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Category: Universities

  • MIL-OSI Global: Hyrox: this challenging race could improve your strength, endurance and fitness – here’s the evidence

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nicola Robinson, Lecturer, Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University

    People all over the world compete in this increasingly popular fitness race. Sandra Sev Jarocka/ Shutterstock

    Whether you’re an avid runner or frequently go to the gym, many fitness enthusiasts find they eventually get stuck in a routine – logging the same miles or doing the same workout over and over again.

    What if there were a way to challenge both endurance and strength at once with an effective, varied training routine?

    Welcome to Hyrox – the increasingly popular fitness race that blends endurance running and strength. Designed for everyday athletes and elite competitors alike, Hyrox offers an accessible yet competitive race format.

    By focusing on functional fitness, this workout provides a structured way for people to push their limits while training for a clear goal. It also comes with many physiological benefits regardless of your skill level – including strength, endurance and power.

    Hyrox is a fitness competition that started in Germany in 2017. They currently organise races worldwide.

    Athletes run 8km in total, but after each kilometre they must complete a functional fitness exercise. In a Hyrox race, the first exercise is 1,000m on a ski ergometer, followed by a 50m sled push, a 50m sled pull, 80m of burpee broad jumps, a 1,000m row, a 200m farmer’s carry, 100m walking sandbag lunges – finishing with 100 wall balls.

    A Hyrox race can be competed individually, in pairs, or in a team of four done in a relay-format. The difficulty of the race depends on your skill level. Athletes in the pro division work with heavier weights than the open division. Those competing as a pair split the stations but run together – adding teamwork to the race.

    The average finish time of a Hyrox race is 90 minutes – though this can vary depending on a person’s age, gender and fitness level. Elite racers will aim for a sub-60 time – with current world records set at around 50 minutes.

    A race of this duration and intensity puts serious physiological stress on the body – which requires a good level of overall fitness.

    Transitioning between runs and exercises causes the body to shift between different energy systems during Hyrox. The aerobic system uses oxygen to steadily fuel the muscles over a period of time. This is essential for the running segments. The anaerobic system, on the other hand, provides short bursts of energy without needing oxygen. This is crucial for the high-intensity exercise portions.

    Hyrox is extremely demanding on the body.
    Sandra Sev Jarocka/ Shutterstock

    The adrenaline and intensity of the race also means your endurance, explosive power and strength are put to the test simultaneously. Without adequate training and a race plan, this could leave you feeling fatigued towards the end of the race, which can affect your coordination and power.

    Hyrox training

    Because Hyrox is a new competition format, research on its training benefits is limited. But some early findings suggest that a successful race performance is linked to the amount of training a person puts in ahead of competition and their overall fitness levels. This aligns with what we know about endurance and strength-based training.

    The combination of running and intense exercises over a long duration challenges the body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently. Training for Hyrox can lead to improvements in the aerobic capacity or maximum oxygen uptake (VO₂ max), a measure of aerobic fitness.

    An improvement in VO₂max means your body can use oxygen more efficiently, allowing you to sustain higher intensities of exercise for longer periods of time. This improves endurance, helps you maintain speed throughout the race and contributes to overall cardiovascular health.

    Training for Hyrox requires a balanced approach of running, strength training and Hyrox-specific workouts. This training strategy is known as concurrent training. Research shows concurrent training has benefits for strength, muscular health and cardio-respiratory fitness in people of all ages.

    Regular long runs of 40-60 minutes at a low intensity help improve aerobic capacity as well. This allows your body to use oxygen more efficiently for sustained effort. Meanwhile, high-intensity interval runs – such as repeatedly running 400m to 1km with short rest periods of 30-60 seconds – improves your body’s anaerobic threshold. This means you can sustain higher intensities of exercise for longer before fatigue sets in.

    The functional stations require full-body strength and muscular endurance, which will be built up gradually as you train for a race. Once you’re more familiar with these exercises, you can begin practising them under fatigue. This is essential for both performance during a race and for preventing injuries.

    To maximise performance, a typical weekly training plan should prioritise endurance training over strength training to ensure you are well-prepared to finish a Hyrox race. For the best results, this structured approach should be followed for at least six weeks.

    Even without signing up for a race, Hyrox training can give you fitness benefits. You can modify the exercises and how much you run depending on your fitness level.

    An all-round Hyrox programme does not just improve functional fitness – it pushes athletes to new limits with a clear, goal-oriented training approach. Whether you’re an elite racer or just looking for a new fitness challenge, Hyrox offers a unique test of endurance and strength.

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

    – ref. Hyrox: this challenging race could improve your strength, endurance and fitness – here’s the evidence – https://theconversation.com/hyrox-this-challenging-race-could-improve-your-strength-endurance-and-fitness-heres-the-evidence-249088

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How your smelly farts can tell you what’s going on in your gut

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Maximilienne Toetie Allaart, Postdoctoral Researcher in Gut Microbiome Research, University of Tübingen

    The smell of your farts can give you clues about what’s keeping your gut microbes busy. Roquillo Tebar/ Shutterstock

    We’ve all been there: you try your best to keep it in, but you just can’t hold it anymore. You have to let it slip – how bad could it be? Then the unpleasant smell wafts your way, and all you can do is hope that no one comes near you for the next couple of minutes.

    However uncomfortable or embarrassing they are, farts are natural and a sign that your digestive system is alive. Quite literally, actually. It’s not just your own body that’s responsible for producing gases. Trillions of microbes live in your gut, helping you digest your food – and producing farts in the process.

    Our gut microbes play an indispensable role in our health. This is why it’s so important to take good care of them. And, bizarre as it might sound, the smell of your farts can actually tell you something about what’s keeping your gut microbes busy.

    Gassy gut microbes

    Your gut microbiome is as personal as your fingerprint. There can be significant variation between people in the specific microbes present in their guts.

    In general, your gut microbes work together to turn large molecules (the sugars, fats, proteins and fibres that are extracted from the foods we eat) into small molecules – mainly volatile fatty acids and gases. These fatty acids feed the cells lining the colon, while the gases naturally escape our body – sometimes quietly, sometimes explosively.

    The large molecules that we consume in our food mainly consist of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and, in smaller amounts, nitrogen and sulphur atoms. These give our gut microbes the capacity to produce different gases – such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen gas, methane and hydrogen sulphide.

    While carbon dioxide, hydrogen and even methane gas are odourless, hydrogen sulphide is extremely smelly. This gas produces that rotten egg smell you might be familiar with in your own farts’ fragrance profile.

    The gases that are produced by our gut microbes also serve as a vehicle for other smelly molecules – such as the volatile fatty acids mentioned earlier.

    Our fatty acid molecules mainly exist in the gut as dissolved compounds. But when there’s gas present, a part of these molecules becomes “volatile”. This means they can be carried around by the gas, making them a bit like hitchhikers on their way out of the gut.

    The three most important volatile fatty acids are acetate, propionate and butyrate. While these are all associated with good gut health, they’re also rather smelly. They reek of vinegar, smelly gym socks and vomit, respectively, and I can tell you from experience with them in the lab that they’re quite pungent.

    There are also molecules that simply smell like, well, farts – such as indole and skatole. These molecules are produced when the amino acid tryptophan – one of the building blocks of protein – ferments in the large intestine. The molecular structure of indole and skatole not only makes them very adept at lingering, but also gives them the capacity to partition into gas. This means they can also be carried out of our guts and into the world by our non-smelly, friendly gut gases.

    Food versus farts

    There’s a correlation between what you eat, how much gas your belly creates and how the gas smells. This is because each food affects your body and your gut microbes differently.

    Protein tends to create the smelliest farts.
    Chatham172/ Shutterstock

    For instance, hydrogen sulphide – the smelliest of the gases our gut microbes make – can only be produced if your food contains sulphur. Sulphur is typically found in the amino acids cysteine and methionine, which are part of proteins. There are generally higher levels of these amino acids in animal proteins (such as eggs and red meat) than in plant proteins.

    In general, proteins are more likely to produce malodorous gas because they contribute to a process called putrefaction – the fermentation of excess protein in the large intestine. This same process makes those extra-stinky indole and skatole molecules. So, too much protein fermentation can cause foul smells – and is also linked to negative health effects, such as ulcerative colitis and bowel cancer.

    But don’t worry, there’s no need to cut out proteins altogether. Your body actually needs them. If you eat the right amount for your body, most protein will be digested in the small intestine to fuel our cells. It’s only when you eat way too much protein that the excess can’t be used and ends up in the colon, where smelly molecules of all kinds will be produced from it.

    You might also have noticed that fibre-rich foods, such as beans, make you gassy. Fibres cause more gas production because our body lacks the capacity to break down fibre by itself. This means that all the fibre we ingest will reach our large intestine, where the microbes do the heavy lifting of breaking them down into health-promoting volatile fatty acids. Fortunately, fibre-rich foods are mainly associated with the production of hydrogen and carbon dioxide, our non-smelly intestinal gases.

    Your gut is a complex jungle of interactions between the body, its microbes and your food. And just as each person’s microbiome is unique, so is the scent of the gas it produces.

    Although farts aren’t exactly ideal, it’s important to remember they’re a sign that your microbes are working. Having a diverse microbiome is related to good gut health. Eating diverse foods will help you maintain a diverse set of microbes. Exercise is also a good way to ensure your digestive system can move everything – including gases – around as it should.

    Maximilienne Toetie Allaart receives funding from the Alexander von Humboldt foundation.

    – ref. How your smelly farts can tell you what’s going on in your gut – https://theconversation.com/how-your-smelly-farts-can-tell-you-whats-going-on-in-your-gut-252845

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: People with dementia could stay in the workplace longer – with the right tech

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By James Fletcher, Lecturer (Assistant Professor), Management Information, Decisions & Operations at the Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour, University of Bath

    Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock

    For Paul, a finance administrator, things came to a head when his report mistakenly included £7,000,000 of costs rather than £700,000. Fearing accusations of fraud, Paul disclosed his recent dementia diagnosis to his boss.

    Six weeks of sick leave became six months, and then a stepping stone to early retirement. Several years later, Paul regrets his unwanted unemployment, but at the time there didn’t seem to be an alternative.

    Paul was participating in an unrelated study about public transport when he told us about his unemployment. As researchers, we had heard many similar accounts – so we decided to dig down into the research on work and dementia. We were curious about how typical Paul’s experience was of the trajectories of people diagnosed while working.

    The ageing of populations around the world is influencing our lives in many ways. More people are extending their working lives beyond traditional retirement ages, and many more are being diagnosed with dementia. Around 9% of the world’s 55 million people with dementia are under 65, with around 370,000 new cases of young-onset dementia annually.

    It is striking then, that despite government and business commitments to support longer working lives and inclusive employment practices, workers with dementia are largely ignored. What little evidence we have paints a picture of widespread and unwanted unemployment.

    For some, this takes the form of redundancy or retirement. For others – like Paul – a period of temporary leave gradually evolves into a permanent exit.

    Alongside workforce ageing, digital transformation is perhaps the single most important development in modern industry. Almost all our working lives are now shaped by digital technologies in some form.

    Older people are often stereotyped as technologically incompetent. This can be even worse for people with dementia. When exciting digital innovations are discussed in relation to them, the focus is almost always on providing care. But someone diagnosed with dementia in their 60s today might have been blogging in their 30s, scrolling social media on a phone in their 40s and using a smart home assistant in their 50s.

    The tech is here already

    The reality is that many people with dementia use digital tools every day. This ranges from familiar products like Google Maps to more cutting-edge technologies. A person with dementia recently introduced us to their voice-activated AI companion, with which they watch and discuss films. These companions can provide vital social interaction for people fearing judgement or isolation because of their cognitive decline.

    Far from being a barrier, digital technologies could offer ways to help people with dementia to enjoy positive working lives, just as they help workers who don’t have dementia. The trick is to use them to tailor work and workplaces to the individual.

    For example, if a worker is struggling to remember appointments, automated and shared calendar scheduling can take care of that. If a worker has impaired wayfinding, mapping apps can be tailored to working environments and live location data can be used to guide staff around complicated sites. This is hardly futuristic tech. Many of us would struggle without our online calendars and maps.

    Research shows that touchscreens can be particularly challenging for older people with dementia. To make interfaces more suitable, developers could encourage the integration of voice-operated smart assistants into employee workstations (think of Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri).

    While discussions of dementia often focus on memory loss, the various types of dementia are associated with a wide range of symptoms. One very common symptom is the struggle to find the right words. But recent developments in generative AI (like OpenAI’s ChatGPT) are proficient at predicting and expressing the next word in a sequence.

    These tools are also excellent at transforming text into different formats. Guidance on dementia-friendly information recommends features such as large fonts, single-clause sentences and single-syllable words.

    A generative AI tool could quickly transform documents into dementia-friendly formats. The integration of these tools into emailing and writing applications could make a lot of work far more accessible to people with dementia.

    These days, it makes little sense for workers to be manually entering costings into a spreadsheet. Dementia or no dementia, these practices are ripe for human error. By outsourcing them to digital technologies, we can free up our ageing workforces to use their unmatched skills, such as networking and experience.

    Getting the balance right can free an employee with dementia from tasks they find challenging to maximise their other skills and experience.
    fizkes/Shutterstock

    In practice, employers will likely be responsible for supporting positive working lives with dementia in the future. The best way to do this will be to develop strategies, in consultation with people with dementia, that identify interventions suitable for the workplace. Then, when an employee is diagnosed, they can pick and mix a personalised collection of tools to address their needs.

    Right now, we are not aware of any workplace that has such a strategy. But many organisations already have robust policies for other conditions. Our own employer, the University of Bath, has a repository of reasonable adjustments that can be tailored to support staff and students experiencing mental illness. Dementia could be approached in much the same way.

    The UK government is currently attempting to increase the number of people with disabilities participating in the labour market. It is simultaneously driving an agenda to increase the use of AI throughout the country.

    The potential of a digital working life for people with dementia highlights both promise and peril. Simply forcing every person into work is a surefire way of turning challenging situations into real problems. But providing tailored support for those who want to work can enrich organisations and workers alike.

    James Fletcher receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and the Wellcome Trust.

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

    – ref. People with dementia could stay in the workplace longer – with the right tech – https://theconversation.com/people-with-dementia-could-stay-in-the-workplace-longer-with-the-right-tech-253370

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Flies are masters of migration – it’s about time they got some credit

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Will Hawkes, Insect Migration Researcher, College of Life and Environmental Science, University of Exeter

    As I sprinted across the flower-rich meadow on the eastern coast of Cyprus, I could barely see my car. The air was full of tiny black dots, pelting like bullets past me. I hauled open the car door and breathed a sigh of relief once inside. I was surrounded by millions of flies, amid the most incredible migration event I have ever seen.

    The migration cameras my team and I use to monitor these insects counted nearly 6,000 flies per metre per minute. Being hit by a fly travelling over 25mph (helped by the wind) hurts enough to make you want shelter quickly.

    All of these flies had just travelled at least 60 miles (100km) across open sea from the Middle East to Cyprus. This journey forms part of their springtime migration towards northern Europe.

    Butterflies and dragonflies are well-known insect migrants, but not because they’re the most numerous. That title is given to the flies. I have studied all of the insects migrating through Cyprus and the Pyrenees on the France-Spain border. Flies make up nearly 90% of all migrants. Yet they have been consistently overlooked by scientists and their ecological contribution has been hugely underappreciated.

    My colleagues and I set out to change this. We have spent months collecting written sources that mentioned fly migration from anywhere in the world. Our findings, now published in Biological Reviews, could change our perception of flies forever. Previously, nobody really knew the extent to which flies migrated, yet they are the most numerous and most ecologically important of all terrestrial migrants.

    Fly migration has been part of written human history for millennia. In the book of Exodus, when the pharoah of Egypt didn’t let Moses’s people go, God sent a plague of flies to change his mind. Then God removed flies from the land until “not a fly remained”. This last biblical quote is key.

    If these flies had been misidentified mayflies coming out of the river Nile, which are known to amass in huge numbers, their exhausted bodies would have remained for days. Because they all disappeared without a trace, this suggests a huge migration of flies. Egypt is on an important fly migration route. So perhaps fly migration was significant enough to be the subject of divine intervention.

    Flies migrate to reproduce, moving to exploit seasonal food resources. All over the world, it’s mostly females that migrate. They have been recorded migrating through mountain passes high in the Himalayas, on ships hundreds of miles out to sea in the Gulf of Mexico and in their millions migrating through western Europe. Amazingly, while on fieldwork in the Maldives, I saw Forcipomyia midges use their soft foot hairs to stick to dragonfly wings to hitch a lift over the Indian Ocean.

    Vital roles

    Flies are so important to the planet and to us. No other group of terrestrial migrants (including vertebrates such as mammals) are as ecologically diverse as flies. More than half (62%) of all migrating flies, including hoverflies, are pollinators. Without them, food crop production would decline.

    As they migrate, flies transport and disperse pollen between flowers. This could help plants adapt to climate change by maintaining genetic diversity.

    Many migratory fly species (34%) are decomposers, ensuring the planet isn’t covered in rotting carcasses and animal dung. One study showed that the larvae of just 50 houseflies (Musca domestica), – the very ecologically similar and equally abundant autumn housefly Musca autumnalis migrate south through the Pyrenees in their millions – can decompose up to 444kg of pig manure.

    The ecological roles of flies are not all positive, though. My latest study shows that monoculture crops provide lots of food for some migratory fly species (18%) that have subsequently become crop pests. Some (16%) carry diseases, such as mosquitoes that migrate huge distances and bring diseases such as malaria.

    But migratory flies have an overwhelmingly positive impact on the planet. Hoverfly larvae eat trillions of aphids each year in southern England. Insect migration is already known to be the most important way that the nutrients plants need to grow are moved across the land and flies make up the majority of the insects that transport the nutrients.

    The movement and subsequent death of trillions of migrating flies, whose bodies contain elements, such as phosphorous and nitrogen which plants need to grow, could be vital to soil health of the soils too. Migratory birds have been noted feeding on and moving at the same time as migratory flies, perhaps using them as fuel for their journeys.

    We’re only just waking up to the significance of flies. Hopefully, it’s not too late to protect them. One German study found that the number of aphid-eating migratory hoverflies declined by 97% over the last 50 years. Fewer aphid-eating hoverflies means more crop-eating aphids and also fewer pollinators. So that’s a terrifying statistic that could have drastic consequences.

    A sunrise of hope exists, however. These brilliant migratory flies have so many young that if we improve landscape connectivity, reduce pesticide usage and provide suitable habitat, they can bounce back really quickly. We need these flies as much as we need the air we breathe. So next time you see a fly up against your window, open it and let it out. It has a long way to go and such important work to do.

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

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

    Will Hawkes receives funding from The Royal Society.

    – ref. Flies are masters of migration – it’s about time they got some credit – https://theconversation.com/flies-are-masters-of-migration-its-about-time-they-got-some-credit-253254

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Travelling to the U.S.? Here’s what you need to know about the risks and your rights

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Frédéric Dimanche, Professor and Director, Ted Rogers School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Toronto Metropolitan University

    Recent reports of European and Canadian tourists being detained at the United States border have many questioning whether travel to the U.S. is safe.

    As the Trump administration moves forward with plans for mass deportations, immigration officers have reportedly been encouraged to question travellers, putting many travellers on high alert.

    The parallels to the COVID-19 pandemic are notable. During the crisis, media coverage contributed to widespread fear of travel, even after borders reopened and health experts deemed it safe. Today, similar discourse is emerging. But how much of this concern is based on real risk, and how much is driven by heightened media attention?

    As experts in tourism and travel, we are here to explain the current risks associated with travelling to the U.S., the rights of travellers if they are stopped at the border and safety tips for those who still choose to make the journey.

    What are the risks?

    Research has long shown that perceptions of risk impact people’s intentions to travel internationally. These intentions are determined by their levels of travel anxiety and their sense of perceived safety in a certain destination.

    Detainment at airports and border crossings is perhaps one of the greatest fears for travellers to the U.S. While the incidents so far have seemed random, many worry about their smart phones being confiscated and social media or emails being checked.

    While some of those affected are Americans returning from vacation or business trips, anyone can be stopped, including foreign students with visas, Canadians and Europeans, even with valid documentation.

    These fears, along with reports of travellers being delayed at land border crossings, have resulted in a decrease in the number of Canadians crossing the Canada-U.S. border. In February, cross-border vehicle trips hit their lowest levels since the pandemic, with many cancelling reservations or making fewer travel bookings to the U.S. for spring and summer.



    Read more:
    When Canadian snowbirds don’t flock south, the costs are more than financial

    The current situation aligns with research showing that risk perceptions about travel can impact a country’s image as a travel destination, which, in turn, affects whether people want to visit it.

    Other concerns relate to local resident negative sentiment. While many Americans are sharing their support of Canada and continuing to head north, there is still concern for how some in the U.S. may react to Canadian travellers.

    Recent studies have shown that while Americans see Canadians as friendly, they no longer view Canada as a close ally. Several countries have cautioned their citizens about stricter measures at U.S. points of entry.

    Know your rights as a traveller

    What rights do travellers have when crossing the border? Very few. While travellers have the right to refuse to answer questions from immigration officers, doing so can result in increased suspicion and being denied entry.

    Canadians should be aware that U.S. border officials have broad inspection powers, which can include requesting passwords to digital devices. These powers apply not only at border crossings but also in customs-controlled areas — designated zones in a border crossing area or airport.

    Both the Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection have the authority to examine any digital device.

    Once at a land border, Canadians are under the exclusive jurisdiction of U.S. laws, not Canadian laws or the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. If questioned, travellers can ask if they are being detained, or if they are free to leave. If they are not free to leave, the agent needs reasonable suspicion to justify the detention.

    Tips for reducing risk while traveling

    Following customs and immigration laws generally means travellers are unlikely to encounter any issues. However, there are some things that could set off red flags at the border, including staying longer than intended, failing to declare goods to a border officer or not having the proper documentation.

    If you intend to travel, be respectful of local customs, even if political perspectives differ. Avoid political messaging on clothing, offensive behaviour or sparking political conversations with locals.

    While electronic device searches are rare, it is best to be cautious about the content on your devices, including social media posts and profile, political views and other personal information.

    Here is a brief guide to international visitors’ rights. In particular, people should know about how to protect their computers, phones and how to safeguard their data privacy at the U.S. border. The Canadian government also offers advice for travellers to the U.S. regarding privacy issues.

    It’s important to stay updated on government travel advisories related to geopolitical conflicts because they are rapidly evolving. Be sure to follow recommended travel precautions, like these ones for the U.S.

    ‘Antipathy’ to U.S. has real impacts

    Reports of increased detainments, stricter border enforcement and heightened security screenings demonstrate that the risk for travellers at the border is real.

    These incidents have not only created fear among travellers but have also started to take a toll on the U.S. tourism industry.

    Industry analysts announce a significant drop in visitation — down about 15 per cent — and about a 12 per cent drop in revenue due to travellers choosing to boycott the U.S.

    Global geopolitical tensions have fuelled growing resentment toward the U.S., with many international travellers choosing not to travel for political and economic reasons.



    Read more:
    Does cancelling a trip to the U.S. really send a political message, or is it just hurting local tourism?

    Canada, on the other hand, could end up benefiting from a tourism perspective. International visitors are opting for Canada as a safer and more affordable alternative than the U.S. for leisure and business travel.

    The question now is whether this trend will last. The geopolitical situation has led many around the world to feel antipathetic towards the U.S., and reversing those attitudes will take effort and time.

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

    – ref. Travelling to the U.S.? Here’s what you need to know about the risks and your rights – https://theconversation.com/travelling-to-the-u-s-heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-risks-and-your-rights-253210

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: First-ever Canberra Monopoly game hits shelves

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Featuring everything from Floriade to Mooseheads, the game captures the essence of the ACT.

    Canberra is getting its own version of the world’s most popular game.

    The first-ever official Monopoly Canberra edition was developed with the help of Canberra residents.

    It pays tribute to everything that’s unique to the region – from Floriade to the Belconnen Owl.

    Locally themed squares replace the likes of Mayfair and Park Lane, and circles have been added to the board’s design to reference Canberra’s infamous abundance of roundabouts.

    “For years, Canberra has been on the list of cities we’ve wanted to honour with its own custom Monopoly board, but we’ve wanted to get it just right,” Dale Hackett from Winning Moves, the makers of custom Monopoly Boards, said.

    “It’s been such a privilege to develop this edition over the past year, inspired by suggestions from locals, to create a game we think Canberra residents and tourists alike will truly be proud of.”

    The custom Canberra-themed squares and cards include:

    • Brown: Australian National Botanic Gardens, Cockington Green Gardens
    • Light Blue: Canberra Theatre Centre, National Museum of Australia, National Portrait Gallery
    • Pink: Yarralumla Play Station, GoBoat, National Dinosaur Museum
    • Orange: Floriade, Enlighten, Canberra Balloon Spectacular
    • Red: Canberra Outlet Centre, Old Bus Depot Markets, Westfield Belconnen
    • Yellow: BrodBurger, Mooseheads, Akiba
    • Green: Canberra Airport, University of Canberra, Royal Australian Mint
    • Dark Blue: Australian War Memorial, Parliament House
    • Local Icons: Belconnen Owl, Telstra Tower, Lake Burley Griffin, GIO Stadium Canberra
    • Utilities: Icon Water, ActewAGL.

    The new Monopoly: Canberra edition is available now at all retailers throughout the ACT.

    The Monopoly game first hit shelves in 1935. Since then, it has been played by more than 1 billion people.

    Today, the game is adored all around the world, played in 114 countries and enjoyed in over 47 languages.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 2024 Canberra Gold Awards winners announced

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Gold Awards recipient Margaret Constance was one of the first Avon ladies in Canberra and went on to work in the Supreme Court for 25 years.

    Each year, the Chief Minister’s Canberra Gold Awards recognise the unique contributions of individuals and groups who have lived or operated in the ACT for 50 years or more.

    This year, 71 individuals and 15 groups were awarded. Over the last half-century, each of them has shaped not only our city, but the people who live here. Whether that’s placing an instrument in a musically-gifted student’s hands for the first time, raising a family in Canberra, or leaving a mark on an industry.

    While the awards celebrate Canberra’s history, there was much recognition of the people who have helped shape our future: the teachers, principals and programs supporting the city’s schools.

    Leanne Fisher was born in Canberra in 1963 and has worked for the Department of Education for 20 years.

    “I’m just about to retire in three weeks’ time, it’s a nice way to finish,” she said.

    Paul Branson, Principal of Belconnen High, was also born in Canberra and is a self-titled “product of public schools”. Educated at Hackett Primary, Dickson College and the Australian National University, Paul was nominated for his contribution to public schooling.

    “There’s lots that I love about Canberra, lots of things happen here. I know people say it’s boring, but that’s not true at all,” Paul said.

    “Someone once said to me, Canberra thinks you’re boring too!”

    The ACT Instrumental Music Program was one of the groups that received a Gold Award. Now in it’s 51st year, the program is part of ACT public schools.

    “We were nominated by a former student,” former principal Naida Blackley said.

    “It’s about providing opportunities for students to access musical instruments in a group learning situation.”

    Many awards recipients spoke of their love of the city, and in particular, their love of Lake Burley Griffin.

    Margaret Constance’s arrival predated the construction of the now-iconic landmark.

    “In 1962, we moved to the newly developed Red Hill, and there were still sheep grazing on the perimeter,” she said.

    “I saw the building of the National Library, the High Court, the Portrait Gallery, and the lake. And I saw Woden and Belconnen Develop. They were the first suburbs – I think they were called satellite towns then.”

    Margaret was one of the first Avon ladies in Canberra and went on to work in the Supreme Court for 25 years.

    Ali Hosain was another Gold Award recipient who fondly recalls memories of Canberra being developed.

    “When we came, Canberra was not a very impressive place,” he said.

    “[Now] Canberra is so beautiful. We’ve travelled the whole world but there’s nothing like Canberra.”

    If you would like to nominate a person, group, or yourself, nominations are open year-round and can be made online.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study suggesting shingles vaccine (Zostavax) associated with lower risk of dementia

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Nature looks at the effect of the shingles vaccine (Zostvax) on dementia risk. 

    Comments provided by our friends at the Australian Science Media Centre:

    Dr Joseph Doyle, Professor of Infectious Diseases at Monash University and President of the Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases, said: 

    “The paper [by Eyting and colleagues in Nature] presents results of a natural experiment in Wales, United Kingdom, on the effect of shingles vaccination on new diagnosis of dementia. The study observed that older adults appeared to have less chance of dementia diagnosis in the seven years after receiving live-attenuated shingles vaccination (Zostavax). The authors estimate there were 3.5% fewer dementia diagnoses among people who received the live-attenuated shingles vaccine.

    “This study had an observational design, so we need to be cautious in assuming the vaccine itself caused this decline in dementia diagnoses. It is plausible that episodes of infection, immune system changes, or health care engagement are among the factors behind this association, but further research is needed to help determine whether there is a causal link.

    “Importantly, we don’t know whether these findings apply to both the live-attenuated shingles vaccine (Zostavax) used in their study and the newer recombinant subunit shingles vaccine (Shingrix) now used widely in Australia. 

    “Australia approved and subsidised Shingrix on the National Immunization Program in 2023. This newer shingles vaccine is available for older adults and is safer for people who are immunocompromised. 

    “While we do not know whether the newer shingles vaccine used locally has the same association with less dementia yet, we do know the shingles vaccine provided free in Australia is very effective and protective against episodes of shingles. 

    “Older adults and people with weak immune systems at higher risk of shingles are encouraged to see their doctor to talk more about vaccination.”  

     

    Professor Anthony Hannan, Group Head of the Epigenetics and Neural Plasticity Group at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, said:

    “This new research article in Nature adds to the evidence that the nervous system and immune system closely interact, and that this has implications for dementia risk, as well as potentially new approaches to dementia prevention and treatment. Furthermore, it provides evidence that vaccination has the potential to impact positively on human health, beyond the particular disease that the vaccine was intended to prevent. 

    “A key question, not answered by this new study, is how the shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine may have helped protect (reducing risk by 20%) against dementia. We now know that, despite the blood-brain barrier, the brain has its own immune cells, which serve many roles including removal of specific toxic molecules that accumulate with age (particularly in the most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease). 

    “It is possible that the vaccine had direct effects on these brain immune cells, but it is also possible that the vaccine acted indirectly, for example, by slowing brain aging and/or enhancing brain resilience to the ravages of age. The next step is to work out exactly how this vaccine exerts its protective effects against dementia and to use that information to develop new ways to prevent and treat dementia. It also increases the likelihood that in future there may be specific vaccination programs whose primary aim is to prevent dementia.”

     

    Dr Henry Brodaty, Scientia Professor of Ageing and Mental Health and Co-Director of the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing at the University of New South Wales, said:

    “They examined the effect of a live virus to prevent shingles administered to people aged 79 to 80. The researchers took advantage of a decision in Wales that 79-80-year-olds born before 2nd September 1933 were ineligible for life to receive the shingles vaccine, whereas those born on or after that day were eligible for at least one year to receive the vaccine. There were 16,595 adults who had become eligible for the vaccine from a total sample of 282,541 adults in the sample.

    “They compared people who were one week too old with those who were one week younger. Those who received the vaccine had an absolute reduction of 7% of developing dementia over the next seven years. Compared to those who were unvaccinated, their risk of dementia was 20% lower. The benefits were stronger for women than men.

    “The authors examined multiple competing hypotheses to explain the results. There were no differences in dementia diagnoses for those who had and had not received influenza vaccines. Other possible explanations were also discounted. The authors considered the possible mechanism maybe preventing the reactivation of the shingles of the herpes varicella virus. The authors confirmed their findings in a different population by combining a different type of data from England and Wales and using deaths certified as being due to dementia.

    “Limitations include that these results only pertained to 79-80-year-olds in Wales and to the use of the live vaccine.

    “There has been evidence for some time that older people who receive their vaccinations in general are less likely to develop dementia. This is the best evidence yet to show this. Future research will determine whether the newer non-live virus, Shingrix will provide the same benefit and whether immunisation at younger ages may be just as effective.”

    ‘A natural experiment on the effect of herpes zoster vaccination on dementia’ by Markus Eyting et al. was published in Nature at 16:00 UK time on Wednesday 2 April 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-08800-x

    Declared interests

    Professor Anthony Hannan: No COI’s.

    Dr Henry Brodaty: is or has been an advisory board member or consultant to Biogen, Eisai, Eli Lilly, Medicines Australia, Roche and Skin2Neuron. He has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

    Prof Joseph Doyle: is a board member of the Australian Society for Infectious Diseases and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee. The views expressed here are personal opinions and are not necessarily those of his employers or professional bodies.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Higher School of Economics launches online course on industrial engineering

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Faculty of Computer Science HSE Announces Launch of New Advanced Training Program “Prompt-engineering: neural networks for humans”. The course is intended for a wide audience interested in mastering effective methods of interaction with generative neural networks.

    The program includes a comprehensive study of approaches to formulating queries (prompts) for the effective solution of various problems using artificial intelligence. During the training, participants will master the creation and optimization of queries for generating texts, images, video and audio, and will also learn to improve prompts to achieve the most accurate and high-quality results.

    The course consists of theoretical lectures and practical classes covering both the basics of modern language models and the practical possibilities of using neural networks in professional and everyday activities. Participants will be able to consolidate their acquired knowledge by working on real examples and projects.

    The program is scheduled to start on May 20, 2025. The course duration is 4 months. Classes will be held online, in the format of webinars, video lectures and practical consultations with teachers.

    Upon completion of the course, students will create their own portfolio, confirming their competencies in the field of industrial engineering and the practical use of artificial intelligence.

    Armen Beklaryan, teacher of the program “Prompt-engineering: neural networks for humans”

    “The Prompt Engineering program will introduce you to methods of constructing and optimizing queries for modern artificial intelligence systems. During the training, you will learn how to correctly structure text commands, adapt them to different AI models, and analyze the results. The program combines theoretical classes with extensive practice: students will create their own projects, practicing their skills in working with the latest tools for generating text, images, audio, and video information. This program will not only deepen your understanding of the principles of AI, but also acquire in-demand competencies for effective interaction with modern digital technologies.”

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Goldman, Crockett Introduce Abortion Care Awareness Act to Combat Anti-Abortion Misinformation

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Legislation Ensures Women Have Access to Accurate Information About Abortion Services and Where to Obtain Them 

     

    Goldman’s Bill Will Specifically Combat Misinformation about Medication Abortion, the Most Common Abortion Used in Telehealth Abortions 

     

    Read the Bill Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) today re-introduced the ‘Abortion Care Awareness Act,’ which would increase access to medically accurate information about abortion, including medication abortion. Additionally, this bill would ensure people have access to accurate information about where and how to obtain abortion services across the country, how to avoid anti-abortion centers intended to deceive patients, and how to identify misinformation about abortion care. 

    For women residing in states with abortion bans, telehealth appointments and medication abortion have emerged as among the only ways they can receive reproductive health care in their jurisdiction. This bill comes as states with abortion bans in place have increasingly cracked down on these services, most recently charging a New York telemedicine provider who was protected by the state’s shield laws, which protects abortion and reproductive health care providers from lawsuits relating to providing medication abortions to out-of-state patients.  

    “As abortion rights face relentless attacks at every level of government, women across the country are being inundated with a maze of laws and false and misleading information about their reproductive healthcare options,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “I’m proud to reintroduce the Abortion Care Awareness Act to ensure every woman has access to accurate, trusted information about their rights and available care. No woman should be deceived by bad actors seeking to interfere with her personal medical decisions.” 

    Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett said, “Women across the country, but especially in abortion restrictive states like my state of Texas, have been the targets to mis- and dis-information campaign at the hands of far-right anti-abortion groups. Women should be able to have quick access to know their rights and be provided accurate the type of care available to them to then make their very personal decision of what to do with their bodies. That is why I am proud to reintroduce the Abortion Care Awareness Act of 2025 to protect women’s right to decide with medically accurate and complete information about abortion.” 

    The ‘Abortion Care Awareness Act’ would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out a coordinated national public health education, awareness, and outreach campaign to provide accurate information regarding where and how to access abortion care, the right to travel across state lines and utilize telemedicine to access abortion care, how to identify misinformation about abortion, and more. The campaign would be designed in consultation with health care professionals, nonprofit reproductive rights and justice organizations, state and local health departments, and other experts. 

    The bill would also include information on how to identify and avoid crisis pregnancy centers which market themselves as abortion clinics or comprehensive reproductive health care providers to women in vulnerable and emotionally fragile positions, intentionally targeting low-income communities and communities of color. Once under their care, these centers use aggressive rhetoric and manipulative means to coerce them into carrying their pregnancies to full term, jeopardizing their health, well-being, and trust in health care providers. 

    According to the University of Georgia’s Crisis Pregnancy Center Map, there are 10 crisis pregnancy centers in New York City alone, outnumbering the number of Planned Parenthood locations in the city. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to protecting abortion access across the country and combatting abortion misinformation. 

    In March 2024, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation (SAD) Act’ to stop crisis pregnancy centers organizations from using deceptive advertisements claiming to offer reproductive health care. The SAD Act would direct the Federal Trade Commission to prohibit unfair or deceptive advertising related to the provisions of abortion services and authorize the FTC to enforce these rules and collect penalties from organizations in violation.  
    In March 2023, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘Women’s Health Protection Act,’ which establishes a federal right for healthcare professionals to provide abortion care and the right for their patients to receive care, free from bans and medically unnecessary restrictions that single out abortion care. The ‘Women’s Health Protection Act’ codifies and expands upon the rights established in Roe v. Wade. 

     

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why AI can’t take over creative writing

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By David Poole, Professor Emeritus of Computer Science, University of British Columbia

    A large language model tries to generate what a random person who had produced the previous text would produce. (Shutterstock)

    In 1948, the founder of information theory, Claude Shannon, proposed modelling language in terms of the probability of the next word in a sentence given the previous words. These types of probabilistic language models were largely derided, most famously by linguist Noam Chomsky: “The notion of ‘probability of a sentence’ is an entirely useless one.”

    In 2022, 74 years after Shannon’s proposal, ChatGPT appeared, which caught the attention of the public, with some even suggesting it was a gateway to super-human intelligence. Going from Shannon’s proposal to ChatGPT took so long because the amount of data and computing time used was unimaginable even a few years before.

    ChatGPT is a large language model (LLM) learned from a huge corpus of text from the internet. It predicts the probability of the next word given the context: a prompt and the previously generated words.

    ChatGPT uses this model to generate language by choosing the next word according to the probabilistic prediction. Think about drawing words from a hat, where the words predicted to have a higher probability have more copies in the hat. ChatGPT produces text that seems intelligent.

    There is a lot of controversy about how these tools can help or hinder learning and practising creative writing. As a professor of computer science who has authored hundreds of works on artificial intelligence (AI), including AI textbooks that cover the social impact of large language models, I think understanding how the models work can help writers and educators consider the limitations and potential uses of AI for what might be called “creative” writing.

    LLMs as parrots or plagiarists

    It’s important to distinguish between “creativity” by the LLM and creativity by a human. For people who had low expectations of what a computer could generate, it’s been easy to assign creativity to the computer. Others were more skeptical. Cognitive scientist Douglas Hofstadter saw “a mind-boggling hollowness hidden just beneath its flashy surface.”

    Linguist Emily Bender and colleagues described the language models as stochastic parrots, meaning they repeat what is in the data they were trained on with randomness. To understand this, consider why a particular word was generated. It’s because it has a relatively high probability, and it has a high probability because a lot of text in the training corpus used that word in similar contexts.

    Selecting a word according to the probability distribution is like selecting text with a similar context and using its next word. Generating text from LLMs can be seen as plagiarism, one word at a time.

    The creativity of a human

    Consider the creativity of a human who has ideas they want to convey. With generative AI, they put their ideas into a prompt and the AI will produce text (or images or sounds). If someone doesn’t care what is generated, it doesn’t really matter what they use as a prompt. But what if they do care about what is generated?

    An LLM tries to generate what a random person who had written the previous text would produce. Most creative writers do not want what a random person would write. They want to use their creativity, and may want a tool to produce what they would write if they had the time to produce it.

    LLMs don’t typically have a large corpus of what a particular author has written to learn from. The author will undoubtedly want to produce something different. If the output is expected to be more detailed than the input, the LLM has to make up details. These may or may not be what the writer intended.

    Most creative writers do not want what a random person would write, but to use their creativity.
    (Shutterstock)

    Some positive uses of LLMs for creative writing

    Writing is like software development: Given an idea of what is wanted, software developers produce code (text in a computer language) analogously to how writers produce text in a natural language. LLMs treat writing code and writing natural language text the same way; the corpus each LLM is trained on contains both natural language and code. What’s produced depends on the context.

    Writers can learn from the experience of software developers. LLMs are good for small projects that have been done previously by many other people, such as database queries or writing standard letters. They are also useful for parts of larger projects, such as a pop-up box in a graphical user interface.

    If programmers want to use them for bigger projects, they need to be prepared to generate multiple outputs and edit the one that is closest to what is intended. The problem in software development has always been specifying exactly what is wanted; coding is the easy part.

    Generating good prompts

    How to generate good prompts has been advocated as an art form called “prompt engineering.” Proponents of prompt engineering have suggested multiple techniques that improve the output of current LLMs, such as asking for an outline and then asking for the text based on the original prompt augmented with the outline.

    Another is to ask the LLM to show its reasoning steps, as in so-called chain of thought. The LLM outputs don’t just the answer a question, but explains the steps that could be taken to answer it. The LLM uses those steps as part of its prompt to get its final answer.

    Proponents of prompt engineering propose techniques that improve the output of current LLMs.
    (Shutterstock)

    Such advice is bound to be ephemeral. If some prompt-engineering technique works, it will be incorporated into a future release of the LLM, so that the effect happens without the need for the explicit use of the technique. Recent models that claim to reason have incorporated such step-by-step prompts.

    People want to believe

    Computer scientist Joseph Weizenbaum, describing his ELIZA program written in 1964–66, said: “I was startled to see how quickly and how very deeply people conversing with (the program) became emotionally involved with the computer and how unequivocally they anthropomorphized it.” The tools have changed, but people still want to believe.

    In this age of misinformation, it is important for everyone to have a way to judge the often self-serving hype.

    There is no magic in generative AI, but there is lots of data from which to predict what someone could write. I hope that creativity is more than regurgitating what others have written.

    David Poole receives funding from NSERC.

    – ref. Why AI can’t take over creative writing – https://theconversation.com/why-ai-cant-take-over-creative-writing-252358

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to SACN statement on the WHO guideline on non-sugar sweeteners

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on a SACN statement on the WHO’s guideline on non-sugar sweeteners (NSS). 

    Dr Havovi Chichger, Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science, Anglia Ruskin University, said:

    “The SACN recommendations published in their position statement this morning are highly appropriate given the WHO report and research findings in the field.  The committee recommends that children not be given drinks containing non-nutritive sweeteners and that adults work towards a sweetener-free diet.  Although the use of non-nutritive sweeteners is an important tool to reduce sugar overconsumption, and the related negative health effects, we now understand that these sweet additives can pose various health risks on the public.  It might seem contradictory, but studies have shown that all commercially-available sweeteners are associated with the development of obesity and diabetes, potentially through a metabolic disruption pathway (Bonnet 2018; McLay-Cooke 2016; Stamataki 2020).  The SACN position statement also recommends that the government monitor the amount of non-nutritive sweeteners in the UK diet and encourage the food and drink industry to clearly communicate the amount of sweeteners within labelling.  These recommendations are based on an in-depth review of studies in the field however these studies do not always specify which sweeteners were consumed.  There are also confounding factors to be considered, for example, the studies show a link between sweetener consumption and negative health outcomes which could be due to underlying and undetected health conditions rather than the sweetener itself.  As such, there is a real need for large-scale studies in the field to understand the direct causative effect of non-nutritive sweeteners on human health.”

    Prof Naveed Sattar, Professor of Cardiometabolic Medicine/Honorary Consultant, University of Glasgow, said:

    “I think this is a very balanced statement.  SACN have accepted that the best quality evidence available (i.e. randomised trials) show that non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) lower weight albeit modestly as compared to taking sugar rich drinks and that other types of evidence which suggest some harm from NSS are unreliable.  I fully agree and would rather people take low calorie drinks with artificial sweeteners every time than sugar rich drinks both for weight and dental benefits and potentially other gains.  However, SACN also correctly points out that until we have more evidence in the future on benefits and safety of NSS, it would be best to limit the intake of all such sweetened (including NSS) drinks in early childhood so that children become accustomed to drinking unsweetened drinks, preferably water.  A sensible and mature summary of a complex set of data.”

    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sacn-statement-on-the-who-guideline-on-non-sugar-sweeteners/sacn-statement-on-the-who-guideline-on-non-sugar-sweeteners-summary#sacns-assessment

    https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67ea97b3ea9f8afd8105627d/sacn-position-statement-on-non-sugar-sweeteners.pdf

    Declared interests

    Dr Havovi Chichger: “Prof Chichger has no conflict of interest or other in this review.”

    Prof Naveed Sattar: “Only that I often drink diluting juice with NSS.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Guinea Presents Credentials

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    (Based on information provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)

    The new Permanent Representative of Guinea to the United Nations, Mohamed Dabo, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

    Prior to his appointment, Mr. Dabo served in his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Guineans Living Abroad as Coordinator of Economic Diplomacy, Strategic Intelligence and International Cooperation, from January 2022 to December 2024.

    Before that, from April 2019 to January 2022, he served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, African Integration and Guineans Abroad, as Adviser responsible for diaspora and international careers.

    From October 2017 to April 2019, he served as a member of the Minister’s cabinet and Special Assistant to the Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Guineans Abroad.  Before that, from August 2013 to October 2017, he served in the Permanent Mission of Guinea to the United Nations as First Secretary and Special Assistant to the Permanent Representative.

    Mr. Dabo holds a master’s degree in political science, policies and strategies of international public action and a bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations and security defence, both from the University Jean Moulin Lyon 3, France.  He also holds a degree in law and political science from the University Lumière Lyon 2 and a degree in law from the University of Lille 2, both in France.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Liberia Presents Credentials

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    (Based on information provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)

    The new Permanent Representative of Liberia to the United Nations, Lewis Garseedah Brown II, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

    Mr. Brown returns to the post after a previous tenure from March 2016 to September 2018.  During that time, he served as Vice-President of the seventy-second session of the General Assembly and chaired the Assembly’s Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization).  Throughout his career, he has held several key Government positions. He served as the Government’s Chief Spokesperson in the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism. He was also Liberia’s Chief Negotiator at the Accra Comprehensive Peace Conference.

    In 2003, Mr. Brown served as Minister for Foreign Affairs.  Prior to that, he held roles in the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs as National Security Advisor and Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company.  Additionally, he was a member of Liberia’s Transitional Legislative Assembly.

    Mr. Brown holds a Master of Science in management from Johns Hopkins University in the United States, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Liberia.

    __________

    * This supersedes Press Release BIO/4854 of 30 June 2016.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Observer for Pan-African Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation for Africa Presents Letter of Appointment

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    (Based on information provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service.)

    The new Permanent Observer for the Pan-African Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation for Africa, Nabhit Kapur, presented his letter of appointment to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

    Since 2016, Mr. Kapur has been Founder and Chairman of the Peacfulmind Foundation, which uses workshops and outreach programmes to advocate for the awareness of mental health.  The organization engages with policymakers and Government officials to support mental health initiatives.

    Prior to his appointment, Mr. Kapur worked as Director of the Sustainable Developments Goals (SDG) Program, National Association of Somalia between 2023 and 2024.  From 2021 to 2023, he served as Adviser to the Vice-President of Liberia.

    He holds a Master of Arts in psychology from Kalinga University, a Master of Science in counselling and psychotherapy from the Institute for Behavioural and Management Sciences Chittoor and a Bachelor of Arts in applied psychology from Amity University.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Uganda’s electricity distribution is changing hands – what’s at stake

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Peter Twesigye, Research Lead: Power Market Reforms and Regulation, University of Cape Town

    Uganda’s electricity sector is at a turning point, as Umeme Limited’s 20-year concession draws to a close. Umeme was the first private distribution operator in anglophone Africa. For nearly two decades, the listed company was the dominant distributor of electricity to the country’s 2.3 million clients. However, Uganda decided in 2022 not to renew the licence on expiry, citing high power tariffs and low electricity access rates.

    Umeme’s departure and the transfer of distribution assets back to the state-owned Uganda Electricity Distribution Company (UEDCL) has sparked controversy. It centres on a US$235 million compensation claim by Umeme. The final settlement could shape power tariffs, the sector’s financial sustainability and investment needs in the country. Peter Twesigye, who researches power market reform, regulation and utility performance in Africa, examines the big questions.

    The numbers behind the controversy

    The flashpoint is the amount the government must pay Umeme to bring the business back under state control. Umeme has demanded US$235.96 million. It says this amount represents its undepreciated and unrecovered investments: costs it hasn’t got back through electricity tariffs or transfers from government.

    The auditor general, representing the government, initially pegged unrecovered investments at US$190.99 million and gave parliament the green light to seek loans to repay Umeme. This was however revised down to US$118 million, which the government has paid. The outstanding gap is more than US$117 million, a 50% difference, which is very large.

    Umeme has, for now, accepted the US$118 million, but has disputed this as the final settlement. It will claim more money and potentially also penalties arising from the government’s failure to pay in full by 31 March 2025. Umeme’s board has a fiduciary duty not to lose shareholders’ capital.

    The buyout amount is more than just a settlement. It will serve as the initial asset base for Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Ltd, which will allow it to provide a service in the future. It will influence the setting of electricity tariffs and the company’s ability to secure funding for investments to ensure service continuity. This benefit is often misunderstood.

    What’s at stake

    At the heart of this debate lies a complex interplay of legal, financial, economic and national risk exposure.

    It will have far-reaching implications for affordability and industrial competitiveness in Uganda, particularly for energy-intensive sectors. A higher asset base reflects greater invested capital, enabling revenue sufficiency to cover the cost of capital, operating expenses and depreciation. This financial strength allows the utility or sector to maintain service delivery, improve electricity reliability and quality, and expand the network to meet demand without relying on subsidies.

    A lower asset base on the other hand reflects under-investment. This could create the risk of poor service delivery and limit the company’s ability to expand or modernise infrastructure. Most importantly it could deter private investors in the sector due to the limited revenue recovery opportunities. The sub-sectors affected could include electricity generation, transmission or distribution.

    Uganda’s prior success in attracting investments in generation was partly due to the presence of Umeme. The utility provided robust governance, commercial and revenue collection guarantees. With its exit, Uganda will find it more challenging to draw in private capital under public governance arrangements.

    For now, the government has adopted the auditor general’s lower valuation of US$118 million. Based on my tariff model analysis, this will give rise to a long-term equilibrium distribution tariff – reflecting cost and state subsidies – of 9.2 cents cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). That is 7.94% lower than Umeme’s 10 cents per kWh.

    It may appear to be a small reduction in tariff in the short term. But it may prove unsustainable in the long term as there are significant infrastructure investment needs. To meet them, the company will need continued direct state subsidies, which Umeme did not get.

    It remains to be seen whether the government can keep providing subsidies.



    Read more:
    Why merging Uganda’s electricity sector agencies is a bad idea

    Beyond tariffs, how Uganda handles this transition matters. It could send a signal to international investors about its reliability as an investment destination. A harmonious resolution would reassure current and prospective investors.

    A contentious fallout, such as arbitration or judicial proceedings, could heighten perceptions of risk to foreign investors. It could also push up the cost of capital to 15.82%, or 582 basis points higher than the base estimate of 10%. This would stem from perceived fears of expropriation of investments by the government.

    Any default on Uganda’s part could trigger punitive financial penalties immediately. These are contractual commitments and obligations, so it’s up to courts of arbitration to decide. If the government fails to pay (in full) within 30 days of 31 March, penalties and interest rates on overdue amounts will escalate from 10% to as high as 20%, depending on the delay period.

    Failure to honour these commitments could also lead to lawsuits in international courts or debt collection efforts by ruthless venture capital firms. These scenarios would impose even greater costs on Uganda’s economy and global reputation.

    Penalties could add to Uganda’s financial obligations and strain public resources further.

    Limited options for Uganda

    The avoidable financial and legal penalties would be costly for consumers and the national treasury. Another potential impact to watch is the country’s overall investment risk profile. This could influence the future cost of capital (interest rates) and premiums that investors would charge.



    Read more:
    Competition in South Africa’s electricity market: new law paves the way, but it won’t be a smooth ride

    It is imperative not to raise the cost of capital for Uganda, which still lacks adequate electricity infrastructure. If the dispute over the buyout price results in investors wanting a higher return for their risk, the impact on tariffs would be even worse than paying the price Umeme wants.

    What Uganda should do

    By addressing these challenges decisively and transparently, Uganda can turn this transition into an opportunity. It can strengthen its energy sector and set a precedent for effective management of public-private partnerships. The government should explore these recommendations:

    • establish a negotiation team of legal, financial, regulatory and energy experts to reconcile valuation differences transparently and negotiate amicably with Umeme

    • secure financing proactively to avoid penalty interest and ensure timely payment

    • keep stakeholders informed, to maintain public trust and investor confidence

    • equip Uganda Electricity Distribution Company to take over and prevent service disruptions

    • build strong governance systems within the utility

    • work in partnership with the private sector.

    The choices made now will be felt for years to come.

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

    – ref. Uganda’s electricity distribution is changing hands – what’s at stake – https://theconversation.com/ugandas-electricity-distribution-is-changing-hands-whats-at-stake-253412

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Put a finger down if TikTok has made you think you have ADHD

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Vasileia Karasavva, PhD student, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia

    ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects around five to nine per cent of children and around five per cent of adults in Canada. (Shutterstock)

    Young adults love TikTok. In 2024, the app had nearly 2.5 billion active users, 60 per cent of them under 35 years old. Increasingly, young people are turning to TikTok for advice and information on a range of topics and issues, and that includes mental health information to guide their health-care decisions.

    Among those topics is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Content about ADHD is thriving on TikTok, with videos using related hashtags garnering tens of billions of views.

    However, navigating and accessing reliable health-care information online can be challenging, especially for people from marginalized communities who often feel like their concerns are dismissed or minimized.

    At the University of British Columbia’s Promoting Equitable, Affirming Relationships Lab, we are exploring whether that’s more helpful or harmful.

    What is ADHD?

    ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects around five to nine per cent of children and around five per cent of adults in Canada.

    Common ADHD symptoms include difficulties with inattention (trouble focusing, losing things or making mistakes), hyperactivity (fidgeting or restlessness) and impulsivity (interrupting others or struggling with patience).

    There is no single way to have ADHD, and one person’s experiences can be very different from some one else. Diagnosis involves a thorough and fairly long evaluation, often including interviews, questionnaires and reports from family members, teachers or co-workers.

    Content about ADHD is thriving on TikTok, however, navigating and accessing reliable health-care information online can be challenging.
    (Shutterstock)

    ADHD on TikTok

    Many adults with ADHD who don’t fit the archetype of a young boy with hyperactivity can often be left undiagnosed and struggle with their symptoms. TikTok offers a space where people from all backgrounds and walks of life can share their experiences, find community and discuss how ADHD manifests for them and how they manage it.

    At the same time, short and engaging content is TikTok’s bread and butter. Creators who want to go viral are incentivized to make bold claims.

    For example, procrastination can be a sign of ADHD. However, while procrastination is more common in people with ADHD, it is also something that occurs in other mental health conditions like depression, and is something that everyone does at least a little bit from time to time.

    But on TikTok, procrastination might be framed as a clear-cut sign of ADHD, making viewers question whether they have it. Some creators also present exaggerated actions that are funny, like walking into things, as being among ADHD symptoms, when clumsy walking is not something that usually happens to people with ADHD.

    ADHD content on TikTok

    In our recently published study, we had two clinical psychologists who research and treat ADHD watch the top 100 most popular #ADHD TikToks. They looked at how accurate the information was, according to professional standards, and how helpful they found the videos in teaching people about ADHD.

    Many of the videos were incredibly popular, averaging more than half a million views and almost 100,000 likes.

    However, we found that 94 per cent of these videos didn’t cite any reliable sources. This tracks with the fact that more than half of the claims made in the videos were not backed up by science and did not match the official diagnostic criteria of ADHD, according to the psychologists who evaluated them.

    Even more concerning, many of the videos were trying to sell something or asking for money through Venmo or Amazon Wishlists.

    How does ADHD content affect TikTok users?

    Next, we wanted to understand how these videos impact viewers. We recruited 843 undergrads between the ages of 18 and 25 with varying experiences with ADHD (professionally diagnosed, self-diagnosed, or did not have ADHD). Participants watched the videos that the psychologists had rated as the top five and bottom five.

    We found that the young adults who watched more TikToks about ADHD were also less critical of them, giving a higher score to the bottom psychologist-rated TikToks.

    A high diet of ADHD-related content was also related to the way that users viewed ADHD. The young adults who watched more TikToks about ADHD also estimated that ADHD was almost seven to 10 times more prevalent than it actually is in the general population and felt worse about their own symptoms.

    We also asked participants how confident they were about having ADHD three times: Before watching any TikToks; right after watching TikToks; and after watching a short video from a clinical psychologist breaking down what the TikToks got right and wrong.

    People with an official ADHD diagnosis stayed confident about their ADHD throughout. However, those who initially didn’t think they had ADHD became less sure after watching the TikToks, while those who self-diagnosed became more convinced they had ADHD.

    After watching the psychologist video, those without ADHD regained their confidence that they didn’t actually have ADHD. However, those who self-diagnosed stayed just as convinced they had ADHD, even after hearing the psychologist’s explanation.

    Takeaway message

    We don’t want our research to scare away people from discussing their symptoms and finding community online. TikTok can be a great place to express yourself and find others with similar struggles.

    Instead, we want to urge people to be more critical of the content they consume and consider that it might not fully represent ADHD.

    For example, if you are seeking mental-health information on social media, you can:

    1) Check the source. Is the information posted by a reputable organization (for example, medical institutions, universities, research centres, ADHD advocacy groups)?

    2) Look for expertise. What are the content creator’s credentials? Are they a doctor or a registered clinical psychologist?

    3) Crosscheck information. Does the information match up with authoritative information from other sources relying on research like the Centers of Disease Control, World Health Organization or other medical authorities?

    4) Be wary of absolutes. Remember, ADHD is complex.

    5) Follow the money. Is the content creator trying to sell you something (like supplements that claim to cure ADHD, ADHD coaching, ADHD diagnosis website).

    The bottom line is that we need more accurate information about ADHD on social media. But the solution isn’t just better content. We need to tackle barriers to health-care access and rebuild trust between young people and mental-health experts.

    Vasileia Karasavva receives funding from the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship.

    Amori Yee Mikami receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada.

    – ref. Put a finger down if TikTok has made you think you have ADHD – https://theconversation.com/put-a-finger-down-if-tiktok-has-made-you-think-you-have-adhd-250000

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Uganda’s electricity distribution is changing hands – what’s at stake

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Peter Twesigye, Research Lead: Power Market Reforms and Regulation, University of Cape Town

    Uganda’s electricity sector is at a turning point, as Umeme Limited’s 20-year concession draws to a close. Umeme was the first private distribution operator in anglophone Africa. For nearly two decades, the listed company was the dominant distributor of electricity to the country’s 2.3 million clients. However, Uganda decided in 2022 not to renew the licence on expiry, citing high power tariffs and low electricity access rates.

    Umeme’s departure and the transfer of distribution assets back to the state-owned Uganda Electricity Distribution Company (UEDCL) has sparked controversy. It centres on a US$235 million compensation claim by Umeme. The final settlement could shape power tariffs, the sector’s financial sustainability and investment needs in the country. Peter Twesigye, who researches power market reform, regulation and utility performance in Africa, examines the big questions.

    The numbers behind the controversy

    The flashpoint is the amount the government must pay Umeme to bring the business back under state control. Umeme has demanded US$235.96 million. It says this amount represents its undepreciated and unrecovered investments: costs it hasn’t got back through electricity tariffs or transfers from government.

    The auditor general, representing the government, initially pegged unrecovered investments at US$190.99 million and gave parliament the green light to seek loans to repay Umeme. This was however revised down to US$118 million, which the government has paid. The outstanding gap is more than US$117 million, a 50% difference, which is very large.

    Umeme has, for now, accepted the US$118 million, but has disputed this as the final settlement. It will claim more money and potentially also penalties arising from the government’s failure to pay in full by 31 March 2025. Umeme’s board has a fiduciary duty not to lose shareholders’ capital.

    The buyout amount is more than just a settlement. It will serve as the initial asset base for Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Ltd, which will allow it to provide a service in the future. It will influence the setting of electricity tariffs and the company’s ability to secure funding for investments to ensure service continuity. This benefit is often misunderstood.

    What’s at stake

    At the heart of this debate lies a complex interplay of legal, financial, economic and national risk exposure.

    It will have far-reaching implications for affordability and industrial competitiveness in Uganda, particularly for energy-intensive sectors. A higher asset base reflects greater invested capital, enabling revenue sufficiency to cover the cost of capital, operating expenses and depreciation. This financial strength allows the utility or sector to maintain service delivery, improve electricity reliability and quality, and expand the network to meet demand without relying on subsidies.

    A lower asset base on the other hand reflects under-investment. This could create the risk of poor service delivery and limit the company’s ability to expand or modernise infrastructure. Most importantly it could deter private investors in the sector due to the limited revenue recovery opportunities. The sub-sectors affected could include electricity generation, transmission or distribution.

    Uganda’s prior success in attracting investments in generation was partly due to the presence of Umeme. The utility provided robust governance, commercial and revenue collection guarantees. With its exit, Uganda will find it more challenging to draw in private capital under public governance arrangements.

    For now, the government has adopted the auditor general’s lower valuation of US$118 million. Based on my tariff model analysis, this will give rise to a long-term equilibrium distribution tariff – reflecting cost and state subsidies – of 9.2 cents cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). That is 7.94% lower than Umeme’s 10 cents per kWh.

    It may appear to be a small reduction in tariff in the short term. But it may prove unsustainable in the long term as there are significant infrastructure investment needs. To meet them, the company will need continued direct state subsidies, which Umeme did not get.

    It remains to be seen whether the government can keep providing subsidies.

    Read more: Why merging Uganda’s electricity sector agencies is a bad idea

    Beyond tariffs, how Uganda handles this transition matters. It could send a signal to international investors about its reliability as an investment destination. A harmonious resolution would reassure current and prospective investors.

    A contentious fallout, such as arbitration or judicial proceedings, could heighten perceptions of risk to foreign investors. It could also push up the cost of capital to 15.82%, or 582 basis points higher than the base estimate of 10%. This would stem from perceived fears of expropriation of investments by the government.

    Any default on Uganda’s part could trigger punitive financial penalties immediately. These are contractual commitments and obligations, so it’s up to courts of arbitration to decide. If the government fails to pay (in full) within 30 days of 31 March, penalties and interest rates on overdue amounts will escalate from 10% to as high as 20%, depending on the delay period.

    Failure to honour these commitments could also lead to lawsuits in international courts or debt collection efforts by ruthless venture capital firms. These scenarios would impose even greater costs on Uganda’s economy and global reputation.

    Penalties could add to Uganda’s financial obligations and strain public resources further.

    Limited options for Uganda

    The avoidable financial and legal penalties would be costly for consumers and the national treasury. Another potential impact to watch is the country’s overall investment risk profile. This could influence the future cost of capital (interest rates) and premiums that investors would charge.

    Read more: Competition in South Africa’s electricity market: new law paves the way, but it won’t be a smooth ride

    It is imperative not to raise the cost of capital for Uganda, which still lacks adequate electricity infrastructure. If the dispute over the buyout price results in investors wanting a higher return for their risk, the impact on tariffs would be even worse than paying the price Umeme wants.

    What Uganda should do

    By addressing these challenges decisively and transparently, Uganda can turn this transition into an opportunity. It can strengthen its energy sector and set a precedent for effective management of public-private partnerships. The government should explore these recommendations:

    • establish a negotiation team of legal, financial, regulatory and energy experts to reconcile valuation differences transparently and negotiate amicably with Umeme

    • secure financing proactively to avoid penalty interest and ensure timely payment

    • keep stakeholders informed, to maintain public trust and investor confidence

    • equip Uganda Electricity Distribution Company to take over and prevent service disruptions

    • build strong governance systems within the utility

    • work in partnership with the private sector.

    The choices made now will be felt for years to come.

    – Uganda’s electricity distribution is changing hands – what’s at stake
    – https://theconversation.com/ugandas-electricity-distribution-is-changing-hands-whats-at-stake-253412

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: NIL Data Reveals Brand Motivations—with Basketball Players Taking the Lead

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STAMFORD, Conn., April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SponsorUnited, the leading global sports and entertainment sponsorship intelligence platform, today released its 2024-25 NIL Endorsements Report. This report explores key trends, insights, and future opportunities in this dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape.

    With March Madness in full swing, spectators are seeing some of the top-endorsed Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) athletes earn their stripes on and off the court. That ranges from top-endorsed players like UNC’s RJ Davis and USC’s JuJu Watkins to McNeese State University’s Amir Khan, the first student manager to capture brand endorsement deals. NIL endorsements, which launched in 2021, have experienced significant changes over the past 12 months, but an even more transformative shift may be on the horizon. The House v. NCAA settlement, with a final approval hearing scheduled for April 7, could usher in a new era of revenue-sharing by allowing schools to pay their athletes—and potentially redefine the business of college athletics.

    “Brands are getting smarter—and more strategic—about how they approach NIL. Some are going all-in on high-profile athletes to maximize exposure during marquee events like March Madness, while others are placing early bets on under-the-radar talent with big upside,” said Bob Lynch, Founder and CEO of SponsorUnited. “Whether it’s a star player, scout team standout, or student manager, the common thread is that brands are leaning into storytelling, real-time relevance, and the cultural currency these athletes now carry. NIL has evolved from a test-and-learn phase into a core part of the sports marketing playbook.”

    Key report findings include:

    Basketball players overwhelmingly top endorsement ranks
    Fittingly, as the sports world is focused on the Men’s and Women’s NCAA Basketball Tournaments, the majority (seven) of the top 10 most-endorsed college athletes–male and female–are basketball players.

    Technology, Beverage, and Retail brand categories are on the rise
    As the NIL market continues to grow, certain industry categories are emerging, while others are scaling back. Categories on the rise include technology with over 375 deals, non-alcoholic beverage and retail, each with over 200 deals. Meanwhile, traditionally dominant categories such as Apparel & Accessories, are shifting strategies. Though still holding the largest share of NIL deals (over 470), the category saw a dip in total volume.

    Casual, story-driven social posts have highest engagement
    Top-performing social posts within NIL deals thrive on humor, authenticity, and subtle branding, seamlessly integrating CTAs without feeling like ads.

    Top brands showcase diverse, attention-grabbing strategies
    While many brands are increasing their NIL investments, it’s how they’re activating those deals that stand out. Some of the most notable brand activations from the top 10 brands include those from Raising Cane’s (2nd, 69 deals), Hollister (T-6th, 46), Uber (T-6th, 46), and Nintendo (9th, 35).

    View the full report here.

    About SponsorUnited
    Launched in 2018, SponsorUnited is the leading global sports and entertainment intelligence platform, delivering actionable data and insights to build stronger marketing partnerships. We provide unrivaled knowledge across the sponsorship and media landscape so our clients can make impactful decisions that drive business.

    With over 403,000 brands, 2.2 million deals, and 21.1 million data points across sports, entertainment, media, and talent, our SaaS platform enables brands, rights holders, and agencies to partner more effectively. By delivering real-time trends, on-demand research, and the most comprehensive data available, we connect the entire sponsorship ecosystem and are rewriting the partnership playbook.

    Visit https://sponsorunited.com/ to learn more and discover exclusive data and insights to make intelligent partnership decisions at speed and scale.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: South Africa’s civil servants are missing skills, especially when it comes to technology – report

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mashupye Herbert Maserumule, Professor of Public Affairs, Tshwane University of Technology

    South Africa’s goal since 2012 has been to build a capable and developmental state to address the twin challenges of poverty and inequality. The country’s National Development Plan defines a capable state as “well-run and effectively coordinated state institutions with skilled public servants”. A transformative and developmental role is about “consistently delivering high quality services” for the good of society.

    To meet these goals, the country requires people in government with the necessary technological skills. This has been shown to be true in analysis of how governments from various regions worldwide have responded to technology as part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

    A lesson that has emerged, particularly from most countries in the global north, is that technology skills are not simply a trend but a means to manage public affairs more effectively. Examples of areas they are used in include big data, artificial intelligence and robotics.

    A new study has looked at how South Africa is faring in developing skills for the future of work in the public sector. The National Development Plan had earlier highlighted that planning for skills development in this sector was inadequate.

    We were part of the research team for this project, as academics affiliated with various universities who have also written extensively on public administration and building state capacity.

    The study found that most South African government officials were familiar with the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. But they were not familiar with how these technologies could be used to improve the efficiency of the state. In addition, officials in government departments that interact directly with citizens lacked the technologies and tools essential to take advantage of the new breakthroughs in technology.

    We caution in the report that as much as technology skills have helped improve state efficiency, mainly in the global north, they can’t make up for all administrative inadequacies – including thievery from the state, which besets South Africa’s democracy.

    Equally important are human cognitive skills and ethical competencies. The report found that these too were a challenge in the public service.

    The report concludes that the government needs to urgently invest in revamping the way civil servants are trained. In particular, it must invest in continuous professional development. While technological capabilities are key, the report recommends that basic human skills and competencies are equally essential. To achieve this will require the development of a dynamic human resources system.

    The gaps

    The research found that civil servants were aware of technologies available in the market. But they didn’t connect them to their jobs, or have a view on how they could make the state more efficient.

    For example, they didn’t know how big data, artificial intelligence, robotics, or the automation of public administration could be used to improve public service. Being aware of these technologies and using them to the maximum advantage of public administration are two distinct things.

    The study also found that officials in some departments that interact directly with citizens – like home affairs and social development – lacked the technological tools and devices that could improve service delivery.

    The study also showed that technology skills alone cannot create public value in a digitally illiterate society.

    Interviewees emphasised the need for strategic and critical thinking skills, the ability to discern right from wrong and the commitment to do what is right.

    These skills remain essential in a constantly evolving world that faces complex policy challenges related to, among other things, climate change, demographic shifts, poverty, unemployment and inequality.

    They argued that technology should be viewed as a tool to complement human effort.

    Related to this, they emphasised fundamental human values that must underpin the character of the public service, like respect, care, human dignity, compassion and altruism.

    Another problem that was identified was the state’s human resources system said to be ineffective. HR Connect was initiated in 2009 as an integrated human resources system.

    The report found that human resources management practices were compliance-driven. They were primarily geared to demonstrate how the budget allocation for training and development had been used rather than also examining the impact of these interventions.

    What’s needed

    Continuous professional development is what’s needed. The New Public Management template for state reform emerged in the 1980s along neo-liberal lines. It has been a staple of public administration education and the training of public servants ever since. The approach involves teaching civil servants how to apply business principles to manage state affairs. They are taught that citizens are customers.

    However, the report concludes that the system “has failed to fulfil its central promise of efficiency” where this was measured only as the economic value rather than social effectiveness, foregrounding the wellbeing of citizens.

    This points to the need to replenish public service skills and competencies. This is where continuous professional development becomes critical.

    Another recommendation is that the government must invest in the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This should include “data infrastructure, systems and human resources to efficiently utilise data in decision making”.

    Some say HR Connect is inactive, implying it is inherently flawed. If that is the case, it must be replaced with a better personnel management system.

    The study was conducted by the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA), in partnership with the Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW).

    Mashupye Herbert Maserumule received funding for his PhD studies from National Research Foundation(NRF). He is affiliated with the South African Association of Public Administration and Management(SAAPAM).

    Ricky Mukonza is affiliated with the South African Association for Public Administration.

    Daniel Nkosinathi Mlambo, John Ntshaupe Molepo, Mogotsi Caiphus Maleka, Moraka Arthur Shopola, and Rasodi K Manyaka do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. South Africa’s civil servants are missing skills, especially when it comes to technology – report – https://theconversation.com/south-africas-civil-servants-are-missing-skills-especially-when-it-comes-to-technology-report-253277

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: How to Test Drive Adulthood and Change Your City for the Better

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Participants of the Youth Parliament in the Legislative Assembly of Saint Petersburg

    Volunteering is helping with specific actions, and an active life position is promoting and implementing initiatives for the benefit of society. This is the motto of the first deputy chairman of the student council of SPbGASU, head of the Open For Students project Ivan Baranovsky (a third-year student of the Faculty of Engineering Ecology and Urban Economy) and the editor-in-chief of the student council of SPbGASU Alexandra Polyanskaya (a second-year master’s student of the Faculty of Architecture). They have already accumulated a solid baggage of good deeds, successfully implemented many ideas and, as they admit, do not intend to stop there. We talk to them about their initiatives, supported by the Youth Parliament under the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg, and the priority areas that they are developing.

    – How did your path to social activity and the volunteer movement begin?

    Ivan Baranovsky: The path of volunteering began in elementary school. What prompted it? Probably a simple desire to help. I realized that seeing happy faces in response, for whom you try to do something without asking for anything in return, is the most pleasant result. I get pleasure when I help people. Our university has a well-developed student government, thanks to which volunteering develops. In fact, we all do volunteering in one way or another throughout our lives: we help friends, the elderly, strangers. It became the starting point for me in active social activities.

    Alexandra Polyanskaya: I started doing social work back in the St. Petersburg State Academy of Art and Industry named after A. L. Stieglitz, where I joined the team of a grant project to create a media center. I have always been attracted by the opportunity to turn ideas into real products that others see and appreciate. And when I entered the master’s program at SPbGASU, I decided to continue what I had started: I joined the student council, completed the POTOK and Open for Students training programs. I wanted not just to study, but to create events, help the guys from the university, and develop the media direction. Volunteering and activism gave me the tools for this – from organizing events to working with people whose stories inspire.

    – What areas of volunteering are particularly in demand today and how are they developing in our university and city?

    Alexandra Polyanskaya: Media volunteering and projects related to patriotic education are in high demand now. For example, our university requires organizers, content creators, photographers, videographers, and designers to hold the events of the Golden Faculty or Architectural Seasons. This is a large team of diverse specialists, primarily from the student council media center, which trains these specialists to join its team under the Open for Students program. In addition, we are actively developing the media direction: in the last year alone, we have launched websites for elections, Olympiads, and workshops using neural networks. Such skills help activists in life: thanks to them, they can find a decent part-time job while studying. In St. Petersburg, there is a growing demand for projects that unite young people around common values: for example, helping the families of SVO participants or preserving historical memory. The state supports and encourages activists. Thus, Ivan received two honorary medals for his active civic position and contribution to public life.

    Ivan Baranovsky: When I learned about the awards, I was quite surprised: yes, I volunteered at the call of my heart, often went and collected humanitarian aid to the SVO zone, participated in charity events, helped the families of SVO participants, but I didn’t even think about any award. The first medal was awarded for assistance in conducting the Special Military Operation. The second medal, “Active Participant in the Volunteer Movement,” is for activities in the field of volunteerism.

    – What skills does active social activity help to develop?

    Ivan Baranovsky: Being active in public life develops communication and management skills, and most importantly, the ability to motivate your team to implement a project at the idea level. The student council is a small test drive of adult life: here you gain a lot of experience and expand your circle of acquaintances for the realization of yourself and others. The city has many opportunities for the comprehensive development of students, many youth organizations that also develop volunteering in one form or another.

    Alexandra Polyanskaya: Working in the student council of our university allows you to discover incredible opportunities in yourself that you never even knew about! Student council events became one of the compelling reasons for me to enroll in the master’s program at SPbGASU. Self-development in these areas is inevitable. For example, for the needs of the student council to implement our collective ideas, I mastered web design and the basics of UX/UI, although I had no experience in this area before. Organizing a workshop on neural networks for Young Design forced me to immerse myself in the world of AI tools in order to explain them clearly even to beginners. In general, volunteering for me is an opportunity to live thousands of lives at once, try myself in completely different areas and improve in what I already understand. Recently, Ksenia Vitsina, chairperson of the student council of SPbGASU, noted that after the student council, our guys want to work in the same active team, with a developed corporate culture.

    – You are taking part in the Youth Parliament of the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg of the second convocation. It is appropriate to note your personal growth. What are your achievements in this area?

    Ivan Baranovsky: The Youth Parliament of the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg is an advisory and consultative body that works on a voluntary basis. Its goal is to facilitate the activities of the Legislative Assembly in the area of legislative regulation of the rights and legitimate interests of young people. Our team of four people put forward an initiative to completely update the design of contactless smart cards (BSC) and contactless electronic smart cards (BEPK). This initiative passed the second reading, now all that remains is to hold a competition for the best design. I hope that this summer the design of the cards in St. Petersburg will completely change.

    I am also developing two initiatives for federal legislation: the first concerns the rules for advertising placement, the second is to supplement the Federal Law “On the Protection of Consumer Rights” (No. 2300-1). I will be able to tell you more about it later.

    Alexandra Polyanskaya: The Youth Parliament is a structure that helps active young people influence the life of the city. Here we support youth projects, interact with the city administration and promote ideas that are aimed at improving the life of the city and, in the long term, the country. Now, for example, we are developing socially useful ideas for federal legislative initiatives. I am working on ideas for the Federal Law on the Protection of Cultural Heritage, including the topic of zoological parks, which overlap with my master’s thesis. This topic combines two areas that excite me at once – architecture as a life’s work and love for animals.

    We have just started our activities in the Youth Parliament, but I am sure that there is a lot of good ahead, as we receive incredible support from the curator of the Youth Parliament, Advisor to the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg Maryana Borisovna Yakovleva.

    Vanya and I are on different committees, but I promote and defend his legislative initiatives, and Vanya helps me with project ideas. Our personnel reserve also includes the head of the SECOND HOM project, a student of the construction faculty, Olga Kostyleva.

    – How do you manage to combine your studies with active social activities? And what plans have you outlined for yourself?

    Ivan Baranovsky: It’s hard to combine. But I don’t intend to retreat: I need to successfully graduate from university, enroll in a master’s program, and implement all the ideas I have planned for 2025.

    Alexandra Polyanskaya: Strict planning helps to combine studies with active social activities. Without it, everything turns into chaos from a large number of different tasks. In such cases, notepads and reminder apps help. Although in reality, sometimes it is extremely difficult to manage everything due to the workload and specifics of the faculty. I prioritize my studies.

    At some point, there were so many tasks that I wanted to have a separate person to plan them, but nothing is impossible. You can contact Vanya and me on the topic of legislative and project initiatives: for example, now we are working on helping the SECOND HOM student council project hold the Russia-China festival. Vanya works more with projects, and I – in the field of legislation, mainly related to architecture and construction. Now I am also trying to improve my knowledge of legislation in general. At present, we are developing ideas for federal initiatives to solve certain problems. One of them is to provide students studying in a specialized field with the opportunity to participate in the examination of cultural heritage sites. I think it is very important for students to prove themselves in the professional field even before receiving a diploma, in order to gain initial experience. Then they are more likely to work in their profession, and good young people will come to the industry.

    I plan to enroll in graduate school and do not rule out that I will stay to work at the university in order to motivate the younger generation to take an active life position both in the professional environment and in public life.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa’s civil servants are missing skills, especially when it comes to technology – report

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mashupye Herbert Maserumule, Professor of Public Affairs, Tshwane University of Technology

    South Africa’s goal since 2012 has been to build a capable and developmental state to address the twin challenges of poverty and inequality. The country’s National Development Plan defines a capable state as “well-run and effectively coordinated state institutions with skilled public servants”. A transformative and developmental role is about “consistently delivering high quality services” for the good of society.

    To meet these goals, the country requires people in government with the necessary technological skills. This has been shown to be true in analysis of how governments from various regions worldwide have responded to technology as part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

    A lesson that has emerged, particularly from most countries in the global north, is that technology skills are not simply a trend but a means to manage public affairs more effectively. Examples of areas they are used in include big data, artificial intelligence and robotics.

    A new study has looked at how South Africa is faring in developing skills for the future of work in the public sector. The National Development Plan had earlier highlighted that planning for skills development in this sector was inadequate.

    We were part of the research team for this project, as academics affiliated with various universities who have also written extensively on public administration and building state capacity.

    The study found that most South African government officials were familiar with the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. But they were not familiar with how these technologies could be used to improve the efficiency of the state. In addition, officials in government departments that interact directly with citizens lacked the technologies and tools essential to take advantage of the new breakthroughs in technology.

    We caution in the report that as much as technology skills have helped improve state efficiency, mainly in the global north, they can’t make up for all administrative inadequacies – including thievery from the state, which besets South Africa’s democracy.

    Equally important are human cognitive skills and ethical competencies. The report found that these too were a challenge in the public service.

    The report concludes that the government needs to urgently invest in revamping the way civil servants are trained. In particular, it must invest in continuous professional development. While technological capabilities are key, the report recommends that basic human skills and competencies are equally essential. To achieve this will require the development of a dynamic human resources system.

    The gaps

    The research found that civil servants were aware of technologies available in the market. But they didn’t connect them to their jobs, or have a view on how they could make the state more efficient.

    For example, they didn’t know how big data, artificial intelligence, robotics, or the automation of public administration could be used to improve public service. Being aware of these technologies and using them to the maximum advantage of public administration are two distinct things.

    The study also found that officials in some departments that interact directly with citizens – like home affairs and social development – lacked the technological tools and devices that could improve service delivery.

    The study also showed that technology skills alone cannot create public value in a digitally illiterate society.

    Interviewees emphasised the need for strategic and critical thinking skills, the ability to discern right from wrong and the commitment to do what is right.

    These skills remain essential in a constantly evolving world that faces complex policy challenges related to, among other things, climate change, demographic shifts, poverty, unemployment and inequality.

    They argued that technology should be viewed as a tool to complement human effort.

    Related to this, they emphasised fundamental human values that must underpin the character of the public service, like respect, care, human dignity, compassion and altruism.

    Another problem that was identified was the state’s human resources system said to be ineffective. HR Connect was initiated in 2009 as an integrated human resources system.

    The report found that human resources management practices were compliance-driven. They were primarily geared to demonstrate how the budget allocation for training and development had been used rather than also examining the impact of these interventions.

    What’s needed

    Continuous professional development is what’s needed. The New Public Management template for state reform emerged in the 1980s along neo-liberal lines. It has been a staple of public administration education and the training of public servants ever since. The approach involves teaching civil servants how to apply business principles to manage state affairs. They are taught that citizens are customers.

    However, the report concludes that the system “has failed to fulfil its central promise of efficiency” where this was measured only as the economic value rather than social effectiveness, foregrounding the wellbeing of citizens.

    This points to the need to replenish public service skills and competencies. This is where continuous professional development becomes critical.

    Another recommendation is that the government must invest in the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This should include “data infrastructure, systems and human resources to efficiently utilise data in decision making”.

    Some say HR Connect is inactive, implying it is inherently flawed. If that is the case, it must be replaced with a better personnel management system.

    The study was conducted by the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA), in partnership with the Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW).

    – South Africa’s civil servants are missing skills, especially when it comes to technology – report
    – https://theconversation.com/south-africas-civil-servants-are-missing-skills-especially-when-it-comes-to-technology-report-253277

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Notice of the Annual General Meeting of Orrön Energy AB

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The shareholders of Orrön Energy AB (publ), 556610-8055 (“Orrön Energy” or the “Company”), are hereby given notice of the Annual General Meeting to be held on 5 May 2025 at 11.00 (CEST). The meeting will be held digitally.

    Shareholders may choose to exercise their voting rights at the Annual General Meeting by attending the digital meeting in person, through a proxy or by postal voting.

    Vote at the Annual General Meeting

    Those who wish to exercise their voting rights at the Annual General Meeting must:

    • be entered as a shareholder in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden AB on 24 April 2025 or, if the shares are registered in the name of a nominee, request that the nominee registers the shares in their own name for voting purposes in such time that the registration is completed by 28 April 2025; and
    • give notice of attendance at the Annual General Meeting to the Company in accordance with the instructions set out in the section “Online participation and voting at the Annual General Meeting” or submit a postal vote in accordance with the instructions set out in the section “Voting by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting” no later than 28 April 2025.

    Important information regarding participation and voting

    The Board of Directors has decided to hold the Annual General Meeting as a digital meeting combined with an option to vote by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting in accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association.

    For terms and instructions for online participation and voting at the Annual General Meeting, please refer to the section “Online participation and voting at the Annual General Meeting” below.

    For terms and instructions for voting by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting, please refer to the section “Voting by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting” below.

    Please note that despite thorough preparations, it cannot be ruled out that online participation or voting at the Annual General Meeting do not work as intended due to technical complications attributable to shareholders. The Annual General Meeting will be held regardless of any such complications and there is a risk that votes submitted online at the Annual General Meeting are not registered. Consequently, those who want to be certain of being able to exercise their voting rights should vote by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting.

    Please also note that it will not be possible to vote both by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting and online at the Annual General Meeting. If a postal vote has been submitted in accordance with the terms and instructions for voting by post and such postal vote has not been withdrawn by the shareholder no later than 28 April 2025, the Company will consider the postal vote at the Annual General Meeting.

    It is possible to vote by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting and still follow the Annual General Meeting without exercising any voting rights online, please see the section “Voting by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting” below for more information.

    Online participation and voting at the Annual General Meeting
    Those who wish to participate at the digital Annual General Meeting in person or through proxy shall give notice of attendance to the Company no later than 28 April 2025 either:

    • electronically through the Company’s website, www.orron.com (only applicable to individuals);
    • by post to Computershare AB, Box 5267, SE-102 46 Stockholm (Att. “Orrön Energy’s AGM”);
    • by telephone to +46 (0)8 518 01 554 on weekdays between 09.00 and 16.00 (CEST); or
    • by email to info@computershare.se.

    The notice of attendance shall state name, personal identification number or corporate registration number, address, telephone number and, where relevant, the number of accompanying advisors (not more than two).

    To participate and vote online, a stable network connection must be maintained throughout the Annual General Meeting. Online participation is possible via a computer, a smartphone or a tablet, provided the device is equipped with an up-to-date operating system and the latest software version. Access to the meeting will be facilitated via a web browser, ensuring a seamless and secure connection to the digital platform.

    Those who give notice of attendance at the Annual General Meeting will receive login instructions on the admission card which will be sent to the address stated in the notice of attendance. On the day of the Annual General Meeting, the digital platform will open for login from 10.00 (CEST), and participants must log in no later than 11.00 (CEST) to attend.

    In connection with each voting item, shareholders will be able to choose between the alternatives “Yes”, “No” and “Abstain”. Engagement and questions during the meeting will be facilitated through a dedicated written Q&A function.

    Those who do not wish to participate or vote online in person may exercise their voting rights at the Annual General Meeting through a proxy in possession of a written, signed and dated proxy form. In order for the proxy to obtain login instructions to the digital platform, the proxy’s name, personal identification number or corporate registration number and address must be included in the notice of attendance. A proxy form issued by a legal entity must be accompanied by a copy of a certificate of registration or a corresponding document of authority for the legal entity. Template proxy forms in Swedish and English are available on the Company’s website, www.orron.com. Proxy forms, certificates of registration and other documents of authority shall be appended to the notice of attendance. Please note that notice of attendance must be given even if a shareholder wishes to exercise its rights at the meeting through a proxy. A submitted proxy form does not count as a notice of attendance.

    Voting by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting
    Those who wish to exercise their voting rights by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting shall use the voting form and follow the instructions available on the Company’s website, www.orron.com. The postal vote must be received by the Company no later than 28 April 2025. The postal vote shall be sent either:

    • electronically in accordance with the instructions available on the Company’s website, www.orron.com;
    • by email to info@computershare.se; or
    • by post to Computershare AB, Box 5267, SE-102 46 Stockholm (Att. “Orrön Energy AGM”).

    If a shareholder’s voting rights are exercised by proxy, a power of attorney and other authorisation documents must be enclosed with the voting form. A proxy form is available on the Company’s website, www.orron.com, and will be sent to shareholders upon request.

    Shareholders who wish to exercise their voting rights by post in advance of the Annual General Meeting may still follow the Annual General Meeting online (without also exercising voting rights online). In order to receive login instructions, please elect for this option in the voting form.

    Proposed agenda
    1.   Opening of the Annual General Meeting.
    2.   Election of Chair of the Annual General Meeting.
    3.   Preparation and approval of the voting register.
    4.   Approval of the agenda.
    5.   Election of one or two persons to approve the minutes.
    6.   Determination as to whether the Annual General Meeting has been duly convened.
    7.   Presentation by the Chief Executive Officer.
    8.   Presentation of the annual and sustainability report and the auditor’s report, the consolidated financial statements and the auditor’s Group report as well as the remuneration report prepared by the Board of Directors and the auditor’s statement on compliance with the policy on remuneration.
    9.   Resolution in respect of adoption of the income statement and the balance sheet and the consolidated income statement and consolidated balance sheet.
    10.   Resolution in respect of disposition of the Company’s result according to the adopted balance sheet.
    11.   Resolution in respect of discharge from liability of members of the Board of Directors and the Chief Executive Officer.
    12.   Resolution in respect of the remuneration report prepared by the Board of Directors.
    13.   Nomination Committee proposals:

    • Proposal for the number of members of the Board of Directors.
    • Proposal for remuneration of the Chair of the Board of Directors and other members of the Board of Directors.
    • Proposal for election of Chair and other members of the Board of Directors.
    • Proposal for remuneration of the auditor.
    • Proposal for election of auditor.

    14.   Resolution in respect of the number of members of the Board of Directors.
    15.   Resolution in respect of remuneration of the Chair of the Board of Directors and other members of the Board of Directors.
    16.   Resolutions in respect of Board members:
    a)   re-election of Grace Reksten Skaugen as a Board member;
    b)   re-election of Jakob Thomasen as a Board member;
    c)   re-election of Peggy Bruzelius as a Board member;
    d)   re-election of William Lundin as a Board member;
    e)   re-election of Mike Nicholson as a Board member;
    f)   election of Richard Ollerhead as a Board member; and
    g)   re-election of Grace Reksten Skaugen as the Chair of the Board of Directors.
    17.   Resolution in respect of remuneration of the auditor.
    18.   Election of auditor.
    19.   Resolution for the 2025 Long-term, Performance-based Incentive Plan (LTIP 2025).
    20.   Resolution in respect of delivery of shares under the LTIP 2025 through:
    a)   an issue and transfer of warrants of series 2025:1; or
    b)   an equity swap arrangement with a third party.
    21.   Resolution in respect of authorisation for the Board of Directors to resolve on new issue of shares and convertible debentures.
    22.   Resolution in respect of authorisation for the Board of Directors to resolve on repurchase and sale of shares.
    23.   Closing of the Annual General Meeting.

    Proposals for resolutions to be presented at the Annual General Meeting of Orrön Energy on 5 May 2025

    Items 2 and 14–18: Resolutions in respect of Chair of the Annual General Meeting, number of members of the Board of Directors, remuneration of the Chair of the Board of Directors and other members of the Board of Directors, election of Chair of the Board of Directors and of other members of the Board of Directors, and remuneration of the auditor and election of the auditor
    Orrön Energy’s Nomination Committee for the 2025 Annual General Meeting consists of Aksel Azrac (Chair, Nemesia S.à.r.l.), Sussi Kvart (Handelsbanken Fonder) and Richard Ollerhead (JNE Partners LLP). The Nomination Committee for the 2025 Annual General Meeting, appointed by shareholders jointly holding approximately 46 per cent of the shares and voting rights in Orrön Energy as per 1 August 2024, proposes the following:

    • Advokat Klaes Edhall to be appointed as Chair of the Annual General Meeting or, if he is absent, any other person appointed by the Nomination Committee.
    • Six members of the Board of Directors to be appointed without deputy members.
    • Remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors and the Chair of the Board of Directors, including in respect of Committee membership, to be as follows: (i) annual fees for the members of the Board of Directors of EUR 60,000 (excluding the Chair of the Board of Directors); (ii) annual fees for the Chair of the Board of Directors of EUR 120,000; (iii) annual fees for Committee members of EUR 5,000 per Committee assignment (other than Committee Chairs); and (iv) annual fees for Committee Chairs of EUR 10,000; with the total fees for Committee work (including fees for Chairs of Committees) not to exceed EUR 50,000.
    • Re-election of Grace Reksten Skaugen, Jakob Thomasen, Peggy Bruzelius, Mike Nicholson and William Lundin as members of the Board of Directors and election of Richard Ollerhead as a member of the Board of Directors for a period until the end of the 2026 Annual General Meeting. Mr. Ollerhead is a British national born in 1986. Mr. Ollerhead graduated from Balliol College at the University of Oxford, where he obtained a degree in Physics and Philosophy. Mr. Ollerhead worked between 2008 and 2014 at Taconic Capital Advisors in London. From 2015 to 2018 he was part of the European investment team at MSD Partners, which spun out at the end of 2018 as JNE Partners LLP. Mr Ollerhead is a partner at JNE Partners LLP, responsible for a range of equity investments. JNE Partners LLP is the Investment Manager of JNE Master Fund LP, a subsidiary of which (JNE Partners Luxembourg S.à r.l.) is a major shareholder in the Company. Mr. Ollerhead currently holds no Board memberships.
    • Re-election of Grace Reksten Skaugen as Chair of the Board of Directors for a period until the end of the 2026 Annual General Meeting.
    • The auditor’s fees shall be payable upon approval of their invoice.
    • Re-election of the registered accounting firm Ernst & Young AB as the auditor of the Company, which intends to appoint authorised public accountant Anders Kriström as the auditor in charge, for a period until the end of the 2026 Annual General Meeting.

    Item 3: Preparation and approval of the voting register
    The Board of Directors proposes that the register prepared by Computershare AB (on behalf of the Company) based on the Company’s share register, shareholders attending in person or through proxy and postal votes received by the Company is approved as voting register for the Annual General Meeting.

    Item 10: Resolution in respect of disposition of the Company’s result according to the adopted balance sheet
    The Board of Directors proposes that no dividend is distributed and that all distributable funds are brought forward.

    Item 19: Resolution for the 2025 Long-term, Performance-based Incentive Plan (LTIP 2025)
    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to establish a long-term, performance-based incentive plan in respect of Group Management and a number of key employees of Orrön Energy on the terms and conditions set out below (“LTIP 2025”).

    Background and purpose
    The reason for establishing LTIP 2025 is to align the interests of Group Management and other key employees with the interests of the shareholders, and to provide market appropriate reward reflecting continuity, performance and commitment. The Board of Directors believes that the proposed LTIP 2025 will provide Orrön Energy with a crucial component to a competitive total compensation package to attract and retain executives who are critical to Orrön Energy’s future success.

    The performance-based LTIP 2025 has been designed by the Compensation Committee based on market practice and through engagement with the Company’s shareholders, other stakeholders and a remuneration consultant. The plan introduces performance conditions related to total shareholder return and strategic targets which determine the final award for the long-term incentive plan.

    It is considered that the LTIP 2025, as the share option plans in the past, is best financed through delivery of shares allowing the Company to continue to allocate all available capital towards growth.

    The Board of Directors intends to propose to future Annual General Meetings to establish long-term incentive (“LTI”) plans based on principles corresponding to the currently proposed LTIP 2025. In order to be eligible to participate in such future LTI plans, each participant needs to build towards a meaningful shareholding in Orrön Energy, meaning that a certain portion of any allotted shares pursuant to LTIP 2025 (and any future LTI plans) shall be retained until the required level of shareholding has been met.

    Implementation of LTIP 2025
    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting 2025 resolves on the implementation of the LTIP 2025 in accordance with the terms and conditions set out below.

    Terms and conditions

    (a)   Awards under LTIP 2025 are proposed to be made to approximately 9 permanent employees of the Orrön Energy Group (the “Participants”), comprising the CEO and other members of Group Management, as well as certain other key employees. The Board of Directors may, within the total number of shares available under LTIP 2025, invite a limited number of additional Participants in LTIP 2025 following recruitment to the Orrön Energy Group.

    (b)   LTIP 2025 gives the Participants the possibility to receive shares in Orrön Energy subject to uninterrupted employment and the fulfilment of performance conditions over a three-year performance period commencing on 1 June 2025 and expiring on 31 May 2028 (the “Performance Period”). The performance condition is two-fold, where the two conditions have a 75 per cent and 25 per cent weighting in determining the vesting of awards under LTIP 2025 (the “Performance Conditions”). The first Performance Condition is based on the share price growth and dividends (“Total Shareholder Return”) of the Orrön Energy share compared to the Total Shareholder Return of a peer group of companies (the “Peer Group”) (the “Total Shareholder Return Performance Condition”), with a 75 per cent weighting. The second Performance Condition is based on the achievement of strategic performance targets (the “Strategic Performance Condition”), with a 25 per cent weighting. At the beginning of the Performance Period, the Participants will, free of charge, be granted awards (“LTIP Awards”) which, to the extent that i.a. one or both Performance Conditions are partially or fully met, entitle the Participant to be allotted, also free of charge, shares in Orrön Energy (“Performance Shares”) as soon as reasonably practicable following the end of the Performance Period.

    (c)   The LTIP Awards (i.e. the number of Performance Shares that a Participant may be allotted following the expiration of the Performance Period, provided that i.a. one or both of the Performance Conditions are partially or fully met) to be awarded to each Participant shall be calculated as follows:

                     LTIP Award = A multiplied by B divided by C multiplied by D, where

                     A = the Participant’s monthly gross base salary applicable as at the date of grant of the LTIP Award;

                     B = a number of months as determined by the Board of Directors in respect of each Participant, taking into account such factors as industry benchmarking and the Participant’s position within the Orrön Energy Group (but in any case, subject to a maximum    cap of 36 months);

                     C = the volume weighted average price of the Orrön Energy share on Nasdaq Stockholm for the period between 1 January 2025 and 31 March 2025; and

                     D = the product of the factors representing the proportional increases in the number of Performance Shares under award for each dividend (if any) until allotment, calculated by dividing the value of the Orrön Energy share at closing on the ex-dividend date plus the declared dividend by the value of the share at closing on the ex-dividend date.

            Fractions of allotted Performance Shares shall be rounded-off to the immediate lower whole number.

            Considering the volume weighted average share price of the Orrön Energy share between 1 January 2025 and 31 March 2025 of SEK 5.9, the total number of Performance Shares that may be allotted under LTIP 2025 as at the date of award of the LTIP Awards (assuming 100 per cent vesting) is 4,450,000, corresponding to approximately 1.6 per cent of the current total number of shares and votes in Orrön Energy. In addition, considering additional Participants (if any) following recruitment and increased awards due to dividends (if any), and the expected social charges linked to award, it is proposed that the total number of Performance Shares under LTIP 2025 shall not exceed 5,450,000.

    (d)   Allotment of Performance Shares will be determined by the Board of Directors after the expiration of the Performance Period on the basis of LTIP Awards made and is conditional on (i) the Participant retaining his or her uninterrupted employment in the Orrön Energy Group until the expiry of the Performance Period and (ii) the extent to which (if any) one or both of the Performance Conditions have been met. The LTIP Award will compensate for dividends distributed (if any), and to ensure further alignment with shareholders’ interests, LTIP 2025 will do so by increasing the number of Performance Shares under award proportionally during the award period through the formula described in (c) above, entailing also a reinvestment of dividends received during the award period. The Board of Directors may reduce (including reduce to zero) allotment of Performance Shares at its discretion, should it consider the underlying performance not to be reflected in the outcome of the Performance Conditions.

    (e)   Minimum and a maximum levels for the Performance Conditions to be fulfilled have been established by the Board of Directors. In order for the LTIP Awards to give Participants entitlement to the maximum number of Performance Shares, the maximum level for both Performance Conditions must have been fulfilled.

    1. In respect of the Total Shareholder Return Performance Condition, the fulfilment of which shall result in an entitlement of a maximum of 75 per cent of the maximum number of Performance Shares, the Performance Condition calculation will be made based on a comparison of Total Shareholder Return of the Orrön Energy share to the Peer Group, comparing the three month period of January to March 2025 prior to the commencement of the Performance Period, with the three month period of January to March 2028 prior to the end of the Performance Period. The LTIP Awards will vest based on the comparative Total Shareholder Return of the Orrön Energy share from no vesting below the 38th percentile performance and with vesting at or above the 38th percentile performance on a straight line basis to 100 per cent vesting of this performance condition at the 75th percentile performance or above. The Performance Condition calculation will be performed by the Board of Directors.
    2. In respect of the Strategic Performance Condition, the fulfilment of which shall result in an entitlement of a maximum of 25 per cent of the maximum number of Performance Shares, the measurement of the Performance Condition will be based on an assessment at the end of the Performance Period, relative to the commencement of the Performance Period, of the fulfilment of strategic performance criteria set by the Board of Directors, reflecting key performance targets such as power generation, investments, financial, sustainability and growth through brownfield and greenfield projects, M&A transactions, geographical or technological expansions and other value accretive events. The Performance Condition fulfilment assessment will be performed by the Board of Directors.
    3. The Performance Conditions described in point 1 and 2 above may each individually lead to a 75 and 25 per cent vesting of the LTIP Awards, respectively, and may also vest partially, leading to a partial vesting of the LTIP Awards. Should both Performance Conditions be fully met, 100 per cent of the LTIP Awards will vest. Orrön Energy intends to present the level of fulfilment of the LTIP 2025 Performance Conditions in the 2028 Annual Report.

    (f)   The Participants will not be entitled to transfer, pledge or dispose of the LTIP Award or any rights or obligations under LTIP 2025, or exercise any shareholders’ rights regarding the LTIP Awards during the Performance Period.

    (g)   Shares allotted under LTIP 2025 (or any future LTI plans) shall be subject to certain disposition restrictions, meaning that the Participants shall be building towards a meaningful shareholding in Orrön Energy. The required level of shareholding will be either 50 per cent or 100 per cent (200 per cent for the CEO) of the Participant’s annual gross base salary based on the Participant’s position within the Orrön Energy Group. Notwithstanding this requirement, the Company may pay part or whole of the allotment of Performance Shares in cash in order to facilitate the payment of the Participant’s tax liabilities, or as otherwise may be determined by the Board of Directors. However, a minimum of 50 per cent of the allotted Performance Shares (after taxes and social security charges) under LTIP 2025 will be required to be retained until the required level of shareholding has been met.

    (h)   Recalculation of the Performance Conditions and the LTIP Awards, including the number of Performance Shares allotted, shall take place in the event of an intervening dividend in kind, bonus issue, split, preferential rights issue and/or other similar corporate events.

    Structure and administration

    The Board of Directors of Orrön Energy will be responsible for the structure and administration of LTIP 2025, as well as for the detailed terms and conditions applicable between Orrön Energy and the Participants. The detailed terms and conditions will be adopted within the scope of the terms and conditions and guidelines stated herein. In connection therewith, the Board of Directors will be entitled to adopt different terms and conditions for LTIP 2025 regarding, among other things, the Performance Period and allotment of Performance Shares in the event of commencement or termination of employment during the Performance Period, e.g. due to new recruitments, illness, disability, death, redundancy, contractual retirement and other exceptional circumstances determined by the Board of Directors.

    The Board of Directors will be entitled to make adjustments in order to comply with special rules or market conditions abroad. In the event that delivery of Performance Shares to Participants cannot take place under applicable law or at a reasonable cost and employing reasonable administrative measures, the Board of Directors will be entitled to decide that Participants may, instead, be offered a cash settlement. In the event of a change of control, all LTIP Awards under LTIP 2025 will vest in full.

    Peer Group

    The Board of Directors has reviewed the Peer Group and determined that it shall consist of the following companies for LTIP 2025: ABO Energy, Arise, Cloudberry, Energiekontor, Eolus Vind, Fortum, Magnora, Ørsted, PNE, Scatec, Solaria and TRIG. The Board of Directors shall have the power to amend the Peer Group in order to maintain a representative and relevant group of companies during the Performance Period.

    Delivery of shares, costs etc.

    In order to secure the delivery of shares to the Participants and cover potential costs (including taxes and social security charges) under the LTIP 2025, the Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to issue up to 5,450,000 warrants of series 2025:1 (see item 20 a) of the proposed agenda)

    In the event the nine-tenth (9/10) majority requirement applicable to the Board of Directors’ proposal to issue and transfer warrants of series 2025:1 under item 20 a) of the proposed agenda is not satisfied, the Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to approve that the Company may hedge its obligations under the LTIP 2025 by entering into (or maintaining) an equity swap arrangement with a third party, whereby the third party in its own name shall be entitled to acquire and transfer shares (including to the Participants) in accordance with the terms and conditions of the LTIP 2025 (see item 20 b) of the proposed agenda).

    The LTIP 2025 will be accounted for in accordance with the accounting standard IFRS 2 and the costs will be charged to the income statement over the Performance Period. The maximum cost for granting LTIP Awards under LTIP 2025, excluding costs related to delivery of the Performance Shares, is approximately 0.25 MEUR, assuming 100 per cent vesting.

    Effects on key figures
    Under the assumptions set out in item (c) above and upon full allotment of Performance Shares, the number of shares under LTIP 2025 amounts to 4,450,000 shares in Orrön Energy (subject to recruitments and adjustments for dividends), corresponding to approximately 1.6 per cent of the current total number of shares and votes in the Company. If the total number of Performance Shares under LTIP 2025 reaches the cap of 5,450,000 shares in Orrön Energy, it will correspond to approximately 1.9 per cent of the current total number of shares and votes in the Company.

    Preparation of the proposal
    The proposal for LTIP 2025 has been prepared by the Compensation Committee and resolved on by the Board of Directors.

    Other incentive schemes in Orrön Energy
    For a description of the Company’s other LTIP’s, reference is made to the Company’s Annual and Sustainability Report for 2024, note 21, and the Company’s website, www.orron.com.

    Majority requirement
    The proposal to implement LTIP 2025 requires support from shareholders representing more than half (1/2) of the votes cast at the Annual General Meeting.

    A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal regarding the issue and transfer of warrants of series 2025:1 under item 20 a) of the proposed agenda requires support from shareholders representing not less than nine-tenth (9/10) of both the votes cast and the shares represented at the Annual General Meeting. A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal regarding the equity swap arrangement under item 20 b) of the proposed agenda requires support from shareholders representing more than half (1/2) of the votes cast at the Annual General Meeting.

    Item 20: Resolution in respect of delivery of shares under the LTIP 2025 through (a) an issue and transfer of warrants of series 2025:1 or (b) an equity swap arrangement with a third party

    Background
    Under the LTIP 2025 proposed by the Board of Directors under item 19 of the proposed agenda, the Company has an obligation, subject to certain conditions, to deliver shares in the Company to the Participants in the LTIP 2025.

    In order to secure the Company’s obligation to deliver shares and to cover a portion of the costs (including taxes and social security charges), the Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to issue and transfer up to 5,450,000 warrants of series 2025:1 on the terms and conditions set out in item 20 a) below. In the event the nine-tenth (9/10) majority requirement applicable to the proposed warrant settlement method is not satisfied, the Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to approve that the Company hedges its obligations under the LTIP 2025 by entering into an equity swap arrangement with a third party, whereby the third party in its own name shall be entitled to acquire and transfer shares (including to the participants) on the terms and conditions set out in item 20 b) below.

    The Board of Directors considers the warrant settlement method to be the preferred alternative since the costs for an equity swap arrangement are significantly higher than the costs for issuing and transferring warrants. If the Annual General Meeting resolves to approve the proposed warrant settlement method under item 20 a) below with the requisite majority, the Board of Directors intends to withdraw its equity swap arrangement proposal under item 20 b) below.

    Item 20 a): Resolution in respect of delivery of shares under the LTIP 2025 through an issue and transfer of warrants of series 2025:1
    In order to secure the Company’s obligation to deliver shares under the LTIP 2025, the Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meetings resolves to issue and transfer warrants of series 2025:1 in the Company on the following terms and conditions:

    1. A maximum of 5,450,000 warrants shall be issued.
    2. The right to subscribe for warrants shall, with deviation of the shareholders’ preferential rights, rest with the Company itself.
    3. The reason for deviating from the shareholders’ preferential rights is to secure the Company’s obligations to deliver shares and to cover any costs (including taxes and social security charges) under the LTIP 2025.
    4. Subscription for the warrants shall take place on a separate subscription list not later than 1 November 2025.
    5. The warrants shall be issued free of charge.
    6. Each warrant shall entitle the holder to subscribe for one new share in the Company. The subscription price for each new share shall be equal to the quotient value of the Company’s share.
    7. The warrants may be exercised during the period from and including 1 June 2025 up to and including 1 June 2029.
    8. The new shares shall carry rights to dividends for the first time on the record date for dividends that occurs after subscription has been effected.
    9. The subscription price and the number of shares for which each warrant entitles subscription may be re-calculated under certain circumstances as set forth in the complete terms and conditions for the warrants.
    10. Upon exercise of all 5,450,000 warrants, the Company’s share capital will increase by SEK 66,312.15 (based on a quotient value of approximately SEK 0.01). If the subscription price exceeds the quotient value of the shares, the excess amount shall be allotted to the non-restricted statutory reserve (Sw. den fria överkursfonden).
    11. The Company may transfer up to 5,450,000 warrants (a) free of charge to Participants (and/or a designated third party) for the purpose of enabling the delivery of shares in the Company under the LTIP 2025 and (b) at a price equal to the fair market value of the warrants as determined using a customary valuation method to a designated third party for the purpose of covering any costs (including taxes and social security charges) under the LTIP 2025.

    The complete terms and conditions for the warrants of series 2025:1 will be available at the Company and on the Company’ website, www.orron.com, not later than three weeks prior to the Annual General Meeting.

    The resolution shall be conditional upon that the Annual General Meeting resolves to establish the LTIP 2025 in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal under item 19 of the proposed agenda.

    A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal requires support from shareholders representing not less than nine-tenth (9/10) of both the votes cast and the shares represented at the Annual General Meeting.

    Item 20 b): Resolution in respect of delivery of shares under the LTIP 2025 through an equity swap arrangement with a third party
    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to approve that the Company may hedge its obligations under the LTIP 2025 by entering into (or maintaining) an equity swap arrangement with a third party, whereby the third party in its own name shall be entitled to acquire and transfer shares (including to the participants) in accordance with the terms and conditions of the LTIP 2025.

    The resolution shall be conditional upon that the Annual General Meeting resolves to establish the LTIP 2025 in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal under item 19 of the proposed agenda.

    A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal requires support from shareholders representing more than half (1/2) of the votes cast at the Annual General Meeting.

    Item 21: Resolution in respect of authorisation for the Board of Directors to resolve on new issue of shares and convertible debentures
    The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to authorise the Board of Directors to decide, at one or more occasions until the next Annual General Meeting:

    (i)    to issue no more than 28,500,000 new shares with consideration in cash or in kind or by set-off; and

    (ii)    to issue convertible debentures with consideration in cash or in kind or by set-off, where the number of shares that may be issued after conversion shall not exceed 28,500,000.

    The Board of Directors may resolve to deviate from the shareholders’ preferential rights. If the Board of Directors resolves to deviate from the shareholders’ preferential rights, the reason shall be to enable or facilitate acquisitions of companies or businesses or other major investments.

    The total number of shares that can be issued based on the proposed authorisations under (i) and (ii) may not together exceed 28,500,000. If the authorisation is exercised in full for issues with deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, the dilution effect is approximately ten per cent.

    A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal requires the support of shareholders representing at least two thirds (2/3) of the votes cast and of the shares represented at the Annual General Meeting.

    Item 22: Resolution in respect of authorisation for the Board of Directors to resolve on repurchase and sale of shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the Board of Directors is authorised, during the period until the next Annual General Meeting, to decide on repurchases and sales of the Company’s shares on the following terms and conditions:

    1. The maximum number of shares repurchased shall be such that shares held in treasury from time to time do not exceed ten per cent of all shares of the Company.
    2. The maximum number of shares that may be sold is the number of shares that the Company at such time holds in treasury.
    3. Repurchase of shares may be made (a) on Nasdaq Stockholm or (b) in accordance with an offer directed to all shareholders.
    4. Repurchase and sale of shares on Nasdaq Stockholm may take place only at a price within the spread between the highest bid price and lowest ask price prevailing and disseminated by Nasdaq Stockholm from time to time. Repurchases of shares in accordance with an offer directed to all shareholders may also take place at a market premium in relation to the price prevailing and disseminated by Nasdaq Stockholm from time to time.
    5. The repurchases and sales shall be made in accordance with the provisions concerning the purchase and sale of a company’s own shares under applicable stock exchange rules and other applicable rules and regulations.

    The purpose of the authorisation is to provide the Board of Directors with an instrument to optimise the Company’s capital structure and to enable the use of own shares as consideration for or as financing of acquisitions of companies or businesses, to secure obligations under incentive plans and to cover costs, including social security charges, that may arise as a result of incentive plans.

    The Board of Directors’ reasoned statement pursuant to pursuant to Chapter 19, Section 22 of the Swedish Companies Act will be available at the Company and on the Company’s website, www.orron.com, not later than three weeks prior to the Annual General Meeting.

    A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal requires the support of shareholders representing at least two thirds (2/3) of the votes cast and of the shares represented at the Annual General Meeting.

    Number of shares and votes in the Company
    Orrön Energy’s share capital amounts to SEK 3,478,713.38, represented by 285,905,187 shares. Each share carries one vote. Orrön Energy holds, as of the date of this notice, no treasury shares.

    Shareholders’ right to request information

    The Board of Directors and the Chief Executive Officer shall, if a shareholder so requests and the Board of Directors considers that it may do so without significant damage to the Company, give information at the Annual General Meeting regarding circumstances that could affect the assessment of an item on the agenda and circumstances that could affect the assessment of the Company’s or a subsidiary’s financial situation. The duty to give information also applies to the Company’s relationship with another Group company and the consolidated financial statements.

    Additional documentation
    Complete proposals and other documents that shall be made available prior to the Annual General Meeting pursuant to the Swedish Companies Act and the Swedish Corporate Governance Code are available at Orrön Energy’s office (Hovslagargatan 5 in Stockholm) and on www.orron.com. The documents will be sent to shareholders free of charge upon request if their postal address is provided.

    Handling of personal data and external participants
    For information on how personal data is processed in connection with the Annual General Meeting, see the privacy notices of Euroclear Sweden AB and Computershare AB available at their respective websites, www.euroclear.com/dam/ESw/Legal/Privacy-notice-bolagsstammor-engelska.pdf. and
    www.computershare.com/se/gm-gdpr.

    It will not be possible for the Company to verify if any external persons are following the Annual General Meeting online. Consequently, the Board of Directors has resolved to allow persons who are not shareholders to follow the Annual General Meeting online.

    Stockholm in April 2025
    ORRÖN ENERGY AB (PUBL)
    The Board of Directors

    For further information, please contact:

    Robert Eriksson
    Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
    robert.eriksson@orron.com

    Jenny Sandström
    Communications Lead
    Tel: +41 79 431 63 68
    jenny.sandstrom@orron.com

    Orrön Energy is an independent, publicly listed (Nasdaq Stockholm: “ORRON”) renewable energy company within the Lundin Group of Companies. Orrön Energy’s core portfolio consists of high quality, cash flow generating assets in the Nordics, coupled with greenfield growth opportunities in the Nordics, the UK, Germany and France. With significant financial capacity to fund further growth and acquisitions, and backed by a major shareholder, management and Board with a proven track record of investing into, leading and growing highly successful businesses, Orrön Energy is in a unique position to create shareholder value through the energy transition.

    Forward-looking statements
    Statements in this press release relating to any future status or circumstances, including statements regarding future performance, growth and other trend projections, are forward-looking statements. These statements may generally, but not always, be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek”, “will”, “would” or similar expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that could occur in the future. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to several factors, many of which are outside the company’s control. Any forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date on which the statements are made and the company has no obligation (and undertakes no obligation) to update or revise any of them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What parents need to know to talk to their children about the manosphere

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Annabel Hoare, PhD Student in Gender-Based Political Violence, Anglia Ruskin University

    BearFotos/Shutterstock

    The success of Netflix drama Adolescence, along with concerns about misogynistic influencers such as Andrew Tate, has brought the “manosphere” into public discussion.

    Many parents, particularly of young boys, may fear they don’t know enough about what their children are exposed to online. I research radical misogyny online, and the pathways by which young people encounter these spaces. Here is what parents should know about this content.

    What is the manosphere?

    The manosphere is a network of communities that create, consume and distribute content online aimed at men and boys. It includes multiple groups that differ in their aims and focus, but are all largely anti-feminist.

    These groups discuss masculinity, but also topics such as health, gaming, politics and finance. They trivialise hateful rhetoric through memes, comedy and trolling (provocation or bullying for amusement) by framing it as self-help, entertainment and tools for financial success. This can make it difficult for parents to identify and for children to realise the extreme messages they are being exposed to.

    Manosphere content is promoted by various influencers on popular social media platforms. These influencers often showcase unattainable wealth and status, selling the illusion that followers can achieve success by adopting their teachings.

    The most notable manosphere influencer is Andrew Tate, who rose to fame in 2022. He and his brother Tristan are currently under investigation in Romania for charges of rape, human trafficking and money laundering, and in the UK for rape and human trafficking. However, he is not the only influencer out there.

    In recent years, there have been a number of incidents of violence that have been linked to manosphere content. The extent of real-world effects is difficult to measure, and not everyone who engages with the manosphere will go on to commit violence. But it’s clear that these communities can promote violence or spread harmful ideas about women and girls.

    It is important to note, however, that this content also harms men and young boys. The manosphere promotes unrealistic expectations and extreme measures which can lead to poor self-esteem, mental health problems and, in some cases, suicide. This content preys on vulnerabilities and insecurities of boys and young men, especially related to social isolation and sexual rejection.

    Misinformation and pseudoscience

    Much of the content that spreads in the manosphere is based on disinformation or pseudoscientific theories. These provide an easy framework for men to assess and improve their status while framing women and feminism as the problem.

    For example, the “80/20 rule” refers to the pseudoscientific theory that 80% of women are only attracted to the top 20% of men. In the manosphere, this rule is used to blame women for mens’ feelings of sexual or romantic rejection.

    Influencers and community members promote step-by-step instructions that people can follow to improve their social standing. Many of these guides involve extreme or harmful physical transformations in a phenomenon known as “looksmaxxing”, which can even involve facial surgery in a bid to increase their sexual “value”.



    Read more:
    ‘Looksmaxxing’ is the disturbing TikTok trend turning young men into incels

    The manosphere has an expansive lexicon which is used to incite hatred towards women and fuel rivalry between men. Common terms include:

    • Red pill: TRP, the manosphere’s core philosophy, derived from the Matrix, frames the red pill as an awakening to feminism’s oppression of men. The blue pill represents ignorance, and the black pill, used by incels, as accepting their “terminal” celibacy status.

    • Amog (alpha male of the group), Alpha, Gamma, Omega, Sigma, Sub-5 – These terms categorise and compare men and their social status. While sigma and alpha males or Amogs are considered the top of the hierarchy, the terms gamma, omega, and sub-5 denigrate men perceived to be of a lower status.

    • White Knight, Soyboy: Derogatory terms describe men who are viewed as being subservient to women.

    • Awalt (All women are like that), Foid/Femoid (female humanoid), Becky, Carousel: Terms used to denigrate and dehumanise women.

    Parents should not panic if they hear their children using manosphere terms. They may not fully understand their meanings and may have encountered them innocently. However, changes in how boys talk about women and girls, withdrawal from family and friends, and frequent use of these terms can be an indication that they are being influenced by the manosphere.

    Supporting your child

    Most adolescents will come across manosphere content at some point. A recent survey found that 59% of boys accessed manosphere content through innocent and unrelated searches. This doesn’t necessarily mean that they endorse the misogynistic values spread by these groups.

    Here are some steps you can take to support your child.

    1. Explore online together

    Research commissioned by media regulator Ofcom found that children were more likely to come across harmful content if their parents are less engaged in what they are doing. Watching content that relates to your children’s hobbies, and sending them content you think they would like, can help train algorithms to promote more moderate content and open up an avenue for discussion.

    Engaging online with your child can be a natural way to start conversations about what they are exposed to. It is important that you are not trying to intervene or critique, but rather understand why they enjoy watching certain influencers or content.

    2. Encourage reflection and media literacy

    Research suggests that teaching children to be sceptical about what they see online can inoculate them against mis- and disinformation.

    The most obvious disinformation they are most likely to come across in the manosphere may be in the form of statistics, summaries of “academic” reports, and news articles about instances of female aggression or false rape allegations. They may also come across misleading content in educational or self-help posts, about improving their appearance or how to be successful.

    Ask your children why they trust certain influencers and where they think their friends get their information. These kinds of questions can help them develop their own fact-checking skills without it seeming like a lesson.

    3. Ask open-ended questions

    Asking children about what they consume or what slang they use online can feel cringe. The best way to get around this is to ask simple open-ended questions such as “How do boys in your class talk about girls?” or “Have you ever heard of…?”

    What you hear may be shocking, but approach it with curiosity and without judgment or dismissal to let them know they can share things with you.

    If you are concerned about your child’s behaviour, you can also get support from resources such as Young Minds mental health support, the Center for Countering Digital Hate’s free parents guide or the government’s radicalisation helpline ACT Early. Getting support from government services is not a punishment. It won’t go on a person’s criminal record, but can provide access to governmental services like Prevent.

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

    – ref. What parents need to know to talk to their children about the manosphere – https://theconversation.com/what-parents-need-to-know-to-talk-to-their-children-about-the-manosphere-252984

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Adolescence in schools: TV show’s portrayal of one boyhood may do more harm than good when used as a teaching tool

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sophie King-Hill, Associate Professor at the Health Services Management Centre, University of Birmingham

    Netflix television series Adolescence has captured the attention of people across the UK – including the prime minister.

    The series follows a 13-year-old boy accused of the murder of his female classmate. It touches upon incel online hate groups, toxic influencers and the misogynistic online spaces of the manosphere.

    Keir Starmer has backed a move for Adolescence to be shown in schools, and Netflix has now made the series available to be shown for free in classrooms through charity Into Film+, which has also produced a guide for teachers. Resources for teachers and parents will also be produced by relationships charity Tender.

    Adolescence is a drama and deserves the praise it has attracted. But it wasn’t developed as an educational resource, the kind that is produced in consultation with young people and schools and should be underpinned by robust research and well planned evaluations.

    The series shows an extreme example of one teenager drawn into the world of the manosphere. Not all boys will see themselves reflected in this portrayal. And as a researcher working on masculinity and misogyny, my concern is that showing the series in schools may lead boys to think that they are all perceived as potential threats.

    Showing the series as a teaching tool risks framing boyhood as monolithic, with one particular – and problematic – way of being a boy.

    Already, a broad-brush, blame-heavy approach is often taken to boys in response to issues relating to sexual harassment and violence. “We may have a problem with boys and young men that we need to address”, Keir Starmer has said.

    Boys dealing with blame

    In research I have carried out for a forthcoming book on boys and masculinity, I worked with young men and boys aged 13 to 19. One 15-year-old boy said that “I am always told that I am part of the problem but never allowed to be part of the solution”. I also found that this broad blame culture leads to feelings of worthlessness in young men and boys, which shuts down vital dialogue and also may lead them to resort to looking for direction from negative spaces such as the manosphere.

    It is evident from reports and evidence that young men and boys do carry out a large amount of reported sexual harassment and harms against young women and girls. This can be seen in the 2021 Ofsted report into sexual harassment in schools in England, for example. The 2025 2000 Women report states that, in the UK, a woman is killed by a man every three days.

    There is evidently a serious, endemic and complex problem. The misogyny that can be popularised by toxic influencers online also needs urgently addressing.

    But a “one-size-fits-all” approach to tackle “boys’ issues” may result in making things worse, not better, due to the lack of recognition of the intersectionality of boyhood. Other aspects of identity, such as race, age, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, sexuality and physical and mental health will have implications for the approaches that need to be taken.



    Read more:
    How to talk to boys about misogyny

    My ongoing research has demonstrated that boyhood means differing things to different boys. In steering groups with young men and boys from various ethnicities and differing social classes, a consistent theme emerged. This was a conflict between the internal and external self that the boys felt that they had to portray. This was also highlighted in a further 16 focus groups carried out on the project, again with a range of boys.

    The internal self refers to who the boys actually are, including other identity traits such as race and class, and all the other intersecting aspects of their identity. The external self is what they felt they should show as a boys to fit into the hierarchy of masculinity and how they should portray themselves to fit within the social expectations of being a boy. This causes a conflict of external and internal self.

    Efforts to help boys deal with issues such as the messages of the manosphere need to be attuned to the nuance of their internal selves. Generalising boys does not account for the individual identities that they bring to the issues that affect them.

    Boys as individuals

    The monolithic perspective of “boys” and the ensuing group blame oversimplifies complex issues, resulting in less than effective solutions and interventions that do not acknowledge or account for the nuances and complexities that surround individual boys.

    This approach ignores diversities and intersecting identities and steers societal thinking about boys as a set group. It risks stereotyping them and causing prejudicial approaches. When boys are stigmatised in such a way, it compounds issues across genders, breaks down valuable communication and can also cause resentment and hostility.

    One of the key voices and valuable perspectives that is missing from this debate is that of young men and boys themselves. We need to truly listen to their perspectives and their needs and build upon these as they are the experts in the world they are experiencing. Good practice accounts for and builds upon these experiences, with young people.

    My research has demonstrated that young people want to be a part of these discussions rather than having things decided for them. It also shows that, quite often, we are teaching them what they already know and providing support and education that is too little, too late. We need to move away from the broad brush blaming of boys and young men and begin to approach them based upon their own individual identities – of which gender is only a part.

    Sophie King-Hill receives funding from ESRC.

    – ref. Adolescence in schools: TV show’s portrayal of one boyhood may do more harm than good when used as a teaching tool – https://theconversation.com/adolescence-in-schools-tv-shows-portrayal-of-one-boyhood-may-do-more-harm-than-good-when-used-as-a-teaching-tool-253158

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Shakespeare’s Cymbeline explores how to live through the end of the world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Newton, Lecturer, Centre for the Arts in Society, Leiden University

    Iachimo stealing Innogen’s bracelet, illustrated by Louis Rhead (1918).

    Folger Shakespeare Library, CC BY-SA

    Written in 1611, Shakespeare’s Cymbeline is a raw mess – full of feeling and as messy as life. The 18th-century man of letters, Samuel Johnson decried the play as a work of “unresisting imbecility”, a hotch-potch of incongruities.

    It’s true that it’s hard to even know what kind of play Cymbeline is. The First Folio, the first collected edition of Shakespeare’s plays, presents it as the last of his tragedies. But it’s also, all at once, a history play, a pastoral, a fairytale, a pantomime and a tragicomedy.

    Set in ancient Britain at the time of the birth of Christ, Cymbeline stitches together three plots. In one, Posthumus (the banished husband of Innogen, King Cymbeline’s daughter) accepts a wager with Iachimo that the sleazy Italian will not be able to seduce his wife. In the second, after 20 years, King Cymbeline’s abducted sons (and Innogen’s brothers) are restored to him. And in the third, refusing to pay tribute to the emperor, tiny Britain picks a fight with the majesty of imperial Rome.

    What makes Cymbeline such a potent play for our own age of anxiety is how Shakespeare weaves a tale about the collapse of everything known, as connections dissolve, and lays out how we may discover ourselves anew in the radically altered world.

    This article is part of Rethinking the Classics. The stories in this series offer insightful new ways to think about and interpret classic books and artworks. This is the canon – with a twist.

    Written late in his career, in Cymbeline, Shakespeare rips up all the ways he’s been doing things and suddenly starts afresh. Here, some few years before his retirement, he foregoes the complex psychology of his great tragedies and opts for archetypes of fairytale and romance.

    But in striking out for this new artistic territory, he also turns to himself as his own best source. Like an ageing rock band contracted for one last farewell tour, in Cymbeline, Shakespeare’s back playing the hits.

    The plot of Cymbeline explained in 60 seconds by actors of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

    Like King Lear, Cymbeline is set in ancient Britain. Sneering Iachimo is Iago’s ghost and Posthumus, a dollar-store Othello.

    Innogen is Shakespeare’s last cross-dressing heroine, passing as a boy, a faded echo of witty Rosalind of As You Like It and sad Viola of Twelfth Night. There’s fun in Rosalind and Viola’s changed identities, but Innogen puts on boy’s clothes to escape. Her father condemns her as disobedient for marrying Posthumus, and instead pushes her towards her step-brother, the fatuous bully Cloten.

    Innogen’s time as a boy is joyless, as she learns that her beloved Posthumus wants her killed. She’s a new person now, not Innogen, but “Fidele”. Unmoored, adrift, she unwittingly finds her brothers, falls ill and mistakenly consumes a drug that puts her into a sleep so deep she appears to be dead.

    She wakes from this seeming death beside a headless body that she takes to be her murdered husband, but is in fact the villainous Cloten. Desperate with grief, she touches the flowers that have been strewn on the corpse, and smears herself with his blood.

    It’s as stark a scene as Shakespeare ever wrote in its unstable unity of tender beauty and suffering. Innogen sighs: “These flowers are like the pleasures of the world, This bloody man, the care on’t,” and in that conjunction sums up the extremities of life and of this play. When a Roman soldier finds her, she tells him: “I am nothing; or if not, Nothing to be were better.”

    Dying to live

    Politically, too, things are disintegrating. The play multiplies broken bonds, unpaid debts and contracts denied – including both the marriage contract, and the debt of tribute owed to Rome by Britain.

    Following Innogen’s passage through suffering and figurative death, Posthumus undergoes the same process. He has already earned his name by outliving his parents.

    Reduced, like Innogen, to all but nothing, believed to be dead, but actually in prison, Posthumus receives a vision of his dead family and of forgiving Jove, the divine father of the Roman Gods. Love and social unity have died, but in this mystical scene, the possibility returns of renewal.

    Both Innogen and Posthumus must “die” to live. Off stage, in distant Bethlehem, a nativity takes place that signals the death of the old Rome – but also the regeneration of all things. And so the story commits itself to the reconciliation achieved in wonder.

    This is a play where the word “miracle” becomes a verb, just as Innogen and Posthumus, and old, foolish King Cymbeline himself come to understand how even the most distressed life may open to bliss. “The gods do mean to strike me to death with mortal joy,” declares an amazed Cymbeline, as the play offers us a vision of that astonishing unity of suffering and redemption.

    We may doubt that such wonder could exist for us today. But Shakespeare’s full look at the worst enables us too to imagine the sense of hopeful possibility found in his brilliant conclusion. It is a wonderful play.

    Beyond the canon

    As part of the Rethinking the Classics series, we’re asking our experts to recommend a book or artwork that tackles similar themes to the canonical work in question, but isn’t (yet) considered a classic itself. Here is Michael Newton’s suggestion:

    There’s no other work of art so chaotic and so alive as Cymbeline. But H. F. M. Prescott’s The Man on a Donkey (1952) runs it close. I only discovered this novel a year ago, and I find it astonishing that so great a book could have remained hidden so long. Prescott follows Cymbeline in manifesting hope in a time of social collapse. It’s a novel of Henry VIII and the Reformation, centred on the “Pilgrimage of Grace”, when loyal Catholics rebelled against the dissolution of the church.

    I read it while recovering from surgery, and it was just as well. If I had read it while at work I would have had to steal time off constantly to return to it. There are few novels so deep, so compelling, so beautiful. Like Cymbeline, it breaks all the rules of how to make a work of art, and caught up in its story you find out how little those rules matter when face to face with the complexity of the world and the depth of human beings.

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

    – ref. Shakespeare’s Cymbeline explores how to live through the end of the world – https://theconversation.com/shakespeares-cymbeline-explores-how-to-live-through-the-end-of-the-world-249190

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Engineering hope: how I made it my mission to help rebuild Ukraine’s critical infrastructure

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nadiia Kopiika, Research Fellow, School of Engineering, University of Birmingham

    The war in Ukraine is often marked by specific dates, like February 24, 2022 – the day of the full-scale invasion. But for many Ukrainians, that February never really ended. For me, then a 22-year-old master’s student in construction engineering, that day shattered everything I understood about my future. I was glued to my phone, refreshing news updates in a frantic attempt to make sense of the chaos.

    The distant echoes of explosions rumbled through the city, shaking windows and setting off endless car alarms. Air raid sirens wailed, their sound slicing through the early morning stillness. Outside, people hurried past with suitcases, their faces pale and tense, while others lined up at pharmacies and ATMs, their hands trembling as they stocked up on essentials.

    My family and friends sent frantic messages (Are you safe? Are you leaving? What do we do?) but no one had an answer. Fear settled in like a second skin, thick and suffocating. The streets, once familiar, now felt unrecognisable, transformed by the weight of uncertainty.

    We were all touched by the war, including my family. My father, who is a scientist and professor of Mykolaiv University of Shipbuilding, voluntarily joined the military forces to fight for Ukraine and give my family the possibility to work and study while the war raged outside.

    Meanwhile, my hometown, Mykolaiv – previously a strategically important shipbuilding and port city on the Black Sea – became a key stepping-stone for Russian forces on the road to Odesa. It is very close to currently occupied territories and the frontline.

    The Insights section is committed to high-quality longform journalism. Our editors work with academics from many different backgrounds who are tackling a wide range of societal and scientific challenges.

    Controlling access to the city and its bridges was crucial in the battle for Ukraine. The destruction of these bridges cut off vital supply routes, leaving Mykolaiv isolated and struggling to hold the line. What were once ordinary crossings became symbols of survival, as the city fought to stay connected and withstand the siege.

    As my home was attacked, I realised something fundamental: bridges were not just engineering projects. They were lifelines.

    Engineering hope

    Rebuilding bridges and roads is about more than repairing physical structures; it is about restoring security, economic stability and vital connections between communities. A collapsed bridge isolates people from essential services, disrupting supply chains and deepening vulnerability. The war has exposed just how critical Ukraine’s infrastructure is for survival.

    Mykolaiv is one of the hardest-hit regions. According to the Ukrainian government, more than 20 bridges were destroyed or severely damaged by Russian attacks, including the Inhul Bridge, a vital artery for the city.

    The Snihurivka Bridge, another key crossing, was also wiped out, leaving thousands stranded without reliable access to healthcare and supplies. For months, humanitarian aid and commerce were forced onto alternative, unreliable routes, further isolating communities. The reconstruction of key bridges in my home region has allowed life to resume, but the scale of the challenge across the country remains immense.

    A destroyed bridge in Irpin, near Kyiv.
    Taras Fedorenko/Ukraine Media Centre, CC BY-NC

    Elsewhere, the destruction has been just as devastating.. The Irpin Bridge, north-west of Kyiv, which once carried 40,000 vehicles a day, became a symbol of both loss and survival. Ukrainian forces had to destroy the bridge to stop Russian advances on Kyiv. Thousands of civilians fled across its wreckage under fire.

    Science: a light in the dark

    Fast forward to the autumn of 2022. Ukraine’s power grid was under relentlessattack. Entire cities were plunged into darkness. I sat at my desk in Lviv, in western Ukraine, where I have been working on my PhD thesis. My laptop battery was draining and a single candle flickered beside me. I was writing a research paper on strengthening methods for buildings and infrastructure. Yet, all around me real infrastructure was collapsing, making my work feel disconnected from reality.

    Laptop battery draining and a single candle flickers during one of the regular power cuts.
    Nadiia Kopiika

    The city had endured weeks of missile strikes targeting critical infrastructure and power cuts became part of daily life. Simple tasks like boiling water for tea, charging a phone, or even sending an email became unpredictable challenges. The hum of generators filled the streets and people lined up at charging stations trying to stay connected. The darkness wasn’t just outside, it seeped into everything, a constant reminder that the war was never far away.



    Read more:
    Ukraine: the UN’s ‘responsibility to protect’ doctrine is a hollow promise for civilians under fire

    At that moment, a question struck me: what if science could help rebuild Ukraine? Could research, something that had once felt so theoretical, actually make a difference in the aftermath of war?

    My supervisor introduced me to BridgeUkraine: a research alliance of people focused on rebuilding Ukraine’s critical infrastructure. It was founded by two leading experts in disaster recovery and engineering: Stergios-Aristoteles Mitoulis, the head of structures at the University of Birmingham’s School of Engineering and Sotirios Argyroudis, reader of infrastructure engineering at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Brunel University.

    The project aimed to not only repair what was damaged but to build better infrastructure: homes that are more resilient, more sustainable and ready for future crises. Mitoulis recalled that the whole idea for BridgeUkraine was born out of a deeply personal moment:

    I first thought of BridgeUkraine when I spoke with my former MSc student, Marat Khodzhaiev, who was in Ukraine when the war started. He was stranded in his house and at risk of missing the opportunity to graduate from his MSc course in the UK. All bridges around him had collapsed, there was no escape route. His wife was pregnant at the time. That call made me realise the urgent need, not only to rebuild infrastructure, but also to support and empower Ukrainian engineers to build their future. BridgeUkraine became more than just a research alliance, it became a mission that ensures that Ukraine’s recovery will be driven by its own people, equipped with the best knowledge and tools to rebuild their country.

    The KSE Institute estimates that more than 300 bridges across Ukraine require urgent reconstruction, with damages exceeding US$2.6 billion. But this isn’t all about infrastructure; it is about securing Ukraine’s independence and ensuring that its economy and society can function even under the most difficult conditions. Every bridge rebuilt is a step toward recovery, a restored connection between families and communities, and a symbol of resilience.

    To address these challenges, rebuilding Ukraine’s infrastructure cannot follow conventional methods. The sheer scale of destruction demands a new approach, one that not only restores what was lost but strengthens the country for the future.

    At BridgeUkraine, we are developing solutions that prioritise resilience over quick fixes. Instead of rebuilding vulnerable structures, we are integrating sustainable materials, climate-adaptive engineering, and strategic planning to ensure that Ukraine’s transport networks are built to last.

    Rebuilding fairly and efficiently

    A comprehensive assessment conducted by the government of Ukraine, the World Bank Group, the European Commission, and the United Nations estimates that the total cost of Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery stands at approximately €506 billion (US$524bn) over the next decade. This underscores the necessity for continued and enhanced international support to address the extensive needs arising from the conflict.

    There are no academic guidelines on how to rebuild after such destruction. What is the most effective way to approach reconstruction in this context? We quickly came to the realisation that conventional methods were too slow and rigid to address the urgent and widespread damage.

    Our research team wanted to re-imagine how to rebuild infrastructure and homes that are resilient to future challenges, from war-related destruction to climate-induced disasters. As Mitoulis told me:

    Rebuilding infrastructure is not just about restoring roads and bridges, it’s about rebuilding lives. Our approach is centred on people, ensuring that the infrastructure is designed by Ukrainians, for Ukrainians. It must not only reconnect communities but also support economic recovery and long-term resilience.

    But such ethical reconstruction must be inclusive, sustainable and community-driven, ensuring that those who depend on infrastructure have a say in how it is rebuilt.

    Reconstruction must be a participatory, creative effort – one that rebuilds cities with beauty and meaning, connecting them to their past while preparing for the future. Too often, post-war recovery efforts have been dictated by external donors, prioritising short-term economic gains over long-term resilience.

    People like me, who have grown up in these places, understand the culture, the rhythm of daily life, and the importance of preserving identity as well as buildings. We want to see our cities restored in a way that reflects our history and spirit.

    For example, in post-second world war Warsaw, reconstruction efforts initially ignored the city’s historical character in favour of Soviet-style urban planning. It was only through the persistence of local architects and historians that parts of the Old Town were painstakingly restored to reflect their original designs.

    Ukraine cannot afford such myopic, profit-driven decision-making. Instead, it must empower local communities, integrating their knowledge, needs and skills into the reconstruction process.



    Read more:
    Rebuilding Homs: how to resurrect a city after years of conflict

    This vision started to take shape through workshop discussions with experts in geography and urban planning. Everyone agreed on the need for an adaptable transportation system where modular designs and relocatable, prefabricated bridges (like the Mabey bridge in US) could respond to evolving demands and disruptions.

    Similarly, at the ReBuild Ukraine 2024 conference leading engineers, policymakers and researchers showcased groundbreaking technologies designed to accelerate reconstruction while reducing long-term environmental and economic risks (for example, nature-based solutions, 3D-printing, Virtual Reality and Building Informational Modelling).

    Revolutionising damage assessment with AI, radar and satellite imagery

    But to effectively plan for recovery and reconstruction, it’s crucial to first accurately characterise the damage. A clear picture of what has been destroyed allows for smarter decisions, prioritising the most urgent repairs and using resources effectively.

    Our latest research, published in Automation in Construction, introduces a faster, more precise way to assess damage to key infrastructure, particularly bridges. Bringing together expertise from a large multidisciplinary team, we developed a new approach that combines satellite images and radar and artificial intelligence to swiftly and accurately analyse damage.

    This technology allowed us to assess the condition of bridges remotely, without having to be onsite in dangerous or inaccessible areas. By providing rapid, data-driven insights, our method helps ensure that reconstruction efforts start where they are needed most, speeding up recovery and making rebuilding efforts more effective.

    We tested this approach on numerous bridges in the Irpin region of Ukraine, and the results were striking. It significantly improved both the speed and accuracy of damage assessments. Using Sentinel-1 SAR images (radar satellite images from the European Space Agency’s Copernicus program), crowdsourced data (photos and reports from people on the ground), and high-resolution imagery, we developed a comprehensive approach for damage detection and classification.

    This approach works on multiple levels: it provides a big-picture view of damage across entire regions while also zooming in on specific structural issues in individual bridge components. By combining satellite data with detailed images, our method makes damage assessments more precise, faster and safer, ensuring that reconstruction efforts focus on the most critical areas first.

    These findings can play a crucial role in damage and needs assessment such as those conducted by the World Bank.

    Sustainable infrastructure

    In war zones, destruction often affects vital humanitarian and evacuation corridors, making it essential to prioritise reconstruction based on factors such as the national importance of a bridge, its role in border crossings, and its impact on social services.

    For instance, the failure of a bridge could disrupt emergency response efforts, further complicating recovery.

    But rebuilding after a disaster is also an opportunity to create something stronger, smarter, built to last – and with a sustainable focus.

    From the first day of the invasion, Nadiia began volunteering at Lviv Polytechnic National University helping to weave camouflage nets.
    @kathryn_moskalyuk

    Given Ukraine’s commitment to net-zero emissions and resilience, we expanded our research [and published a study] which introduced an innovative model for rebuilding infrastructure that can withstand future hazards while minimising carbon emissions. At its core, the model features a “smart prioritisation system” that helps decision-makers allocate resources effectively. It assesses key factors such as repair urgency, community impact and long-term durability, ensuring that rebuilding efforts provide the greatest benefits where they are needed most.

    For example, when assessing damaged structures, the system prioritises projects that will provide the most long-term benefits. That might mean restoring energy systems to prevent future blackouts or repairing bridges that serve as key evacuation routes and economic lifelines.

    As Stanislav Gvozdikov, deputy director of Euro-integration Process at Ukraine’s State Road Research Institute, told me: “Every bridge we restore, every road we reopen, isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about restoring life, reconnecting families and ensuring that communities have the resilience to withstand whatever comes next.”

    This is already a reality near my home town, Mykolaiv, where newly rebuilt bridges have restored transport links and also revived local economies, giving people hope for the future.

    But no one rebuilds a country alone.

    The UK-Ukraine 100-year agreement, announced in February 2025, underscored a deep commitment to Ukraine’s security, economic resilience, and post-war reconstruction. The partnership recognises the importance of cooperation between the UK and Ukraine to strengthen technological innovation and to increase collaboration in transport more widely.

    I’ve also had the privilege of working with some of the brightest minds in the field, including more than 50 practitioners, consultants, academics, institutions and international bodies. This alliance of experts was united by a shared vision: to change the way the world approaches post-war reconstruction.

    A key part of this mission is training engineers, equipping them with the latest knowledge in damage assessment, resilience-based and people-centred design and international standards to lead Ukraine’s reconstruction.

    We come from different backgrounds – engineering, economics, policy, humanitarian efforts, and governmental bodies. But we all share the same motivation in wanting to help our country.

    Leading researchers from Ukraine specialising in AI technologies, infrastructure engineering, sustainable and energy-saving buildings or climate change, are also members of BridgeUkraine. AI-specialist, Ivan Izonin has spoken passionately about how he believes that the collaborative efforts we have started “will lay the foundation for large-scale scientific projects that will be pivotal in post-war reconstruction…”. While Natalya Shakhovska , also a specialist in AI, recalled: “My activity in the BridgeUkraine alliance gave me the opportunity to align my research to critical infrastructure assessment, enabled by my AI modelling…Today I really feel included, I understand that my expertise is helping [my country’s recovery]”

    Another enthusiastic Ukrainian researcher, Khrystyna Myroniuk, who specialises in building physics, told me how the collaboration had given her the opportunity to continue her “research on sustainable housing solutions for Ukraine”.

    Stopping the brain drain

    One of the most critical challenges facing Ukraine today, aside from the physical destruction, is the brain drain – the mass exodus of skilled professionals who left the country in search of safety and better opportunities abroad.

    This trend has had a significant impact on the country’s ability to rebuild. Engineers, architects and other highly trained specialists have long been a pillar of Ukraine’s development. But the war has forced many to leave, with no clear path back to contribute to the reconstruction effort. BridgeUkraine is helping to reverse this trend by offering a compelling reason for these skilled professionals to return.

    A dog walks on a restored bridge in Mykolaiv.
    Mykolaiv Oblast Military Administration/Ukraine Media Centre, CC BY-NC

    Our engagement with Ukrainian engineers then sparked another idea: what if we trained local professionals to apply our expertise, equipping them to drive this transformation within their engineering communities?

    This vision became the foundation of the Empower Ukraine programme, through which, over 5,000 engineers and scientists will be trained in European (Eurocodes) and international design standards.

    This ensures that Ukraine’s recovery is driven by its own people, equipped with the latest global knowledge. By bridging the knowledge gap and integrating the best methods and ideas from across Europe, Ukraine can position itself as a leader in resilient infrastructure design.

    Our research was taken up by the Ministry of Restoration of Ukraine. Stanislav Gvozdikov collaborated with us to launch a joint programme of Continuing Professional Development seminars for engineers designed to help them stay up to date with the latest knowledge and skills in their field. To date, our expertise has been shared with over 1,500 Ukrainians.

    Argyroudis emphasised to me how critical the role of engineers will be in Ukraine’s reconstruction, saying: “It’s about rebuilding Ukrainian identity as a country.”

    The ultimate goal is to build a culture of innovation and self-reliance among local professionals who have the expertise and passion to drive this change.

    Professionals can now contribute to projects and be part of a larger community of practice, which brings together engineers, academics and international partners.

    I am, personally, incredibly proud to have had the privilege, over the past two years, to help empower Ukrainians to develop world-leading research that accelerates their country’s recovery.

    Shaping tomorrow

    My hometown, Mykolaiv, still bears the scars of war. Returning there, I saw firsthand what was lost. But also what could be rebuilt. War has taken, and continues to take so much, but it has also forged a new generation of engineers who understand that our profession is no longer just about calculations and designs. It is about resilience, survival and national recovery.

    Three years ago, I would have imagined a very different career for myself. But today, I know that engineering is more than my profession, it is my mission.

    I am committed to ethical and inclusive infrastructure recovery in Ukraine, because science must be the foundation of national resilience. Ethical reconstruction must prioritise people over profits, creating systems that empower and strengthen communities.

    Ukraine’s recovery is about setting a global precedent for post-conflict reconstruction. Our research, training programs and commitment to innovation are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more connected Ukraine, offering a paradigm shift to the war-torn world. Because rebuilding is about more than replacing the past. It is about creating a future that can withstand whatever comes next.

    For you: more from our Insights series:

    To hear about new Insights articles, join the hundreds of thousands of people who value The Conversation’s evidence-based news. Subscribe to our newsletter.

    Nadiia Kopiika receives funding from British Academy. She is affiliated with University of Birmingham, UK and Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine.

    – ref. Engineering hope: how I made it my mission to help rebuild Ukraine’s critical infrastructure – https://theconversation.com/engineering-hope-how-i-made-it-my-mission-to-help-rebuild-ukraines-critical-infrastructure-251857

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why AI therapists could further isolate vulnerable patients instead of easing suffering

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nigel Mulligan, Lecturer in Psychotherapy, School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health, Dublin City University

    Ole.CNX/Shutterstock

    Imagine a therapist could live in your pocket. They’d be on hand for every wobble, every meltdown, every crisis – no matter where or when. They’d be cheap and accessible, so no more worries about finding the money for expensive therapy or lingering on a waiting list for months for NHS treatment. Sounds too good to be true?

    Maybe, but few can deny the appeal of AI therapy, which uses artificial intelligence, like chatbots and digital platforms, to provide mental health support, guidance, coping strategies and structured exercises, often mimicking talk therapy.

    The growing popularity of AI therapy may be troubling some experts but it’s understandable why so many people are turning to this convenient and cost-effective resource for mental health support.

    In the UK, an NHS mental health referral can take 18 weeks or longer. According to 2025 data from the British Medical Association: “Services are not currently resourced to meet the increased demand, resulting in long waits and high thresholds for treatment; latest estimates put the mental health waiting list at one million people.

    It’s perhaps no wonder then that a growing number of young people, in particular, are turning to AI chatbots to help them cope with mental health issues.
    But, while AI can prove beneficial for some – often as a supplement to human therapy – it isn’t an effective substitute for a human therapist. And it could even prove dangerous.

    Psychotherapy, known as the “talking cure”, uses dialogue to explore thoughts and feelings to help clients understand and address mental health challenges. Psychotherapists are now using AI tools to improve their work in mental health treatment. For example, software such as ChatGPT is being used by therapists to carry out client assessments. They enter details of the client, such as their sex, age, and psychological issues. In response, the chatbot collates the information to create a treatment plan for the therapist to follow.

    But, although AI is proving helpful for some therapists, people turning to chatbots for help with mental health crises might find the lack of human supervision and input far less useful.

    Lack of Humanity

    Chatbots can simulate empathy, but don’t understand or feel emotions. Human therapists can provide emotional nuance, intuition and a personal connection, which chatbots currently cannot replicate in a meaningful way. Chatbots also have a limited ability to understand complex emotions and can struggle with understanding the complexity of human emotions, particularly when the situation involves deep trauma, cultural context or complex mental health issues.

    Chatbots, then, are unsuitable for those with severe mental health issues. The software may provide some support for less severe cases, but they aren’t equipped to deal with severe mental health crises, such as suicidal thoughts or self-harm. Human therapists, however, are trained to recognise and respond to these situations with appropriate interventions.

    While chatbots can be programmed to provide some personalised advice, they may not be able to adapt as effectively as a human therapist can. Human therapists tailor their approach to the unique needs and experiences of each person. Chatbots rely on algorithms to interpret user input, but miscommunication can happen due to nuances in language or context. For example, chatbots may struggle to recognise or appropriately respond to cultural differences, which are an important aspect of therapy. A lack of cultural competence in a chatbot could alienate and even harm users from different backgrounds.

    So while chatbot therapists can be a helpful supplement to traditional therapy, they are not a complete replacement, especially when it comes to more serious mental health needs. Human psychotherapy provides a supportive, safe space for clients to slow down, reflect, and explore their thoughts and feelings with expert guidance. Human therapists are held accountable through ethical guidelines and professional standards.

    Chatbots, however, don’t have accountability structures in place, which may lead to inconsistent or inappropriate advice. Research has also raised concerns about the potential for privacy violations and security risks of sharing sensitive information with chatbot therapists.

    Some people might become overly dependent on chatbot therapists, potentially avoiding traditional therapy with human professionals. This could lead to a delay in receiving more comprehensive care when needed, making vulnerable people more isolated rather than easing their suffering.

    The talking cure in psychotherapy is a process of fostering human potential for greater self-awareness and personal growth. These apps will never be able to replace the therapeutic relationship developed as part of human psychotherapy. Rather, there’s a risk that these apps could limit users’ connections with other humans, potentially exacerbating the suffering of those with mental health issues – the opposite of what psychotherapy intends to achieve.

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

    – ref. Why AI therapists could further isolate vulnerable patients instead of easing suffering – https://theconversation.com/why-ai-therapists-could-further-isolate-vulnerable-patients-instead-of-easing-suffering-246206

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Clemson University Partners with eleven-x to Launch the Biggest College Campus Smart Parking Initiative in North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WATERLOO, Ontario, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — eleven-x®, a global leader in smart parking and curbside management solutions, announced today that Clemson University in South Carolina will be utilizing the company’s award-winning eXactpark™ smart parking and curbside management platform to improve the parking experience for its 29,000 students and faculty via real-time guidance and wayfinding to available parking stalls. Over 10,000 wireless sensors will be installed in single space parking spaces across the 17,000-acre campus, making this initiative the largest university smart parking program in North America.

    Clemson’s goal is to provide a positive campus environment for students, staff and visitors. A core component of this objective is to better the parking experience by making it quicker and easier to find a space. Since eXactpark’s centralized platform is capturing accurate, consistent usage data for each parking spot, real-time wayfinding and guidance are key features of the solution. Last month, eleven-x’s partner, Parking Guidance Systems, began installing wireless sensors in individual parking spots across campus to acquire 24/7/365 usage data. Additionally, more than forty digital signs will be set up across key corridors to guide drivers to open spots. The university is also leveraging eleven-x’s real-time parking navigation app, eXactav™, to efficiently direct drivers to available parking. Clemson will integrate eXactpark with the university’s TigersCommute app in order to share the live parking insights.

    “We are excited and proud to help Clemson University realize its vision of creating the best parking experience for its community through accurate, true occupancy data,” said Dan Mathers, CEO, eleven-x, “Furthermore, this ambitious installation will demonstrate to other institutions how smart parking technology can positively transform parking operations.”

    The comprehensive eXactpark solution provides Clemson with a holistic, data-driven understanding of their parking assets and how they are being used. Accurate data aggregation allows for improved policies and smarter future planning. Furthermore, the university can leverage actionable analytics to streamline operations by optimizing resources and improving parking management.

    In addition to the Clemson initiative, eleven-x’s eXactpark solution is the platform of choice for one of the largest municipal smart parking installations in North America with Arlington County, VA. Last year, Arlington County’s Performance Parking Project received a Smart 20 Award from Smart Cities Connect. For information about eleven-x and its eXactpark Smart Parking Solution visit www.eleven-x.com.

    About eleven-x®
    eleven-x is an industry leading IoT and Smart City technology company focused on improving the parking experience for all with its award-winning, smart parking technology solution, eXactpark™. A comprehensive software platform, eXactpark enables drivers to find available parking quickly and easily in real-time while delivering accurate and reliable 24/7/365 data to support numerous use cases including curbside management, demand-based pricing and improved compliance while helping optimize parking resources. Powered by the patented SPS-X wireless space occupancy sensor, eXactpark reduces traffic, improves safety and lowers GHG emissions. The solution is being utilized by cities and institutions across North America to successfully address mobility challenges. Customers rely on the company’s world-renowned expertise for an easy-to-use, fully scalable smart solution to deliver better services.
    Visit eleven-x.com for more information and follow us on X (Twitter), LinkedIn, and YouTube.

    Media Contact:
    eleven-x Inc.: Mark Hall – mark.hall@eleven-x.com | phone: 1.226.887.0011

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lancaster City Council makes strong progress on improvement plan A team of local government experts has praised Lancaster City Council for successfully delivering a plan to make its services even better.

    Source: City of Lancaster

    A team of local government experts has praised Lancaster City Council for successfully delivering a plan to make its services even better.

    Following a Corporate Peer Challenge (CPC) in April 2024, the council was told how it could make improvements to the way it serves the public.

    A recent review of a plan for delivering these changes found that 85% of recommendations are on track and progressing well.

    Particular praise was given for the council’s approach to community wealth building, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability.

    Key areas of progress include:

    • Strengthened Community Partnerships: The Lancaster District Strategic Partnership (LDSP) has been formally established, bringing together key stakeholders, including local universities, NHS partners, third-sector organisations, and the Chamber of Commerce.
       
    • Economic Growth and Sustainable Development: The council has taken strategic steps towards developing an inclusive economic strategy, incorporating insights from Lancaster University’s ‘Before Eden’ research.
       
    • Commitment to a Sustainable Future: An early ‘call for sites’ process has been successfully implemented, ensuring alignment with the council’s Local Plan and climate action goals.
       
    • Enhanced Leadership and Governance: The council has invested in leadership development for senior officers and councillors, including dedicated training programmes and scrutiny enhancements.
       
    • Financial Sustainability: The ‘Fit for the Future’ transformation programme is driving efficiency, with a focus on aligning financial planning with long-term priorities and asset management.

    Mark Davies, chief executive of Lancaster City Council, welcomed the findings: “The peer challenge process has helped to highlight some of the excellent work by staff and Elected Members to continually improve the council and the services we provide. The positive feedback from the LGA confirms that our strategic vision is making a real impact and we are delivering key improvements for our residents, businesses, and stakeholders.

    “One of the areas the peer team highlighted was our Fit for the Future programme and the way the council is transforming its services in response to the continuing tough financial times in which local authorities are operating. This programme is helping to identify where we can become even more efficient while continuing to provide good services for our communities.”

    A peer challenge is when representatives from councils nationwide spend time with another council to evaluate their performance, assess their ambition for residents, and determine if adequate resources are in place to fulfil those objectives. In the city council’s case, the peer challenge team gathered information and views from more than 50 meetings, in addition to further research, and spoke to more than 130 people, including a range of council staff, councillors and external stakeholders.

    Last updated: 02 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –