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Category: Universities

  • MIL-OSI Global: South African troops are dying in the DRC: why they’re there and what’s going wrong

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Lindy Heinecken, Professor of Sociology in the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology., Stellenbosch University

    The death of South African soldiers on a Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has sparked fierce debate about the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers there. Some, including political parties, have questioned whether the soldiers were adequately trained, equipped and supported. Lindy Heinecken has spent decades researching the South African military in peacekeeping operations and has interviewed hundreds of soldiers about their experiences and the challenges during deployment. We asked her for her insights.

    What is South Africa doing in the DRC?

    The country is part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which includes troops from Malawi and Tanzania. This deployment followed approval by the Southern African Development Community in May 2023, in response to the deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC. The South African National Defence Force is leading the mission.

    Their mandate is to support the DRC government, a member of the 16-member SADC group, in restoring peace, security and stability. The fact that the mandate states that it is to support the DRC government in combating armed groups that threaten peace and security in the eastern DRC implies that this is not a peacekeeping mission.

    The legal basis for the deployment lies in the SADC Mutual Defence Pact, (2003), which states that

    Any armed attack perpetrated against one of the States Parties shall be considered a threat to regional peace and security and shall be met with immediate collective action.

    The mandate gives them the responsibility to protect civilians, disarm armed groups, and help implement the August 2024 ceasefire agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, brokered by Angola as part of the Luanda Process. This agreement aimed to provide a more secure environment, and protect critical infrastructure to ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid. This is in line with the United Nations’ responsibility to protect victims of genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity.



    Read more:
    South Africa to lead new military force in the DRC: an expert on what it’s up against

    The M23 rebel group, which is supported by Rwanda, has committed a wide range of atrocities in the eastern DRC which can be traced back to the 1994 genocide.

    The impact on civilians has been devastating. While pinning down an exact number is difficult, it’s clear that the rebel forces operating in the eastern DRC, particularly the M23, pose a significant challenge to the stability of the region, and the safety and security of civilians.

    The rebels are implicated in mass killings of civilians, rape and other forms of sexual violence and attacks on camps for internally displaced persons. The M23’s atrocities have been condemned by the international community. The United Nations and human rights bodies have called for an end to the violence. They also demand accountability for the perpetrators.

    In sum, South African soldiers – alongside Malawians and Tanzanians – are in the DRC to assist the Congolese army in combating the armed groups and to protect civilians from violence and human rights abuses.

    Are the soldiers adequately prepared and equipped?

    Many questions have been asked about whether South African troops on the mission forces are adequately trained and equipped.
    Critics claim this deployment is suicidal.

    South African soldiers are well-trained and have served in numerous peace operations. Their extensive deployment means that they have accumulated valuable experience. They have been part of the UN Stabilisation Mission in the DR Congo, Monusco, almost since inception in 1999.

    Monusco forces are still present in the DRC, but in the process of withdrawing. Congolese president Félix Tshisekedi requested they leave because of their perceived ineffectiveness.

    Nonetheless, there are some valid concerns about the South Africans’ current level of preparedness for the DRC mission. Not least given the complex political situation. There are over 100 diverse armed groups involved. And the terrain is difficult.

    The combination of budget cuts, resource limitations, and the complex nature of the conflict raises questions about the South African National Defence Force’s ability to effectively achieve its objectives, and ensure the safety of its personnel.

    The force takes its own equipment on missions to ensure it is self-sufficient and can meet its specialised needs. The problem is that this equipment is old, leading to shortages due to maintenance problems. This affects the force’s ability to carry out its duties.

    Budget cuts for defence over the years, to less than 1% of GDP compared to the global average of 2%, have severely affected the military’s ability to maintain equipment, conduct training exercises and modernise its force. This has led to a decline in overall readiness.

    South African troops in the DRC lack essential resources, including adequate air support, attack helicopters and modern equipment. This limits their ability to respond quickly to threats and provide close air support for ground troops.

    Despite having one of the most capable air forces in Africa, it is unable to deploy its Gripen and Rooivalk helicopters because they have not been serviced and lack spare parts.

    The use of older equipment has also been less effective against the well-equipped M23.

    Besides being outgunned, the regional mission is also out-manned.

    The SADC mission in the DRC was authorised to have 5,000 troops from Malawi, South Africa and Tanzania. The actual deployment has fallen far short of this number. As of late January 2025, only about 1,300 troops had been deployed.



    Read more:
    Rwanda’s role in eastern DRC conflict: why international law is failing to end the fighting

    Where to from here?

    There are concerns in the DRC about the presence of multiple foreign forces, given the relative ineffectiveness of these interventions.

    There are also questions about the legitimacy of the mission. Rwanda has opposed the deployment, saying that the SAMIDRC, and specifically South Africa’s involvement, undermines regional unity and cooperation.

    The best approach to peace and stability in the DRC requires a concerted effort by regional actors – the DRC, Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, Kenya and the Southern African Development Community – to address the underlying causes of the conflict. This requires political dialogue with the regional actors, the UN, the international community and, most importantly, the Congolese people.



    Read more:
    DRC conflict risks spreading: African leaders must push for solutions beyond military intervention

    As for South Africa, it is time for some critical reflection on the future roles of its military. The equipment shortages and challenges it faces raise serious concerns about the defence force’s ability to carry out its core mandate of protecting South Africa, its territorial integrity and its people in accordance with the constitution.

    The tragedy in the DRC highlights the dire need for the South African National Defence Force to be redesigned, modernised and funded to become more effective and capable, ready to meet the immediate challenges it faces (like ageing equipment) and ensure the security of South Africa.

    Lindy Heinecken 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. South African troops are dying in the DRC: why they’re there and what’s going wrong – https://theconversation.com/south-african-troops-are-dying-in-the-drc-why-theyre-there-and-whats-going-wrong-248696

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New educational program will prepare effective managers of innovative businesses

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    In today’s rapidly changing world, innovations are becoming the basis for competitiveness and the driver of business development. In these conditions, new requirements are imposed on management – heads of companies, projects, products, teams – in terms of approaches, thinking, methods and individual tools. Especially for them School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship HSE University is opening a new continuing education programHead of Innovative Business“.

    The new DPO program will help you solve the problem of updating and systematizing knowledge, master new competencies in the field of innovation management, improve your leadership, communication, and public speaking skills, and make new acquaintances in the professional community.

    What awaits listeners

    Future Innovative business leaders study technological trends and corporate innovation, learn about the culture of innovation and operational efficiency. They will learn how to develop and manage an innovative product, project, portfolio. Students will receive an algorithm for finding strong solutions and innovative strategies, study the specifics of leadership and communications in this area, as well as a number of other topics and disciplines.

    Over several months of immersion in an intensive, yet convenient format for workers, program participants will receive:

    competencies at the intersection of entrepreneurship, innovation, management and soft skills;

    the opportunity to implement your own management or business project from idea to implementation;

    inspiration, insights, like-minded people, new ideas and broadening of horizons, opportunities and solutions;

    MBA-level networking and immersion in a professional environment.

    Who should I learn from?

    The teaching staff is 100% experts and practitioners who create and manage innovative businesses in such structures as Aeroflot, Skolkovo, Rosatom, VTB, Uralchem and others, and the content of the program is based on real cases and business tasks, in the solution of which students are helped by a well-structured and most relevant theoretical base.

    Who is expected at the program?

    “We invite those who have management experience in any field of activity and who seek to discover opportunities for professional and career growth through innovation to the “Head of Innovative Business” program,” says Alexander Pushko, head of the program. “This program is for those who dream of learning to fly and conquer new heights. During the training, you will discover new horizons, reboot and get inspired, learn how to select and coordinate a crew into a single team, get off the ground and feel confident in flight even in conditions of high turbulence, find strong solutions, maintain a high quality bar and invariably win applause during a soft landing.”

    Training format

    Upon completion of the training, students will receive a diploma with the qualification of “Specialized Master in Innovative Business” and will be able to immediately implement the knowledge they have gained in their work.

    The training lasts seven months and ends with the defense of the project. The training format is mixed and involves three offline modules of three days in Moscow, the rest of the time online classes three times a week on weekday evenings and on Saturdays.

    Detailed information about the program, admission requirements, study mode and discounts is available at website. Training begins on October 17th.

    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 Russia: Anti-terrorist training held at Polytechnic University

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    On January 30, the Polytechnic University held a training session aimed at practicing anti-terrorist protection of university facilities and territories.

    The Polytechnic University regularly holds events related to civil defense, prevention and elimination of emergency situations, as well as anti-terrorist protection and fire safety.

    This time, the training was attended by employees of the Civil Security Department of SPbPU and employees of the security organization “U-Piter”. The head of the Civil Security Department, Oleg Savoshinsky, was the head of the event.

    Participants worked out algorithms for actions when committing or threatening to commit terrorist crimes in two scenarios: “placing an explosive device” and “attack by an unmanned aerial vehicle.”

    The goals and objectives were fully achieved. Following the exercise, the SPbPU management highly appreciated the actions of the university staff and employees.

    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 Russia: The Ivanov Dynasty

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Five generations of the Ivanov family are closely connected with the Polytechnic University. Evgeny Aleksandrovich Ivanov was among the first students, and his son Konstantin also became a Polytechnician. Both grandsons of the first representative of the dynasty, Vadim and Aleksandr, have been working at the university for several decades now. Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Professor of the Physics Department of the Institute of Physics and Mathematics V. K. Ivanov told about the history of his family and about how the family tradition is continued by his children and grandchildren.

    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: Fuel for California Fires

    Source: NASA

    When hurricane-force winds whipped through Los Angeles County in early January 2025, the hills had ample fuels available to feed a wildland fire. Back-to-back wet years in California led to grasses and chaparral accumulating in the mountains and foothills. Then, warm, dry weather in Los Angeles during the last eight months of 2024 left the vegetation primed to burn.
    On January 7, blazes spread quickly in the hills of Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon. Santa Ana winds pushed the fires down hills and into neighborhoods, and the two fires eventually covered 37,000 acres (150 square kilometers). Most of the fire spread in the first day after ignition, a characteristic of “fast fires.” These destructive events are usually propelled by strong winds and burn in the autumn or winter when fuels are exceptionally dry.
    Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) noted that several factors contributed to the severity of the fires, including a buildup of vegetation between 2022 and into 2024, followed by very warm and dry conditions in summer 2024. The rapid swing from wet to dry—dubbed “hydroclimate whiplash”—can amplify the risk of wildland fires and has become more common in the 21st century.
    From 2022 to early 2024, Southern California received above-average precipitation, said Gavin Madakumbura, a postdoctoral researcher at UCLA. The 2022-2023 water year, which runs from October through September, saw unrelenting atmospheric rivers that delivered torrential rain to California. Much of the 2023-2024 water year was also wet, and rainfall totals for both periods, measured in downtown LA, were nearly twice the long-term average (1877-2024).
    The ample rain allowed vegetation to build up, which is apparent in the map above. It shows a satellite-based index of plant health, or “greenness,” over the meteorological summer before the fires. This metric, known as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), is based on data collected by the Landsat satellites.
    The map indicates that many parts of Los Angeles County were 30 percent greener than average in summer 2024 (compared to a record from 1991 to 2020). That July, the National Interagency Fire Center warned that “herbaceous fuel loadings” were above normal throughout California, and in some hilly areas, were twice the normal amount.

    Conditions shifted in the last half of 2024. According to Madakumbura and colleagues, the Los Angeles region received no significant rain between May 2024 and early January 2025, which dried out the accumulated vegetation. On January 4, 2025, the Los Angeles Times reported that the downtown area had only one instance in the previous eight months when rainfall exceeded a tenth of an inch—the threshold considered helpful for reducing wildfire risk by keeping plants from drying out. That made it the second-driest May to January on a record that goes back to 1877.
    The landscape’s dryness was made worse by heatwaves that struck the U.S. Southwest in June and July 2024, either breaking or tying temperature records in several cities in California.
    The map above shows moisture relative to normal in the top 40 inches (100 centimeters) of soil, in the “root zone,” on January 7, 2025, the day the Palisades and Eaton fires ignited. The data are from NASA’s SPoRT (Short-term Prediction Research and Transition) Center at Marshall Space Flight Center. The soil moisture in much of Southern California was in the bottom 2 percent of historical records (1981-2013) for that day.
    “This is historically low soil moisture,” said Jonathan Case, a meteorologist with NASA SPoRT who has studied how moisture conditions can contribute to fire risk.
    SPoRT’s Land Information System (SPoRT-LIS) provides 3-kilometer resolution gridded soil moisture products in near real-time to support regional and local modeling and is used by the U.S. Drought Monitor to track drought conditions across the country.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Michala Garrison, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey and soil moisture data from NASA’s Short-term Prediction Research and Transition (SPoRT) Center. Story by Emily Cassidy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 1.30.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jan 30, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Jacqueline Yannacci, of Folsom, has been appointed Executive Director of California Volunteers in the Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement, where she has been Chief Program Officer since 2020. Yannacci was a Consultant at Jacy Consulting from 2018 to 2020. She held several positions at American Red Cross from 2006 to 2018, including Director of Community Mobilization and Partnerships, Program Manager for Community Resilience, Program Manager for Behavioral Health, and Officer of Mental Health. Yannacci was Program Manager for Knowledge Management at NRI, Inc., from 2005 to 2006, where she was previously Research Associate from 2003 to 2005. She was a Research Associate at Drug Strategies from 1993 to 2003. Yannacci earned a Master of Public Policy degree from American University, and Bachelor of Science degree in Behavioral Science and Psychology from Pennsylvania State University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $186,792. Yannacci is a Democrat.

    Leticia Palamidessi, of West Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Communications at the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, where she has been a Supervising Communications Officer since and Lead Communications Officer to the Executive Director at the California Strategic Growth Council since 2024. From 2020 to 2024, Palamidessi was an Executive Marketing Specialist at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and prior to that she was an Information Officer for the California Department of Water Resources where she led outreach for the Climate Change Program, Division of Environmental Services, and Division of Engineering. Prior to state service, Palamidessi spent more than a decade elevating community voices and highlighting issues impacting Californians as a member of the media at various new organizations throughout Northern California – including being a General Assignment Reporter and Traffic Anchor for KCRA Channel 3 from 2017 to 2020. She is a California native and product of the state’s junior college and CSU systems, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $141,420. Palamidessi is registered without party preference.

    Carol Dahmen-Eckery, of Carmichael, has been appointed Chief of Strategic Communications at the California High-Speed Rail Authority. Dahmen-Eckery has been Chief Executive Officer of CDE Strategies since 2023. She was Senior Political Manager at Effectv from 2005 to 2022. Dahmen-Eckery was Communications Director at the California Secretary of State’s Office from 2004 to 2005. She was Deputy Communications Director in the Office of Governor Davis from 1999 to 2003. Dahmen-Eckery was Deputy Director of Advance for Gray Davis for Governor from 1998 to 2002. She is a member of the American Association of Political Consultants Board of Directors. Dahmen-Eckery earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Government from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $170,004. Dahmen-Eckery is a Democrat.

    Dr. Sergio Aguilar-Gaxiola, of Sacramento, has been appointed to the Protect Access to Health Care Act Stakeholder Advisory Committee. Dr. Aguilar-Gaxiola has been a Professor of Clinical Internal Medicine and Founder and Director at the Center of Reducing Health Disparities at University of California, Davis School of Medicine since 2005, and Director of the Community Engagement Program at the Clinical and Translational Science Center since 2006. He was Co-Director at the Latino Aging Research and Resource Center from 2012 to 2016. Dr. Aguilar-Gaxiola was a Professor of Psychology at California State University, Fresno from 1990 to 2005. He is a member of the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being. Dr. Aguilar-Gaxiola earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Clinical-Community Psychology from Vanderbilt University, a Master of Science degree in Psychology from Vanderbilt University, and a Doctor of Medicine degree from Autonomous University of Guadalajara. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Dr. Aguilar-Gaxiola is a Democrat.

    Tam Ma, of Sacramento, has been appointed to the Protect Access to Health Care Act Stakeholder Advisory Committee. Ma has been Associate Vice President for Health Policy and Regulatory Affairs at the University of California Office of the President since 2022. She was a Deputy Legislative Secretary at the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom from 2019 to 2022. Ma was a Lecturer at the University of California, Davis School of Law in 2022. She was an Assistant Secretary at the California Health and Human Services Agency from 2018 to 2019. Ma was Legal and Policy Director at Health Access California from 2015 to 2018. She was a Principal Consultant for the Office of Senator Mark Leno at the California State Senate from 2013 to 2015. Ma was a Lecturer at University of California, Berkeley School of Law in 2014. She was an Attorney at Legal Services of Northern California from 2011 to 2013. Ma was a California Senate Fellow and Policy Consultant for the Office of Senator Sheila Kuehl at the California State Senate from 2002 to 2008. She is a Member of the Board of Directors of the Berkeley Law Alumni Association. She earned a Juris Doctor degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Ma is a Democrat.
     
    Amy Moy, of Portola Valley, has been appointed to the Protect Access to Health Care Act Stakeholder Advisory Committee. Moy has been Co-Chief Executive Officer at Essential Access Health since 2022, where she was previously Chief External Affairs Officer from 2019 to 2022 and Vice President of Public Affairs from 2011 to 2019. She was a Public Affairs and Community Engagement Strategist for the Women’s Funding Network from 2009 to 2011. Moy was Associate Vice President of Public Affairs at the Planned Parenthood Golden Gate from 2003 to 2009 and Director of the Planned Parenthood Golden Gate Action Fund from 2004 to 2009. She held several roles at Planned Parenthood of New York City from 1999 to 2003, including Director of Community Affairs, Grassroots Manager, and Media Relations Associate. Moy is a member of the Executive Committee of the Family Planning Councils of America. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Ithaca College. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Moy is a Democrat.

    Kristen Cerf, of Nevada County, has been appointed to the Protect Access to Health Care Act Stakeholder Advisory Committee. Cerf has been President and Chief Executive Officer at Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan since 2020, where she has held several positions there and at Blue Shield of California since 2016, including Vice President of Medi-Cal Growth Strategy, Chief Legal Officer, and Associate General Counsel. She held several roles at Molina Healthcare from 2010 to 2015, including Associate Vice President and Assistant General Counsel, Senior Associate General Counsel and Associate General Counsel. Cerf was an Associate Attorney at Locke Lord LLP from 2007 to 2010. She held several roles at the California Department of Managed Care from 2004 to 2006, including Licensing Counsel, Graduate Legal Assistant and Senior Law Clerk. Cerf is a Board Member of Project Angel Food. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from University of California, Davis. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Cerf is a Democrat.

    Dr. Irving Ayala-Rodriguez, of Bakersfield, has been appointed to the Protect Access to Health Care Act Stakeholder Advisory Committee. Dr. Ayala-Rodriguez has been Chief Medical Officer with Clinica Sierra Vista since 2022, where he previously served as a Walk-In Clinic Director and Associate Medical Director from 2020 to 2022. He was a Family Medicine Resident at the University of California, Los Angeles from 2016 to 2019. Dr. Ayala-Rodriguez has served on the California Medical Board since 2024. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Dr. Ayala-Rodriguez is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Jan 30, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom is deploying resources and thousands of personnel to communities throughout Northern California in anticipation of a potentially major storm system. SACRAMENTO – With an atmospheric river expected to arrive in Northern…

    Jan 30, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring January 30, 2025, as Fred Korematsu Day.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATION Fred Korematsu did not set out to become a civil rights hero, but…

    Jan 29, 2025

    News What you need to know: As part of ongoing actions to help support workers and businesses impacted by the Los Angeles area fires, Governor Newsom is issuing an executive order to defer licensing fees and streamline requirements for certain small businesses. The…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Honorary King’s Counsel welcomed by Lord Chancellor

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    His Majesty The King has approved the award of 9 new Honorary King’s Counsel (KC Honoris Causa) in England and Wales.

    His Majesty The King has approved the award of nine new Honorary King’s Counsel (KC Honoris Causa). Their biographies are listed below. Honorary KC is awarded to those who have made a major contribution to the law of England and Wales, outside practice in the courts. 

    The Lord Chancellor will preside over the award ceremony at Westminster Hall in March 2025, where she will formally award the Honorary KC to the successful nominees. 

    Honorary King’s Counsel biographies 

    Professor Martin Dixon  

    Professor Dixon is a legal scholar specialising in real property law. He is the Professor of the Law of Real Property at the University of Cambridge, where he is also Director of the Cambridge Centre for Property Law (CCPL) and a Fellow of Queens’ College. 

    He was nominated for his work on property law through his scholarship, co-authorship of leading practitioner texts, and participation in Law Commission projects. Additionally, for his co-founding of the Modern Studies in Property Law Conference and for his Editorship of The Conveyancer. 

    Rebecca Hilsenrath 

    Rebecca Hilsenrath is a lawyer and public servant with a career spanning corporate law, human rights, and strategic leadership. Currently the interim Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), she has served as Chief Executive of the PHSO, Legal Adviser to the Attorney General, and Chief Executive of LawWorks. Previously, she was the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Legal Officer of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), where she championed equality and tackled human rights issues.   

    She was nominated for her efforts in promoting diversity in panel counsel appointments for the government and at the EHRC, increasing pro bono contributions in the legal sector, and leading international legal engagement in equality and human rights. 

    Rachel Horman-Brown 

    Rachel Horman-Brown is a solicitor focused on cases involving domestic abuse, stalking, coercive control, and forced marriage. As Director, she leads the Family Department at Watson Ramsbottom Solicitors. She is also the Chair of Paladin, the National Stalking Advocacy Service.   

    She was nominated for her campaigning for policy and legislative changes around stalking, domestic abuse, and violence against women and girls. In addition, for her work with Paladin, where she shaped legislation, including for the creation of coercive control as a specific criminal offence. She has also provided evidence to parliamentary committees and advisory groups, thereby influencing police practices and approaches to trauma. 

    Dr Laura Janes  

    Dr Laura Janes is a solicitor specialising in complex cases involving people detained in the criminal justice and mental health systems. As Legal Director at the Howard League for Penal Reform from 2016 to 2022, she led a legal service for young people in custody and spearheaded challenges against practices such as solitary confinement. She is a consultant solicitor at GT Stewart Solicitors and Scott-Moncrieff and Associates. Laura Janes is an advocate for access to justice, having founded Young Legal Aid Lawyers and held leadership roles in several legal organisations. She holds a professional doctorate in youth justice and teaches law at London South Bank University.  

    She was nominated for her contributions to the legal profession promoting access to justice, her work to drive policy changes, representing vulnerable individuals in prison, advocating for the rights of children and young people in custody and reforms to the IPP sentence.   

    Susanna McGibbon  

    Susanna McGibbon is an employed barrister and the current Treasury Solicitor, HM Procurator General and Permanent Secretary of the Government Legal Department (GLD). As the most senior Civil Service lawyer she is head of the Government Legal Profession. Her previous roles include serving as Director of GLD Litigation Group, Legal Director at the Department for Communities and Local Government and Legal Director at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. She is a Bencher of Lincoln’s Inn and this year holds the office of Keeper of the Walks. 

    Ms McGibbon was nominated for her legal advice on complex and sensitive issues within government especially in public and administrative law and national security. Also, for her leadership in a range of high-profile cases and inquiries and for her advocacy for diversity and inclusion across the legal profession.   

    Professor Renato Nazzini  

    Professor Nazzini is a legal scholar focusing on competition law, commercial arbitration, and construction law. He is the Director of the Centre of Construction Law and Dispute Resolution at King’s College London and a partner at LMS Legal LLP.   

    He was nominated for his contributions to competition law by developing policies on collective actions and abuse of dominance, influencing the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the 2008 European Commission Guidance on Article 102. He has also contributed to construction law, including by leading the Centre of Construction Law and Dispute Resolution at King’s College London, producing reports on construction adjudication and promoting diversity within the field.    

    Susan Willman  

    Susan Willman (known as Sue Willman) is a solicitor specialising in public interest litigation, focusing on human rights, environmental justice, and migrants’ rights. She is a senior consultant at legal aid firm, Deighton Pierce Glynn, and has led cases addressing systemic social and environmental injustices. She is also employed by the Dickson Poon School of Law, King’s College, London as a Senior Lecturer, and Assistant Director of the King’s Legal Clinic. She has held key leadership roles, including Chair of the Law Society Human Rights Committee.    

    She was nominated for founding the Asylum Support Appeals Project (ASAP), providing free representation to destitute asylum-seekers. As well as for publishing articles, authoring a series of textbooks on asylum support, and advising a parliamentary committee on an inquiry to drive legislative reforms. 

    Douglas Wilson OBE 

    Douglas Wilson is a government lawyer currently serving as Director General and Head of the Attorney General’s Office. He has previously held positions such as Director of Legal Affairs and International Relations at GCHQ, Legal Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and has served in legal and diplomatic roles at UK posts overseas. 

    He was nominated for advising on issues such as Brexit, military operations, and intelligence cooperation, which shaped the law on the use of military force, cyberspace, and investigatory powers. Furthermore, he has promoted effective and inclusive legal practice within government.  

    Professor Adrian Zuckerman 

    Professor Zuckerman is a scholar in civil procedure and evidence law. He is Emeritus Professor of Civil Procedure at the University of Oxford and Emeritus Fellow of University College, Oxford. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Civil Justice Quarterly and a Consultant Editor of Halsbury’s Laws of England. 

    Professor Zuckerman is a prominent commentator on the administration of civil justice. He has influenced legislative policy and judicial practice, notably through contributions to the Woolf Report on Access to Justice, and the Jackson Review of Civil Litigation Costs. He has campaigned for improving access to court and for making justice available to all at proportionate cost. His work on criminal evidence refocused evidence scholarship around fundamental normative principles. 

    He was nominated for his contributions to the Civil Procedure Rules in England and Wales. His academic work, particularly “Zuckerman on Civil Procedure,” is cited in courts across the common law world. 

    Further information 

    Honorary KC is awarded by HM The King, on the advice of the Lord Chancellor. The Lord Chancellor is advised by a selection panel of senior representatives from across the legal sector, civil service, judiciary, and academia. More information about the purpose of the award can be found on GOV.UK. 

    For further information, please contact the Ministry of Justice press office. Follow us @MoJGovUK. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ECB selects motifs for future euro banknotes

    Source: European Central Bank

    31 January 2025

    • ECB shortlisted motifs based on the two possible themes for new banknotes: “European culture: shared cultural spaces” and “Rivers and birds: resilience in diversity”
    • The decision builds on an inclusive process involving feedback from public surveys and groups of experts
    • ECB to launch design contest in 2025 allowing Governing Council to select final designs in 2026
    • First new banknotes will go into circulation several years after final decision on designs and following production process

    The Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) has selected motifs to illustrate the two possible themes for future euro banknotes. “European culture” focuses on shared cultural spaces and prominent Europeans. “Rivers and birds” focuses on the resilience and diversity of the natural world, complemented by the European institutions.

    The decision benefited from the suggestions provided by two multidisciplinary advisory groups from across the euro area and is consistent with the preferences on the themes expressed by more than 365,000 Europeans in public surveys held in summer 2023 and in focus groups conducted between December 2021 and March 2022.

    “We are excited to present these real-life motifs that reflect our commitment to Europe and celebrate its cultural heritage and natural environment,” said ECB President Christine Lagarde. “The new banknotes will symbolise our shared European identity and the diversity that makes us strong.”

    European culture: shared cultural spaces

    “European culture” celebrates the shared cultural spaces that have shaped European identity over the centuries. The motifs for this theme depict various cultural activities and spaces, and iconic European personalities who have contributed to building Europe’s cultural heritage. Their lives span six centuries, during which they lived, travelled and worked across our continent, and their accomplishments have resonated around the world.

    The motifs selected are:

    Table 1

    European culture

    Front

    Reverse

    €5
    Performing arts

    Maria Callas

    Street performers (music/dance/theatre) entertaining passersby

    €10
    Music

    Ludwig van Beethoven

    A song festival with a choir of children and young adults singing

    €20
    Universities and schools

    Marie Curie

    A school or university with a female teacher with young students. There are notebooks and books on the tables

    €50
    Libraries

    Miguel de Cervantes

    A library with some adults reading paper and digital books. A little boy and girl in front of a bookcase trying to get a book

    €100
    Museums and exhibitions

    Leonardo da Vinci

    Adults and children admiring some examples of street art, contemporary art, etc.

    €200
    Public squares

    Bertha von Suttner

    A tree-covered square allowing people to come together, with adults and children talking, walking, playing, etc.

    Rivers and birds: resilience in diversity

    “Rivers and birds” highlights the resilience and diversity of Europe’s natural ecosystems by showcasing different stages of rivers and various bird species, emphasising the importance of nature and environmental protection. The European institutions featured on the banknotes remind us of the fundamental values of the European project, which also embraces environmental protection.

    The motifs selected are:

    Table 2

    Rivers and birds

    Front

    Reverse

    €5

    Mountain spring
    Wallcreeper next to a mountain landscape

    European Parliament

    €10

    Waterfall
    Kingfisher in a waterfall or run pool

    European Commission

    €20

    Confined river valley
    Bee-eater colony in a sand wall on the side of a large, confined river valley along a riverbank

    European Central Bank

    €50

    Meandering river
    White stork flying over a meandering river in an unconfined river valley 

    Court of Justice of the European Union

    €100

    River mouth
    Avocet sweeping over the surface of a mud flat

    European Council and Council of the European Union

    €200

    Seascape
    Northern gannet flying over big ocean waves

    European Court of Auditors

    Next steps

    In 2025 the ECB will establish a jury and launch a design contest, which will be open to designers from across the European Union. The ECB will continue to involve the public and experts to ensure the designs selected are relatable for Europeans of all ages. In 2026 the ECB will ask the public which designs they prefer based on a shortlist.

    “We are developing new banknotes because we are committed to cash now and in the future. Banknotes are a symbol of our European unity and with the new motifs, we celebrate our shared history and commitment to a sustainable future,” said ECB Executive Board member Piero Cipollone.

    The Governing Council is expected to make the final decision on the designs in 2026. The new banknotes will be ready to enter circulation some years after this decision and following the production process.

    For media queries, please contact Belén Pérez Esteve tel.: +49 173 533 4269 or Alessandro Speciale, tel. +49 172 167 0791.

    Notes

    1. It is the duty of the ECB and the euro area national central banks to ensure that euro banknotes remain an innovative, secure and efficient means of payment. Developing new series of banknotes regularly is standard practice for all central banks. In a world where banknote reproduction technologies are rapidly evolving and counterfeiters can easily access information and materials, it is necessary to issue new banknotes on a regular basis. Beyond security considerations, the ECB is committed to reducing the environmental impact of euro banknotes throughout their life cycle, while also making them more relatable and inclusive for Europeans of all ages and backgrounds, including vulnerable groups such as the visually impaired. For more information, see the future banknotes page.
    2. The current theme of the euro banknotes is “Ages and styles” and the main motifs on each banknote are windows, doorways and bridges based on architectural styles from various periods in Europe’s history. For more information, see the banknotes design elements page.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Speakers at Biz2X Frontiers of Digital Finance Conference Kick Off 2025 and Predict What’s Next in Fintech and Business Finance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and MIAMI, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Biz2X 2025 Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF) Conference at University of Miami’s Business School, held on January 14, brought together top global leaders in technology, business and government to examine the rapidly changing digital finance landscape, particularly AI’s transformative impact on small business lending. For video highlights, click here.

    FDF assembled a ‘Who’s Who’ of digital finance experts who delved into major issues, such as potential changes in regulation in the new Trump administration, increased use of AI in lending, and the rise of alternative lenders. Speakers from over 25 organizations were represented, in an invite-only audience of more than 200 delegates. Among the A-List speakers were:

    • Former Congressman Patrick McHenry, who served as Chair of the House Financial Services Committee for the past two years. His keynote address, The Future of Fintech Regulation, drew upon his more than two-decades in Congress. The session was moderated by Charlie Gasparino of Fox Business News.
    • USAA President & CEO Wayne Peacock spoke about Leadership in Fintech in The Next Decade. Under Peacock’s visionary leadership, USAA has become a household name. At FDF, he shared insights from his expertise in mission-driven leadership to navigate the evolving financial services landscape.
    • Jim Esposito, President of Citadel Securities, led a discussion entitled Building the Future: Technology in Financial Markets in which he shared his insights for driving long-term growth and building global client and partner relationships.
    • Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez examined Where Innovation Meets Opportunity – A Legal and Economic Vision, together with legendary litigator Marc Kasowitz from Kasowitz Benson Torres. They shared their perspectives on the legal and economic forces shaping today’s business landscape, and Mayor Suarez explored how cities like Miami can become innovation hubs for the private sector.

    BCG & Biz2X Launch New SMB Finance White Paper at FDF Miami

    Biz2X partnered with Boston Consulting Group (BCG), one of the world’s top business consulting firms, to unveil a brand-new proprietary white paper entitled, The Forthcoming Revolution in Small Business Lending.

    The study examines the rapidly changing dynamics of small business lending. Biz2X and BCG analyzed the reasons why banks — particularly the country’s largest institutions — place limitations on lending to small and medium-sized businesses. BCG identifies a global small business funding gap that exceeds $5 trillion.

    Biz2X and BCG conclude that SMB lending must be fundamentally altered through technology such as digital lending platforms to achieve lower risk, broader access to capital, and a significantly-improved digital experience for both borrowers and lenders. To download the full report, click here.

    Looking Ahead to Future FDF Conferences

    “FDF Miami 2025 was the highest-attended conference yet in our continuing series of these events. Our goal with FDF is to create a platform that drives the finance industry forward by bringing together the right people from all sides of industry and policy,” said Conference Chair and the CEO & Co-Founder of Biz2X, Rohit Arora.

    Future editions of FDF in 2025 are being planned in Riyadh and Mumbai, along with a likely return to Miami, with dates to be announced. For more information about FDF sponsors, speakers, and to see exclusive content from FDF Miami and previous FDF events, visit frontiersofdigitalfinance.com.

    About Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF)
    FDF is an invitation only, global conference series that assembles global experts in the field. These include top financial institutions, innovative startups, investors, policy makers, technologists, and other leaders to learn about trends in digital finance and build relationships with key executives in the fintech industry.

    Attendees gain valuable insights from distinguished speakers and forge meaningful connections with key industry executives through curated networking events. Previous conferences have been held in some of the world’s most dynamic financial hubs: Dubai, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Mumbai, New York (at Columbia Business School) and Miami. Visit frontiersofdigitalfinance.com and LinkedIn for more information and highlights from the conferences.

    About Biz2X 
    Biz2X® is the digital lending platform chosen by successful business lenders, with more than $10 billion funded globally to businesses through the company’s innovative technology. The platform has been chosen for business lending at banks and financial institutions around the world. Lenders choose the platform because they want to transform their lending practices digitally. Biz2X makes this possible through best-in-class technology and AI-powered underwriting models. Biz2X LLC is a subsidiary of Biz2Credit. Visit Biz2X.com for more information.

    Contact: John Mooney, Over The Moon PR, 908-720-6057, john@overthemoonpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The Mumbai of Subaltern Women Through the Award-Winning Film “All We Imagine as Light”

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    The first session of the CERI cinéclub, hosted by Christophe Jaffrelot, Senior Researcher at the Center for International Studies (CERI) and  Co-Director of the South Asia Program, and devoted to the film All we imagine as light, plunged the audience into an atmosphere that was both poetic and political.

    Christophe Jaffrelot has written a sensitive tribute to a deeply moving film that teaches us a great deal about Mumbai and Indian society.

    All we imagine as light, written and directed by Payal Kapadia, is the first film from India to win the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. It immediately brings to mind the masterpieces of Satyajit Ray, another Indian filmmaker to have been celebrated at Cannes, for Pather Panchali (Song of the Little Road) in 1956.

    Like Ray in that first film in the Apu Trilogy, Kapadia provides viewers with close-ups that are intensely beautiful and strikingly expressive, even when their subjects remain impassive and enigmatic. These two filmmakers excel in the art of deliciously slow, even static, shots, which never appear overly long but instead draw the viewer into the intimate worlds of men and (especially) women, as we will see. Nor does this virtuosity slide into mere aestheticism, for behind the heady poetry of her cinematographic style, Kapadia’s work is, in fact, just as political as that of Ray.

    Indeed, the young director first became known in the early 2020s for a militant documentary on the caste system—winner of the Golden Eye at Cannes in 2021. When she was still a film student, Kapadia participated in protests against the Modi government’s nomination of a fellow Hindu nationalist at the head of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), and saw her scholarship revoked in response to her opposition.

    The smoke and mirrors of Mumbai

    All we imagine as light is political in a different way. The film focuses on ordinary, everyday victims, first and foremost those who came to Mumbai in search of an Eldorado and who are losing hope. These are the migrants whose anonymous voices— they do not appear on screen—mark the opening moments of the film. They no longer live in the illusion created by the smoke and mirrors of the city, and it is that contrast between dreams and reality that is expressed in the title of the film.

    Why does Mumbai disappoint those who left their villages in hope of a better life? Firstly because it is difficult to find housing, or indeed any shelter, there. The cost of accommodation per meter square has increased so much that the factories that filled the city centre until the 1980s have been transformed into skyscrapers. Here, luxury flats are sold to what Indians call the “middle-class,” but who are in fact, an elite. One of the advertising posters in the film unreservedly boasts of this housing, reserved for a “privileged” few. In Mumbai, property speculation has deadly consequences.

    Parvati, one of the film’s heroines, is the widow of a worker in the now-abandoned factories, and the target of a property developer who has managed to force her to leave her home and return to her village. She tried to join forces with other victims of the same injustice (along the lines of great revolutionaries like Jyotirao Phule and Bhagat Singh whose portraits appear in the film) but in vain.

    Since the Bombay Textile Worker’s strike was broken in the early 1980s, the city has fallen into hands of business interests and their political allies. This is no longer a time for class struggle, but for religion. Kapadia shows this Hindu nationalist version of the “opium of the masses”, documentary-style, by filming the Ganesha Chaturthi processions, where participants dance and sing.

    When they have nowhere to return to, Mumbai’s poor must pile into the overcrowded slums, which are pushed as far away from the city centre as possible. The members of the lower middle class are also relegated to buildings on the outskirts, which forces them to commute by train from the outlying suburbs. The length of these commuter journeys increases as the city spreads, along the two trainlines stretching north and south, and which structure both the time (minutes are counted in the number of stations) and the imaginary of Mumbaikars.

    These trains, which the viewers take several times with the films’ heroines, are a symbol of urban violence. Hundreds of people die every year on the tracks, whether from falling from open doors, or from electrocution. But this daily commute also provides respite for workers—drowsy with sleep on the way out, exhausted by the day on the way home—and particularly for women who have the benefit of the “Ladies Compartment”.

    Three women

    As well as being a film about a major city, All we imagine as light, is a film about women, about the women who are victims of the city, of men, and of social norms. The two main characters, Prabha, the eldest, and Anu, the youngest, illustrate two forms of oppression that Indian women face today—and have long faced.

    They both come from Kerala, work together in a hospital, and share the same flat, but are otherwise unlike each other. The eldest, Prabha, is a woman of duty. She values strength; as a nurse, she rebukes the novice midwives who are repulsed by the smell of placenta. Although she takes no nonsense, she is extraordinarily sensitive, and even expressive in her largely unsmiling reserve. Her husband has left to work in Germany, and she has had no news of him for a year.

    One day, he sends her a rice-cooker, with no note, and she projects all her unfulfilled desires onto this anonymous object. A doctor at the hospital courts her delicately, giving her a poem that she reads once night has fallen and the city is asleep. Yet, she does not take the hand he offers. She is married and thus devoted to one man alone, in accordance with Hindu tradition.

    Anu, by contrast, rejects this tradition. She is graceful, laughs easily, and spends more than she earns—leading to debts she owes to Prabha—and says she will refuse all the suitors her parents propose, according to that same tradition of arranged marriage. Worse, she is secretly involved in a romantic relationship—which Prabha knows and disapproves of—with, worse still, a young Muslim man.

    Although today a young couple can be more open than before about their relationship when they are both from the same community, a romance between a Hindu and a Muslim puts both parties in extreme danger. Indeed, Hindu nationalists have declared war on what they call “love jihad”, a term referring to the idea that young Muslim men are good at seducing Hindu girls, converting them to Islam and thus swelling the ranks of the Muslim community with their children…  When discovered, mixed couples like this are hunted down and the men beaten, even lynched. Anu’s young lover Shiaz hides in terror at the idea of being found in her presence.

    Where can these two live their love safely? Not in Mumbai, which is somewhat of a paradox, given this city was long reputed for its cosmopolitanism, and for providing an anonymity that made it an ideal site for forbidden encounters. In the film, when the two women help Parvarti to return to her original fishing village, Anu invites Shiaz to follow them secretly— and this is where they are finally able to fulfil their love.

    The city no longer provides the same security as the mangrove trees. It no longer conceals forbidden love, not only because of the intense promiscuity resulting from skyrocketing population density, but also because spying and informing on others has become a national sport.

    While the standard Bollywood dream is in Hindi, All we imagine as light speaks the language of migrants—Malayalam, Bengali, Marathi—and reveals an unvarnished reality which borders on tragic. Anu still believes she can rebel, but for Prabha this struggle is in vain: no one can escape their destiny. Yet, there is no place for sadness here, gravitas and grace (in the quasi-mystical sense) are what dominate.

    Kapadia’s women are exceptionally dignified, intensely human, and show unwavering solidarity. They also share delectable moments of freedom, like Anu and Parvati’s slightly tipsy impromptu dancing, under the half-amused, half-disapproving gaze of Prabha, on the beach, far from the city that is the melting pot for all woes.

    Above all, this is the moment that it seems Prabha might shift towards a new destiny. When the sea washes a man’s body up onto the beach, she is the one who resuscitates him, by performing CPR, before the disconcerted villagers. The man, whom she then washes, has lost his memory and the villagers believe Prabha is his wife.

    She tries to set the record straight and then uses this misunderstanding to tell this play-husband (who joins in the pretence for a few phrases) that she does not ever want to see her husband again. This break-up opens up her heart, and she encourages Anu to call Shiaz—who is hiding in the forest—to join them openly.

    A new hope is born from this rejection of social norms by the woman who had previously resigned herself to their constraints. Prabha shows the way to all those who are smothered by the condition Indian women are subject to. This is one of the reasons why only a few cinemas are screening this film in India, the director has offered to organise screenings from city to city to those who request it.

    And All we imagine as light would undoubtedly not have escaped censorship if it had not won the Grand Prix at Cannes, for which the festival should be duly thanked, along with the French co-producer of the film, Petit Chaos.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ECB selects motifs for future euro banknotes

    Source: European Central Bank

    31 January 2025

    • ECB shortlisted motifs based on the two possible themes for new banknotes: “European culture: shared cultural spaces” and “Rivers and birds: resilience in diversity”
    • The decision builds on an inclusive process involving feedback from public surveys and groups of experts
    • ECB to launch design contest in 2025 allowing Governing Council to select final designs in 2026
    • First new banknotes will go into circulation several years after final decision on designs and following production process

    The Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) has selected motifs to illustrate the two possible themes for future euro banknotes. “European culture” focuses on shared cultural spaces and prominent Europeans. “Rivers and birds” focuses on the resilience and diversity of the natural world, complemented by the European institutions.

    The decision benefited from the suggestions provided by two multidisciplinary advisory groups from across the euro area and is consistent with the preferences on the themes expressed by more than 365,000 Europeans in public surveys held in summer 2023 and in focus groups conducted between December 2021 and March 2022.

    “We are excited to present these real-life motifs that reflect our commitment to Europe and celebrate its cultural heritage and natural environment,” said ECB President Christine Lagarde. “The new banknotes will symbolise our shared European identity and the diversity that makes us strong.”

    European culture: shared cultural spaces

    “European culture” celebrates the shared cultural spaces that have shaped European identity over the centuries. The motifs for this theme depict various cultural activities and spaces, and iconic European personalities who have contributed to building Europe’s cultural heritage. Their lives span six centuries, during which they lived, travelled and worked across our continent, and their accomplishments have resonated around the world.

    The motifs selected are:

    Table 1

    European culture

    Front

    Reverse

    €5
    Performing arts

    Maria Callas

    Street performers (music/dance/theatre) entertaining passersby

    €10
    Music

    Ludwig van Beethoven

    A song festival with a choir of children and young adults singing

    €20
    Universities and schools

    Marie Curie

    A school or university with a female teacher with young students. There are notebooks and books on the tables

    €50
    Libraries

    Miguel de Cervantes

    A library with some adults reading paper and digital books. A little boy and girl in front of a bookcase trying to get a book

    €100
    Museums and exhibitions

    Leonardo da Vinci

    Adults and children admiring some examples of street art, contemporary art, etc.

    €200
    Public squares

    Bertha von Suttner

    A tree-covered square allowing people to come together, with adults and children talking, walking, playing, etc.

    Rivers and birds: resilience in diversity

    “Rivers and birds” highlights the resilience and diversity of Europe’s natural ecosystems by showcasing different stages of rivers and various bird species, emphasising the importance of nature and environmental protection. The European institutions featured on the banknotes remind us of the fundamental values of the European project, which also embraces environmental protection.

    The motifs selected are:

    Table 2

    Rivers and birds

    Front

    Reverse

    €5

    Mountain spring
    Wallcreeper next to a mountain landscape

    European Parliament

    €10

    Waterfall
    Kingfisher in a waterfall or run pool

    European Commission

    €20

    Confined river valley
    Bee-eater colony in a sand wall on the side of a large, confined river valley along a riverbank

    European Central Bank

    €50

    Meandering river
    White stork flying over a meandering river in an unconfined river valley 

    Court of Justice of the European Union

    €100

    River mouth
    Avocet sweeping over the surface of a mud flat

    European Council and Council of the European Union

    €200

    Seascape
    Northern gannet flying over big ocean waves

    European Court of Auditors

    Next steps

    In 2025 the ECB will establish a jury and launch a design contest, which will be open to designers from across the European Union. The ECB will continue to involve the public and experts to ensure the designs selected are relatable for Europeans of all ages. In 2026 the ECB will ask the public which designs they prefer based on a shortlist.

    “We are developing new banknotes because we are committed to cash now and in the future. Banknotes are a symbol of our European unity and with the new motifs, we celebrate our shared history and commitment to a sustainable future,” said ECB Executive Board member Piero Cipollone.

    The Governing Council is expected to make the final decision on the designs in 2026. The new banknotes will be ready to enter circulation some years after this decision and following the production process.

    For media queries, please contact Belén Pérez Esteve tel.: +49 173 533 4269 or Alessandro Speciale, tel. +49 172 167 0791.

    Notes

    1. It is the duty of the ECB and the euro area national central banks to ensure that euro banknotes remain an innovative, secure and efficient means of payment. Developing new series of banknotes regularly is standard practice for all central banks. In a world where banknote reproduction technologies are rapidly evolving and counterfeiters can easily access information and materials, it is necessary to issue new banknotes on a regular basis. Beyond security considerations, the ECB is committed to reducing the environmental impact of euro banknotes throughout their life cycle, while also making them more relatable and inclusive for Europeans of all ages and backgrounds, including vulnerable groups such as the visually impaired. For more information, see the future banknotes page.
    2. The current theme of the euro banknotes is “Ages and styles” and the main motifs on each banknote are windows, doorways and bridges based on architectural styles from various periods in Europe’s history. For more information, see the banknotes design elements page.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: DEI: workplace diversity schemes have a problem – but that doesn’t mean Trump is right to axe them

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Louise Ashley, Senior Lecturer in Sociology of Work, Queen Mary University of London

    Donald Trump’s inauguration was marked by a doubling down against programmes of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Among the executive orders he signed during his first days as US president, two were targeted at DEI. The focus was on federal government but the intention appears to be that this should also extend to other American workplaces. And it comes as Meta and Amazon are also retreating from diversity programmes.

    In Trump’s directive, DEI is said to undermine “traditional American values of hard work, excellence, and individual achievement” in favour of an “identity-based spoils system”. But the move dismayed many workers. It doesn’t just seem regressive, but it also appears to make poor business sense – advocates argue that attention to diversity and inclusion can offer higher performance and profits.

    Trump appears to believe DEI offers unfair advantages on the basis, for example, of gender or ethnicity. But an alternative view could be that DEI is a necessary response to a situation where certain groups (often men, typically white, and generally from privileged backgrounds) have benefited from unearned advantages to maintain their grip on power.

    Here, DEI is a response to the idea that simply belonging to these traditionally advantaged groups can be perceived as “talent”. This comes at the expense of typically marginalised groups, who are subject to discrimination and unconscious bias. From this perspective, hostility to DEI might be seen as a way for the traditionally privileged groups to remain dominant.

    Both sides are apparently in favour of merit as the ultimate goal, although they have different views on what this means and how it is achieved. This suggests a paradox.

    But is there any reason to worry about the widespread use of DEI? Based on my research with firms in the City of London, I think the answer is yes (though for very different reasons than the president suggests).

    This raises the question of what (or whose) purpose corporate commitments to DEI actually serve. Common sense would suggest that a primary function is to ensure people can access positions that would previously have been closed off to them.

    Yet it is also worth remembering that where, for example, more women become corporate lawyers or senior financiers, this has no bearing on wider inequalities in society. In fact, in a further paradox, my research has found that some of the organisations most likely to express their commitment to DEI are also implicated in generating these inequalities.

    I researched diversity and inclusion practices in elite financial and professional service firms. These firms have played a key role in orchestrating a form of “rentier capitalism”, where small elites control the means of generating wealth. This system has much wider detrimental effects, as where wealth is increasingly concentrated towards the top, one consequence is stagnating incomes for the middle and working classes. This in turn drives insecurity and widens the wealth gap.

    Legitimising a broken system

    This, of course, is not the fault of people working in these firms. But overall this system desperately needs legitimacy. This is more difficult when senior jobs at the centre of this model of “financialised capitalism” are mostly taken by those from historically privileged groups. Put simply, it makes them look bad.

    One way they can ensure legitimacy is to shout about their commitment to DEI. This can help suggest that the system is merit-based, as access to these “top jobs” seems fairly distributed while rewards appear justly deserved. Most recently, these impressions have been generated by a vocal commitment among these organisations to promoting “social mobility”.

    Opening access to a wider demographic, while good for the organisation and individual staff, has no impact on underlying inequalities. Yet in practice, these measures lack some efficacy. In fact, by offering an impression of change in terms of who occupies the top jobs, DEI can help legitimise and sustain an unequal status quo.

    Diversity in the workplace can strengthen an organisation.
    PintoArt/Shutterstock

    This matters for everyone because the ramifications can spread beyond the workplace. As wealth trickles up and populations grow frustrated that systems are not becoming fairer, the messages of the populist right can hold more appeal.

    Trump’s objection to DEI is very different. For him, DEI is a convenient tool in the culture wars.

    Yet this leads to the current situation, where conservatives like Trump loudly reject what might be considered a conservative agenda (in that the old economic order remains unchanged). It can all start to feel like a disorientating hall of mirrors.

    I am not suggesting, as Trump is, that governments and employers should abandon DEI. This would certainly represent a backward move. But while measures to improve inclusivity in organisations remain important and worthwhile, this should not be seen as a substitute for much wider structural change.

    Perhaps the most urgent challenge for government is tackling wealth inequality as a source of legitimate grievance. This more radical change in direction might even make reactionary and potentially harmful policies – like Trump’s take on DEI – less alluring to voters.

    Louise Ashley 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. DEI: workplace diversity schemes have a problem – but that doesn’t mean Trump is right to axe them – https://theconversation.com/dei-workplace-diversity-schemes-have-a-problem-but-that-doesnt-mean-trump-is-right-to-axe-them-248381

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Fuelling Morocco’s startup boom

    Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

    Expanding a startup isn’t just about innovation—it’s about access to markets, investment, and the right support system. Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), located in Ben Guerir, Morocco, provides entrepreneurs with training, incubation, and resources to help them scale beyond local borders. By fostering international partnerships and connecting founders to global networks, the university enables startups to navigate new markets, attract investment and drive economic growth.

    Download this video from the WTO website:
    https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXSSGj9adm8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrations ahead for University Founders’ Week The University of Aberdeen will mark its 530th anniversary next month with a week of celebration.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen will mark its 530th anniversary next month with a week of celebration.

    This is a week where we will come together to pay tribute to our historic origins as an ancient University, reflect on the important role the University continues to play in education and research, and celebrate the support of our benefactors over the centuries.” Professor Nicholas Forsyth

    Founded in 1495 by William Elphinstone, Bishop of Aberdeen and Chancellor of Scotland, the University of Aberdeen is Scotland’s third oldest and the UK’s fifth oldest university. Bishop Elphinstone set out the purpose of the University – then King’s College – to be ‘open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others.’ 

    A week-long programme of events will take place to mark Founders’ Week, honouring the University’s history and its continuing impact on the world. 

    On Monday February 10, members of the public are invited to come along to Elphinstone Hall for a day of fun for all the family. Researchers from across the University will be on hand with interactive activities to demonstrate just some of the ground-breaking research currently being undertaken. From the fascinating world of microfossils to the making of a magic book, to Chinese craft activities to the Rowett Institute’s ‘mini-mart’, there will be plenty going on to keep everyone occupied. 

    Those who come along can also enjoy tours of the Old Aberdeen campus, or a visit to the Zoology Museum, while TechFest will also be attending with some of their family-friendly STEM activities. 

    The next day, (Tuesday, February 11), Professor Gordon Noble will present an update on his ground breaking research on Pictish society in the North East to a sold-out audience at a Cafe Sci event at Aberdeen Art Gallery. 

    On Wednesday, the University will host a Founders’ Week Inaugural Lecture with Regius Chair of Physiology, Professor Mirela Delibegovic. 

    Professor  Delibegovic will share her incredible journey which took her from a teenager fleeing war-torn Bosnia and Hercegovina in 1994 to becoming the first female Regius Chair of Physiology – a position appointed directly by the King – three decades later. 

    In this special Founders’ Week Lecture, Professor Delibegovic will share how her early life inspired her research journey and how she is now following in the footsteps of another Aberdeen diabetes pioneer, whose work is credited with saving millions of lives. 

    Rounding up the week of celebrations, will be the Founders’ Week Chapel Service, where we will pay tribute to our historic origins as an ancient University and celebrate the support of our benefactors over the centuries. 

    Professor Nicholas Forsyth, Vice-Principal (Research) at the University of Aberdeen said: “What a tremendous honour it is to be hosting a whole week of events to celebrate 530 years of the University of Aberdeen. 

    “This is a week where we will come together to pay tribute to our historic origins as an ancient University, reflect on the important role the University continues to play in education and research, and celebrate the support of our benefactors over the centuries.  

    “From the vision of Bishop Elphinstone to the insights in medicine, science and engineering, law, social sciences, arts and humanities over five centuries which contributed to five Nobel prizes, Founders’ Week is a time to remember and celebrate the University’s contributions. 

    “The week of activities that are planned showcase not only the fantastic research going on at the University but also the researchers carrying the work out.”  

    For more information about all the Founders’ Week activities taking place, visit www.abdn.ac.uk/events 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: WayWORD Festival secures Creative Scotland funding for three more years Creative Scotland has confirmed that the University of Aberdeen’s WayWORD Festival will receive £150,000 of funding over three years as part of their new Multi-Year Funding programme.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Creative Scotland has confirmed that the University of Aberdeen’s WayWORD Festival will receive £150,000 of funding over three years as part of their new Multi-Year Funding programme.
    WayWORD Festival is a literary cross-arts festival celebrating unconventional forms of expression and is completely free for attendees. Since 2020, it has supported young people in the North-east of Scotland to plan and host events such as workshops, author talks, performances and exhibitions. Young people join a committee and develop skills in event management, marketing and teamwork, and benefit from confidence building and professional skills development.
    Being awarded Multi-Year Funding for the first time ensures the festival will continue until at least 2027, providing more support and opportunities for young people to be involved in arts organisation and event planning through the development of new satellite committees in communities across Aberdeen.
    The Creative Director of WayWORD Festival, Dr Shane Strachan, said: “This funding is a fantastic opportunity for us to be able to reach larger audiences and support more young people across the North East. We already have some great events in the pipeline, but are excited to work with more communities to develop activities and opportunities which are important to them. A big thank you to our previous Director, Dr Helen Lynch, for her work and support in securing this funding for the future of the festival.”

    This funding is a fantastic opportunity for us to be able to reach larger audiences and support more young people across the North East.” Shane Strachan, WayWORD Creative Director

    The autumn 2024 festival reached over 3000 audience members for the first time.
    WayWORD is hosting an event on the 4 February 2025, inviting young people to be part of WayWORD 2025. This free event will allow young people to generate ideas and learn more about the festival committee process. Free tickets for this event can be booked at www.waywordfestival.com
    The programme for autumn 2025 festival will be announced in the summer. Join the mailing list to receive updates at www.waywordfestival.com/about
    Related Content

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A delegation from the Republic of Indonesia visited NSU on a working visit

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Today, NSU was visited by a delegation from the Republic of Indonesia headed by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, Mr. Jose Antonio Morato Tavares. The meeting was attended by the rector of Novosibirsk State University, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk.

    In his welcoming speech, Mikhail Fedoruk emphasized that expanding cooperation with the Republic of Indonesia in the educational and cultural spheres is part of the general vector for developing relations between the region and the largest island state in Southeast Asia.

    — As the Governor of Novosibirsk Oblast Andrey Travnikov noted, in terms of trade turnover, Indonesia already ranks 5-6 among all importing and exporting countries with which Novosibirsk Oblast works. And, of course, there are reserves for further development of cooperation. Therefore, of course, we are interested in expanding our ties, including academic internships, student exchanges, and training Indonesian students here.

    — As for strengthening our cooperation in the field of education, we are interested in specialties related to science, technology, mathematics. We know that Russia is very strong in these areas. The purpose of our visit to Novosibirsk State University is to get acquainted with the university in order to further increase the number of students sent to study in Russia, — said Mr. Jose Antonio Morato Tavares.

    Currently, NSU has four students from the Republic of Indonesia studying, two of them in the General Medicine program. Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, one – on Faculty of Natural Sciences and one – on Faculty of Mechanics and MathematicsDuring the visit to NSU, the students met with the ambassador and shared their impressions of studying at the university.

    — I was looking for a university that taught natural sciences well. When I was choosing a place to study, I learned about Akademgorodok and NSU, and decided to enroll here. I am very excited about the meeting with the ambassador, thanks to her, many Indonesians will learn about NSU and Novosibirsk. I hope that in the future our university will have more students from Indonesia, — said Yusfonda Dellastefani-Laventosa, a third-year student of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at NSU.

    — I have been studying at NSU for 5 years now, and I really like it! I hope that our countries will build good relations. I am a little worried, because this is my first time at such a meeting, especially with the Ambassador of Indonesia, I think everything will go well, — shared his emotions 5th-year student of the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology of NSU Ibrahim Fat Audi.

    The delegation of the Republic of Indonesia worked in the Novosibirsk Region for two days. During the visit, a meeting was held with the Governor of the Novosibirsk Region Andrey Travnikov, the delegation visited Akadempark and several Novosibirsk companies, and also took part in the opening of the exhibition “Necklace of the Equator”, dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Indonesia. The exhibition will be held in the Novosibirsk State Art Museum until March 2.

    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 Asia-Pac: President Lai’s response to Pope Francis’s 2025 World Day of Peace message  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets former US Vice President Mike Pence
    On the afternoon of January 17, President Lai Ching-te met with former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations, noting that he actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, and did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. The president indicated that former Vice President Pence also spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, backing Taiwan’s international participation. President Lai expressed hope for a stronger Taiwan-US partnership to maintain peace and stability throughout the world, and that the two sides can advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Karen Pence to the Presidential Office. Former Vice President Pence is not only an outstanding political leader in the US, but also a staunch supporter of Taiwan on the international stage. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude to former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations. Thanks to former Vice President Pence’s strong backing, ties between Taiwan and the US rose to unprecedented heights during President Donald Trump’s first administration. Former Vice President Pence actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US security cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, helping Taiwan reinforce its self-defense capabilities. He also did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. Former Vice President Pence also paid close attention to the military threats and diplomatic isolation faced by Taiwan. He spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, taking concrete action to back Taiwan’s international participation. We were truly grateful for this. As we speak, China’s political and military intimidation against Taiwan persist. China and other authoritarian regimes, such as Russia, North Korea, and Iran, are continuing to converge and present serious challenges to democracies around the globe. At this moment, free and democratic nations must come together to bolster cooperation. I believe that a stronger Taiwan-US partnership can be an even more powerful force in maintaining peace and stability throughout the world. Former Vice President Pence has previously supported the signing of a trade agreement between Taiwan and the US. Taiwan looks forward to continuing to work with the new US administration and Congress to advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. This is the first time that former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Pence are visiting Taiwan, and their visit is significantly meaningful for Taiwan-US exchanges. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to extend a warm welcome. Moving forward, I hope we will jointly realize even more fruitful achievements through Taiwan-US cooperation. Former Vice President Pence then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for his hospitality on his and his wife’s first visit to Taiwan, saying that it is an honor to be here to reaffirm the bonds of friendship between the people of America and the people of Taiwan, which are strong and longstanding. The former vice president indicated that the American people admire the people of Taiwan and all that has been accomplished in a few short decades for Taiwan to rise to one of the world’s preeminent economic powers and free societies. He said that he is grateful for President Lai’s courageous and bold leadership of Taiwan, and grateful to be able to express the support of the overwhelming majority of the American people for this alliance. Former Vice President Pence indicated that the values shared by Taiwan and the US, including freedom, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, bind us together in a partnership that transcends geographic boundaries and cultures. He then assured President Lai that China’s increasingly aggressive posture in the Taiwan Strait and across the Indo-Pacific, for the values and interests that both sides share, is deeply concerning to the American people. Former Vice President Pence stated that America is a Pacific nation, and is committed to the status quo, adding that they recognize it is China that wants to change the status quo that America, Taiwan, and other allies in the region want to preserve, which has created an environment of extraordinary growth and prosperity. The former vice president concluded by once again thanking President Lai and his team for their gracious hospitality and conveying best wishes to him and the people of Taiwan. Former Vice President Pence then assured President Lai that just as Taiwan will never surrender its freedom, he will continue to be a voice for a strong US-Taiwan relationship in the defense and the benefit of Taiwan, the US, and the free world. Later that day, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao hosted a banquet for former Vice President Pence and his delegation at Taipei Guest House to thank him for his longstanding friendship and staunch support for Taiwan-US ties.  

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets delegation to 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of US president and vice president
    On the morning of January 16, President Lai Ching-te met with Taiwan’s delegation to the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the United States. In remarks, President Lai stated that democratic Taiwan stands united, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties together. He then entrusted the delegation with three missions: to convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan, convey our firm commitment to democracy, and help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: The 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US will be held on January 20. I want to thank Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), president of the Legislative Yuan, for accepting my invitation to lead our nation’s representative delegation to the event. I also thank Legislative Yuan Members Ko Chih-en (柯志恩), Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), Ko Ju-chun (葛如鈞), Lee Yen-hsiu (李彥秀), Chen Kuan-ting (陳冠廷), Kuo Yu-ching (郭昱晴), and Chen Gau-tzu (陳昭姿) for joining this visit to the US to attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. We have gathered together today despite differences in party affiliation because in democratic Taiwan, while parties may compete domestically, when it comes to engagement externally, they stand united and share responsibility, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties and strive for the best interests of the nation. We share the value of defending freedom and democracy, and we share the goal of advancing peace and prosperity. Today, we engage with the world together as those from the same country – the Republic of China (Taiwan). In this complex and volatile new international landscape, and as the nation faces difficulties and challenges, I want to stress that in Formosa, there is no hostility that cannot be let go, and no hardship that cannot be overcome. Unity is the most important, and I hope that Taiwan can stand united, because there is true strength in unity. Democratic Taiwan must stand united in engaging with the world and initiate exchanges with confidence. On that ground, I am entrusting this delegation with three key missions. First, convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan. Just last year, Taiwan and the US celebrated the 45th anniversary of the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act. And on May 20, the US sent a senior bipartisan delegation to congratulate me and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao on our inauguration. As the leader of this cross-party delegation, Speaker Han must clearly convey the well-wishes of the people of Taiwan, congratulate President Trump and Vice President Vance on their inauguration, and wish success to the new administration and prosperity to the US. Second, clearly convey the firm commitment of the people of Taiwan to democracy. The theme of these inaugural ceremonies is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.” Taiwan and the US share the universal value of democracy and are staunch allies. I hope that the delegation can faithfully convey the firm commitment to democracy that the people of Taiwan have, which will not change even in the face of authoritarian threats. Taiwan is willing to stand side by side with the US and other members of the democratic community to defend the sustainable development of global democracy and prevent the expansion of authoritarianism. Third, help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. In recent years, Taiwan-US relations have continued to grow, with the first agreement under the Taiwan-US Initiative on 21st Century Trade having formally taken effect last month. This morning, the House of Representatives also passed the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act. I hope that the delegation can help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone through these exchanges so that our relations continue to grow, our cooperation expands even more, and so that we can achieve even greater success after the new administration takes office. Four years ago, Taiwan’s representative to the US inaugural ceremonies was Vice President Hsiao, who was then our representative to the US. Everyone has a lot to learn from her. I have specially invited everyone here to converse so that you can draw from Vice President Hsiao’s experience and ensure an even smoother visit. Washington, DC was also hit by a rare blizzard recently, and the weather has been very cold, so make sure to stay warm. I am sending everyone off with hand warmers and thermoses so that you can bring some warmth from Taiwan with you on your journey. And I ask that Speaker Han exercise his wisdom to help generate some warmth between the ruling and opposition parties through cooperation, which they can then bring back to Taiwan. Let us unite to give our all for diplomacy so that we can unite to give our all for Taiwan. I wish the delegation a smooth and safe trip, and hope your missions can be carried out successfully. Speaker Han then delivered remarks, stating that it was an honor to be invited by President Lai to organize a delegation to represent our nation at the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US in Washington, DC, and express the Republic of China’s sincere and cordial best wishes. The Legislative Yuan’s president has assumed this important task numerous times in the past, he said, not only to represent the government of the Republic of China, but also to take on the mission of conveying the voices of 23 million people. He went on to say that he is honored to take up the baton, lead eight legislators to the US to attend this celebration that will attract global attention, and express sincere best wishes to newly elected President Trump, Vice President Vance, and the new administration’s team. As enjoined by President Lai, he hopes the delegation’s trip will help open a new chapter in Taiwan-US exchanges. Speaker Han stated that the US is the most free and democratic country in the world. He noted that in 1776 in the US Declaration of Independence, founding father Thomas Jefferson propounded the concept of “unalienable rights,” and emphasized that the people have a right to freedom and the pursuit of happiness, democratic ideas that have long been rooted in the people’s hearts. Today, he said, democracy is also embedded in the DNA of Taiwan’s 23 million people, and this hard-won democratic achievement is a result of the concerted efforts of our pioneering predecessors, thinkers, and activists over the past 100 years. Speaker Han stated that during this visit, the Legislative Yuan delegation hopes to convey the voice of Taiwan as a democratic country. Taiwan’s security, he said, is like the four legs of a table: The first leg is defending the Republic of China, the second is defending freedom and democracy, the third is maintaining Taiwan-US relations, and the fourth is maintaining cross-strait peace. The delegation will travel to the US amidst severe cold weather to show that we value our relationship with the US, and our citizens have great hopes and expectations. Speaker Han stated that this will be a cross-party delegation of eight legislators, all of whom have a strong sense of mission. He hopes that all democratic nations will acknowledge Taiwan’s importance, and pay attention to Taiwan’s 23 million people. The delegation, he said, will do its utmost to convey the goodwill and warmth that the people of Taiwan give to each and every one of our good friends.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai confers decoration on former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis
    On the morning of January 14, President Lai Ching-te conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis of the Republic of Lithuania in recognition of his remarkable contributions to deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Minister Landsbergis for standing firmly with Taiwan and remaining a staunch defender of democratic values, yielding fruitful cooperative results. The president expressed hope that the two countries will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture, and continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy so that together we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Today, by conferring the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister Landsbergis, we recognize his outstanding contributions during his time as foreign minister of Lithuania. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I thank him for the key role he has played in deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to the efforts of former Minister Landsbergis, Lithuania was the first European nation to donate vaccines to Taiwan. On that occasion, he stated that “freedom-loving people should look out for each other.” His statement was very moving and left a deep impression on many Taiwanese people. We will never forget it. Former Minister Landsbergis has continued to express the spirit of those words through his concrete actions. With his staunch support, Taiwan and Lithuania have mutually established representative offices. Moreover, our representative office in Lithuania was the first in Europe to incorporate “Taiwan” in its name. As for bilateral cooperation, Taiwan and Lithuania have seen fruitful results in such fields as semiconductors, laser technology, finance, and medicine. Be it overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic or resisting expanding authoritarianism, former Minister Landsbergis has stood firmly with Taiwan and remained a staunch defender of democratic values. We greatly admire and appreciate his spirit. Today, authoritarian regimes continue to converge, posing threats and challenges to democracies around the world. Taiwan, Lithuania, and other democratic countries must come closer together, drawing on the strength of unity, so as to jointly safeguard freedom and democracy and uphold the rules-based international order. Looking ahead, we hope that Taiwan and Lithuania will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture. Let us continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy. Together, we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. In closing, I once again thank you, former Minister Landsbergis, for your support and for all that you have done for Taiwan. We welcome you and your wife to visit often. I wish you both a smooth and successful visit in Taiwan, and hope you leave with lasting memories.    Former Minister Landsbergis then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to receive the decoration today. He noted that only partially can he accept the honor, as there have been many people who worked together with him in the ministry and in the whole country who support the people of Taiwan and see the benefit of supporting democracy in Taiwan. He often says that in Lithuania they remember well the fight for their freedom, and just today, he mentioned, he was shown the permanent exhibition in the Presidential Office, where he saw similar pictures of Taiwanese people fighting for democracy. He emphasized that not even one generation has passed since these events took place here in Taipei or similar events took place in Vilnius. Former Minister Landsbergis said that decision-makers in the Lithuanian government are either people who were themselves fighting for freedom, or, as in his case, those who were sitting on the shoulders of parents who were fighting for freedom. So for them, he underlined, freedom, democracy, liberty, and sovereignty are very real concepts that they cherish, not just things read about in a history book. He said that this is the main connector between Lithuania and Taiwan, a feeling of freedom and support for each other. Former Minister Landsbergis stated that in the face of authoritarians who do not wish us prosperity, who do not wish us freedom and future achievements, what he expects from the future is that the friendship, collaboration, and mutual support between Lithuania and Taiwan will inspire others to join in. This, he said, will make other countries not be afraid to support freedom and democracy, and will allow our group of friends to continue to grow. Lithuanian history, the former minister said, is difficult, and a big part of it was fighting for their freedom. He explained that during the 19th century when Lithuania was part of Russia’s empire, they had several revolutions and uprisings with the aim of becoming free, and that they were fighting for that freedom alongside Poland and Belarus. He then applied a phrase that they used in the revolution of 1864 – “for your freedom and ours,” meaning that they will continue to fight for their freedom while helping Taiwan fight for ours. Also in attendance at the ceremony were former Minister Landsbergis’ wife Dr. Austėja Landsbergienė and Lithuanian Representative to Taiwan Paulius Lukauskas.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    Presidential Office thanks White House for its statement on enduring US commitment to Indo-Pacific region
    On January 10 (US EST), the US White House released a statement on the United States’ Enduring Commitment to the Indo-Pacific Region, in which it reaffirms its position of using a range of methods to help Taiwan maintain a sufficient self-defense capability so as to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and across the Taiwan Strait. Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) on January 11 expressed sincere gratitude to the US government for taking concrete actions to fulfill its security commitments to Taiwan, advancing the close Taiwan-US security partnership, and supporting Taiwan in its efforts to enhance its self-defense capabilities and resilience. Spokesperson Kuo stated that the deepening Taiwan-US security partnership is a critical cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. She noted that Taiwan, as a force for good and regional stability, will continue to work alongside like-minded countries to strengthen defense resilience as we jointly defend the values of freedom and democracy and ensure the peace, stability, and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute delegation
    On the morning of January 9, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI). In remarks, President Lai thanked RRPFI President David Trulio and members of RRPFI for remaining undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, and lending great support to Taiwan. He emphasized that facing the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Lai expressed hope that they can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-United States relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, let me warmly welcome President Trulio, who is leading this delegation from RRPFI to Taiwan. And on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences in wake of the ongoing fires in California. I hope that they can be put out swiftly so that harm is reduced, and I hope that those who are injured are able to receive timely help. President Reagan was a staunch friend of Taiwan. The Six Assurances he put forward in 1982 and the Taiwan Relations Act passed by Congress in 1979 form the bedrock of Taiwan-US relations. The incorporation of the Six Assurances into the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018 further established bipartisan, bicameral, and cross-agency US support for Taiwan. With authoritarianism continuing to expand, President Reagan’s conviction of peace through strength is proving to be especially crucial as democracies unite to protect freedom, democracy, peace, and the rules-based international order. RRPFI honors President Reagan’s legacy by championing such principles as individual liberty, economic opportunity, global democracy, and national pride. Many of you have served previous US administrations as part of national security teams, and many of you are longstanding friends of Taiwan. I sincerely hope that we can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-US relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. I also want to extend particular gratitude to President Trulio and RRPFI for lending great support to Taiwan. Undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, you warmly welcomed former President Tsai Ing-wen to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library during her stopover in California in April 2023 and arranged a delegation to visit Taiwan in October of the same year. As for the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will meet it head on, and uphold President Reagan’s spirit of peace through strength. We will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan by strengthening national defense, building economic security, and demonstrating stable and principled cross-strait leadership, as well as promoting values-based diplomacy. Bolstering Taiwan’s cooperation with the US and other democracies will preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Trulio then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his warm welcome and saying that he and the delegation are deeply honored to be with him in Taiwan, along with so many top leaders in his administration. President Trulio added that they are proud to advance President Reagan’s legacy and timeless principles, and our collective shared values. President Trulio indicated that President Reagan visited Taiwan twice before he became president. Acknowledging what President Lai stated, he noted that it was President Reagan’s administration that developed what became known as the Six Assurances, a framework that to this day serves as the foundation of relations between the US and Taiwan. More broadly, President Trulio said, President Reagan knew that America’s strength and the strength of its allies and friends are key to global peace, prosperity, and security. He said President Reagan also knew that societies that provide economic opportunity and democracy offer a better life for their citizens. In fact, he stated, President Reagan said that freedom is not the sole prerogative of a lucky few, but the inalienable and universal right of all human beings. President Trulio went on to say that Taiwan’s open society and thriving democracy make the commitment to freedom here plain for all to see. President Trulio noted that RRPFI had the honor of visiting Taipei in October 2023, when the delegation met then-President Tsai. He said that their return visit to Taipei at the start of 2025 comes at a crucial time, and that part of what makes that timing so significant is that there will be a new administration inaugurated in Washington in about 10 days. Over the course of their visits to Taiwan, President Trulio said, it has been plain to see that Taiwan stands strong as a vibrant democracy, with political parties sharing a commitment to democratic principles. He said it is also plain to see that Taiwan’s advanced economy and global technological leadership present positive opportunities for the US. He added that it is also plain to see that the security situation across the Taiwan Strait demands a continued commitment to peace through strength, including through robust partnership with Taiwan and sustained US deterrence. President Trulio stated that he looks forward to addressing the opportunities and challenges facing Taiwan and the US, and is confident that together, we will further well into the future our shared commitment to freedom and democracy, economic opportunity, and security and stability. The delegation also included RRPFI Washington Director Roger Zakheim, Director of the Alexander Hamilton Center for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida William Inboden, Palantir Technologies Senior Counselor Jamie Fly, former Deputy White House Staff Secretary Catherine Bellah, Anduril Industries Policy Director Dustin Walker, Hudson Institute Adjunct Fellow Alexander Benard, RRPFI Policy Director Rachel Hoff, and RRPFI Digital Strategy and Communications Director James Rogers.

    Details
    2025-01-01
    President Lai delivers 2025 New Year’s Address
    On the morning of January 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered his 2025 New Year’s Address, titled “Bolstering National Strength through Democracy to Enter a New Global Landscape,” in the Reception Hall of the Presidential Office. President Lai stated that today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. In this new year, he said, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. The president expressed hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together, allowing Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements.  President Lai emphasized that in 2025, we must keep firm on the path of democracy, continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies, and continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. The president said that Taiwan will keep going strong, and we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. A translation of President Lai’s address follows: Today is the first day of 2025. With a new year comes new beginnings. I wish that Taiwan enjoys peace, prosperity, and success, and that our people lead happy lives. Taiwan truly finished 2024 strong. Though there were many challenges, there were also many triumphs. We withstood earthquakes and typhoons, and stood firm in the face of constant challenges posed by authoritarianism. We also shared glory as Taiwan won the Premier12 baseball championship, and now Taiwanese people around the world are all familiar with the gesture for Team Taiwan. At the Paris Olympics, Wang Chi-lin (王齊麟) and Lee Yang (李洋) clinched another gold in men’s doubles badminton. Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷) took home Taiwan’s first Olympic gold in boxing. At the International Junior Science Olympiad, every student in our delegation of six won a gold medal. And Yang Shuang-zi’s (楊双子) novel Taiwan Travelogue, translated into English by King Lin (金翎), became a United States National Book Award winner and a tour de force of Taiwan literature on the international level. Our heroes of Taiwan are defined by neither age nor discipline. They have taken home top prizes at international competitions and set new records. They tell Taiwan’s story through their outstanding performances, letting the world see the spirit and culture of Taiwan, and filling all our citizens with pride. My fellow citizens, we have stood together through thick and thin; we have shared our ups and downs. We have wept together, and we have laughed together. We are all one family, all members of Team Taiwan. I want to thank each of our citizens for their dedication, fueling Taiwan’s progress and bringing our nation glory. You have given Taiwan even greater strength to stand out on the global stage. In this new year, we must continue bringing Taiwan’s stories to the world, and make Taiwan’s successes a force for global progress. In 2025, the world will be entering a new landscape. Last year, over 70 countries held elections, and the will of the people has changed with the times. As many countries turn new pages politically, and in the midst of rapid international developments, Taiwan must continue marching forward with steady strides. First, we must keep firm on the path of democracy. Taiwan made it through a dark age of authoritarianism and has since become a glorious beacon of democracy in Asia. This was achieved through the sacrifices of our democratic forebears and the joint efforts of all our citizens. Democracy’s value to Taiwan lies not just in our free way of life, or in the force driving the diverse and vigorous growth of our society. Democracy is the brand that has earned us international trust in terms of diplomacy. No matter the threat or challenge Taiwan may face, democracy is Taiwan’s only path forward. We will not turn back. Domestic competition among political parties is a part of democracy. But domestic political disputes must be resolved democratically, within the constitutional system. This is the only way democracy can continue to grow. The Executive Yuan has the right to request a reconsideration of the controversial bills passed in the Legislative Yuan, giving it room for reexamination. Constitutional institutions can also lodge a petition for a constitutional interpretation, and through Constitutional Court adjudication, ensure a separation of powers, safeguard constitutional order, and gradually consolidate the constitutional system. The people also have the right of election, recall, initiative, and referendum, and can bring together even greater democratic power to show the true meaning of sovereignty in the hands of the people. In this new year, the changing international landscape will present democratic nations around the world with many grave challenges. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas rage on, and we are seeing the continued convergence of authoritarian regimes including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, threatening the rules-based international order and severely affecting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the world at large. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. Taiwan needs to prepare for danger in times of peace. We must continue increasing our national defense budget, bolster our national defense capabilities, and show our determination to protect our country. Everyone has a responsibility to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and security. We must gather together every bit of strength we have to enhance whole-of-society defense resilience, and build capabilities to respond to major disasters and deter threats or encroachment. We must also strengthen communication with society to combat information and cognitive warfare, so that the populace rejects threats and enticements and jointly guards against malicious infiltration by external forces. Here at home, we must consolidate democracy with democracy. Internationally, we must make friends worldwide through democracy. This is how we will ensure security and peace. The more secure Taiwan, the more secure the world. The more resilient Taiwan, the sounder the defense of global democracy. The global democratic community should work even closer together to support the democratic umbrella as we seek ways to resolve the war in Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas. Together, we must uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific, and achieve our goal of global peace. Second, we must continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, and enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. In the first half of 2024, growth in the Taiwan Stock Index was the highest in the world. Our economic growth rate for the year as a whole is expected to reach 4.2 percent, leading among the Four Asian Tigers. Domestic investment is soaring, having exceeded NT$5 trillion, and inflation is gradually stabilizing. Export orders from January to November totaled US$536.6 billion, up 3.7 percent from the same period in 2023. And compared over the same period, exports saw a 9.9 percent increase, reaching US$431.5 billion. Recent surveys also show that in 2024, the average increase in salaries at companies was higher than that in 2023. Additionally, over 90 percent of companies plan to raise salaries this year, which is an eight-year high. All signs indicate that Taiwan’s economic climate continues to recover, and that our economy is growing steadily. Our overall economic performance is impressive; still, we must continue to pay attention to the impact on Taiwan’s industries from the changing geopolitical landscape, uncertainties in the global economic environment, and dumping by the “red supply chain.”  For a nation, all sectors and professions are equally important; only when all our industries are strong can Taiwan be strong as a nation. Our micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are the lifeblood of Taiwan, and the development of our various industrial parks has given Taiwan the impetus for our prosperity. We must carry the spirit of “Made in Taiwan” forward, bringing it to ever greater heights. Thus, beyond just developing our high-tech industry, our Executive Yuan has already proposed a solution that will help traditional industries and MSMEs comprehensively adopt technology applications, engage in the digital and net-zero twin transition, and develop channels, all for better operational structures and higher productivity. Taiwan must continue enhancing its economic resilience. In recent years, Taiwan has significantly increased its investments in the US, Japan, Europe, and the New Southbound countries, and such investment has already surpassed investment in China. This indicates that our efforts in diversifying markets and reducing reliance on any single market are working. Moving forward, we must keep providing assistance so that Taiwan industries can expand their global presence and market internationally from a solid base here in Taiwan. At the same time, Taiwan must use democracy to promote economic growth with the rest of the world. We must leverage our strengths in the semiconductor and AI industries. We must link with democratic countries so that we can together enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. And through international cooperation across many sectors, such as UAVs, low-orbit communications satellites, robots, military, security and surveillance, or biopharmaceuticals, renewable energy technology, new agriculture, and the circular economy, we must keep abreast of the latest cutting-edge technology and promote diverse development. This approach will help Taiwan remain a leader in advancing global democratic supply chains, ensuring their security and stability. Third, we must continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. Democracy means the people have the final say. Our nation belongs to all 23 million of us, without regard for ethnic group, generation, political party, or whether we live in urban or rural areas. In this new year, we must continue to pursue policies that promote the well-being of the nation and the people. But to that end, the central government needs adequate financial resources to ensure that it can enact each of these measures. Therefore, I hope that the ruling and opposition parties can each soberly reconsider the amendments to the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures and find a path forward that ensures the lasting peace and stability of our country. For nine consecutive years, the minimum wage has continued to rise. Effective today, the minimum monthly salary is being raised from NT$27,470 to NT$28,590, and the hourly salary from NT$183 to NT$190. We hope by raising the pay for military personnel, civil servants, and educators for two consecutive years, coupled with benefits through wage increases and tax reductions, that private businesses will also raise wages, allowing all our people to enjoy the fruits of our economic growth. I know that everyone wants to pay lower taxes and rent. This year, we will continue to promote tax reductions. For example, unmarried individuals with an annual income of NT$446,000 or less can be exempt from paying income tax. Dual-income families with an annual income of NT$892,000 or less and dual-income families with two children aged six or younger with an annual income of NT$1,461,000 or less are also exempt from paying income tax. Additionally, the number of rent-subsidized housing units will also be increased, from 500,000 to 750,000 units, helping lighten the load for everyone. This year, the age eligibility for claiming Culture Points has been lowered from 16 to 13 years, so that now young people aged between 13 and 22 can receive government support for experiencing more in the arts. Also, our Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative is about to take effect, which will help more young people in Taiwan realize their dreams by taking part in education and exchange activities in many places around the world. We are also in the process of establishing a sports ministry to help young athletes achieve their dreams on the field, court, and beyond. The ministry will also be active in developing various sports industries and bringing sports and athletics more into the lives of the people, making our people healthier as a result. This year, as Taiwan becomes a “super-aged society,” we will launch our Long-term Care 3.0 Plan to provide better all-around care for our seniors. And we will expand the scope of cancer screening eligibility and services, all aimed at creating a Healthy Taiwan. In addition, Taiwan will officially begin collecting fees for its carbon fee system today. This brings us closer in line with global practices and helps us along the path to our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We will also continue on the path to achieving a Balanced Taiwan. Last month, the Executive Yuan launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan and its six major regional flagship projects. Both of these initiatives will continue to expand the investment in our public infrastructure and the development of local specialty industries, narrowing urban-rural and wealth gaps so that all our people can live and work in peace and happiness. My fellow citizens, today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. This tells us that national development is moving in the right direction. In this new year, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. We hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together to ensure that national policies are successfully implemented, with the people’s well-being as our top priority. This will allow Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements. In this new year, we have many more brilliant stories of Taiwan to share with the world, inspiring all Taiwanese, both here and around the world, to cheer time and again for the glory of Taiwan. Taiwan will keep going strong. And we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Reel justice’: a unique collaboration between university filmmakers and police

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Smith, Senior Consultant, Universal Impact

    How can universities build better relationships with the communities around them? Academia is increasingly considering this question. And finding innovative ways to demonstrate value and connect with wider society.

    This was on my mind when I learnt about a fascinating collaboration between the police and aspiring, young filmmakers at the University of Sunderland, which shows the power of research as a tool for public good.

    I world for Universal Impact, The Conversation’s commercial subsidiary, and recently travelled to the northeast to give a training course to University of Sunderland researchers on how to identify, and communicate with, different audiences for their work.

    Whenever we work with academics, I’m reminded of the quality and diversity of research taking place all around us – stretching, in this case, from preventing liver damage to boosting performance in modern pentathlon.

    We built on the training course with a mentoring programme for a group of researchers including Adelle Hulsmeier, who leads the university’s screen performance BA programme.

    I’m a bit of a movie buff. So I was interested to learn about the unique initiative Adelle runs, bringing together young people and police around an unexpected common ground – film.

    Here’s how it works. Northumberland Police suggests themes, students make short films inspired by those themes, and the films are then used as education and training resources.

    Like many of my favourite directors, Adelle believes it’s possible to address some of the most pressing social issues through storytelling.

    A new approach

    The project comes as public trust in the police is in decline, particularly among members of Gen Z (broadly, those born between 1996 and 2010).

    Children and young people are also disproportionately affected by crime, often as victims of the most serious offences. But these films offer an opportunity to change the narrative.

    And as the Labour government is proposing “respect orders” to address the UK’s 6.7 million annual offences — which cost taxpayers £58.9 billion in 2023-24 — this novel approach seems particularly timely.

    Over the past 11 years, more than 1,000 students have worked on at least 50 films, covering topics such as sexual exploitation, domestic violence, male rape and “county lines” drugs trafficking.

    The films’ influence extends far beyond the university. They have been integrated into training programmes for police officers, healthcare workers, teachers and other professionals.

    Community engagement

    The collaboration was born of a desire to make issues of crime and policing widely accessible, with Adelle striving to bridge the gap between academic learning and societal impact.

    In 2019, the project received the Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence from Advance Higher Education, recognising the initiative’s outstanding contribution to education and community engagement.

    The programme has also been praised by former Labour MP and Victims’ Commissioner Dame Vera Baird, who described the films as an effective way for the police to “transmit messages in a way that we cannot”.

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

    Meanwhile, the project is also an opportunity for students to develop critical skills and gain invaluable industry experience.

    By empowering students to tackle real world social issues, the University of Sunderland is not only preparing them for the future but also helping to shape a safer, more empathetic world.

    This partnership is a testament to the mutual benefits that come from universities and public sector organisations working collectively towards common goals that support their local communities.

    At Universal Impact, we offer specialist training, mentoring and research communication services – donating profits back to The Conversation, our parent charity. If you’re a researcher or research institution and you’re interested in working together, please get in touch – or subscribe to our weekly newsletter to find out more.

    – ref. ‘Reel justice’: a unique collaboration between university filmmakers and police – https://theconversation.com/reel-justice-a-unique-collaboration-between-university-filmmakers-and-police-248619

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic athletes successfully start the new year

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The Polytechnic University athletes started 2025 actively. They won several victories: in rally, hockey, basketball and mini-football.

    The Polytechnic team won the team classification at the Karelia rally. The race took place in the Sortavala area and included technical three-dimensional special stages. Dmitry and Elena Nikonchuk took second place in the overall classification in a BMW 330. The first two places in the 2000N classification were shared between the pair Andrey Zhukovsky – Konstantin Mukhamendrikov in a Fiesta and the pair Alexander Solovyov – Andrey Strizhich in a VAZ-2108.

    The men’s futsal team also pleased with its success. The Polytechnics beat the team of the Mining Institute with a score of 3:2 and the LETI athletes with a score of 6:0.

    The SPbPU hockey team started the year confidently, winning three victories. In the game with the Northern Sapsan team, the Polytechnicians missed two goals in the first five minutes, but were able to pull themselves together and won with a minimal advantage – 3:2. The match with the Sea Wolves was also exciting. The Polytechnicians outplayed their opponents in the first two periods, but lost the initiative in the third period, almost missing out on victory. The game ended with a score of 4:3. In the end, our athletes confidently beat the hockey players from SPbSU with a score of 9:4.

    The girls from the SPbPU basketball team also started the year with a victory. They defeated the RANEPA team with a score of 79:32.

    The Polytechnic University team took part in the Spartakiad “Health – 2025”. In the mini-football competition among teachers and employees of universities, the Polytechnic University showed the second result.

    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 Russia: Polytechnicians – International Experts in the Presidential Elections in Belarus

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Another presidential election was held in Belarus. The current head of the country, Alexander Lukashenko, won. The turnout was 85.7% of the total number of those included in the voting list. Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is associated with the republic not only by decades of joint scientific and educational projects, but also by the historical unity of fraternal peoples, notes the rector of SPbPU Andrei Rudskoy. Andrei Ivanovich heads the expert council on science and education at the IPA CIS. The council’s activities have been noted at the highest level, and its experts are invited to interstate commissions.

    On behalf of the Rector of SPbPU, the Director of the Higher School of Jurisprudence and Forensic Science Dmitry Mokhorov (deputy of the Academic SPb Municipal Assembly, deputy chairman of the expert council on science and education at the IPA CIS) acted as a scientific expert in the mission of the monitoring group of the CIS IPA at the elections of the President of the Republic of Belarus.

    Interacting with those responsible for organizing the elections and residents of Belarus, Dmitry Mokhorov noted: “It is gratifying to see the hospitality with which Belarusians greet guests, and when they hear “Leningrad Polytechnic” (Peter’s Polytechnic), everyone congratulates them on the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Leningrad from the fascist blockade and the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. The warmth of the fraternal people, who have first-hand experience of the atrocities of fascism, fills communication with joy, and it becomes clear that Belarusians will not allow interference in the democratic development of their country. The holiday that election day has become for the Belarusian people has shown the true free will of an independent state — the Republic of Belarus.”

    Secretary General of the IPA CIS Council Dmitry Kobitsky noted that the mission included experienced observers – representatives of the parliaments of the CIS states and experts of the International Institute for Monitoring Democracy Development of the IPA CIS. Scientists and specialists, together with parliamentarians, carried out long-term and short-term monitoring of the elections.

    This made it possible to conduct a comparative analysis of the best practices and formulate decisions based on professional scientific findings, noted the coordinator of the CIS IPA monitoring group mission, Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation Konstantin Kosachev. He emphasized that over two decades, the CIS parliamentary institution has established itself not only as a normative and practical force, but also as a scientifically substantiated force. Thanks to this, it was possible to destroy the monopoly on election assessment that Western institutions had appropriated, imposing their point of view on everyone, politicizing observation and drawing conclusions based on the loyalty of the country and its leader.

    In our work, we are guided by the principles of respect for state sovereignty, impartiality, effective assistance, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states, which are enshrined in two basic documents for all of us: the Convention on the Standards of Democratic Elections in the CIS and the Declaration of the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly on the Principles of International Observation, the parliamentarian noted.

    International observers from the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly met with the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus Natalia Kochanova, the Chairperson of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly Igor Sergeyenko, the Chairman of the Central Electoral Commission Igor Karpenko, presidential candidates: the Chairman of the Republican Party of Labor and Justice Alexander Khizhnyak, the leader of the Communist Party of Belarus Sergei Syrankov, the Chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party of Belarus Oleg Gaidukevich, Anna Kanopatskaya and the authorized representative of candidate Alexander Lukashenko, the Chairman of the Federation of Trade Unions of Belarus Yuri Senko. All of them noted that Belarusian society has changed. Despite attempts at outside interference, everyone was focused on ensuring that the campaign was held without upheavals, threats and destabilization, in accordance with national and international law.

    On election day, observers visited 321 polling stations.

    We work in all regions of Belarus. Our work is a kind of “audit”, the result of which is the development and democratization of electoral processes, – said Dmitry Kobitsky.

    The Secretary General noted that the Secretariat is expanding cooperation with scientists from the CIS countries. This allows for increased expert support for the Assembly’s legislative work and serves to develop relations in the scientific circles of the Commonwealth countries. A memorandum of cooperation with the Belarusian Institute for Strategic Studies was also signed as part of the dialogue.

    Rector of SPbPU Andrei Rudskoy congratulated Belarusian partners on the successful completion of the presidential elections and expressed confidence that the elected president will work for the development of Belarus, strengthening friendship and cooperation in the region.

    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: Shareholders’ Nomination Board’s proposal for the composition of Aktia Bank’s Board of Directors and their remuneration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktia Bank Plc
    Stock Exchange Release
    31 January 2025 at 11.00 a.m.

    Shareholders’ Nomination Board’s proposal for the composition of Aktia Bank’s Board of Directors and their remuneration

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board of Aktia Bank Plc has decided to present the following proposal to the Annual General Meeting 2025 of Aktia Bank:

    The number of the members of the Board of Directors is proposed to be decreased from nine and set to seven.

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that of the present members of the Board of Directors, Joakim Frimodig, Carl Haglund, Maria Jerhamre Engström, Harri Lauslahti and Matts Rosenberg, based on their consent, be re-elected for a term continuing up until the end of the next Annual General Meeting. For more information on the Board members proposed to be re-elected, please see the company’s website at www.aktia.com. Ann Grevelius, Sari Pohjonen, Johannes Schulman and Lasse Svens have informed that they will not be available for re-election.

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board also proposes that Hanne Katrama and Sari Somerkallio are elected as new Board members for the same term, based on their consent. Further information on the new Board members proposed to be elected has been attached to this release and can be found closer to the Annual General Meeting on the company’s website www.aktia.com.

    Should any of the candidates presented above not be available to be elected to the Board, the proposed number of Board members shall be decreased accordingly and the available candidates are proposed to be elected accordingly.

    All the proposed persons are independent in relation to the company according to the definition of the Corporate Governance Code. Only Matts Rosenberg is not independent of a significant shareholder since he is the chair of the board of RG Partners Oy, the largest shareholder (10.13%) of Aktia Bank. In addition, Rosenberg is the CEO of of Rettig Oy Ab, which is the largest owner of RG Partners Oy.

    All the proposed persons have informed that they intend, if they are elected, to elect Matts Rosenberg amongst them as Chair of the Board of Directors and to re-elect Joakim Frimodig as Deputy Chair.

    Regarding the selection procedure for the members of the Board of Directors, the Shareholders’ Nomination Board recommends that shareholders take a position on the proposal as a whole at the General Meeting. This recommendation is based on the fact that at Aktia the Shareholders’ Nomination Board is separate from the Board of Directors and, in addition to ensuring that individual nominees for membership of the Board of Directors possess the required competences, it is also responsible for making sure that the proposed Board of Directors as a whole also has the best possible expertise and experience for the company and that the composition of the Board of Directors also meets other requirements set for credit institutions as well as the requirements of the Finnish Corporate Governance Code for listed companies.

    The Nomination Board proposes that the remuneration for the Board of Directors for the term be unchanged from the current term and determined as follows:

    • Chair, EUR 75,000 (2024: EUR 75,000)
    • Deputy Chair, EUR 50,000 (2024: EUR 50,000)
    • member, EUR 40,000 (2024: EUR 40,000)

    Annual remunerations for the Chairs of each Committee as well as meeting remunerations are proposed to be unchanged, meaning that it is proposed that the Chair of each Committee will further receive an annual remuneration of EUR 8,000. The proposed meeting remuneration for Board and Committee meetings is EUR 700 per attended meeting for each person (EUR 700 per attended meeting for each person in 2024). If participation in a board meeting requires travelling outside the board member’s country of residence, the remuneration for board meeting is EUR 1,400 per attended meeting for each person (EUR 1,400 per attended meeting for each person in 2024). The remuneration of the members of the Board is not treated as income forming basis for earnings-related pension. Compensation for travel and accommodation expenses as well as a daily allowance is paid in line with the Finnish Tax Administration’s guidelines and the travel instructions of the company.

    The Nomination Board proposes that approximately 40% of the annual remuneration (gross amount) shall be paid to the members in the form of Aktia shares. The company will on account of the Board members acquire Aktia shares on the market to the price that is formed through public trading or it will transfer the company’s own shares to the Board members and the rest of the annual remuneration payable is paid in cash. The shares are acquired or transferred during a two-week time period from the day following the company’s interim report for 1 January 2025–31 March 2025 is published or as soon as possible in accordance with applicable legislation. If the remuneration can’t be paid in shares, it can be paid in cash entirely. The company will be responsible for all expenses and the possible transfer tax for acquiring or transferring the shares.

    The proposals of the Nomination Board will be included in the summons of the Annual General Meeting.

    Chair of the Shareholders’ Nomination Board of Aktia Bank is Gisela Knuts (appointed by the Pension Insurance Company Veritas and the companies controlled by Erkki Etola), members are Georg Ehrnrooth (appointed by RG Partners Oy), Stefan Wallin (appointed by the Åbo Akademi University Foundation) and Johan Hammarén (appointed by Oy Hammarén & Co Ab), and Lasse Svens, Chair of the Board of Directors of Aktia Bank acts as an expert.

    Aktia Bank Plc

    Further information:
    Gisela Knuts, Chair of the Nomination Board, tel. +358 40 769 8265

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Mass media
    www.aktia.com

    Aktia is a Finnish asset manager, bank and life insurer that has been creating wealth and wellbeing from one generation to the next for 200 years. We serve our customers in digital channels everywhere and face-to-face in our offices in the Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Vaasa and Oulu regions. Our award-winning asset management business sells investment funds internationally. We employ approximately 850 people around Finland. Aktia’s assets under management (AuM) on 30 September 2024 amounted to EUR 14.3 billion, and the balance sheet total was EUR 12.0 billion. Aktia’s shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (AKTIA). aktia.com.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Quadient Reports Strong Year-End Locker Usage Growth in Multifamily and Higher Education Campuses in North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Quadient (Euronext Paris: QDT), a global automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, announces strong year-end momentum in the adoption and usage of its Parcel Pending by Quadient locker network across multifamily and higher education campuses in North America.

    In the last three months of 2024, Quadient saw a 16% year-over-year increase in total package volume across higher education and multifamily clients, outpacing the installed base growth, with universities showing particularly strong momentum at 23% year-over-year growth. Beyond parcel delivery, universities are increasingly leveraging Quadient smart lockers for academic materials, equipment, mail, and food pantry orders—providing students and staff with a secure delivery management solution.

    “Our sustained usage growth in the North American parcel locker network reflects the increasing need for reliable, automated solutions to manage growing parcel volumes efficiently,” said Austin Maddox, executive vice president, Lockers Automation North America at Quadient. “Universities and residential communities are looking for ways to enhance convenience, security, and operations while meeting the evolving expectations of students and residents. We are committed to supporting them with innovative, scalable locker solutions that simplify logistics, reduce workload, and provide seamless, 24/7 access to essential deliveries.”

    Quadient provides smart locker solutions for multifamily residential properties, universities, distributors, retailers, carriers and commercial clients. As a leader in global open locker networks, Quadient’s vertical-, location-, and carrier-agnostic technology enables seamless delivery and pickup experiences. With over 25,000 locker units deployed worldwide and continued investments in innovation and service excellence, Quadient is well-positioned to significantly exceed €100 million in Lockers revenue by 2025, improve profitability, and move closer to its 2030 goal of a 40,000-unit installed base.

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

    Contacts

    Sandy Armstrong, Sterling Kilgore Joe Scolaro, Quadient         
    Director of Media & Communications Global Press Relations Manager
    +1-630-699-8979 +1 203-301-3673
    sarmstrong@sterlingkilgore.com j.scolaro@quadient.com
       

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Astronomers have spied an asteroid that may be heading for Earth. Here’s what we know so far

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Jonti Horner, Professor (Astrophysics), University of Southern Queensland

    Artist’s impression of an asteroid with Earth in the background. Buradaki / Shutterstock

    On 27 December last year, astronomers using the ATLAS survey telescope in Chile discovered a small asteroid moving away from Earth. Follow up observations have revealed that the asteroid, 2024 YR4, is on a path that might lead to a collision with our planet on 22 December 2032.

    In other words, the newly-discovered space rock poses a significant impact threat to our planet.

    It sounds like something from a bad Hollywood movie. But in reality, there’s no need to panic – this is just another day living on a target in a celestial shooting gallery.

    So what’s the story? What do we know about 2024 YR4? And what would happen if it did collide with Earth?

    A target in the celestial shooting gallery

    As Earth moves around the Sun, it is continually encountering dust and debris that dates back to the birth of the Solar system. The system is littered with such debris, and the meteors and fireballs seen every night are evidence of just how polluted our local neighbourhood is.

    But most of the debris is far too small to cause problems to life on Earth. There is far more tiny debris out there than larger chunks – so impacts from objects that could imperil life on Earth’s surface are much less frequent.

    The most famous impact came some 66 million years ago. A giant rock from space, at least 10 kilometres in diameter, crashed into Earth – causing a mass extinction that wiped out something like 75% of all species on Earth.

    Impacts that large are, fortunately, very rare events. Current estimates suggest that objects like the one which killed the dinosaurs only hit Earth every 50 million years or so. Smaller impacts, though, are more common.

    On 30 June 1908, there was a vast explosion in a sparsely populated part of Siberia. When explorers later reached the location of the explosion, they found an astonishing site: a forest levelled, with all the trees fallen in the same direction. As they moved around, the direction of the fallen trees changed – all pointing inwards towards the epicentre of the explosion.

    The Tunguska event flattened trees over an area of around 2,200 square kilometres.
    Leonid Kulik / Wikimedia

    In total, the Tunguska event levelled an area of almost 2,200 square kilometres – roughly equivalent to the area of greater Sydney. Fortunately, that forest was extremely remote. While plants and animals were killed in the blast zone, it is thought that, at most, only three people perished.

    Estimates vary of how frequent such large collisions should be. Some argue that Earth should experience a similar impact, on average, once per century. Others suggest such collisions might only happen every 10,000 years or so. The truth is we don’t know – but that’s part of the fun of science.

    More recently, a smaller impact created global excitement. On 15 February 2013, a small asteroid (likely about 18 metres in diameter) detonated near the Russian city of Chelyabinsk.

    The explosion, about 30 kilometres above the Earth’s surface, generated a powerful shock-wave and extremely bright flash of light. Buildings were damaged, windows smashed, and almost 1,500 people were injured – although there were no fatalities.

    It served as a reminder, however, that Earth will be hit again. It’s only a question of when.

    Which brings us to our latest contender – asteroid 2024 YR4.

    The 1-in-77 chance of collision to watch

    2024 YR4 has been under close observation by astronomers for a little over a month. It was discovered just a few days after making a relatively close approach to our planet, and it is now receding into the dark depths of the Solar system. By April, it will be lost to even the world’s largest telescopes.

    The observations carried out over the past month have allowed astronomers to extrapolate the asteroid’s motion forward over time, working out its orbit around the Sun. As a result, it has become clear that, on 22 December 2032, it will pass very close to our planet – and may even collide with us.

    The area at risk of a strike, based on current (highly uncertain) data.
    Daniel Bamberger / Wikimedia, CC BY-SA

    At present, our best models of the asteroid’s motion have an uncertainty of around 100,000 kilometres in its position at the time it would be closest to the Earth. At around 12,000 kilometres in diameter, our planet falls inside that region of uncertainty.

    Calculations suggest there is currently around a 1-in-77 chance that the asteroid will crash into our planet at that time. Of course, that means there is still a 76-in-77 chance it will miss us.

    When will we know for sure?

    With every new observation of 2024 YR4, astronomers’ knowledge of its orbit improves slightly – which is why the collision likelihoods you might see quoted online keep changing. We’ll be able to follow the asteroid as it recedes from Earth for another couple of months, by which time we’ll have a better idea of exactly where it will be on that fateful day in December 2032.

    But it is unlikely we’ll be able to say for sure whether we’re in the clear at that point.

    Recent observations of 2024 YR4 – the faint unmoving dot in the centre of the image.
    ESO, CC BY

    Fortunately, the asteroid will make another close approach to the Earth in December 2028 – passing around 8 million kilometres from our planet. Astronomers will be ready to perform a wide raft of observations that will help us to understand the size and shape of the asteroid, as well as giving an incredibly accurate overview of where it will be in 2032.

    At the end of that encounter, we will know for sure whether there will be a collision in 2032. And if there is to be a collision that year, we’ll be able to predict where on Earth that collision will be – likely to a precision of a few tens of kilometres.

    How big would the impact be?

    At the moment, we don’t know the exact size of 2024 YR4. Even through Earth’s largest telescopes, it is just a single tiny speck in the sky. So we have to estimate its size based on its brightness. Depending on how reflective the asteroid is, current estimates place it as being somewhere between 40 and 100 metres across.

    What does that mean for a potential impact? Well, it would depend on exactly what the asteroid is made of.

    The most likely scenario is that the asteroid is a rocky pile of rubble. If that turns out to be the case, then the impact would be very similar to the Tunguska event in 1908.

    The asteroid would detonate in the atmosphere, with a shockwave blasting Earth’s surface as a result. The Tunguska impact was a “city killer” type event, levelling forest across a city-sized patch of land.

    Meteor Crater in Arizona is believed to have been created by a 50m metallic meteorite impact around 50,000 years ago.
    NASA Earth Observatory / Wikimedia

    A less likely possibility is that the asteroid is made of metal. Based on its orbit around the Sun, this seems unlikely – but we can’t rule it out.

    In that case, the asteroid would make it through the atmosphere intact, and crash into Earth’s surface. If it hit on the land, it would carve out a new impact crater, probably more than a kilometre across and a couple of hundred metres deep – something similar to Meteor Crater in Arizona.

    Again, this would be quite spectacular for the region around the impact – but that would be about it.

    Living in a remarkable time

    This all sounds like doom and gloom. After all, we know that the Earth will be hit again – either by 2024 YR4 or something else. But there’s a real positive to take out of all this.

    There has been life on Earth for more than 3 billion years. In all that time, impacts have come along and caused destruction and devastation many times.

    But there has never been a species, to our knowledge, that understood the risk, could detect potential threats in advance, and even do something about the threat. Until now.

    In just the past few years, we have discovered 11 asteroids before they hit our planet. In each case, we have predicted where they would hit, and watched the results.

    We have also, in recent years, demonstrated a growing capacity to deflect potentially threatening asteroids. NASA’s DART mission (the Double Asteroid Redirection Test) was an astounding success.

    For the first time in more than 3 billion years of life on Earth, we can do something about the risk posed by rocks from space. So don’t panic! But instead, sit back and watch the show.

    Jonti Horner 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. Astronomers have spied an asteroid that may be heading for Earth. Here’s what we know so far – https://theconversation.com/astronomers-have-spied-an-asteroid-that-may-be-heading-for-earth-heres-what-we-know-so-far-248753

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Astronomers have spied an asteroid that may be heading for Earth. Here’s what we know so far

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jonti Horner, Professor (Astrophysics), University of Southern Queensland

    Artist’s impression of an asteroid with Earth in the background. Buradaki / Shutterstock

    On 27 December last year, astronomers using the ATLAS survey telescope in Chile discovered a small asteroid moving away from Earth. Follow up observations have revealed that the asteroid, 2024 YR4, is on a path that might lead to a collision with our planet on 22 December 2032.

    In other words, the newly-discovered space rock poses a significant impact threat to our planet.

    It sounds like something from a bad Hollywood movie. But in reality, there’s no need to panic – this is just another day living on a target in a celestial shooting gallery.

    So what’s the story? What do we know about 2024 YR4? And what would happen if it did collide with Earth?

    A target in the celestial shooting gallery

    As Earth moves around the Sun, it is continually encountering dust and debris that dates back to the birth of the Solar system. The system is littered with such debris, and the meteors and fireballs seen every night are evidence of just how polluted our local neighbourhood is.

    But most of the debris is far too small to cause problems to life on Earth. There is far more tiny debris out there than larger chunks – so impacts from objects that could imperil life on Earth’s surface are much less frequent.

    The most famous impact came some 66 million years ago. A giant rock from space, at least 10 kilometres in diameter, crashed into Earth – causing a mass extinction that wiped out something like 75% of all species on Earth.

    Impacts that large are, fortunately, very rare events. Current estimates suggest that objects like the one which killed the dinosaurs only hit Earth every 50 million years or so. Smaller impacts, though, are more common.

    On 30 June 1908, there was a vast explosion in a sparsely populated part of Siberia. When explorers later reached the location of the explosion, they found an astonishing site: a forest levelled, with all the trees fallen in the same direction. As they moved around, the direction of the fallen trees changed – all pointing inwards towards the epicentre of the explosion.

    The Tunguska event flattened trees over an area of around 2,200 square kilometres.
    Leonid Kulik / Wikimedia

    In total, the Tunguska event levelled an area of almost 2,200 square kilometres – roughly equivalent to the area of greater Sydney. Fortunately, that forest was extremely remote. While plants and animals were killed in the blast zone, it is thought that, at most, only three people perished.

    Estimates vary of how frequent such large collisions should be. Some argue that Earth should experience a similar impact, on average, once per century. Others suggest such collisions might only happen every 10,000 years or so. The truth is we don’t know – but that’s part of the fun of science.

    More recently, a smaller impact created global excitement. On 15 February 2013, a small asteroid (likely about 18 metres in diameter) detonated near the Russian city of Chelyabinsk.

    The explosion, about 30 kilometres above the Earth’s surface, generated a powerful shock-wave and extremely bright flash of light. Buildings were damaged, windows smashed, and almost 1,500 people were injured – although there were no fatalities.

    It served as a reminder, however, that Earth will be hit again. It’s only a question of when.

    Which brings us to our latest contender – asteroid 2024 YR4.

    The 1-in-77 chance of collision to watch

    2024 YR4 has been under close observation by astronomers for a little over a month. It was discovered just a few days after making a relatively close approach to our planet, and it is now receding into the dark depths of the Solar system. By April, it will be lost to even the world’s largest telescopes.

    The observations carried out over the past month have allowed astronomers to extrapolate the asteroid’s motion forward over time, working out its orbit around the Sun. As a result, it has become clear that, on 22 December 2032, it will pass very close to our planet – and may even collide with us.

    The area at risk of a strike, based on current (highly uncertain) data.
    Daniel Bamberger / Wikimedia, CC BY-SA

    At present, our best models of the asteroid’s motion have an uncertainty of around 100,000 kilometres in its position at the time it would be closest to the Earth. At around 12,000 kilometres in diameter, our planet falls inside that region of uncertainty.

    Calculations suggest there is currently around a 1-in-77 chance that the asteroid will crash into our planet at that time. Of course, that means there is still a 76-in-77 chance it will miss us.

    When will we know for sure?

    With every new observation of 2024 YR4, astronomers’ knowledge of its orbit improves slightly – which is why the collision likelihoods you might see quoted online keep changing. We’ll be able to follow the asteroid as it recedes from Earth for another couple of months, by which time we’ll have a better idea of exactly where it will be on that fateful day in December 2032.

    But it is unlikely we’ll be able to say for sure whether we’re in the clear at that point.

    Recent observations of 2024 YR4 – the faint unmoving dot in the centre of the image.
    ESO, CC BY

    Fortunately, the asteroid will make another close approach to the Earth in December 2028 – passing around 8 million kilometres from our planet. Astronomers will be ready to perform a wide raft of observations that will help us to understand the size and shape of the asteroid, as well as giving an incredibly accurate overview of where it will be in 2032.

    At the end of that encounter, we will know for sure whether there will be a collision in 2032. And if there is to be a collision that year, we’ll be able to predict where on Earth that collision will be – likely to a precision of a few tens of kilometres.

    How big would the impact be?

    At the moment, we don’t know the exact size of 2024 YR4. Even through Earth’s largest telescopes, it is just a single tiny speck in the sky. So we have to estimate its size based on its brightness. Depending on how reflective the asteroid is, current estimates place it as being somewhere between 40 and 100 metres across.

    What does that mean for a potential impact? Well, it would depend on exactly what the asteroid is made of.

    The most likely scenario is that the asteroid is a rocky pile of rubble. If that turns out to be the case, then the impact would be very similar to the Tunguska event in 1908.

    The asteroid would detonate in the atmosphere, with a shockwave blasting Earth’s surface as a result. The Tunguska impact was a “city killer” type event, levelling forest across a city-sized patch of land.

    Meteor Crater in Arizona is believed to have been created by a 50m metallic meteorite impact around 50,000 years ago.
    NASA Earth Observatory / Wikimedia

    A less likely possibility is that the asteroid is made of metal. Based on its orbit around the Sun, this seems unlikely – but we can’t rule it out.

    In that case, the asteroid would make it through the atmosphere intact, and crash into Earth’s surface. If it hit on the land, it would carve out a new impact crater, probably more than a kilometre across and a couple of hundred metres deep – something similar to Meteor Crater in Arizona.

    Again, this would be quite spectacular for the region around the impact – but that would be about it.

    Living in a remarkable time

    This all sounds like doom and gloom. After all, we know that the Earth will be hit again – either by 2024 YR4 or something else. But there’s a real positive to take out of all this.

    There has been life on Earth for more than 3 billion years. In all that time, impacts have come along and caused destruction and devastation many times.

    But there has never been a species, to our knowledge, that understood the risk, could detect potential threats in advance, and even do something about the threat. Until now.

    In just the past few years, we have discovered 11 asteroids before they hit our planet. In each case, we have predicted where they would hit, and watched the results.

    We have also, in recent years, demonstrated a growing capacity to deflect potentially threatening asteroids. NASA’s DART mission (the Double Asteroid Redirection Test) was an astounding success.

    For the first time in more than 3 billion years of life on Earth, we can do something about the risk posed by rocks from space. So don’t panic! But instead, sit back and watch the show.

    Jonti Horner 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. Astronomers have spied an asteroid that may be heading for Earth. Here’s what we know so far – https://theconversation.com/astronomers-have-spied-an-asteroid-that-may-be-heading-for-earth-heres-what-we-know-so-far-248753

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Academics receive Prince Mahidol Award 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Two scientists from the UK received Thailand’s Prince Mahidol Awards for 2024 for long and significant contribution in the field of Public Health and Medicine.

    Today (30 January 2025) two scientists from the UK received Thailand’s Prince Mahidol Awards (PMA) for 2024 for their long and significant contribution in the field of Public Health and Medicine. Dr Jonathan Shepherd, a British surgeon and professor at Cardiff University in Wales, and Dr Tony Hunter (dual US-UK national), a professor of Biology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, USA have received the award, following on from  Professor David Mabey, who received the award in 2019 for his work to eradicate trachoma, the most common infectious cause of blindness worldwide.

    The Award Presentation Ceremony was held at Thailand’s Royal Palace. Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, as the representative of His Majesty the King, presided over the Presentation Ceremony, in the company of the Privy Council, Bureau of the Royal Household and Cabinet members.

    Dr Shepherd receives the Prince Mahidol Award (PMA) in Public Health for his creation of the ‘Cardiff Model of Violence Prevention’ which is an evidence-based, multisectoral approach to violence prevention which   has been endorsed by the World Health Organisation and integrated into multisectoral approaches to violence prevention from South Africa to Australia. Dr Shepherd’s research and commitment to evidence-based public policy has contributed to the development of ‘What Works Network’. The Network, supported by the UK government, acts as an important interface between research and policymaking, ensuring that policy makers have access to the best evidence.

    Professor Hunter who studied at the University of Cambridge in the UK, receives the Prince Mahidol Award in Medicine for his discovery of tyrosine kinase enzymes and the phosphorylation process, a crucial mechanism that transforms normal cells into cancerous cells. This breakthrough discovery led to the development of targeted cancer treatments and pharmaceutical innovation that can effectively inhibit cancer cells.

    In 2024 the UK and Thailand established a Strategic Partnership, highlighting a shared commitment to advance global health by championing universal access to health care and strengthening partnerships to prevent, detect and respond to global health threats. This includes joint efforts to tackle antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease outbreaks including through the development and application of innovative technology, such as genomics.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Chrystal Zhang, Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering & Aviation, RMIT University

    On Wednesday night US time, a passenger jet and US Army helicopter collided at a low altitude near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and crashed into the the Potomac River.

    A total of 60 passengers – including US and Russian champion figure skaters – and four crew were on board the American Airlines flight AA5342 from Wichita, Kansas. Three military personnel were in the chopper, which was conducting a routine training flight. Authorities say no one on board either aircraft survived.

    This crash comes just over a month after a passenger jet crashed in South Korea – possibly as a result of a bird strike – killing all but two of the 181 people on board. The two incidents have focused attention on aviation safety around the world.

    In the case of the most recent tragedy in the US, technology exists that is designed to help pilots avoid midair collisions with other aircraft. It is known as the Traffic Collision Avoidance System – or TCAS.

    So how does it work? And why might it have failed to prevent disaster in this case?

    What is a TCAS?

    A TCAS is an aircraft safety system that monitors the airspace around a plane for other aircraft equipped with transponders. These are devices that listen for and respond to incoming electronic signals.

    The system – also sometimes referred to as an ACAS (Airborne Collision Avoidance System) – operates independently of an external air traffic control system. Its purpose is to alert pilots immediately to nearby aircraft and potential midair collisions.

    Since the technology was developed in 1974, it has undergone a number of advances.

    The first generation technology, known as TCAS I, monitors what’s around an aircraft. It provides information on the bearing and altitude of any nearby aircraft. If there is a risk of collision, it generates what’s known as a “Traffic Advisory” – or TA. When a TA is issued, the pilot is notified of the threat, but must themselves determine the best evasive action to take.

    The second generation technology, known as TCAS II, goes a step further: it provides a pilot with specific instructions on how to avoid a collision with a nearby aircraft or conflict with traffic, either by descending, climbing, turning or adjusting their speed.

    These newer systems are also able to communicate with each other. This ensures the advice given to each aircraft is coordinated.

    Any aircraft used for commercial purposes must be equipped with a TCAS in accordance with international regulations under what’s known as the Chicago Convention. There are specific provisions under the convention for noncommercial aircraft.

    Military helicopters are not subject to the provisions of the Chicago Convention (although they are subject to domestic laws and regulations). And there are reports the military helicopter did not have a TCAS system on board.

    Limitations of TCAS at low altitudes

    Regardless of whether the military helicopter involved in the crash was fitted with a TCAS, the technology still has limitations. In particular, it is inhibited at altitudes below roughly 300 metres.

    The last recorded altitude of American Airlines flight AA5342 was roughly 90 metres. The last recorded altitude of the US military helicopter that collided with the plane was roughly 60 metres.

    It is not an accident that a TCAS is inhibited at low altitudes. In fact, this is part of the design of the technology.

    This is primarily because the system relies on radio altimeter data, which measures altitude and becomes less accurate near the ground. This could potentially result in unreliable collision-avoidance instructions.

    Another issue is that an aircraft at such a low altitude cannot descend any further to avoid a collision.

    The site of several near misses

    Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. Commercial, military and private aircraft share very limited airspace and corridors.

    It has been the site of several near misses in recent years.

    For example, in April 2024, a commercial plane pilot coming into land had to take evasive action to avoid a helicopter that was roughly 100 metres beneath it. In an incident report, the pilot said:

    We never received a warning of the traffic from (air traffic control) so we were unaware it was there.

    Many people, including Democratic US senator Tim Kaine, pointed to this near miss as evidence of why a plan to allow more flights into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport should not proceed. Despite this, the plan was approved the following month.

    All of this will undoubtedly be examined as part of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board into this disaster.

    Chrystal Zhang 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. Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington? – https://theconversation.com/planes-have-high-tech-systems-to-stop-midair-crashes-so-what-went-wrong-in-washington-248744

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University

    One of United States President Donald Trump’s more startling claims since taking office for his second term – and there have been many – is his insistence that the US will take control of Greenland.

    Both prior to taking office and since, Trump has spoken about a desire for the US to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory that is part of Denmark. This revives a proposal he floated in 2019, and is now being advanced with serious intent.

    Trump’s interest in Greenland is framed around US security. The island is strategically located in the GIUK (Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom) Gap. The gap gained prominence during the Cold War as an area where Soviet nuclear submarines could operate in the Atlantic Ocean proximate to the US and its NATO partners. Denmark’s limited naval capacity meant these Soviet submarine incursions were uncontested.

    Washington has always appreciated the strategic significance of Greenland. It was used during the second world war as a US military staging point due to its relative safety from the European theatre of war and its capacity as a stopover for aircraft to refuel.

    Later, during the Cold War, the Thule US Airbase was constructed on its northwest coast, later becoming the Pituffik Space Base.

    Trump is particularly concerned about Russian and Chinese ships operating offshore near Greenland in the Arctic Ocean, and with ensuring US access to rare earth minerals on the island.

    All of these are legitimate US security and strategic interests. It is often forgotten that the US is an Arctic nation by virtue of Alaska, and Greenland is adjacent to North America.

    However, Greenland is not terra nullius ripe for American colonisation. It is recognised as Danish territory. Any dispute over a Danish claim to the island was resolved by an international court in 1933, and since that time Denmark has overseen Greenlandic affairs without challenge. Any suggestion Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland is contested has no foundation.

    While Denmark has been a colonial power, there has been an active process underway to grant the 57,000 Greenlanders increased autonomy from Copenhagen. Home rule has been granted, a legislature has been created, and a road map exists for self-determination that may eventually see the emergence of an independent Greenland.

    Seeking to honour the responsibility Copenhagen feels for ushering Greenlanders through this process, Denmark has made clear that Greenland is not for sale.

    The most breathtaking aspect of Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions has been the refusal to rule out the US using economic or military means to acquire it.

    This ignores the fact that Greenland is part of Denmark (a NATO member) and that indigenous Greenlanders possess a right of self-determination. Moreover, any use of US military force to take Greenland would be in violation of both the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty on which NATO is founded and the 1945 United Nations Charter.

    Respect for territorial integrity was one of foundations on which the UN Charter was built. The intention of the UN’s founders during the San Francisco Conference was to ensure military force could not be used to acquire territory through an act of aggression resulting in the annexation of territory.

    Article 2 of the charter reflects this core principle. Its violation has repeatedly been seen as an egregious breach of international law. Iraq’s 1990 invasion and annexation of Kuwait and Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine are examples of the international community uniting to condemn blatant uses of military force for territorial gain.

    Other than Denmark, its Scandinavian neighbours and some NATO members, Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions have been met with diplomatic silence. What is taking place behind closed doors and in the foreign ministries of US allies and partners can only be imagined.

    For Australia, this raises fundamental issues regarding the US alliance. Would Australia be prepared to stand beside the US if it used its economic and military might to acquire Greenland?

    Australia has a bipartisan position of both supporting the American alliance and the “rules-based” international order on which the UN is based. AUKUS is founded on these assumptions. Any US economic or military aggression over Greenland may force Australia into making a choice between America or the rule of law.

    Donald Rothwell receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise – https://theconversation.com/trump-says-he-wants-to-take-greenland-international-law-says-otherwise-248682

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University

    One of United States President Donald Trump’s more startling claims since taking office for his second term – and there have been many – is his insistence that the US will take control of Greenland.

    Both prior to taking office and since, Trump has spoken about a desire for the US to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory that is part of Denmark. This revives a proposal he floated in 2019, and is now being advanced with serious intent.

    Trump’s interest in Greenland is framed around US security. The island is strategically located in the GIUK (Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom) Gap. The gap gained prominence during the Cold War as an area where Soviet nuclear submarines could operate in the Atlantic Ocean proximate to the US and its NATO partners. Denmark’s limited naval capacity meant these Soviet submarine incursions were uncontested.

    Washington has always appreciated the strategic significance of Greenland. It was used during the second world war as a US military staging point due to its relative safety from the European theatre of war and its capacity as a stopover for aircraft to refuel.

    Later, during the Cold War, the Thule US Airbase was constructed on its northwest coast, later becoming the Pituffik Space Base.

    Trump is particularly concerned about Russian and Chinese ships operating offshore near Greenland in the Arctic Ocean, and with ensuring US access to rare earth minerals on the island.

    All of these are legitimate US security and strategic interests. It is often forgotten that the US is an Arctic nation by virtue of Alaska, and Greenland is adjacent to North America.

    However, Greenland is not terra nullius ripe for American colonisation. It is recognised as Danish territory. Any dispute over a Danish claim to the island was resolved by an international court in 1933, and since that time Denmark has overseen Greenlandic affairs without challenge. Any suggestion Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland is contested has no foundation.

    While Denmark has been a colonial power, there has been an active process underway to grant the 57,000 Greenlanders increased autonomy from Copenhagen. Home rule has been granted, a legislature has been created, and a road map exists for self-determination that may eventually see the emergence of an independent Greenland.

    Seeking to honour the responsibility Copenhagen feels for ushering Greenlanders through this process, Denmark has made clear that Greenland is not for sale.

    The most breathtaking aspect of Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions has been the refusal to rule out the US using economic or military means to acquire it.

    This ignores the fact that Greenland is part of Denmark (a NATO member) and that indigenous Greenlanders possess a right of self-determination. Moreover, any use of US military force to take Greenland would be in violation of both the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty on which NATO is founded and the 1945 United Nations Charter.

    Respect for territorial integrity was one of foundations on which the UN Charter was built. The intention of the UN’s founders during the San Francisco Conference was to ensure military force could not be used to acquire territory through an act of aggression resulting in the annexation of territory.

    Article 2 of the charter reflects this core principle. Its violation has repeatedly been seen as an egregious breach of international law. Iraq’s 1990 invasion and annexation of Kuwait and Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine are examples of the international community uniting to condemn blatant uses of military force for territorial gain.

    Other than Denmark, its Scandinavian neighbours and some NATO members, Trump’s Greenland territorial ambitions have been met with diplomatic silence. What is taking place behind closed doors and in the foreign ministries of US allies and partners can only be imagined.

    For Australia, this raises fundamental issues regarding the US alliance. Would Australia be prepared to stand beside the US if it used its economic and military might to acquire Greenland?

    Australia has a bipartisan position of both supporting the American alliance and the “rules-based” international order on which the UN is based. AUKUS is founded on these assumptions. Any US economic or military aggression over Greenland may force Australia into making a choice between America or the rule of law.

    The Conversation

    Donald Rothwell receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Trump says he wants to take Greenland. International law says otherwise – https://theconversation.com/trump-says-he-wants-to-take-greenland-international-law-says-otherwise-248682

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on reports of Delawarean plane crash victims

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement after reports that three Delawareans were among those killed in last night’s plane crash near Washington Reagan National Airport:

    “I’m devastated to hear the news that at least three Delawareans died during last night’s air collision. Sasha Kirsanov, Sean Kay, and Angela Yang went to Wichita to pursue their passion for figure skating. It is a tragedy that none of them returned home to our state. Delaware is a state of neighbors, and tonight we hold all of our neighbors a little closer. My heart goes out to Sasha’s wife Natalia, the University of Delaware Figure Skating Club, and every other Delawarean touched by the three of them.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can a child legally take puberty blockers? What if their parents disagree?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Mitchell, Lecturer in Criminology, Deakin University

    MirasWonderland/Shutterstock

    Young people’s access to gender-affirming medical care has been making headlines this week.

    Today, federal Health Minister Mark Butler announced a review into health care for trans and gender-diverse children and adolescents. The National Health and Medical Research council will conduct the review.

    Yesterday, The Australian published an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling for a federal inquiry, and a nationwide pause on puberty blockers and hormone therapy for minors.

    This followed Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls earlier this week announcing an immediate pause on access to puberty blockers and hormone therapies for new patients under 18 in the state’s public health system, pending a review.

    In the United States, President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week directing federal agencies to restrict access to gender-affirming care for anyone under 19.

    This recent wave of political attention might imply gender-affirming care for young people is risky, controversial, perhaps even new.

    But Australian courts have already extensively tested questions about its legitimacy, the conditions under which it can be provided, and the scope and limits of parental powers to authorise it.

    What are puberty blockers?

    Puberty blockers suppress the release of oestrogen and testosterone, which are primarily responsible for the physical changes associated with puberty. They are generally safe and used in paediatric medicine for various conditions, including precocious (early) puberty, hormone disorders and some hormone-sensitive cancers.

    International and domestic standards of care state that puberty blockers are reversible, non-harmful, and can prevent young people from experiencing the distress of undergoing a puberty that does not align with their gender identity. They also give young people time to develop the maturity needed to make informed decisions about more permanent medical interventions further down the line.

    Puberty blockers are one type of gender-affirming care. This care includes medical, psychological and social interventions to support transgender, gender-diverse and, in some cases, intersex people.

    Young people in Australia need a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria to receive this care. Gender dysphoria is defined as the psychological distress that can arise when a person’s gender identity does not align with their sex assigned at birth. This diagnosis is only granted after an exhaustive and often onerous medical assessment.

    After a diagnosis, treatment may involve hormones such as oestrogen or testosterone and/or puberty-blocking medications.

    Hormone therapies involving oestrogen and testosterone are only prescribed in Australia once a young person has been deemed capable of giving informed consent, usually around the age of 16. For puberty blockers, parents can consent at a younger age.

    Gender dysphoria comes with considerable psychological distress.
    slexp880/Shutterstock

    Can a child legally access puberty blockers?

    Gender-affirming care has been the subject of extensive debate in the Family Court of Australia (now the Federal Circuit and Family Court).

    Between 2004 and 2017, every minor who wanted to access gender-affirming care had to apply for a judge to approve it. However, medical professionals, human rights organisations and some judges condemned this process.

    In research for my forthcoming book, I found the Family Court has heard at least 99 cases about a young person’s gender-affirming care since 2004. Across these cases, the court examined the potential risks of gender-affirming treatment and considered whether parents should have the authority to consent on their child’s behalf.

    When determining whether parents can consent to a particular medical procedure for their child, the court must consider whether the treatment is “therapeutic” and whether there is a significant risk of a wrong decision being made.

    However, in a landmark 2017 case, the court ruled that judicial oversight was not required because gender-affirming treatments meet the standards of normal medical care.

    It reasoned that because these therapies address an internationally recognised medical condition, are supported by leading professional medical organisations, and are backed by robust clinical research, there is no justification for treating them differently from any other standard medical intervention. These principals still stand today.

    What if parents disagree?

    Sometimes parents disagree with decisions about gender-affirming care made by their child, or each other.

    As with all forms of health care, under Australian law, parents and legal guardians are responsible for making medical decisions on behalf of their children. That responsibility usually shifts once those children reach a sufficient age and level of maturity to make their own decisions.

    However, in another landmark case in 2020, the court ruled gender-affirming treatments cannot be given to minors without consent from both parents, even if the child is capable of providing their own consent. This means that if there is any disagreement among parents and the young person about either their capacity to consent or the legitimacy of the treatment, only a judge can authorise it.

    In such instances, the court must assess whether the proposed treatment is in the child’s best interests and make a determination accordingly. Again, these principals apply today.

    If a parent disagrees with their child, the matter can go to court.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Have the courts ever denied care?

    Across the at least 99 cases the court has heard about gender-affirming care since 2004, 17 have involved a parent opposing the treatment and one has involved neither parent supporting it.

    Regardless of parental support, in every case, the court has been responsible for determining whether gender-affirming treatment was in the child’s best interests. These decisions were based on medical evidence, expert testimony, and the specific circumstances of the young person involved.

    In all cases bar one, the court has found overwhelming evidence to support gender-affirming care, and approved it.

    Supporting transgender young people

    The history of Australia’s legal debates about gender-affirming care show it has already been the subject of intense legal and medical scrutiny.

    Gender-affirming care is already difficult for young people to access, with many lacking the parental support required or facing other barriers to care.

    Gender-affirming care is potentially life-saving, or at the very least life-affirming. It almost invariably leads to better social and emotional outcomes. Further restricting access is not the “protection” its opponents claim.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For LGBTQIA+ peer support and resources, you can also contact Switchboard, QLife (call 1800 184 527), Queerspace, Transcend Australia (support for trans, gender-diverse, and non-binary young people and their families) or Minus18 (resources and community support for LGBTQIA+ young people).

    Matthew Mitchell has a contract with Bristol University Press for a forthcoming book on the legal regulation of gender-affirming hormones for transgender young people in Australia.

    – ref. Can a child legally take puberty blockers? What if their parents disagree? – https://theconversation.com/can-a-child-legally-take-puberty-blockers-what-if-their-parents-disagree-248651

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –