (in millions, except per share data)

        Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
        2024   2023   2024   2023
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion   $ 68.0     $ (318.3 )   $ 218.2     $ (211.5 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       (0.5 )     —       (0.7 )
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 68.0     $ (318.8 )   $ 218.2     $ (212.2 )
                     
    Weighted-average shares outstanding:                
    Basic     194.6       193.4       194.3       193.3  
    Diluted     197.0       193.4       196.3       193.3  
                     
    Basic earnings (loss) per common share from:                
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.12     $ (1.09 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       —       —       —  
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.12     $ (1.10 )
    Diluted earnings (loss) per common share from:                
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.11     $ (1.09 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       —       —       —  
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.11     $ (1.10 )
                     
    Reconciliation of Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion to Adjusted Net Income:                
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 68.0     $ (318.8 )   $ 218.2     $ (212.2 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       0.5       —       0.7  
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion   $ 68.0     $ (318.3 )   $ 218.2     $ (211.5 )
    Adjustments before income tax items:                
    Amortization of certain intangible assets1     71.5       72.1       214.9       221.2  
    Stock-based compensation     33.8       27.0       85.7       73.3  
    Goodwill impairment2     —       414.0       —       414.0  
    Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization2     7.3       (6.0 )     17.1       24.5  
    Accelerated technology investment3     21.8       16.3       58.6       53.5  
    Operating model optimization program4     47.3       —       86.4       —  
    Net other5     (2.1 )     1.8       8.6       9.6  
    Total adjustments before income tax items   $ 179.6     $ 525.2     $ 471.3     $ 796.0  
    Total adjustments for income taxes6     (43.1 )     (29.5 )     (112.9 )     (85.2 )
    Adjusted Net Income   $ 204.5     $ 177.4     $ 576.6     $ 499.3  
                     
    Weighted-average shares outstanding:                
    Basic     194.6       193.4       194.3       193.3  
    Diluted     197.0       194.6       196.3       194.8  
                     
    Adjusted Earnings per Share:                
    Basic   $ 1.05     $ 0.92     $ 2.97     $ 2.58  
    Diluted   $ 1.04     $ 0.91     $ 2.94     $ 2.56  
        Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
        2024   2023   2024   2023
    Reconciliation of Diluted earnings (loss) per share from Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion to Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share:                
    Diluted earnings (loss) per common share from:                
    Net income (loss) attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.11     $ (1.10 )
    Discontinued operations, net of tax     —       —       —       —  
    Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TransUnion   $ 0.35     $ (1.65 )   $ 1.11     $ (1.09 )
    Adjustments before income tax items:                
    Amortization of certain intangible assets1     0.36       0.37       1.09       1.14  
    Stock-based compensation     0.17       0.14       0.44       0.38  
    Goodwill impairment2     —       2.13       —       2.13  
    Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization3     0.04       (0.03 )     0.09       0.13  
    Accelerated technology investment4     0.11       0.08       0.30       0.27  
    Operating model optimization program5     0.24       —       0.44       —  
    Net other6     (0.01 )     0.01       0.04       0.05  
    Total adjustments before income tax items   $ 0.91     $ 2.70     $ 2.40     $ 4.09  
    Total adjustments for income taxes7     (0.22 )     (0.15 )     (0.57 )     (0.44 )
    Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share   $ 1.04     $ 0.91     $ 2.94     $ 2.56  
     

    Each component of earnings per share is calculated independently, therefore, rounding differences exist in the table above.

     1.  Consists of amortization of intangible assets from our 2012 change-in-control transaction and amortization of intangible assets established in business acquisitions after our 2012 change-in-control transaction.
     2.  During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recorded a goodwill impairment of $414.0 million related to our United Kingdom reporting unit in our International segment.
     3.  Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization consisted of the following adjustments:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
          2024   2023   2024   2023
      Transaction and integration costs   $ 3.6   $ 5.8     $ 7.0   $ 21.0  
      Fair value and impairment adjustments     —     (10.7 )     0.8     0.8  
      Post-acquisition adjustments     3.7     —       9.4     5.1  
      Transition services agreement income     —     (1.1 )     —     (2.4 )
      Total mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization   $ 7.3   $ (6.0 )   $ 17.1   $ 24.5  
     4.  Represents expenses associated with our accelerated technology investment to migrate to the cloud. There are three components of the accelerated technology investment: (i) building foundational capabilities which includes establishing a modern, API-based and services-oriented software architecture, (ii) the migration of each application and customer data to the new enterprise platform, including the redundant software costs during the migration period, as well as the efforts to decommission the legacy system, and (iii) program enablement, which includes dedicated resources to support the planning and execution of the program. The amounts for each category of cost are as follows:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
          2024   2023   2024   2023
      Foundational Capabilities   $ 9.9   $ 8.0   $ 25.0   $ 27.7
      Migration Management     11.0     7.2     29.9     21.9
      Program Enablement     0.9     1.1     3.8     3.9
      Total accelerated technology investment   $ 21.8   $ 16.3   $ 58.6   $ 53.5
     5.  Operating model optimization consisted of the following adjustments:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
          2024   2023   2024   2023
      Employee separation   $ —   $ —   $ 24.7   $ —
      Facility exit     40.5     —     42.1     —
      Business process optimization     6.8     —     19.6     —
      Total operating model optimization   $ 47.3   $ —   $ 86.4   $ —
     6.  Net other consisted of the following adjustments:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
          2024   2023   2024   2023
      Deferred loan fee expense from debt prepayments and refinancing   $ 0.1     $ 1.0   $ 9.2     $ 3.1
      Currency remeasurement on foreign operations     (1.7 )     0.8     (0.4 )     6.5
      Other non-operating (income) and expense     (0.5 )     —     (0.2 )     —
      Total other adjustments   $ (2.1 )   $ 1.8   $ 8.6     $ 9.6
     7.  Total adjustments for income taxes represents the total of adjustments discussed to calculate the Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes.

    SCHEDULE 4
    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate (Unaudited)
    (dollars in millions)

      Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
      2024   2023   2024   2023
    Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes $ 96.8     $ (291.7 )   $ 300.5     $ (139.5 )
    Total adjustments before income tax items from Schedule 3   179.6       525.2       471.3       796.0  
    Adjusted income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes $ 276.4     $ 233.5     $ 771.8     $ 656.5  
                   
    Reconciliation of Provision for income taxes to Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes:              
    Provision for income taxes   (24.9 )     (22.2 )     (68.9 )     (60.1 )
    Adjustments for income taxes:              
    Tax effect of above adjustments   (41.8 )     (27.9 )     (108.5 )     (90.1 )
    Eliminate impact of excess tax (benefit) expense for stock-based compensation   (2.3 )     0.7       (1.4 )     2.7  
    Other1   0.9       (2.2 )     (3.0 )     2.2  
    Total adjustments for income taxes $ (43.1 )   $ (29.5 )   $ (112.9 )   $ (85.2 )
    Adjusted Provision for Income Taxes $ (68.0 )   $ (51.7 )   $ (181.8 )   $ (145.3 )
                   
    Effective tax rate   25.7 %     (7.6 )%     22.9 %     (43.1 )%
    Adjusted Effective Tax Rate   24.6 %     22.2 %     23.6 %     22.1 %
                                   

    As a result of displaying amounts in millions, rounding differences may exist in the table above.

      1.  Other adjustments for income taxes include:
          Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
          2024   2023   2024   2023 
      Deferred tax adjustments   $ 3.8     $ (0.2 )   $ (1.4 )   $ 0.6  
      Valuation allowance adjustments     (2.3 )     (1.9 )     (2.1 )     (0.8 )
      Return to provision, audit adjustments, and reserves related to prior periods     (1.2 )     1.4       1.2       2.6  
      Other adjustments     0.7       (1.6 )     (0.7 )     (0.3 )
      Total other adjustments   $ 0.9     $ (2.2 )   $ (3.0 )   $ 2.2  
     

    SCHEDULE 5
    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Leverage Ratio (Unaudited)
    (dollars in millions)

        Trailing Twelve
    Months Ended
    September 30, 2024
    Reconciliation of Net income attributable to TransUnion to Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA:    
    Net income attributable to TransUnion   $ 224.2
    Net interest expense     248.6
    Provision for income taxes     53.6
    Depreciation and amortization     533.8
    EBITDA   $ 1,060.2
    Adjustments to EBITDA:    
    Stock-based compensation   $ 113.0
    Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization1     27.2
    Accelerated technology investment2     75.6
    Operating model optimization program3     164.0
    Net other4     14.4
    Total adjustments to EBITDA   $ 394.3
    Leverage Ratio Adjusted EBITDA   $ 1,454.5
         
    Total debt   $ 5,201.4
    Less: Cash and cash equivalents     643.2
    Net Debt   $ 4,558.2
         
    Ratio of Net Debt to Net income attributable to TransUnion     20.3
    Leverage Ratio     3.1

    As a result of displaying amounts in millions, rounding differences may exist in the table above.

    1.  Mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization consisted of the following adjustments:
          Trailing Twelve
    Months Ended
    September 30, 2024
      Transaction and integration costs   $ 16.9  
      Fair value and impairment adjustments     10.3  
      Post-acquisition adjustments     0.1  
      Transition services agreement income     (0.1 )
      Total mergers and acquisitions, divestitures and business optimization   $ 27.2  
    2.  Represents expenses associated with our accelerated technology investment to migrate to the cloud. There are three components of the accelerated technology investment: (i) building foundational capabilities which includes establishing a modern, API-based and services-oriented software architecture, (ii) the migration of each application and customer data to the new enterprise platform including the redundant software costs during the migration period, as well as the efforts to decommission the legacy system, and (iii) program enablement, which includes dedicated resources to support the planning and execution of the program. The amounts for each category of cost are as follows:
          Trailing Twelve
    Months Ended
    September 30, 2024
      Foundational Capabilities   $         33.0        
      Migration Management             37.5        
      Program Enablement             5.1        
      Total accelerated technology investment   $         75.6        
    3.  Operating model optimization consisted of the following adjustments:
          Trailing Twelve
    Months Ended
    September 30, 2024
      Employee separation   $         96.6        
      Facility exit             45.5        
      Business process optimization             21.9        
      Total operating model optimization   $         164.0        
    4.  Net other consisted of the following adjustments:
          Trailing Twelve
    Months Ended
    September 30, 2024
      Deferred loan fee expense from debt prepayments and refinancings   $ 15.4  
      Other debt financing expenses     2.3  
      Currency remeasurement on foreign operations     (2.2 )
      Other non-operating (income) and expense     (1.2 )
      Total other adjustments   $ 14.4  
       

    SCHEDULE 6
    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Segment Depreciation and Amortization (Unaudited)
    (in millions)

      Three Months Ended September 30,   Nine Months Ended September 30,
       2024    2023    2024    2023
                   
    U.S. Markets $ 99.3   $ 99.3   $ 299.4   $ 292.3
    International   33.4     31.0     98.1     95.5
    Corporate   1.0     1.1     3.0     3.3
    Total depreciation and amortization $ 133.6   $ 131.3   $ 400.5   $ 391.1
     

    As a result of displaying amounts in millions, rounding differences may exist in the table above.

    SCHEDULE 7
    TRANSUNION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Guidance (Unaudited)
    (in millions, except per share data)

      Three Months Ended December 31, 2024   Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2024
      Low   High   Low   High
    Guidance reconciliation of Net income attributable to TransUnion to Adjusted EBITDA:              
    Net income attributable to TransUnion $ 65     $ 77     $ 284     $ 295  
    Interest, taxes and depreciation and amortization   216       219       868       872  
    EBITDA $ 281     $ 296     $ 1,152     $ 1,167  
    Stock-based compensation, mergers, acquisitions divestitures and business optimization-related expenses and other adjustments1   79       79       336       336  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 360     $ 375     $ 1,488     $ 1,503  
                   
    Net income attributable to TransUnion margin   6.4 %     7.4 %     6.8 %     7.1 %
    Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA margin2   35.5 %     36.2 %     35.8 %     36.0 %
                   
    Guidance reconciliation of Diluted earnings per share to Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share:              
    Diluted earnings per share $ 0.34     $ 0.39     $ 1.45     $ 1.51  
    Adjustments to diluted earnings per share1   0.58       0.58       2.42       2.42  
    Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share $ 0.92     $ 0.98     $ 3.87     $ 3.93  
     

    As a result of displaying amounts in millions, rounding differences may exist in the table above.

    1. These adjustments include the same adjustments we make to our Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income as discussed in the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section of our Earnings Release.
    2. Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA by total revenue.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio, Casey, Fetterman Secure $87 Million to Build New Manufacturing Facility in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Create Almost 900 Jobs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), and U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) delivered $87,070,493 in federal funding for Mainspring Energy (MSE), a manufacturer of linear generators. With these funds, the company will build a new, state-of-the art manufacturing facility that will support new 891 jobs in Coraopolis. Funding comes from the Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grants Program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).  

    “I am thrilled to announce that Coraopolis’ own Mainspring Energy Inc. is receiving more than $87 million in federal dollars to boost its manufacturing of low-carbon generators and create hundreds of full-time and construction jobs in the process,” said Congressman Deluzio. “This is a powerful example of how when we make more stuff here, we can create manufacturing and construction jobs and onshore our supply chains, all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions to help us meet our climate goals. I am proud to support this project and look forward to monitoring its progress and impact on the people and economy in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District.”   

    “This is a game-changing investment for Coraopolis and Southwestern Pennsylvania. With this funding, Mainstream Energy will create good-paying and high-skilled manufacturing jobs and continue Southwestern Pennsylvania’s legacy as an energy leader on the forefront of cutting-edge technology. Pennsylvania workers are the best in the world and I will keep fighting for good paying manufacturing and construction jobs across our Commonwealth,” said Senator Casey.  

    “Western Pennsylvania has always been America’s industrial backbone and the Department of Energy’s investment in Mainspring Energy carries that legacy forward. This move propels us toward a carbon-pollution-free future while keeping our economy strong, competitive, and union-built,” said Senator Fetterman. “As lifelong Pennsylvanians, Senator Casey, Congressman Deluzio, and I understand and honor our state’s proud history of hard work and innovation. We pushed for this investment because it puts Western Pennsylvania back on the map as a leader in cutting-edge manufacturing.” 

    Mainspring Energy manufactures linear generators that power hospitals, supermarkets, data centers, and more across the Nation. The new plant will expand generator production, enhance American global competitiveness, create 891 jobs in Coraopolis. Deluzio wrote a letter of support for this grant, and joined Senators Casey, and Fetterman in the push for the Accelerating Linear Generator Production for Mainspring Energy project. 

    The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)’s Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grants program, which enables manufacturers build new or retrofit existing manufacturing and industrial facilities in communities where coal mines or coal power plants have closed. Senators Casey and Fetterman and Congressman Deluzio urged DOE secretary Jennifer Granholm to support MSE’s project in June 2024. In their letter, the Members highlighted how the new facility would increase domestic manufacturing, boost American competitiveness in the clean energy sector, generate hundreds of good-paying jobs for Pennsylvanians, and carry on the Commonwealth’s proud legacy as an energy state.   

    Mainspring Energy (MSE), in partnership with construction firm Al. Neyer, will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Coraopolis to produce 1,000 linear generators annually that will provide clean and reliable power to critical institutions across the Nation including hospitals, businesses, and data centers. The plant will localize the manufacturing supply chain and enhance American global competitiveness in the clean energy sector. Additionally, the project will create 291 construction-related jobs and 600 operations jobs.  

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Designing Defence’s next generation multi-satellite system

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Dstl scientific expertise and advice is at the heart of the Ministry of Defence’s ambitions in space.

    Scientists from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) are at the forefront of designing and developing Defence’s next generation satellite constellation – a system that will bring giant leaps in operational advantage to the armed forces. 

    We have developed new collaborative ways of working with both Space Command and Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) to deliver the next generation multi-satellite system to support greater global surveillance and intelligence for military operations – known as the ISTARI programme.

    ISTARI will cost £968 million and involves the development of a constellation (group) of satellites to deliver global intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and to send data and information rapidly to decision makers across the globe. A series of operational capability demonstrator missions will first be carried out to test the concept.

    Dstl is leading the initial constellation design and development. Using our evidence-based decision-making and systems engineering we are working with DE&S to jointly deliver the missions and bring them into service for Space Command.

    Taking a multi-disciplinary approach enables more rapid decision-making and sharing of best practice across technical, programmatic and operational disciplines. It enables defence to ask the right questions and make the right decisions to develop and deliver capability effectively and efficiently.

    Tyche: MOD’s first sovereign Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) satellite

    Space Command’s first satellite, Tyche, launched in August aboard SpaceX Falcon 9. Dstl provided technical assurance to Tyche, which was built by UK industry.

    Space Command’s first satellite, Tyche

    Tyche is an electro-optical imaging satellite capable of collecting images of the ground, and short image sequences of ground locations, to detect moving objects. It also possesses an additional on-board processor for immediate processing of data collected, including the ability to upload Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning algorithms for data reduction.

    Tyche will be able to communicate with commercial data relays in geostationary orbit to reduce data latency and increase opportunities for tasking.

    A key aspect to the experimentation Tyche will deliver will be the opportunity to demonstrate how the satellite interfaces with the wider emerging MOD space architecture.

    Goonhilly Earth Station: new communications ground stations in Cornwall

    Dstl is also building on the existing ground facilities to enhance space operations. In conjunction with the National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF), 2 new remote ground stations have been installed at Goonhilly Earth Station (GES) in Cornwall to expand Dstl’s space-to-ground capability and enable increase experimentation.

    Goonhilly Satellite Earth Station (Credit: Shutterstock)

    The powerful 3.9m Safran Legion antennas, to be operated by Dstl, complement Dstl’s Hermes ground station and will track satellites and download Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) data – vital to demonstrating the ISTARI concept.

    Dstl is also working with Goonhilly to tailor and assess the suitability of an open standard for booking and scheduling of remote ground terminals within a network; this will broker access between multiple end users.

    Dstl’s in-house expertise is vital to these missions as we help build Defence’s next generation space capability, which will be vital to ensure operational advantage on the frontline. Find out more about our space defence science and technology capability.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bazaar to mark 75th National Day

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    ​The Home Affairs Department and 28 provincial-level Clansmen Associations will hold a bazaar carnival from October 25 to 29 at Sha Tin Park to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    The five-day bazaar carnival will feature 75 market stalls, offering specialty foods and hometown products from across the country.

    Citizens and tourists may also experience a rich variety of customs and unique cultures from across the country via the cultural performances, film screenings and an introduction to different provincial cultures at the carnival.

    The event is free and admission tickets are not required.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Ishimbay Opens Central Square Reconstructed with Rosneft Support

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Ishimbay Opens Central Square Reconstructed with Rosneft Support

    Thanks to Bashneft’s (a subsidiary of Rosneft) support, the Square of the Discoverers of Bashkir Oil was reconstructed in Ishimbay. The grand opening of the square was timed to coincide with a Town Day.

    Reconstruction and improvement of one of the town’s favourite recreational spots were carried out within the framework of the Cooperation Agreement between Rosneft and the Republic of Bashkortostan.

    Rosneft is committed to the principles of social responsibility and pays special attention to creating a favourable social environment in the regions of operation. Ishimbay is one of the industrial centers of the south of Bashkortostan and the earliest centre of the republic’s oil industry. Commercial production of Bashkir oil began here in 1932. А monument, which became its symbol, a twelve-meter granite figure of a geologist, was installed on the main square of the town in 1969.

    The concept of large-scale renovation of the central square of Ishimbay, where about 70 thousand people live, was developed based on the wishes of the inhabitants. The renovated square now has an amphitheatre for cultural events, recreation areas with benches, swings and canopies, and a large modern playground for children. Now the territory of the square is also accessible for people with disabilities. The area around the square is planted with fruit trees and shrubs. The reconstruction included the installation of energy efficient lighting and upgraded utilities. Asphalt sidewalk and sidewalk tiles were also replaced.

    Over the past five years, with the support of Bashneft, significant social projects have been implemented in the Ishimbaysky District, including the reconstruction of the district hospital in the village of Petrovskoye, the renovation of the children’s clinic and secondary school No. 3 in Ishimbay.

    Reference:

    Bashneft (a subsidiary of Rosneft) is one of the oldest oil and gas enterprises in the country engaged in oil extraction and processing. The enterprise’s key assets, including the refinery and petrochemical complex, are located in the Republic of Bashkortostan.

    Within the framework of the Cooperation Agreement between Bashkortostan and Rosneft, projects regarding the construction and reconstruction of social and sports facilities, water supply and drainage systems, improvement of parks, public gardens and roads in districts and cities have been implemented and significantly improved the level of social welfare in the Republic. Over the last five years, Bashkir oilmen have financed the construction and reconstruction of more than 300 socially important facilities.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    August 26, 2024

    Keywords: Social News 2024

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Measures to address water scarcity – need for EU initiatives and new financial instruments to assist Greece and other southern European countries – E-001675/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU provides significant financial support to address water management and scarcity. Between 2021 and 2027, EUR 13.2 billion of Cohesion Policy funds[1] are earmarked for sustainable water management.

    The Recovery and Resilience Facility[2], and several missions and partnerships under Horizon Europe[3] also provide support for water resilience[4].

    The Common Agricultural Policy[5] offers inter alia support[6] for water efficiency and water reuse in the agricultural sector, climate smart agriculture and innovation, and risk and crisis management tools.

    The EU programme for the environment and climate action[7] co-finances innovative projects in the environmental sector, including recovery of resources from water.

    Preparatory work and reflections are ongoing for the next multi-annual financial framework.

    Supporting Member States on climate risk preparedness will be part of a European Climate Adaptation Plan[8].

    Moreover, the European Water Resilience strategy[9] will aim to ensure water resources are properly managed, scarcity is addressed, and that the water industry’s innovation is enhanced and takes a circular economy approach.

    It will build on ongoing efforts on water scarcity and drought management in the context of the implementation of the Water Framework Directive[10], including through the Ad Hoc Task group for Water Scarcity and Droughts[11], and the EU Climate Adaptation Strategy[12].

    The Commission will also continue supporting the tourism ecosystem under the Tourism transition pathway[13] to increase water efficiency, reducing water stress and pollution, and improving sanitation, as well as consider how to best support tourism businesses and destinations in the next EU budget.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The need for immediate assistance from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism – P-001717/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    When a disaster occurs, the affected country can request assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM)[1].

    On 13 September 2024, Poland pro-actively activated the Rapid Mapping of the Copernicus Emergency Management Service[2] for floods. On 18 September 2024, Poland activated the UCPM and requested support to strengthen its response to the floods.

    Austria, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Lithuania, Sweden and Slovenia have immediately offered parts of the requested items. Austria, Denmark, Germany, Lithuania and Sweden, have already delivered them to Poland. The transport arrangements for the remaining items are ongoing. In addition, the EU’s strategic reserve, rescEU[3], has been mobilised to complete the offers.

    • [1] https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/eu-civil-protection-mechanism_en
    • [2] https://emergency.copernicus.eu/mapping/ems/rapid-mapping-portfolio
    • [3] https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/resceu_en
    Last updated: 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The right to use one’s own wheelchair up to the aircraft as an inalienable right for all persons with disabilities – E-001505/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The rights of persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility when travelling by air are set out in Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006[1]. In November 2023 the Commission adopted a legislative proposal[2] to review the passenger’s rights legislation, including this regulation. The main aim of the proposal is to make it easier for such passengers to exercise their rights as they often do not fully benefit from their rights due to the shortcomings in the application of the legislation.

    2. The regulation establishes that assistance provided at airports shall, as far as possible, be appropriate to the needs of the passenger[3]. The Commission considers that the best assistance is to allow the use of personal wheelchairs to the greatest extent possible as they provide the greatest possible comfort and scope for maximum mobility, in particular when the airport’s wheelchairs are not suitable for their specific needs. The Commission recognises this as a best practice in its revised interpretative guidelines[4] according to which airports should allow passengers to use their own wheelchair until they board the aircraft and to receive it immediately after disembarking[5]. However, in order to comply with security rules or the handling procedures to ensure the safe loading of the wheelchair into the aircraft’s cargo compartment, passengers might still be required to hand over their wheelchair at the check in or at the boarding gate.

    • [1] Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2006 concerning the rights of disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility when travelling by air (OJ L 204, 26.7.2006, p. 1).
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=COM%3A2023%3A753%3AFIN
    • [3] See Article 7(7) of the regulation.
    • [4] The Commission approved the English language text of the revised interpretative guidelines on 25 September 2024 (see Section 6.4 of C/2024/6546, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ%3AC_202405687).
    • [5] The interpretative guidelines also state that passengers should, where practicable, taking into account safety-related handling procedures, should receive back their own mobility equipment immediately after disembarking and should not be obliged to retrieve it at the baggage hall.
    Last updated: 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Italian court ruling on Libyan Coast Guard rescue operations and its implications for the legal compliance of EU funding – E-002089/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    16.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002089/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tineke Strik (Verts/ALE)

    In June 2024, Crotone Civil Court in Italy ruled[1] that interceptions at sea conducted by the Libyan Coast Guard cannot legally qualify as rescue operations since the Libyan authorities are systematically armed, fire gunshots to intimidate civil society actors and migrants, and create an overall situation of danger. Furthermore, the court recalled that Libya cannot be considered a safe place for disembarkation due to its serious and systematic violations of human rights and the fact that it has never ratified the Geneva Convention.

    • 1.Can the Commission confirm that it maintains the view that providing EU funds to the Libyan authorities through the programme entitled ‘Support to integrated border and migration management in Libya’ is justified on humanitarian grounds (see answers E-005612/2021[2] and E-000363/2022[3])?
    • 2.If so, what implications will the Crotone ruling have for the provision of EU funds to Libya under this programme, considering the principle of sound financial management as enshrined in the Financial Regulation[4], which stipulates that EU funds should be effective in achieving the objectives of a project, and also considering the Italian court ruling, which states that Libyan border authorities are unable to carry out rescue operations in line with international standards?

    Submitted: 16.10.2024

    • [1] Ruling No 348/2024, available at: https://www.asgi.it/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2024_06_26_Court-of-Crotone_final-decision_ITA_geschwarzt.pdf.
    • [2] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-005612-ASW_EN.html.
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2022-000363-ASW_EN.html.
    • [4] Article 33 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 July 2018 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union, amending Regulations (EU) No 1296/2013, (EU) No 1301/2013, (EU) No 1303/2013, (EU) No 1304/2013, (EU) No 1309/2013, (EU) No 1316/2013, (EU) No 223/2014, (EU) No 283/2014, and Decision No 541/2014/EU and repealing Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012, OJ L 193, 30.7.2018, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/1046/oj.
    Last updated: 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of or produced from genetically modified cotton COT102 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council – B10-0145/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
    Members responsible: Martin Häusling, Biljana Borzan, Anja Hazekamp

    B10‑0145/2024

    European Parliament resolution on the draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of or produced from genetically modified cotton COT102 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council (D098499/04 – 2024/2835(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of or produced from genetically modified cotton COT102 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council (D098499/04),

    – having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 September 2003 on genetically modified food and feed[1], and in particular Article 7(3) and Article 19(3) thereof,

    – having regard to the vote of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed referred to in Article 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003, on 8 July 2024, at which no opinion was delivered, and the vote of the Appeal Committee on 3 September 2024, at which again no opinion was delivered,

    – having regard to Article 11 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers[2],

    – having regard to the opinion adopted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on 10 May 2023, and published on 26 June 2023[3],

    – having regard to its previous resolutions objecting to the authorisation of genetically modified organisms (‘GMOs’)[4],

    – having regard to Rule 115(2) and (3) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety,

    A. whereas, on 31 March 2017, Syngenta Crop Protection NV/SA, based in Belgium, submitted, on behalf of Syngenta Crop Protection AG, based in Switzerland, an application to the national competent authority of Germany for the placing on the market of foods, food ingredients and feed containing, consisting of or produced from genetically modified cotton COT102 (the ‘GM cotton’), in accordance with Articles 5 and 17 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 (‘the application’); whereas the application also covered the placing on the market of products containing or consisting of the GM cotton for uses other than food and feed, with the exception of cultivation;

    B. whereas, on 10 May 2023, EFSA adopted a favourable opinion, which was published on 10 May 2023, concluding that the GM cotton is as safe as its non-GM comparator and the tested non-GM cotton varieties with respect to potential effects on human and animal health and the environment;

    C. whereas the GM cotton contains genes producing insecticidal proteins (‘Bt toxins’) and an antibiotic resistance marker gene (‘ARMG’);

    D. whereas cottonseed oil may be used in the production of a wide variety of food products such as dressings, mayonnaise, fine bakery wares, chocolate spreads and chips; whereas consumption of cottonseed flour is the most likely way in which humans could be exposed to the two proteins resulting from the genetic modification; whereas cotton is commonly used in animal feed in the form of undelinted seeds and meal;

    Outstanding questions concerning Bt toxins

    E. whereas the toxicity of the Bt toxins was assessed on the basis of feeding studies using only isolated Bt proteins produced by bacteria; whereas little significance can be attributed to toxicological tests conducted with proteins in isolation, due to the fact that Bt toxins in GM crops, such as maize, cotton and soybeans, are inherently more toxic than isolated Bt toxins; whereas this is because protease inhibitors (PI), present in the plant tissue, can increase the toxicity of the Bt toxins by delaying their degradation; whereas this phenomenon has been demonstrated in a number of scientific studies, including one conducted for Monsanto which showed that even the presence of extremely low levels of PI enhanced the toxicity of Bt toxins up to 20-fold[5];

    F. whereas this enhanced toxicity is not taken into account in EFSA risk assessments, even though it is relevant for all Bt plants approved for import or cultivation in the Union; whereas risks to humans and animals that consume food and feed containing Bt toxins and which arise from this enhanced toxicity due to the interaction between PI and Bt toxins cannot, therefore, be ruled out;

    G. whereas a number of studies show that side effects have been observed that may affect the immune system following exposure to Bt toxins and that some Bt toxins may have adjuvant properties[6], meaning that they can increase the allergenicity of other proteins with which they come into contact;

    Bt crops: effects on non-target organisms

    H. whereas, unlike the use of insecticides, where exposure is at the time of spraying and for a limited time afterwards, the use of Bt GM crops leads to continuous exposure of the target and non-target organisms to Bt toxins;

    I. whereas the assumption that Bt toxins exhibit a single target-specific mode-of-action can no longer be considered correct and effects on non-target organisms cannot be excluded[7];

    J. whereas an increasing number of non-target organisms are reported to be affected in many ways; whereas 39 peer-reviewed publications that report significant adverse effects of Bt toxins on many ‘out-of-range’ species are mentioned in a recent overview[8];

    Reducing dependency on imported feed

    K. whereas one of the lessons from the COVID-19 crisis and the still ongoing war in Ukraine is the need for the Union to end the dependencies on some critical materials; whereas in the mission letter to Commissioner-delegate Christophe Hansen, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen asks him to look at ways to reduce imports of critical commodities[9];

    Inclusion of ARMG

    L. whereas the GM cotton produces the APH4 protein, which is used as an ARMG and which deactivates the activity of the antibiotic hygromycin B;

    M. whereas Article 4(2) of Directive 2001/18/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council[10] requires that ‘GMOs which contain genes expressing resistance to antibiotics in use for medical or veterinary treatment are taken into particular consideration when carrying out an environmental risk assessment, with a view to identifying and phasing out antibiotic resistance markers in GMOs which may have adverse effects on human health and the environment’ and sets a deadline of 2004, beyond which they should not be placed on the Union market;

    N. whereas Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 503/2013[11] states that it is now possible to develop GMOs without the use of ARMGs […] the applicant should therefore aim to develop GMOs without the use of ARMGs;

    O. whereas several Member States raised critical comments regarding the use of ARMGs, including that, in the face of the current crisis concerning antibiotic resistance, it would be wise to implement the precautionary principle, especially in the present case where the application of the ARMG is completely unnecessary and the removal of the ARMG from the plant genome possible; whereas one Member State’s competent authority gave the authorisation an unfavourable opinion based on the presence of the ARMG in the genome of the GM cotton;

    P. whereas the European Medical Agency has confirmed there are no products containing hygromycin B authorised for therapeutic, prophylactic or any other medical uses in humans or animals in the Member States and there are no central authorisations for human or veterinary use for medicinal products that contain hygromycin B11; whereas the EFSA opinion states that ‘the GMO Panel considers that the risk assessment may need to be updated in case products containing hygromycin B or other substrates of the APH4 enzyme obtain future market approval in the EU’; whereas, however, hygromycin B is used in veterinary products which are sold outside the Union;

    Q. whereas the Parliament has, on at least one previous occasion, objected to the import of GM crops which contained ARMGs[12];

    R. whereas antimicrobial resistance poses a threat to global health, food security, and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, and drug-resistant infections know no borders[13];

    Member State competent authority and stakeholder comments

    S. whereas Member States submitted many critical comments to EFSA during the three-month consultation period[14] including that cultivation of the GM cotton on agricultural fields is to be considered as deliberate contamination of natural environments with antibiotic resistance genes, as well as that the information provided on molecular characterisation, composition and toxicology is insufficient and therefore EFSA’s conclusions of equivalence of the GM cotton with conventional cotton in terms of food and feed safety is premature;

    T. whereas Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 states that GM food or feed must not have adverse effects on human health, animal health or the environment, and requires the Commission to take into account any relevant provisions of Union law and other legitimate factors relevant to the matter under consideration when drafting its decision; whereas such legitimate factors should include the Union’s commitments to tackle antimicrobial resistance;

    Undemocratic decision-making

    U. whereas, in its eighth term, Parliament adopted a total of 36 resolutions objecting to the placing on the market of GMOs for food and feed (33 resolutions) and to the cultivation of GMOs in the Union (three resolutions); whereas, in its ninth term, Parliament adopted 38 objections to the placing GMOs on the market;

    V. whereas despite its own acknowledgement of the democratic shortcomings, the lack of support from Member States and the objections of Parliament, the Commission continues to authorise GMOs;

    W. whereas no change of law is required for the Commission to be able not to authorise GMOs when there is no qualified majority of Member States in favour in the Appeal Committee[15];

    X. whereas the vote on 8 July 2024 of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed referred to in Article 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 delivered no opinion, meaning that the authorisation was not supported by a qualified majority of Member States; whereas the vote on 3 September 2024 of the Appeal Committee again delivered no opinion;

    1. Considers that the draft Commission implementing decision exceeds the implementing powers provided for in Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003;

    2. Considers that the draft Commission implementing decision is not consistent with Union law, in that it is not compatible with the aim of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003, which is, in accordance with the general principles laid down in Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council[16], to provide the basis for ensuring a high level of protection of human life and health, animal health and welfare, and environmental and consumer interests, in relation to GM food and feed, while ensuring the effective functioning of the internal market;

    3. Calls on the Commission to withdraw its draft implementing decision and to submit a new draft to the committee;

    4. Reiterates its call on the Commission not to authorise the placing on the market of any GM plants containing genes which confer antimicrobial resistance; notes that authorisation would be in violation of Article 4(2) of Directive 2001/18/EC which calls for a phase out of ARMGs which may have adverse effects on human health or on the environment;

    5. Welcomes the fact that the Commission finally recognised, in a letter of 11 September 2020 to Members, the need to take sustainability into account when it comes to authorisation decisions on GMOs[17]; expresses its deep disappointment, however, that, since then the Commission has continued to authorise GMOs for import into the Union, despite ongoing objections by Parliament and a majority of Member States voting against;

    6. Urges the Commission, again, to take into account the Union’s obligations under international agreements, such as the Paris Climate Agreement, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; reiterates its call for draft implementing acts to be accompanied by an explanatory memorandum explaining how they uphold the principle of ‘do no harm’[18];

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council and the Commission, and to the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Understanding EU policy on firearms trafficking – 23-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Precise figures about the numbers of illegal firearms in the European Union (EU) are lacking, but several indicators point to their widespread availability and accessibility. According to the Small Arms Survey, over half of the estimated total number of firearms held by civilians in the EU in 2017 were unlicensed. While most of these citizens had no criminal intentions, their illicit firearms could be used for self-harm or domestic violence, or end up in the hands of criminals or terrorists. Most criminals and terrorists have more sophisticated ways to get hold of illicit firearms. They can be trafficked from source countries, diverted from legal supply chains, illegally manufactured or assembled in the EU, converted from legally available weapons, or sourced on the internet. Firearms seizures suggest that the EU illicit firearms market is made up mostly of shotguns, pistols and rifles, with converted or convertible weapons also appearing frequently. Illicit firearms trafficking is driven by criminal demand, with organised crime groups that engage in firearms trafficking also involved in other forms of criminality. The EU considers illicit firearms a key crime threat precisely because they are used in many crimes and terrorist attacks. Even people who lack extensive criminal connections can access illicit firearms due to increased online trafficking and the availability of easy-to-convert weapons. The EU is actively involved in addressing the threat posed by illegal firearms by means of legislative and policy measures, and provides operational assistance to the Member States in the fight against firearms trafficking. The EU is also active in the international fight against firearms trafficking, working closely with the United Nations (UN) in its work to combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and engaging in the UN’s global firearms programme. Although the export of arms remains a national competence, the EU has defined common rules governing the control of exports of military technology and equipment and works actively with third countries that are viewed as source or transit countries for illicit firearms. This is an update of a briefing by Ann Neville, published in 2022.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: FDPIC concludes investigation into the Ricardo auction platform with recommendations

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    The Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner (FDPIC) concluded his case investigation into the Ricardo auction platform on 11 April 2024. In his final report, he recommended that Ricardo AG and the TX Group AG make data transfers and cross-platform tracking for the purpose of targeted advertising transparent and obtain valid consent for these practices from their users.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Safeguarding the construction of the Great Sea Interconnector from Türkiye’s illegal acts – E-002071/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    15.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002071/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Geadis Geadi (ECR)

    In a statement from the floor of the United Nations, the Turkish President referred to a definition of the continental shelf in the eastern Mediterranean which includes illegitimate claims by Türkiye against the Republic of Cyprus and of Greece.

    The European Great Sea Interconnector project, which links Cyprus to the European market, crosses through the EEΖ of the Republic of Cyprus and extends to Greece. In view of this:

    • 1.What legal means does the Commission have at its disposal to deal with external risks to the unimpeded construction of the project?
    • 2.What steps will it take to ensure that the laying of the cable is not jeopardised?
    • 3.How does the Commission plan to act to prevent Türkiye from carrying out illegal acts that would stand in the way of a European project of general interest?

    Submitted: 15.10.2024

    Last updated: 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – ‘REspect!’ – first censorship agency in Germany under the Digital Services Act – E-002057/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    14.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002057/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN), Petr Bystron (ESN)

    On 1 October 2024, the German Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) approved the first trusted flagger within the meaning of the Digital Services Act. The ‘REspect!’ hotline of the Baden-Württemberg Youth Foundation received this approval[1]. One of the prerequisites for trusted flaggers required by the Federal Network Agency is that online platforms be independent[2]. However, the organisation REspect! receives funding from Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria and the federal programme ‘Demokratie leben!’ (Living Democracy!) and would probably not be viable without these grants.

    Appointment and monitoring are carried out by the Federal Network Agency, which operates under the authority and directives of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs. The Federal Minister and the Head of the Federal Network Agency are members of the Bündnis 90/Die Grünen party.

    • 1.What are the legal requirements under the DSA to ensure the independence of a trusted flagger from the state, in particular with regard to freedom of expression and the rule of law?
    • 2.How is it ensured that the approval of trusted flaggers is not subject to party-political preferences of a national ministry?
    • 3.What is the Commission’s assessment of the reliance of trusted flaggers on public funding, and should such independence also be required by law?

    Supporters[3]

    Submitted: 14.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.bundesnetzagentur.de/SharedDocs/Pressemitteilungen/DE/2024/20240927_DSC_TrustedFlagger.html
    • [2] https://www.dsc.bund.de/DSC/DE/4TrustedF/start.html
    • [3] This question is supported by Members other than the authors: René Aust (ESN), Marc Jongen (ESN), Tomasz Froelich (ESN), Markus Buchheit (ESN), Hans Neuhoff (ESN), Arno Bausemer (ESN), Alexander Sell (ESN), Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN), Anja Arndt (ESN), Irmhild Boßdorf (ESN)
    Last updated: 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Take a ‘teledrive’

    Source: European Investment Bank

    In January 2024, Vay launched its first commercial service – in Las Vegas, where regulations for driverless vehicles are currently less stringent than in Europe. The technology was installed in 20 Kia Niro electric vehicles, and the service covers about a quarter of the city. The company plans to scale up the Las Vegas service, and to introduce it across Europe.

    Developing the technology and scaling up the service is expensive, but the company raised money fast. “We have fantastic investors. We raised our first pre-seed in three days – €1.1 million,” von der Ohe says. Eight months later, the company secured an additional €12.5 million, and in 2021, an additional €95 million. “Having the experience from Silicon Valley helped,” he adds.

    In September 2024, the European Investment Bank signed a €34 million venture-debt investment, supported by InvestEU, to help Vay accelerate the development of its service and technology.

    “The European Investment Bank helped by giving us good financing terms to take our technology to the next step,” von der Ohe says. “It helps us roll out our technology in more markets, especially across Europe.”

    Given von der Ohe’s European ambitions, it’s notable that Vay became the first and only company in Europe to drive on public streets without a safety driver, when it received authorisation from Hamburg to operate a driverless car in the city’s streets in 2023.

    “That’s the big step change – taking out the physical driver,” says von der Ohe. “Even in the US, only Waymo has achieved this, and they’re owned by Google, which invests billions of dollars every year to develop that technology.”

    Teledriving: This is how it works.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Investment Survey 2024: More than 60% of European companies have invested in climate mitigation and adaptation and more than 70% in their digital transformation

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EU businesses lead way in investments in climate mitigation and adaptation, with 61% having already invested and 53% planning to do so.
    • Use of advanced digital technologies on the rise as 74% of European firms embrace advanced technologies to enhance competitiveness.
    • Faced with trade shocks, firms are investing in more resilient and secure supply chains.

    Companies in the European Union weathered relatively well the health, price and trade shocks of the last four years and have increased their ambitions for green and digital transformation, according to a survey by the European Investment Bank (EIB).  

    The EIB’s Investment Survey 2024 , released today at the World Bank-IMF Annual Meetings in Washington, paints a picture of leadership of EU businesses in the green transition and the reinforcement of their supply chains in the face of heightened geopolitical risks and supply-chain disruptions.

    Many firms in Europe are satisfied with their investment levels over the past three years and are committed to tackling climate change and embracing digital technologies, the survey shows. It covers a total of around 12,000 companies in all EU countries as well as a comparison sample in the United States.

    While the share of EU companies expecting to increase rather than decrease investment has halved to a net balance of 7% in 2024, compared with last year, businesses in Europe continue to outpace their US counterparts and lead in investments to slash emissions that cause climate change or cope with the impact of severe weather. The latest Investment Survey shows that 61% of EU firms have invested in tackling climate change, compared to 56% in 2023 and 53% in 2022. The green transition impose transformation, but also brings opportunities. More than a quarter of EU firms –27%– view the transition to a net-zero economy, as an opportunity over the next five years.

    “The commitment of EU firms to the green and digital transitions illustrates the potential of the European economy,” said EIB President Nadia Calviño. “The survey confirms that public-private partnership is at the heart of strategic investments to sustain the competitiveness, security and autonomy of the EU in global markets.”

    Around 90% of EU and US firms have taken measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Key strategies adopted include investment in waste reduction and recycling and energy efficiency. EU companies are more likely than US ones to have enacted sustainable transport options, opted for renewable-energy generation and set emissions-reduction targets. One in three EU companies –34%– sees the green transition as a business risk compared with 42% in the US. 

    In the EU, 37% of total investments by businesses are directed towards intangible assets such as research, skills and know-how, highlighting a strategic focus on innovation and digital solutions.74% of EU businesses reported using digital technologies, marking a 4% increase from last year. Meanwhile, the US continues to lead at 81%.

    Looking ahead to the next three years, however, many European companies are prioritising replacement investments over capacity expansion, with only 26% of EU firms planning to expand operations in the next three years compared with 47% of US firms.

    “The focus of EU companies on innovation is welcome and must be supported”, added EIB President Nadia Calviño. “That is why the EIB Group is working on new Action Plan to reinforce the integration of Europe´s Capital Markets and thereby channel private savings into productive investment in Europe”.

    The business environment remains a concern for firms in the European Union and the United States, with lack of skilled labour and uncertainty about the future as one of the key concerns in both regions. Business investment is still hindered by high energy costs, which pose significant obstacles for 46% of EU businesses.

    The majority (60%) of EU exporters report that they still have to comply with different standards and consumer protection rules from one Member State to the next, highlighting that market fragmentation persists.

    “European firms are making strides in addressing both climate change and the digital transformation,” said EIB Chief Economist Debora Revoltella. “But boosting EU investment requires a less fragmented EU single market.”

    The survey also underscores the importance of robust supply chains. Concerns about trade disruptions have eased compared to last year, but firms did not see improvements in terms of new regulations, tariffs or trade restriction. EU companies are well integrated into global trade and substantially benefited from it in the past. In a new world with rising geopolitical tensions, EU firms are reacting by enhancing the resilience of their supply chains in looking at economic security and efficiency.

    The 2024 report serves policymakers, economists and business leaders by providing insights into the investment landscape and identifying actions needed to foster economic growth and resilience. For more information and the full report, visit our website here.

     Background information

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union and is owned by its Member States. It provides finance and expertise for projects that contribute to the EU’s policy objectives. The EIB works closely with public and private-sector partners to support sustainable investment, job creation, economic growth and innovation across Europe.

    On October 7th, European Union Finance ministers have welcomed an Action Plan to be deployed by the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, to support the development of the EU’s Capital Markets Union. One key objective of the Action Plan is closing the funding gap throughout the company and innovation cycle; the EIB Group plans to scale up support for the EU venture capital and private equity markets, to help retain the most innovative scale-ups in Europe.

    About the report

    The EIB Group Survey on Investment, which has been carried out since 2016, is a unique annual survey of some 12,000 firms. Data for the latest edition was collected in mid-2024 from companies in all EU Member States. The survey also includes a sample of businesses in the United States. The survey collects data on company characteristics and performance, past investment activities and future plans, sources of finance, financing hurdles and other business challenges such as climate change, digitalisation and international trade.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation – RC-B10-0123/2024/REV1

    Source: European Parliament

    Peter Liese
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Tiemo Wölken
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Ruggero Razza
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Andreas Glück
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Ignazio Roberto Marino
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    European Parliament resolution on the urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation

    (2024/2849(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 168 thereof,

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2017/745 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2017 on medical devices, amending Directive 2001/83/EC, Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 and Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and repealing Council Directives 90/385/EEC and 93/42/EEC[1] (MDR),

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2017/746 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2017 on in vitro diagnostic medical devices and repealing Directive 98/79/EC and Commission Decision 2010/227/EU[2] (IVDR),

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2023/607 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2023 amending Regulations (EU) 2017/745 and (EU) 2017/746 as regards the transitional provisions for certain medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices[3],

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2020/561[4], Regulation (EU) 2022/112[5], Regulation (EU) 2023/607 and Regulation (EU) 2024/1860[6] extending the implementation periods of Regulation (EU) 2017/745 and Regulation (EU) 2017/746,

    – having regard to the Commission’s proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) 2017/745 and (EU) 2017/746 as regards the transitional provisions for certain medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices (COM(2023)0010),

    – having regard to the European Medicines Agency’s 2023 Annual Report and its review on market access and safety concerns for medical devices,

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) and (4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices play a crucial role in high-quality healthcare, directly affecting the health, safety and well-being of millions of patients across the EU;

    B. whereas approximately 500 000 different medical devices are available on the EU market, covering a broad range of technologies, from contact lenses to pacemakers, and serving different purposes, including diagnosis, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and improving the quality of life of patients and the work of healthcare professionals and carers;

    C. whereas disparities in access to medical devices persist across Member States, affecting patient care and leading to health inequalities; whereas such disparities underscore the need for improved availability and affordability of crucial devices;

    D. whereas the MDR and IVDR were adopted to strengthen the regulatory framework for medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices, as a response to several high-profile scandals with unsafe medical equipment, with the purpose of ensuring higher standards of safety, transparency and clinical performance while also fostering innovation in the sector;

    E. whereas the MDR and IVDR introduced more robust requirements for clinical evaluations, post-market surveillance and vigilance reporting, promoting transparency in the approval and monitoring processes;

    F. whereas despite these aims, significant challenges have been encountered in implementing the MDR and the IVDR, not only leading to delays but also resulting in failures to achieve certification and approval of medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices, particularly impacting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as resulting in shortages of medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices, thus restricting patient access to innovative and life-saving therapeutic and diagnostic technologies;

    G. whereas many stakeholders, in particular small and medium-sized manufacturers, notified bodies and healthcare providers, have reported difficulties in navigating the complex regulatory procedures under the current MDR and IVDR framework, with potential risks posed to the continuous availability of life-saving medical devices and critical in vitro diagnostic tests in the EU;

    H. whereas the transitional periods for the implementation of the MDR and IVDR have been extended on numerous occasions to address issues including the capacity of notified bodies and to allow industry more time to adapt to new rules in order to prevent devices being withdrawn from the EU market;

    I. whereas due to a lack of harmonised procedures across notified bodies in the EU, among other things, manufacturers can in some instances face unpredictable timelines for certification and market access, which creates unpredictability, alongside inconsistency in decisions and a lack of transparency in relation to the work of the notified bodies;

    J. whereas there is a need for the regulatory frameworks to better accommodate innovative devices that address unmet medical needs and provide better prioritisation and fast-track pathways;

    K. whereas the Commission initiated non-legislative actions to support the transition to the MDR and IVDR, focusing in particular on the availability of medical devices on the market, the preparedness of notified bodies, the development of orphan and paediatric devices, SME support and the waiving of fees for scientific advice in critical areas where, despite these measures, financial and administrative challenges persist, particularly in the orphan and paediatric sectors;

    L. whereas the deadlines for implementing the MDR and IVDR have been extended multiple times to help the industry adapt to new regulations, to prevent market withdrawals and to ensure the continuous supply of devices; whereas these extensions were critical in maintaining public health protection during the COVID-19 pandemic;

    M. whereas since the adoption of the MDR and IVDR, the Commission has also introduced new provisions regarding the European Database on Medical Devices (EUDAMED) and a notification system for market interruptions or supply discontinuation;

    N. whereas it is important to ensure that patients and healthcare professionals have access to all relevant documents and decisions taken by the notified bodies;

    1. Calls on the Commission to propose, by the end of Q1 2025, delegated and implementing acts to the MDR and the IVDR to address the most pressing challenges and bottlenecks in the implementation of the legislative frameworks and to propose the systematic revision of all relevant articles of these regulations, accompanied by an impact assessment, to be conducted as soon as possible;

    2. Calls on the Commission to make full use of legislative and non-legislative tools to resolve issues of divergent interpretation and of practical application to streamline the regulatory process, improve transparency, and eliminate unnecessary administrative work for notified bodies and manufacturers, particularly SMEs, without compromising patient safety;

    3. Deplores the risk of shortages of medical devices and the lack of access to certain medical devices and in vitro diagnostics in parts of the EU; stresses that access to and quality of healthcare, including medical devices and in vitro diagnostics, should not depend on where in the EU a patient is located;

    4. Encourages the notified bodies to ensure that there are sufficient resources to meet the market demand in a timely manner; in this regard, calls on the Commission and the Member States to enhance support and cooperation to ensure that the notified bodies have the optimal capacities and capabilities to fully implement the regulatory framework;

    5. Advocates the creation of transparent and binding timelines, including clock stops for procedural steps in conformity assessment by notified bodies, thus creating predictability and certainty for manufacturers regarding the market access procedure and its duration within the EU;

    6. Calls for transparency in notified bodies’ fees and fee structures, to allow economic operators to compare notified bodies and make informed choices, ensuring that fees remain a fair compensation for the public service provided;

    7. Stresses the need to eliminate the unnecessary re-certification of products, and underlines that certain product updates or adjustments should not necessarily lead to an entire re-certification of the product; stresses the need to harmonise such provisions and ensure consistency across the EU; calls for cooperation between the competent authorities and advisory bodies responsible for other regulatory frameworks, and stresses the need for products to be classified correctly and consistently;

    8. Strongly calls on the Commission to consider fast-track and prioritisation pathways for the approval of innovative technologies in areas of unmet medical need and for devices linked to health emergencies;

    9. Highlights the need to establish a clear working definition of ‘orphan device’, as determined by the Medical Device Coordination Group in the MDR and IVDR, to facilitate the adoption of harmonised measures across the EU; additionally calls for a robust system to prevent misuse through artificial ‘orphanisation’;

    10.  Calls for the introduction of adapted rules for orphan and paediatric medical devices, without compromising patient safety, and emphasises the need for more efficient conformity assessment procedures tailored to medical devices and in vitro diagnostics serving relatively small markets, such as products for the treatment of children or rare diseases;

    11. Calls on the Commission to facilitate the collection of clinical data from existing national registries for small patient groups treated or diagnosed with orphan and paediatric devices, in compliance with the protection of personal data; recognises the challenges faced by various SMEs in adapting to the legal frameworks; invites the Member States and the Commission to develop specific measures to support SMEs, including the provision of model application documents and forms, regulatory guidance and other assistance to reduce the costs and complexity of the regulatory frameworks;

    12. Calls on the Commission to continuously monitor the availability of devices, particularly the last remaining devices of particular types, and to take appropriate action to keep them available in the EU market; in this regard, calls for an urgent full implementation of EUDAMED, which will enable information about medical devices and manufacturers to be processed to enhance transparency, provide better access to information for the public and healthcare professionals, and enhance coordination between Member States;

    13. Emphasises that any new rules or changes to existing rules must come with an appropriate transition period to allow all stakeholders sufficient time to adjust to the changes;

    14. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Why won’t Labour even consider putting water companies back into public hands ask Greens

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Responding to the news (BBC) that a new independent commission will soon launch the largest review of the water industry since privatisation in the 1980s, Green Party Co-Leader, Carla Denyer said,

    “Water is a basic human need. It should be in public hands run for people, not profit. I don’t know why Labour won’t even consider this.”

    by Green Party

    Press Releases

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Caol Swedish Timber Retrofit Project

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council is undertaking a retrofit project in Caol for Swedish Timber properties which aims to enhance the energy efficiency of homes, reduce carbon emissions and reduce energy demand and costs. This initiative is part of the Council’s efforts to meet its 2045 Net Zero targets, in line with the Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy.

    The project aims to reduce energy costs, improve lifestyles and make homes warmer for residents, while addressing fuel poverty. Focusing on properties which have a low energy efficiency rating and are amongst the most in need of energy efficiency upgrades to meet Scotland’s energy standards. This is a mixed tenure project and available to both privately owned and Council properties.

    Councillor Sarah Fanet, Chair of the Climate Change Committee, said “It is wonderful to see the Council delivering a mixed tenure project which offers significant benefits to Highland residents, aligning with Net Zero targets and housing standards. This project is an exemplar for building future mixed-tenure retrofit projects which can attract various sources of external funding, aligning with the Council’s ambition to reduce fuel poverty across the region.”

    Anticipated benefits of the project include lower energy bills, improved home comfort, and significant reductions in carbon emissions. Some properties are expected to see significant increases in their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, potentially increasing ratings from E to B. The improvements are expected to make homes not only more energy efficient but also more affordable to maintain in the long term.

    The Council is delivering the project in partnership with Union Technical Services Limited, who is the Council’s approved Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (EES:ABS) contractor and have produced a video (link below) which outlines the project.

    https://vimeo.com/1008021843/ab3462bf62?share=copy

    Michael Sweeney, Director, Union Technical Services said “We are delighted to be delivering the scheme in Caol. This will give the whole area a lift in terms of aesthetics but more importantly we will be reducing fuel bills and giving residents a better quality of life and a warmer home to live in.”

    Multiple funding streams, including Scottish Government EES:ABS, Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding, SSE Renewable grant and Council Housing Capital budget, have been secured to enable the Council to have a wider impact and achieve economies of scale.

    Lindsay Dougan, Senior Manager, SSE Renewables said “The Highland Energy Efficiency Programme is a great example of partners working together to support the needs of the Highlands. SSE Renewables Sustainable Development Fund has provided £1.8 million to the programme to ensure households in extreme fuel poverty are supported to have the warmer, energy efficient homes they need.”

    This project builds on the success of the Council’s Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme, which the Council is delighted to announce has been shortlisted as a finalist for The Scottish Green Energy Awards in two award categories; Outstanding Project Award and Carbon Reduction Award.

    For more information and to stay updated on the Energy Efficient Highland Project, please visit our website https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/1210/environment/829/energy_and_sustainability/4

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Shetland residents have their say about population decline across island communities Shetland residents have supported a new research project looking at ways to help make the islands’ population sustainable.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Survey responses can still be returned by post and online until 5 NovemberShetland residents have supported a new research project looking at ways to help make the islands’ population sustainable.
    More than 450 households took part in a study investigating changing population dynamics and the role policy and place-based interventions can play to help create and maintain healthy and balanced populations in Shetland and other Scottish island communities.
    The project is led by Marcus Craigie, a PhD student based at the University of Aberdeen, supervised by academics in the Department of Geography and Environment at the School of Geosciences and The James Hutton Institute. Marcus’ research is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council.
    Marcus, who grew up in Orkney, said: “I am delighted by the support shown by local communities during fieldwork in August and September and with the response rates to surveys distributed across Unst, Bressay, Burra and Trondra, and Walls and Sandness.
    “It is vitally important that the challenges and opportunities associated with retaining existing residents and attracting new and returning residents – for example, transport, housing and jobs – are considered in a way that is geographically nuanced and to do this, we need people to have their say.”
    Over 450 surveys have already been returned but, from discussions in the community, Marcus says he is aware others were filled out but may not have been returned or were left in places the restrictions of his role prevent him from accessing.
    “From chatting to local residents, I know that a number left their surveys ready to be collected inside their front doors but I wasn’t able to enter someone’s home and collect in this way without prior permission from the homeowner,” he added.
    “The survey will help increase awareness of the Shetland context in Scotland-wide discussions about island population change and support policy recommendations for national and local government, so we want the best representation possible. I am hugely grateful to everyone who has taken the time to share their views, and it would be a real shame not to collect any responses which either missed the initial deadline for collection or were left for collection in this way.”
    If anyone has already received an invitation to take part in the survey and has a completed response that was not collected it may be returned by 5 November 2024 to: Marcus Craigie, Doctoral Candidate, Geography and Environment, School of Geosciences, University of Aberdeen, St Mary’s, Elphinstone Road, Aberdeen, AB24 3UF.
    An opportunity to complete and submit a response online at https://bit.ly/ShetlandSurvey using the participant ID on the invitation to participate also remains available until 5 November 2024.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Everyone invited to Community Wellbeing Event

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Parents, young people, community groups and everyone in between are invited to a Community Wellbeing Event taking place in Craigavon Civic Centre on Thursday 7 November.

    Focusing on relaxation, fun and self-care, this event will also feature information stands with details on support services for drugs, alcohol and mental health.

    With health checks, a mocktail bar, spot prizes and goodie bags, this event is open to the whole community. There will be interactive activities helping to educate people on the services provided by organisations within the ABC area, as well as improving access to these services.

    Look out for signposting, advice, guidance and information and make sure to enjoy some of the light refreshments that will also be served on the night.

    Guest speaker will be Theresa Burke who has been tirelessly helping to raise awareness of the devastating and long-lasting impact of drugs following her son’s death in 2009.

    “We would like to encourage people to come along, get involved, avail of some health checks and listen to Theresa who bravely continues to raise awareness of the real cost of drugs,” commented Alderman Mark Baxter, Chair of the PCSP.

    “Vital information and advice on these important issues will also be readily available and will show how all of our local organisations work together to help those who need this support and help.”

    The event has been organised by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) in partnership with Southern Drug and Alcohol Communication Team Connections Service (SDACT).

    If you are interested in attending this event please rsvp to 

    *protected email*

     by Thursday 31 October.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IFFI 2024 celebrates Australia’s Rich Film Traditions and Vibrant Cinema Culture

    Source: Government of India

    IFFI 2024 celebrates Australia’s Rich Film Traditions and Vibrant Cinema Culture

    Australia to be the “Country of Focus” at the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India

    Australia-India Co-Production Panel to explore collaboration opportunities at ‘Film Bazaar’

    Academy award winning Cinematographer John Seale to host Master Class at IFFI 2024

    Posted On: 23 OCT 2024 3:05PM by PIB Mumbai

    #IFFIWood, 23rd October 2024

    The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is proud to announce that Australia has been nominated as the “Country of Focus” at the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), to be held in Goa from 20th November to 28th November 2024. This special recognition aims to celebrate the dynamic contributions of Australian cinema to the global film industry, highlighting its rich storytelling traditions, vibrant film culture and innovative cinematic techniques.  India & Australia are already parties to an Audio Visual Co-production Treaty.

     

     

    Country of Focus at IFFI

    The “Country of Focus” segment is a key feature of IFFI, offering a dedicated showcase of a nation’s best contemporary films. Australia’s diverse cultural background and globally acclaimed filmmakers have had a lasting impact on cinema, making it a fitting selection for this year. This inclusion reflects the strengthening collaboration between the Indian and Australian film industries.

    Showcase of Australian Films

    IFFI will present a carefully curated selection of seven Australian films, offering a diverse blend of genres, from critically acclaimed dramas to powerful documentaries, visually stunning thrillers, and light-hearted comedies. These films will showcase the unique cultural identity of Australia, reflecting the vibrant spectrum of stories from its indigenous and contemporary communities.

    Participation in Film Bazaar

    Film Bazaar, the largest South Asian film market held alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), will see a sizeable Australian participation with a strong delegation from Screen Australia, State Screen Commissions and also Ausfilm, the agency promoting Australia as a filming destination. They will showcase their offerings including Australian locations and incentives at the special Film Office exhibition area. The Film Bazaar will also see a Producers’ delegation with upto six producers receiving funding from the Australian Government to attend Film Bazaar and explore co-production opportunities. There will also be a special Australian Co-production Day at the Film Bazaar where filmmaker delegates from both the countries will be given an opportunity to network. Film Bazaar has also selected the Australian project Home Before Night as one of its official entries in the Co-Production Market.

     

    Australia-India Film Co-Production Panel

    In line with the growing collaboration between the Indian and Australian film industries, a dedicated panel discussion in the Knowledge Series will focus on co-production opportunities between the two countries. Featuring producers and industry experts, the panel will explore the creative and logistical aspects of co-productions and highlight successful ventures.

    Master Class by Cinematographer John Seale

    A major attraction will be a Cinematography Master Class led by Academy Award-winning cinematographer John Seale, known for his work on iconic films such as Mad Max: Fury Road and The English Patient. This session will delve into his artistic journey and offer invaluable technical insights to budding filmmakers and enthusiasts.

    The 55th IFFI is set to be an exhilarating celebration of world cinema, bringing together an eclectic mix of films from across the globe, stimulating panel discussions, engaging workshops, and exclusive screenings. This year’s “Country of Focus” spotlight on Australia is sure to enhance IFFI’s mission of fostering cultural exchange and promoting cinematic art that transcends borders.

    Founded in 1952, the International Film Festival of India is one of Asia’s most significant film festivals, serving as a platform for filmmakers worldwide to present their works. Held annually in Goa, IFFI attracts directors, producers, actors, and film enthusiasts to celebrate the finest in world cinema.

                                                   

     

    PIB IFFI CAST AND CREW | Dharmendra/ Rajith/ Kshitij/ Nikita/ Sriyanka/ Priti IFFI 55 – 3

    Follow us on social media:  @PIBMumbai     /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com   /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

     

     

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Prime Minister’s Remarks at the Closed Plenary of the 16th BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 23 OCT 2024 3:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Highness,
    Excellencies,

    I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Putin for the wonderful organisation of todays, meeting.

    I am very pleased that we are meeting for the first time today, as the extended BRICS Family.I warmly welcome all the new friends that have joined the BRICS family.

    I congratulate President Putin for Russia’s successful Presidency of BRICS over the last one year.

    Friends,

    Our meeting is taking place at a time, when the world is facing several pressing challenges such as wars, economic uncertainty, climate change and terrorism. The world is talking about the North South divide and the East West divide.

    Preventing inflation, ensuring food security, energy security , health security, water security, are matters of priority for all countries in the world.

    And in this era of technology, new challenges have emerged such as cyber deepfake, disinformation.

    At such a time, there are high expectations of BRICS. I believe that as a diverse and inclusive platform, BRICS can play a positive role in all areas.

    In this regard, our approach must remain people centric.We have to give the world the message that BRICS is not a divisive organisation but one that works in the interest of humanity.

    We support dialogue and diplomacy, not war. And just as we were able to overcome a challenge like COVID together, we are certainly able to create new opportunities to ensure a secure , strong and prosperous future for future generations.

    In order to counter terrorism and Terror financing, we need the single minded, firm support of all. There is no place for double standards on this serious matter. We need to take active steps to stop radicalization of youth in our countries.

    We must work together on the long pending matter in the UN of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

    The same way, we need to work on global regulations for cyber security and for safe and secure AI.

    Friends,

    India is ready to welcome new countries into BRICS as Partner Countries.

    In this regard all decisions should be taken by consensus, and the views of BRICS founding members should be respected. The Guiding principles , standards, criteria and procedures adopted during the Johanesburg summit, should be complied with by all members and partner countries.

    Friends,

    BRICS is an organisation, which is willing to evolve with time.By giving our own example to the world we must collectively and in a united manner, raise our voice for reforms of global institutions.

    We must move forward in a time bound manner on reforms in global institutions such as the UN Security Council, Multilateral development banks, and the WTO.

    As we take our efforts forward in BRICS, we must be careful to ensure that this organisation does not acquire the image of one that is trying to replace global instutions, instead of being perceived as one that wishes to reform them.

    The hopes , aspirations and expectations of the countries of the Global south must also be kept in mind. During our Voice of Global South Summits and G20 Presidency, India put the voices of these countries on the global stage.I am pleased that these efforts are being strengthened under BRICS as well.Last year countries of Africa were integrated into BRICS.

    This year, as well, several countries of the Global south have been invited by Russia.

    Friends,

    The BRICS grouping , created by the confluence of different viewpoints and ideologies, is a source of inspiration for the world,fostering positive cooperation.

    Our diversity, respect for each other and our tradition of moving forward on the basis of consensus, are the basis for our cooperation.This quality of ours, and our BRICS spirit, are attracting other countries as well to this forum. I am confident that in the times to come we will together make this unique platform a model for dialogue, cooperation and coordination.

    In this regard, as a Founding member of BRICS, India will always continue to fulfill its responsibilities.

    Once again, a big thank you to all of you.

    DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Dharmendra Pradhan addresses Australian International Education Conference

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan addresses Australian International Education Conference

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan holds a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Hon. Jason Clare, MP in Melbourne

    Establishment of Australian university campuses in India just the beginning, much more potential to be realized – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    Cooperation in education is the fulcrum of India-Australia relationship – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    NEP 2020 has transformed India’s learning landscape into a powerhouse of possibilities – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    As a ‘Vishwa-Bandhu’, India is committed to being a trusted partner in human-centric development – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    By 2035 one in four people around the world who get a university degree will get it in India – Hon. Jason Clare, MP

    Posted On: 23 OCT 2024 3:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, delivered the plenary speech at the Australian International Education Conference in Melbourne, Australia, today. Shri Pradhan also held a Bilateral Meeting with his counterpart Minister for Education, Government of Australia, Mr. Jason Clare MP. Members of the Indian delegation, heads of the universities of both countries, and other dignitaries were also present at the event.

    Shri Pradhan in his speech commended the strong and evolving partnership between India and Australia that ties the history of the two countries and will also pave the way for a brighter future together. He also reaffirmed the further strengthening of these ties under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Australia Mr. Anthony Albanese.

    Shri Pradhan also highlighted that in the 4th Industrial Revolution, education must prepare students to be creators and managers of technology. India’s National Education Policy provides a framework emphasising digital literacy, soft skills, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary studies to adapt to evolving job markets, he added.

    Shri Pradhan emphasized that cooperation in education is the fulcrum of the India-Australia relationship. He stated that the main objective is to enhance India’s education system into a competency-based framework, focusing on skills-based education as outlined in India’s National Education Policy (NEP).

    The Minister spoke about how NEP 2020 has transformed India’s learning landscape into a powerhouse of possibilities, the enduring India-Australia ties and the remarkable strides made in education cooperation powered by NEP 2020. The establishment of Australian university campuses in India is just the beginning, with much more potential to be realized, he added.

    He also added that together, the countries can advance knowledge, leverage technology for global challenges, and create endless opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship for the students.

    The Minister also expressed that as a ‘Vishwa-Bandhu’, India is committed to being a trusted partner in human-centric development. The idea is to build and nurture global citizens, contributing to a brighter future for the next generation, he said.

    Mr. Jason Clare MP, in his speech, emphasised the importance of a good education system that can change more than just lives. It can change nations, he added. Commending India’s education systems, he said that by 2035 one in four people around the world who get a university degree will get it in India. He mentioned how Australian universities like Deakin had been in India for 30 years and now Wollongong has one campus. He expressed his gratitude to Shri Pradhan for encouraging these initiatives. He also praised the work the six Innovative Research Universities are doing by exploring options for a consortium campus in India.

    Earlier in the day, Shri Pradhan also met Mr. Jason Clare MP for a discussion regarding shared priorities of India and Australia in early childhood care, capacity building of teachers, and the potential for school twinning initiatives. Building on the strong institutional linkages between Indian and Australian higher education institutions, they agreed to further strengthen the partnership in critical and emerging technologies. They also explored the possibility of establishing branch campuses of Australian universities in India.

    During these discussions, Shri Pradhan also met the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Tim Watts MP.

    Shri Pradhan met Mrs. Jacinta Allan MP, Premier of Victoria, Australia. He highlighted that Victoria is home to the largest Indian diaspora in Australia. They had engaging conversations on ways to strengthen institutional linkages of schools and universities in Victoria with India.

    Shri Pradhan also visited South Melbourne Primary School and engaged with young learners. He explored the school’s innovative approaches to early childhood education. He emphasized how NEP 2020 in India places a strong focus on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), which is essential for a child’s holistic development. He reaffirmed his commitment to adopting global best practices to make early learning universal, enjoyable, and stress-free.

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan visited the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), a hub for technology, design, and enterprise. He explored their ‘Discovery to Device’ med-tech facility, fast-tracking ideas to products. He also appreciated the university’s emphasis on industry experience, hands-on skills, and focus on transforming ideas into products. Shri Pradhan explored how RMIT can partner and work with top Indian HEIs to equip Indian students with future skills and jobs.

    Discovery to Device transforms ideas into products, through prototyping and scale-up manufacture, to create real-world impact.

    Shri Pradhan also visited Monash University, which has notably welcomed Indian students since the late 1960s. Shri Pradhan received key insights into the university’s research & innovation ecosystem and their plans to strengthen educational ties with Indian institutions through its New India Plan. He also toured the Innovation Lab & Center for Nanofabrication— commending their impressive facilities supporting talent in driving ideas into impactful innovations.

    In a significant move to enhance bilateral cooperation in the education sector, Shri Pradhan is visiting Australia from 22 to 26 October 2024. The visit is expected to foster collaboration, participation, and synergy in critical areas of mutual interest in education. Earlier this week from 20-21 October, Shri Pradhan visited Singapore and met the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Education Minister and other dignitaries to expand bilateral cooperation in skill-based education and research.

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    SS/AK

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