Category: Weather

MIL-OSI United Nations: Pollution, melting microbes, undamming rivers, risks for elders: 4 key climate issues

Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

From ancient microbes awakening in melting glaciers to toxic pollutants unleashed by floods, the dangers are no longer distant or theoretical. They are here, and they are growing.

The Frontiers Report 2025, released by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), highlights four critical areas where environmental degradation intersects with human vulnerability: legacy pollution, melting glacier microbes, undamming rivers and climate risks for an ageing population that is growing.

The report paints a vivid picture of how climate change is not only altering ecosystems but also exposing communities – especially the most vulnerable – to new and intensifying dangers. Some issues may be local or relatively small-scale issues today, but have the potential to become issues of regional or global concern if not addressed early, the report warned.

UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen said action must be taken “to protect people, nature and economies from threats that will only grow with each passing year”.

Here’s what’s at stake and why it matters to all of us:

UN Nepal/Narendra Shrestha

UN Secretary-General António Guterres visits the Annapurna base camp in Nepal in 2023. (file)

Melting glacier microbes

Climate scientists are saying many glaciers will not survive this century unless action is taking to slow the melting rate caused by climate change. That means those living downstream will face a tide of floods alongside threats posed by reactivated microbes in a warming cryosphere or frozen parts of the Earth.

Frozen in ice sheets, glaciers and permafrost are bacteria, fungi and viruses. While most are dead, some are dormant and some are active. As global temperatures hit record highs, these microorganisms will become more active in many ecosystems. Even if the melting can be slowed down by mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, efforts must assess and prepare for possible threats from potential pathogens.

Also crucial is documenting and preserving cryospheric microorganisms, which can shed light on the history of climate and evolution, help in finding therapies for diseases and develop innovative biotechnologies.

© UNICEF/Felipe Chic Jiménez

Indigenous communities in the Amazonía region in southern Colombia. (file)

Dismantling dams

In the Colombian Amazon, river water levels have dropped by up to 80 per cent, restricting access to drinking water and food supplies, leading to shuttering 130 schools, increasing children’s risk of recruitment, use and exploitation by non-State armed groups and resulting in increased respiratory infections, diarrhoeal diseases, malaria and acute malnutrition among youngsters under age five.

Part of what is making the problem worse in Colombia and other hot spots around the world are the plethora of dams operating at a time when climate change is triggering droughts around the world. Drought is keeping more than 420,000 children out of school in Brazil, Colombia and Peru alone, according to a report by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

As such, there is a growing need to remove dams and other barriers to rehabilitate river ecosystems, a process increasingly initiated by local communities, Indigenous Peoples, women and youth. Rivers and streams can recover remarkably once barriers are gone, but other stressors, from pollution to climate change, need to be addressed in parallel. Understanding the restoration outcomes of barrier removal is necessary not only to guide future removals, but also to inform decisions about existing and future barriers.

© ADB/Samir Jung Thapa

Elderly people suffer disproportionately from climate change consequences.

Climate risks for the elderly

Older people face increased risks during extreme weather and suffer more from ongoing environmental degradation. As the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicts ever more hot weather, the elderly are suffering disproportionately, as seen in rising numbers of deaths and illnesses amid recent heat waves around the world.

At the same time, the world’s ageing population is growing: the global share of people over 65 years old will rise from 10 per cent in 2024 to 16 per cent by 2050. Most of them will live in cities, where they will be exposed to extreme heat and air pollution and experience more frequent disasters.

Older people are already more at risk, so effective adaptation strategies will need to evolve to protect these older populations.

© UNOCHA/Pierre Peron

A family outside their flood damaged home in N’Djamena, Chad. (file)

Legacy pollutants

Flooding has crippled communities in all regions of the world as the number of extreme weather events climb. Among the hidden dangers are legacy pollutants that have been secreted into the ground over time and released as extreme rainfall and floods wash away sediments and debris.

The Pakistan floods of 2010, flooding in the Niger Delta in 2012 and Hurricane Harvey off the coast of Texas in 2017 are all examples when floodwaters stirred up sediments, releasing heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants.

Evaluating sediments to understand hazards, rethinking flood protection to lean on nature-based solutions and investments in natural remediation of contaminated sediments are all options to deal with this problem.

Read the full Frontiers Report here.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, Commerce Director Nguyễn, WA Clean Energy and Business Leaders Highlight How Clean Energy Cuts in Republican Law Will Raise Energy Costs, Kill Jobs in WA State

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

Elimination of clean energy tax credits in Republican legislation recently signed into law could cost WA over $8.7 billion, raise household electricity costs by 12 percent; cost 21,800 jobs in Washington state

***WATCH FULL EVENT HERE; PHOTOS AND B-ROLL HERE***

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a roundtable discussion at the Seattle City Light Denny Substation in downtown Seattle with Washington State Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn and labor, clean energy, and business leaders to discuss how cuts to critical clean energy tax credits in President Trump and Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act—which was recently signed into law—will raise energy prices for Washington state households, kill thousands of clean energy jobs, and put billions of dollars in new investments for Washington state projects at risk.

Joining Senator Murray for the event were Joe Nguyễn, Director, Washington Department of Commerce; Dawn Lindell, CEO of Seattle City Light; Christine Reid, Political Director for IBEW 77; Gregg Small, Executive Director of Climate Solutions; and Brandon Provalenko, General Manager of Western Solar in Bellingham.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act rapidly phases out critical clean energy tax credits that Democrats passed in the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, and will slow the construction of solar, wind, and battery projects, which made up over 90 percent of new electricity connected to the grid last year. So far in Washington state, the clean energy tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act have generated at least $978 million in new private-led investment across seven energy manufacturing facilities in the state. $8.75 billion in outstanding investments to 27 facilities in Washington are at risk under the cuts in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The U.S. Climate Alliance estimates 21,800 Washingtonians will lose their jobs by 2030 due to the reconciliation bill’s cuts to clean energy and manufacturing tax credits, and Washington households will face a $115 annual increase in their energy bills by 2029. The legislation threatens Washington’s energy security and electric grid reliability by stifling renewable energy development at a time of soaring electricity demand. A one-pager from Energy Innovation on how the energy provisions in the Republican bill will affect Washington state is HERE.

“The fact is, we need clean and renewable energy now more than ever. It’s critical to secure our grid, tackle the climate crisis—and lower costs! That’s why I worked hard to secure clean energy tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act. Then, Trump and Republicans came in like a wrecking ball—with truly shortsighted and destructive cuts. The harm to our clean energy sector is really immense,” Senator Murray said. “It’s an uphill battle to reverse so much damage, but I am not going to stop fighting. Everyone should know, Trump and Republicans are trying to make even more cuts to clean energy right now in our government funding bills. I’m using every bit of leverage I have as Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee to fight back and reject these cuts. And I’m using my voice—and urging everyone to use theirs as well—to shine a spotlight on what these shortsighted, damaging policy changes mean for businesses and families.”

“This is an attack on Washington’s workers, our economy, and our values. It threatens the jobs we’ve built, makes energy more expensive for families, and puts our competitiveness at risk. These tax credits have brought real investment and real savings to communities across our state. Gutting them now would do real damage — and Washington won’t stand by and let it happen,” said Joe Nguyễn, Director for the Washington Department of Commerce.

“The passing of the Reconciliation Bill directly impacts City Light and its customers by removing critical clean energy tax credits and incentives necessary for public and private investment in new renewable energy and energy efficiency projects,” said Dawn Lindell, General Manager and CEO, Seattle City Light. “It strips away essential support needed to keep pace with load growth forecasts. Every new megawatt of generation we add will cost significantly more than our current energy portfolio. These are costs that we must now pass on to our customers in the electric rates.”

“At a time when we have rapidly rising energy costs and increased needs for power due largely to AI and data centers, we need more energy than ever,” said Gregg Small, Executive Director of Climate Solutions. “Renewables like solar and wind and batteries are the cheapest and fastest energy that we can build. We need to double down and accelerate the building of these resilient power sources. The Trump Administration and Republicans in Congress’ policies do the exact opposite, increasing energy costs for everybody and making it much more likely we will have blackouts at critical times.”

“IBEW 77’s highly trained workforce stands ready to meet the clean energy challenge of the future. Our members—experienced in every facet of utility work, from generation, transmission, safe delivery, and all of the critical supporting classifications—have the skills, adaptability, and drive to build and maintain the advanced energy infrastructure our communities need. But the reduction in clean energy projects threatens this progress. When projects stall, it’s not just jobs at risk—it’s the pace of innovation and the reliability of our energy system that suffers. Our union believes we need to keep building. Investing in clean energy isn’t about today’s economy alone; it’s laying the foundation for a safer, more resilient, and more sustainable future,” said Christine Reid, Political Director for IBEW 77.IBEW 77 is one of the largest outside utility locals in the country, representing about 8,800 members across 34 Washington counties, Northern Idaho, and parts of Montana. Overall, IBEW represents over 20,000 workers in WA state alone. “Our members are on the front lines of energy infrastructure, ensuring the lights stay on and our communities remain connected and safe. In short, these cuts make it harder for new workers to enter the field and for the industry. Our IBEW members are trained and ready to build. We need to build now.”

“This bill will accelerate rising energy costs across Washington, every household and business will feel it in their utility bills,” said Brandon Provalenko, General Manager of Western Solar in Bellingham and a member of the Washington Solar Energy Industries Association (WASEIA). “Fewer families will go solar, fewer small businesses will reduce or eliminate their bills, and we’ll face a slower, more expensive path to producing the power we need to meet our state’s growing energy demand. That’s the wrong direction, especially when solar and storage remain the fastest, cleanest, and most cost-effective solution on the table.”

The cuts to clean energy tax credits in the legislation come at the same time as Trump and the Department of Energy’s decision to illegally cut investments provided by Congress to support the research and development of wind and solar energy, in defiance of legislation President Trump himself signed into law in March. In fiscal year 2024, Congress provided $137 million for the Department of Energy to support wind energy initiatives and provided $318 million to support solar energy. The fiscal year 2025 full-year CR that House Republicans wrote, and President Trump signed into law continued these fiscal year 2024 funding levels. But in a spend plan made public by DOE, the Trump administration revealed it is steering hundreds of millions of dollars designated by Congress to support wind and solar energy to other, favored industries—jeopardizing critical progress and ceding ground on key energy solutions of the future—among other harmful cuts. Instead of funding wind energy initiatives at $137 million, the administration is funding them at $29.8 million (a 78 percent cut), and instead of funding solar initiatives at $318 million, it is funding them at $41.9 million (an 87 percent cut).

Senator Murray has held constant recent events—including multiple events in Washington state—to sound the alarm on Republicans’ devastating reconciliation bill and encourage constituents to raise their voices and call on their Members of Congress to oppose the legislation. Senator Murray and Democrats forced Republicans to take dozens of tough votes over a nonstop 30-hour “vote-a-rama,” which came after Democrats forced a full reading of every word of Republicans’ 940-page bill. Senator Murray spoke repeatedly on the Senate floor during debate over the bill, laying out in detail the harm the legislation would cause. Senator Murray also spoke out repeatedly on the Senate floor against Republicans’ use of a depictive so-called “current policy baseline” to hide the true cost of their deficit-busting tax cuts for billionaires.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: Diginex Announces Execution of Warrants Agreement, Bonus Share Issuance and Cancelation of EGM

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diginex Limited (“Diginex” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: DGNX), a leading provider of Sustainability RegTech solutions, today announced that on July 22, 2025 Rhino Ventures Limited exercised warrants, with an exercise price of $5.13 per share, to purchase 2,250,000 ordinary shares of Diginex. The total exercise price of US$11,542,500 has been delivered in full to the Company. The warrants exercised by Rhino Ventures Limited were due to expire on 23^rd July 2025.

The board of directors of Diginex (the “Board”) has determined to terminate its plans for an 8 shares for 1 share forward stock split in favour of a bonus share issuance which is expected to be declared and distributed during the third quarter of 2025. Accordingly, the Board has determined to cancel Diginex’s extraordinary general meeting that was scheduled to take place on July 29, 2025.

About Diginex

Diginex Limited (Nasdaq: DGNX; ISIN KYG286871044), headquartered in London, is a sustainable RegTech business that empowers businesses and governments to streamline ESG, climate, and supply chain data collection and reporting. The Company utilizes blockchain, AI, machine learning and data analysis technology to lead change and increase transparency in corporate regulatory reporting and sustainable finance. Diginex’s products and services solutions enable companies to collect, evaluate and share sustainability data through easy-to-use software.

The award-winning diginexESG platform supports 19 global frameworks, including GRI (the “Global Reporting Initiative”), SASB (the “Sustainability Accounting Standards Board”), and TCFD (the “Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures”). Clients benefit from end-to-end support, ranging from materiality assessments and data management to stakeholder engagement, report generation and an ESG Ratings Support Service.

For more information, please visit the Company’s website:

https://www.diginex.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results disclosed in the Company’s filings with the SEC.

Diginex
Investor Relations
Email: ir@diginex.com

IR Contact – Europe
Anna Höffken
Phone: +49.40.609186.0
Email: diginex@kirchhoff.de

IR Contact – US
Jackson Lin
Lambert by LLYC
Phone: +1 (646) 717-4593
Email: jian.lin@llyc.global

IR Contact – Asia
Shelly Cheng
Strategic Financial Relations Ltd.
Phone: +852 2864 4857
Email: sprg_diginex@sprg.com.hk

The MIL Network –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: China-European Union Commitment to Strengthen Cooperation Critical to Ensure Upcoming Climate Change Conference Represents ‘Major Turning Point’, Secretary-General Says

Source: United Nations 4

SG/SM/22739

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General welcomes the commitment of China and the European Union to strengthen cooperation on climate change and drive the global just transition. As two of the world’s largest economies, the Secretary-General believes it is critical that China and the European Union continue to work together to ensure that the Thirtieth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30) in Brazil represents a major turning point in the global effort to address the climate crisis.

The Secretary-General reiterates his call to all Group of Twenty (G20) countries to present 2035 NDCs that are economy-wide, cover all emissions, align with the 1.5-degree goal and define a credible pathway to transition away from fossil fuels as agreed at the First Global Stocktake.

For information media. Not an official record.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senate Appropriations Committee Advances Interior And Transportation, Housing, & Urban Development Funding Bills With Illinois Priorities Secured By Durbin, Duckworth

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
July 25, 2025
The Senate Appropriations Committee passed Interior, Environment, & Related Agencies; and Transportation, Housing, & Urban Development, & Related Agencies government funding bills
SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) announced that the Senate Appropriations Committee advanced a funding bill for Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, as well as for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). Durbin and Duckworth worked to secure various priorities for Illinois in the appropriations bills, both through Congressionally Directed Spending requests and through the programmatic appropriations process.
“It is the responsibility of Congress to fund our government programs and agencies through the appropriations process. Rather than rely on continuing resolutions, I hope that we can prioritize a true bipartisan process to pass these funding bills through the Senate in a timely process,” said Durbin. “While the Trump Administration continues to drain resources from critical programs, I will fight for the funding and support for the programs Illinoisans rely on.”
“Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our communities and families—and that’s what these bipartisan funding bills do,” Duckworth said. “Appropriating federal funding is the primary role of Congress, and it’s critical this responsibility remains in the legislative branch. I’m proud I was able to help secure critical support for projects throughout Illinois that help modernize our state’s infrastructure, clean up our water, improve accessibility and more.”
The two funding bills include the following Illinois priorities secured by Congressionally Directed Spending requests:
Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies
· City of Chester, Chester, Illinois. $1.2 million to the City of Chester to help fund the Route 150 water main replacement.
· City of Markham, Markham, Illinois. $1.5 million to the City of Markham to help fund water system infrastructure improvements.
· Infrastructure Improvements, Lockport, Illinois. $250,000 to the Bonnie Brae Forest Manor Sanitary District to fund water main infrastructure improvement projects.
· Lead Service Line Replacements, Chicago, Illinois. $2 million to the City of Chicago to replace more than 200 lead service lines. Chicago has more lead service lines than any other municipality in the country and the majority of properties in Chicago receive their water from lead service lines.
· Lead Service Line Replacements, Macomb, Illinois. $1 million to the City of Macomb to replace lead drinking water service lines in various locations throughout the City.
· PFAS Remediation, Rockford, Illinois: $1 million to Winnebago County to help fund water infrastructure upgrades to address PFAS contamination in Rockford.
· Stormwater and Flooding Mitigation Project, Carbondale, Illinois. $1.5 million for the City of Carbondale to replace storm sewer piping. The failing pipes cause frequent flooding during significant rain events and is also causing pavement failures on an arterial street that is heavily traveled.
· Wastewater Improvements, Paris, Illinois. $500,000 to the City of Paris to help fund wastewater treatment plant upgrades.
· Water Main Extension, Winnebago County, Illinois. $600,000 to Winnebago County to extend a water main to provide water to additional areas of the County.
· Water Main Improvements, Park Forest, Illinois. $1.45 million to the Village of Park Forest to replace the highest priority water main.
· Water Main Replacement, Springfield, Illinois. $900,000 to the City of Springfield to replace a water main on South Seventh Street in downtown Springfield. The water main was installed in 1931 and has had 27 breaks and is need of replacement. The main serves the historic downtown Springfield area, including Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site Visitor Center, the Illinois State Police Memorial Park, Springfield Clinic, and the Elijah Iles House.
· Well Reconstruction and Water Treatment, Machesney Park and Roscoe, Illinois. $1 million to North Park Public Water District for the reconstruction of Roscoe and Machesney Park’s well to accommodate PFAS treatment. This funding will ensure continued access to a reliable source of safe, plentiful, and affordable drinking water for the communities of Machesney Park and Roscoe in Winnebago County, Illinois.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies
· Accessibility Upgrades, Chicago, Illinois. $750,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago to help fund accessibility upgrades at the Boys and Girls Club True Value in Little Village.
· Affordable Housing, Edwardsville, Illinois. $1 million to Home First Housing to help expand affordable housing units in Edwardsville.
· Affordable Housing, Joliet, Illinois: $1 million to Volunteers of America Illinois to help fund the expansion of Hope Manor Village Joliet’s housing development initiative.
· Capital Improvements, Chicago, Illinois. $500,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago to make capital improvements at the Bartlett J. McCartin Boys & Girls Club in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago.
· City of Marseilles, Marseilles, Illinois. $1.5 million to the City of Marseilles to help fund the Sycamore Street Bridge rehabilitation.
· Construction of the National Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, Chicago, Illinois. $2.5 million to Illinois Institute of Technology to fund construction of a facility to serve as the National Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (NIAM). The NIAM on IIT’s Bronzeville Campus will train more than 4,000 students in advanced manufacturing fields through in-person instruction and online curricula.
· Economic Hub Project, Carbondale, Illinois. $693,000 to Carbondale Community Arts, Inc. (d.b.a. Artspace 304) to make facility improvements for an economic hub.
· Equipment Upgrades, Chicago, Illinois. $722,000 to Navy Pier Inc. to upgrade the Pier’s surveillance apparatus to ensure the safety of the Pier’s guests and businesses.
· Environmental Justice Institute, Chicago, Illinois. $900,000 to People for Community Recovery to help fund the development of the Hazel M. Johnson Institute for Sustainability and Environmental Justice.
· Facilities Improvements and Technology Upgrades, Carbondale, Illinois. $500,000 to Southern Illinois University’s (SIU) Center for Teaching Excellence to revitalize learning spaces at the SIU campus and community colleges throughout Southern Illinois.
· Facility Improvements, Springfield, Illinois. $450,000 to the Lincoln Presidential Foundation for facility improvements at the Visitor Center at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.
· Fire Truck, North Chicago, Illinois. $861,000 to the City of North Chicago to purchase a new fire truck, as the City’s current fire truck has exceeded its useful life by nearly 10 years.
· Food Security Project, Hamilton, Illinois. $2.5 million to the City of Hamilton to establish a rural health village, in partnership with Memorial Hospital, to address food insecurities in the region by offering meal subscription/prescription programming, home-delivered meals, and more.
· Infrastructure Developments, Chicago, Illinois: $1.6 million to North Lawndale Catalyst Impact Initiative, Inc. to help fund infrastructure developments in Chicago’s North Lawndale community.
· Infrastructure Updates, Mascoutah, Illinois. $4 million to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport to help fund infrastructure upgrades at airport.
· Land Remediation, Will County, Illinois. $3 million to the State of Illinois, in coordination with the State of Michigan, to remediate 3.6 acres of land on the bank of the channel of the Des Plaines River needed for construction of the Brandon Road Lock and Dam Interbasin Project.
· Station Improvements, Macomb, Illinois. $134,000 to the Illinois Department of Transportation to make improvements to Macomb’s Amtrak Station, including HVAC upgrades, electrical work, and painting.
· Supportive Housing Development, Arlington Heights, Illinois. $750,000 to Full Circle Communities for construction of a housing development to support veterans and people with disabilities.
· Track Reconstruction Design, Chicago, Illinois. $2 million to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to fund design of track reconstruction of CTA’s Blue Line Forest Park Branch from Western Avenue to Lathrop Avenue, a roughly 6.5-mile section of the line. This reconstruction is needed in order to improve safety and on-time performance of the Forest Park Branch.
· Trail Extension, Normal, Illinois. $1.9 million to the Town of Normal to fund engineering and construction of a trail connection. This will close a gap in pedestrian and bicycle accommodations between the existing Constitution Trail network and major employers located in west Normal, and promote safe multimodal travel by separating pedestrians and cyclists from motor vehicles.
· Transit Improvements; Vermilion County, Williamson County, and Jackson County; Illinois. $3.711 million to the Illinois Department of Transportation to fulfill ongoing transit needs, including vehicle and equipment purchases, maintenance, and other improvements for transit agencies serving Carbondale, Marion, and Danville.
· Transitional Shelter, Chicago, Illinois. $650,000 to BEDS Plus, Inc. to help fund the expansion of transitional shelter services at BEDS Plus Inc.
· Transportation Center Pedestrian Access Improvements, Normal, Illinois. $1.6 million to Connect Transit to improve pedestrian access to the City of Bloomington’s Downtown Transportation Center.
· Unhoused Population Support, Carbondale, Illinois: $2 million to the City of Carbondale to help fund the development of a new homeless center facility in Carbondale.
· Workforce Accelerator Program, Chicago, Illinois. $1 million to the North Lawndale Employment Network to transform a vacant lot across the street from its workforce development campus to offer an agricultural and environmental workforce accelerator program.
· Youth Mentoring, Springfield, Illinois. $1 million to The Outlet Mentoring Program to help fund the development of a youth mentoring center in Springfield.

The two funding bills include additional Illinois priorities secured through the programmatic appropriations process:
Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies
Department of Interior
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Plant Conservation Activities. $20.6 million for conservation activities and includes language supporting BLM’s continued support of the Seed Strategy, the interagency Native Plant Materials Development Program, the Seeds of Success program, the Plant Conservation Alliance, and regional native plant materials development programs.
o Urban and Community Forestry (Chicago Region Trees Initiative). Includes language prioritizing multi-organizational collaborations to support conservation and offset climate change for urban and community forestry grants.
o Migratory Bird Management Program, Incidental Take. Includes language supporting an incidental take authorization program for the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which will help bird species that are experiencing population decline.

National Park Service
New Philadelphia National Historic Site. Includes language directing the National Park Service to ensure park operation begins in a reasonable timeframe for the newly established New Philadelphia site.
Springfield Race Riot Site. Includes language directing the National Park Service to work with the community to complete the Foundation Document for the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument and provide for park planning.
Land and Water Conservation Fund
Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. Includes language supporting federal land acquisition by the National Fish and Wildlife Service for the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge
Environmental Health Program. $30.5 million for the program and includes language that sets aside $1 million for addressing PFAS contamination in the Great Lakes.

Environmental Protection Agency
Clean Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF). $1.6 billion to provide critical investments that create jobs, repair crumbling wastewater infrastructure, and protect public health and environmental quality. Ten percent of CWSRF may be used as grants to address lead exposure.
Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF). $1.13 billion to help water systems and states to ensure clean and safe drinking water is reliably delivered to communities. Fourteen percent of DWSRF may be used as grants to address lead exposure.
EPA Compliance. $97.7 million to enable EPA and co-regulators to undertake inspections and other monitoring activities to determine if regulated entities are complying with environmental statutes as well as applicable regulations and permit conditions.
EPA Enforcement. $284.9 million to ensure consistent and fair enforcement of all major environmental statutes and numerous regulations implementing each of those statutes. Includes report language supporting EPA in addressing PFAS contamination through National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives and incorporating Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs) in settlements.
Bubbly Creek. Includes report language on the inclusion of the restoration Bubbly Creek in EPA’s Lakewide Management Plan (LAMP) and directs EPA to maximize its partnerships and resources to ensure no further delays.
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). $368 million for GLRI and includes report language to allow funds from the program to be used for projects in the Chicago River Watershed. Congress established the GLRI to provide funding to states, tribes, local governments, and federal agencies to protect the Great Lakes. The program has provided $4 billion since 2010 to fund projects that restore habitat, fight invasive species, clean up toxic pollution, and reduce pollution runoff.
Lake Explorer II Support Vessel Decommission. Includes language regarding the importance of EPA replacing the Great Lakes research vessel Lake Explorer II so the agency may continue uninterrupted water quality and biological monitoring of the Great Lakes.
Coal Combustion Residual Permit Program. Includes language requesting $9 million for federal and state permitting programs for coal combustion residuals (CCR, coal ash).
Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development
Department of Transportation
Capital Investment Grants (CIG). $1.95 billion for grants to fund the extension and improvements of existing transit systems. This amount would fully fund the Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Line Extension Project for FY26.
Protections for the Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Line Extension Project. Includes language protecting Chicago’s FY26 allocation of $350 million and requiring disbursement within 120 days of enactment.
Amtrak. $2.43 billion in nationwide funding to support Amtrak operations, with $1.57 billion for the National Network.
BUILD (formerly RAISE) Grants. $250 million to fund innovative transportation projects that will create jobs and have a significant impact on the nation, a region, or a metropolitan area.
Passenger Rail Grant Programs. The two rail grant programs were reauthorized in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and address gaps in supporting and growing our nation’s rail infrastructure:
Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Grants. $151.52 million for the CRISI program.
Federal-State Partnerships for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant (FSP) Program. $75 million for FSP grants for capital improvement projects that expand or establish intercity passenger rail service.

Midwest Rail Commission Study. Includes report language directing GAO to examine the establishment of a federally authorized commission for the purposes of developing a long-term delivery strategy for Midwest rail. The study would identify lessons learned from the establishment of the Northeast Corridor Commission that could be applied to a Midwest Rail Commission, it also would examine any Federal resources necessary to establishment of the commission.
FRA Rail Research & Development Center of Excellence (COE). Supports the FRA’s intent to use no less than $2.5 million of its and development funding for the FRA COE, which Durbin established in IIJA and secured funding for in FY22, FY23, and FY24 (FY25’s full-year CR did not have a report, so the COE was not funded in the CR). The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was competitively selected to host the COE.
Blocked Crossings Causes & Solutions Identification. Includes report language directing the FRA to include in its annual report potential solutions and best practices to improve safety, mobility, and emergency response capabilities at highway-rail crossings. This would require the FRA to consider technology’s potential role in detecting the highest risk areas and to explore what role train length plays in blocked crossings, among other measures.
Emergency Response Blocked Crossing Reports. Includes report language urging the FRA to require states receiving track inspection funding to require first responders to report verified blocked crossing incidents to the FRA’s blocked crossings portal, which you established through previous appropriations legislation. It also directs the FRA to continue working with stakeholders to identify root causes of blocked crossings and identify meaningful solutions.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). $22.4 billion for the FAA. This includes $13.8 billion for FAA operations and $4 billion for facilities and equipment. This funding will allow the FAA to hire 2,500 additional air traffic controllers; improve air traffic control facilities, equipment, and systems; improve the aircraft certification process; improve hazardous materials transport oversight, and more.
Airport Improvement Program. More than $4 billion for airport improvement grants for capital improvements at the nation’s airports, including investments that emphasize capacity development, safety improvements, and security needs.
Digital Alert Technologies. Includes report language urging National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to deploy digital alert technologies, with local law enforcement, that can provide up-to-date information about dynamic road conditions to drivers.
NHTSA Rulemakings. Includes language directing NHTSA to continue to provide quarterly briefings on the status of all major rulemakings to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. In 2023, DOT implemented a key provision of Durbin and Duckworth’s Protecting Roadside First Responders Act by proposing a rule to require automatic emergency braking (AEB) on all new cars and light trucks, and finalizing this rule in April 2024. The provision, which was passed in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aims to reduce the number of traffic fatalities and injuries. According to NHTSA, the rule could save more than 360 lives and prevent more than 24,000 injuries each year. The Trump Administration has delayed the effective date of this rule.
Automated Track Inspections. Includes no less than $21.6 million to support the FRA’s fleet of advanced inspection vehicles that accompany its field inspectors to validate the railroads’ inspection programs and advance research priorities, with a special emphasis on routes transporting passengers and hazardous materials.
Department of Housing and Urban Development
HEAL Initiative Pilot Program. Includes $5 million to support efforts underway between HUD and HHS to provide direct technical assistance to communities leveraging programs like Medicaid to cover and provide housing-related supportive services and behavioral healthcare. Includes report language acknowledging that several studies have demonstrated that interventions based on social determinants of health can help support housing permanency.
Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. $295.6 million to provide funding to state and local governments to develop cost-effective ways to reduce lead-based paint hazards.
Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA). $529 million to help cities and states address the housing crisis facing people living with HIV/AIDS.
Homeless Assistance Grants. $4.5 billion to provide funding to state and local governments for emergency shelters, rapid re-housing, permanent supportive housing, and other crisis response programs.
Housing Counseling. $57.5 million to enable housing counseling organizations to provide foreclosure prevention counseling, mortgage counseling before and after purchase, rental counseling, homelessness prevention counseling, and fair housing education.
Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO). $86.36 million to provide resources to nonprofit fair housing organizations that tackle discrimination and predatory lending and ensure that our nation’s fair housing laws are enforced.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). $3.1 billion to provide states and localities with resources to meet the needs of low-income communities, including housing rehabilitation, supportive services, public improvements, and economic development projects.
Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME). $1.25 billion to provide state and local governments the funding necessary to provide affordable housing in low-income communities.
Public Housing Capital and Operating Funds. $3.2 billion for Capital Funds and $4.87 billion for Operating Funds. This includes $30 million for emergency capital needs; $10 million for safety and security measures, with report language supporting safety and security improvements to protect tenants; and $65 million for lead remediation grants.
Section 8 Tenant-Based Rental Assistance. $37.35 billion for Section 8 Tenant-Based rental assistance. This includes $429 million for new Tenant Protection Vouchers, $15 million to expand the HUD-VASH program, and $30 million for new Family Unification Program vouchers.
Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) and Rural Capacity Building Program (RCB). $13 million for SHOP and $5 million for RCB. Both programs support affordable housing in rural communities.
Section 4 Capacity Building Program. $49 million for Section 4 Capacity Building Program. This program allows HUD to partner with national nonprofit community development organizations to provide education, training, and financial support to local community development corporations (CDCs) across the country.
Choice Neighborhoods Program. $40 million to provide funding for the transformation, rehabilitation, and replacement of distressed public and HUD-assisted housing, as well as support for communities working to revitalize neighborhoods of concentrated poverty.
Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. $156.4 million to provide funding for an asset-building program to serve more households, both within already-established Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher FSS Programs
Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation (NeighborWorks). $158 million to create opportunities for Americans to live in affordable and safe homes by providing community development organizations in all fifty states with financial resources and counseling services.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Last Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance Following April Flooding

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Last Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance Following April Flooding

Last Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance Following April Flooding

FRANKFORT, Ky

– Kentucky homeowners and renters who experienced damage or loss caused by the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides have until 11:59 p

m

today to apply for federal disaster assistance

The deadline to apply is today

How To Apply for FEMA AssistanceThere are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance:Online at DisasterAssistance

gov

Visit any Disaster Recovery Center

To find a center close to you, visit fema

gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 29169”)

Use the FEMA mobile app

Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

Help is available in many languages

If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service

FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis

FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

Your Social Security Number

A general list of damage and losses

Banking information if you choose direct deposit

If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

Survivors should keep their contact information updated with FEMA as the agency may need to call to schedule a home inspection or get additional information

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and is not intended to compensate for all losses caused by a disaster

The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts

For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

fema

gov/disaster/4864

Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

com/femaregion4

martyce

allenjr
Fri, 07/25/2025 – 12:25

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
PM Modi, Maldivian President Muizzu inaugurate new Defence Ministry building in Male

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday jointly inaugurated the state-of-the-art Ministry of Defence (MoD) building of the Maldives in Male.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the eleven-storey building stands as a symbol of the strong and long-standing defence and security cooperation between the two countries. According to a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the MoD building has been constructed with India’s financial assistance and is expected to enhance the capabilities of the Maldives’ defence and law enforcement authorities.

In a post on X, the Maldivian President’s Office said, “His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, inaugurate the Dhoshimeyna Building, the new office premises of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).”

Prime Minister Modi described the inauguration as another testament to strong India-Maldives cooperation.

In a post on X, he stated, “President Muizzu and I inaugurated a new building of the Ministry of Defence in Male. This is yet another instance of strong India–Maldives cooperation.”

Earlier in the day, PM Modi reaffirmed the Maldives’ significance in India’s regional outreach.

He added, “Held very fruitful discussions with President Muizzu. Maldives is at the core of our ‘Neighbourhood First’ and Mahasagar Vision. Our discussion covered several sectors, notably commercial and cultural linkages. We both agree that the India–Maldives friendship will always be bright and clear. India is honoured to work closely with the Maldives in areas such as housing, connectivity, infrastructure, defence, digital technology, and more. Climate change and renewable energy are also two vital pillars of our bilateral cooperation.”

In a further gesture of goodwill, PM Modi gifted two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes to President Muizzu on behalf of the Government of India.

In a post on X, the President’s Office shared, “His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu accepts two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes gifted by His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, on behalf of the Government of India to the Maldives. The state-of-the-art portable hospitals are equipped with an ICU, operating theatre, laboratory, X-ray, and other emergency medical facilities. Each unit can operate independently for 72 hours and treat up to 200 individuals.”

Prime Minister Modi is currently on a two-day visit to the Maldives at the invitation of President Muizzu.

(ANI)

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Australia

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Australia has implemented a coordinated, multi-tiered approach to managing extreme heat through federal and state-level initiatives.

Australia has implemented a coordinated, multi-tiered approach to managing extreme heat through federal and state- level initiatives. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) launched the National Heatwave Warning Framework in November 2022, which issues heatwave warnings along with behavioural advice during periods of extreme heat. These warnings are disseminated nationwide through online portals, mobile apps, and media partnerships, supporting the management of critical services and infrastructure while providing targeted advice to vulnerable populations. State and territory government emergency services and health departments, in collaboration with federal health authorities, implement localized heat action plans tailored to regional needs, ensuring that responses to extreme heat are context- specific.

The National Heatwave Warning Framework aligns with the Australian Warning System, providing a consistent three-level warning structure (Advice, Watch and Act, Emergency Warning) across Commonwealth, State, and Territory Governments. This system is designed to reduce the impact of heatwaves not only on health but also on critical infrastructure, ecosystems, and societal functions. The warnings allow for a wide range of preparatory actions as heatwaves intensify, escalating advice from vulnerable individuals to healthy people, and including guidance on protecting infrastructure.

Each State and Territory has developed its own heat health plans to address heat risks through prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery strategies. Lead agencies vary by jurisdiction but typically include health departments, emergency services, and meteorological bodies. The decentralized approach ensures that State and Territory Governments can adapt their heat action plans to local conditions while benefiting from federal coordination.

Cross-sectoral collaboration primarily involves the integration of public health, meteorological services, and emergency management. While public-private partnerships have not played a prominent role in Australia’s heat resilience efforts, there is ongoing exploration of partnerships to incorporate heat resilience into urban planning and infrastructure projects.

Efforts are increasingly focused on integrating Indigenous knowledge into heat resilience strategies, recognizing that Western approaches may not be sufficient and that engagement with Indigenous ways of understanding and managing heat could offer valuable insights.

Key achievements include the nationwide Multi Hazard Early Warning System (MHEWS), an informed heatwave warning system developed by BOM, which provides timely information to both the public and authorities, enabling prompt action.

Localized heat action plans have been developed across States and Territories, allowing for tailored responses to regional climate conditions and population needs. These efforts have significantly strengthened Australia’s resilience to extreme heat and improved cross-sectoral public health response capabilities.

Australia’s model of decentralized, State-led heat management supported by strong national coordination highlights the importance of localized adaptation strategies. While public- private partnerships were not prominently featured, Australia’s comprehensive warning system and cross-government collaboration provide a robust foundation for responding to extreme heat. This model offers valuable insights for countries with similar governance structures and emphasizes the need for integrating Indigenous knowledge, health, climate, and urban planning efforts to build long-term resilience.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Argentina

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Argentina has adopted several governance structures to address the impacts of extreme heat, focusing on integrating efforts into broader climate adaptation and disaster management frameworks.

The National Weather Service (SMN) first introduced an early warning system for extreme heat in Buenos Aires in 2009, which has now expanded to cover 71 meteorological stations for country-wide alerts issued year-round due to changing climate patterns. These alerts are disseminated through various channels, including email systems and media partnerships, ensuring broad coverage across regions.

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with SMN, leads public health campaigns and has developed a sentinel surveillance system to monitor heat-related morbidity, tracking the health impacts of extreme temperatures across provinces. Argentina also involves provincial and local governments in implementing heat action plans and managing hospital responses during heatwave alerts, with emergency services playing a critical role in the outreach and protection of vulnerable populations.

Early warning systems are further integrated into workplace regulations, adapting work hours and hydration protocols during extreme heat events, particularly in sectors like construction and agriculture, where workers are at higher risk. While not formalized, coordination with the energy and agricultural sectors helps manage the impacts of blackouts and other heat-related disruptions.

Public-private partnerships play an increasing role in Argentina’s heat resilience efforts, including collaborations with organizations like the Argentine Red Cross and professional medical associations to improve emergency care and healthcare system capacity.

Partnerships are also emerging in urban planning and energy sectors, including projects to develop green spaces and cool roofs to mitigate the urban heat island effect in low-income areas, such as the Cool Roofs Initiative, which targets temperature reduction in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

An important actor in these efforts is the Centre for the Implementation of Public Policies for Equity and Growth (CIPPEC), an independent, non-partisan organization dedicated to policy innovation. Through its “Cities” Programme, CIPPEC conducted dialogues on urban heat resilience to support climate adaptation at the municipal level and was instrumental in presenting a forthcoming project with Wellcome Trust, which aims to enhance Argentina’s heat resilience framework through strengthened municipal engagement.

Argentina’s key achievements include expanding the early warning system to cover the entire population, developing the sentinel surveillance project to improve data on heat-related health impacts, and leveraging international funding for research.

Additionally, Argentina’s public-private partnerships have enhanced its ability to respond to heat risks, and collaborations with international organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, continue to strengthen the country’s capacity to manage extreme heat effectively. Argentina has also begun discussions around integrating heat resilience measures into long-term urban development plans, aiming to create a sustainable framework for heat adaptation in the years to come.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Egypt

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Egypt has implemented various governance structures to address the challenges posed by extreme heat, integrating these efforts into broader climate change adaptation and disaster risk management strategies.

The National Climate Change Strategy and Egy pt Vision 2030 outline Egypt’s overall approach to enhancing resilience across sectors such as agriculture, health, and urban planning. The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) and the Ministry of Environment lead these efforts, collaborating with other relevant ministries and organizations.

The National Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (NCDRR) is expected to play an increasing role in disaster risk management, including extreme heat preparedness, though its involvement in this area is still developing. Local initiatives in cities like Cairo and Alexandria are focused on addressing the urban heat island effect through increased green spaces, improved urban planning, and public awareness campaigns. However, the scale and impact of these initiatives vary, and they may be more pilot projects than widespread programmes at this stage.

Community-based adaptation programmes, supported by NGOs and international organizations, contribute to local resilience through awareness programmes and infrastructure improvements, including cooling centres, health services, and urban greening. However, these initiatives are often localized and vary in scope and effectiveness.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are beginning to play a role in enhancing climate resilience, though their scale and impact are still evolving. For example, Cairo has explored smart city technologies to monitor heat, with potential partnerships involving companies like IBM and Vodafone Egypt. These efforts are in the early stages, and their impact is still being assessed.

In Alexandria, there are ongoing discussions about potential collaborations between the Alexandria Health Directorate and private sector entities like Cleopatra Hospitals Group to improve heat-health preparedness, but these initiatives are not yet fully operational.

Egypt also collaborates with international organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank for technical assistance and funding. Ongoing research and data collection by Egyptian institutions, supported by international partners, aims to better understand and mitigate the impacts of extreme heat. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to build resilience against climate-related risks, including extreme heat

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Ecuador

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Ecuador has integrated measures to address extreme heat within its broader climate change adaptation and disaster risk management frameworks.

Key national strategies include the National Climate Change Strategy (ENCC), which outlines resilience building across sectors like agriculture, health, and urban planning, and the National Plan for Good Living, which incorporates environmental sustainability and climate resilience. The National Adaptation Plan(NAP) focuses on adapting to climate change impacts, including extreme weather events like heat waves, by enhancing early warning systems and promoting public awareness.

The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition (MAATE) leads climate policy development, while the National Risk and Emergency Management Service (SNGRE) manages disaster risk, including preparedness and response to extreme heat. Local initiatives, especially in cities like Quito and Guayaquil, include municipal climate action plans aimed at mitigating the urban heat island effect through green spaces and improved urban planning. Community-based adaptation programmes, supported by NGOs and international organizations, focus on local resilience through education and infrastructure improvements.

Public private partnerships (PPPs) do play a role in Ecuador, though perhaps not as robust as in other case study nations. For example, in Guayaquil, the local government partners with construction companies and paint manufacturers to promote the installation of cool roofs in residential and commercial buildings. These roofs use reflective materials to reduce indoor temperatures and energy consumption.

In addition, utility companies in Ecuador, in partnership with local governments and international organizations, promote energy efficiency programmes that help residents and businesses reduce their energy consumption during heatwaves. These programmes include incentives for installing energy-efficient cooling systems and improving building insulation. And, the Ministry of Agriculture works with agribusinesses and NGOs to promote sustainable farming practices that can withstand extreme heat. This includes the development and distribution of heat-resistant crop varieties and the implementation of water-efficient irrigation systems.

Key measures include developing early warning systems, conducting public awareness campaigns, and incorporating green infrastructure in urban planning. The healthcare sector is being strengthened to handle heat-related illnesses through training and improved infrastructure. Ecuador collaborates with international organizations like the UNDP and the World Bank for technical assistance and funding and conducts research to better understand and mitigate the impacts of extreme heat.

These integrated efforts aim to build resilience against the impacts of extreme heat in Ecuador.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Canada

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Canada has adopted comprehensive governance structures to address extreme heat, involving national strategies, institutional frameworks, provincial and local government initiatives, and public-private partnerships.

At the national level, the National Adaptation Strategy and the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change outline measures to build resilience against extreme heat. The Health and well-being system in the National Adaptation Strategy particularly emphasizes protecting Canadians from climate-related health risks, including extreme heat.

Health Canada plays a pivotal role by providing evidence-based guidance, heat health science, and best practices for provincial and local authorities to implement Heat Alert and Response Systems (HARS). It also collaborates with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to inform heat-related weather warnings. Provincial and territorial governments lead the response to heat health risks, with the Federal Government supporting local-level adaptation.

Provincial heat action plans in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, along with municipal heat response plans in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, outline specific measures such as establishing cooling centres, disseminating heat health messages, and modifying urban design to reduce heat risks. These efforts are also extended to Indigenous communities, where culturally appropriate response planning is underway.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) play a significant role in enhancing heat resilience. In Toronto, PPPs have focused on retrofitting buildings with energy-efficient cooling systems, creating green roofs, and expanding urban parks to mitigate the urban heat island effect. Similarly, Hydro-Québec collaborates with businesses to promote energy-saving technologies that reduce electricity demand during heatwaves.

Key achievements include the widespread implementation of HARS, public education campaigns, and strengthened health sector preparedness to manage heat-related illnesses. Canada also collaborates with international organizations to share best practices, filling knowledge gaps and advancing research, such as addressing indoor heat health risks. These coordinated efforts aim to protect public health, enhance urban resilience, and mitigate the impacts of extreme heat across Canada.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Bangladesh

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Bangladesh has adopted various governance structures within its broader climate change adaptation and disaster management frameworks to address extreme heat.

Key national policies include the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA), the Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP), and the National Disaster Management Plan(NDMP), which collectively outline measures for mitigating and adapting to extreme heat.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), and the Disaster Management Bureau (DMB) play central roles in policy development, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness. Local governments and municipalities implement heat adaptation plans, supported by NGOs and community-based programmes that raise awareness and build resilience.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly vital in addressing extreme heat in Bangladesh. These partnerships focus on enhancing climate resilience through various initiatives and enhance Bangladesh’s ability to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of extreme heat, contributing significantly to the country’s overall climate resilience.

Examples of PPPs for extreme heat include the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) collaboration with private real estate developers to create green spaces in urban areas, including parks, rooftop gardens, and green belts, to mitigate the urban heat island effect; the Cool Roofs Initiative, a partnership between the Government and local private companies, implements reflective rooftops in urban slums to reduce indoor temperatures; and BRAC, a major NGO, partners with private hospitals and pharmaceutical companies to improve healthcare responses to heat-related illnesses through training and public awareness campaigns. These diverse PPPs enhance Bangladesh’s resilience to extreme heat and contribute to overall climate adaptation efforts.

Key achievements include developing heat action plans, enhancing urban planning to reduce heat impacts, conducting public education campaigns, and preparing the health sector to manage heat-related illnesses. Bangladesh also collaborates with international organizations to strengthen its capacity to manage extreme heat effectively.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: United States of America

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

The United States has adopted comprehensive governance structures to address extreme heat, involving federal, state, local, and Tribal initiatives.

At the federal level, the National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) is an interagency effort initially formed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The mission of NIHHIS is to develop and provide actionable, science-based information to help decision- makers protect people from heat. Currently, NIHHIS coordinates more than 27 federal agencies. The U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) also manages a National Climate Assessment (NCA) that summarizes the impact of climate change on the US and includes chapters specific to extreme heat. Most recently, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declared heat a priority and improved its guidance to help state-level emergency managers prepare for and respond to heat impacts.

As an innovative approach to improve heat governance, NIHHIS and NOAA collaborate with local governments and community- based organizations to host tabletop exercises that test and evaluate heat response efforts. These exercises bring together leaders from various sectors, including health departments and emergency management, to identify and refine strategies for enhancing heat resilience in their communities. This proactive, hands-on approach allows participants to simulate heat emergencies and collaboratively develop effective response plans tailored to local needs.

States like California, Arizona, New York, and North Carolina have developed specific heat action plans, and cities such as New York City (NYC), Los Angeles, Miami, and Phoenix have implemented heat response programmes focusing on public awareness, emergency response, and urban design modifications.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are integral to these efforts, with initiatives like Cool Neighborhoods NYC and Phoenix’s HeatReady Initiative collaborating with private organizations, nonprofits, and academic institutions to enhance heat resilience. For example, the City of New York collaborates with private organizations and community groups through the Cool Neighborhoods NYC programme. This initiative focuses on increasing tree canopies, installing cool roofs, and educating residents about heat risks. Private companies contribute funding, technology, and expertise to support these efforts.

Kaiser Permanente, a major healthcare provider, also works with local health departments and nonprofits to support community health initiatives addressing extreme heat. They fund programmes that provide cooling centres, hydration stations, and public education on heat-related health risks.

Key measures include Heat Alert and Response Systems (HARS), urban planning initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and the establishment of cooling centres and hydration stations. Additionally, ongoing research and data collection by federal agencies, academic institutions, and private organizations help refine adaptation strategies, while international collaboration ensures the sharing of best practices. These coordinated efforts protect public health, enhance urban resilience, and mitigate the impacts of extreme heat across the United States.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Republic of Korea

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

The Republic of Korea has developed a comprehensive and multi-tiered approach to managing extreme heat, integrating national policies, institutional frameworks, local government initiatives, and community-based actions.

National frameworks such as the Climate Change Adaptation Plan and the Basic Plan for the Promotion of Climate Change Response guide efforts to address extreme heat as part of broader climate resilience strategies.

The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) plays a key role by issuing heatwave warnings and impact-based heatwave forecasts , using an updated alert system based on Daily Maximum Perceived Temperature, which takes humidity into account to better reflect health impacts.

Additionally, the Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), alongside the KMA, published the first Climate Health Impact Assessment Report in March 2022. In this report, published every five years, heat-related deaths and illnesses are identified as key health indicators to be monitored.

Collaboration among key institutions enables a coordinated response to heat risks across sectors-including health, industry, livestock, agriculture, and aquaculture-each managed by distinct governmental bodies, and consolidated guidelines have been given. Healthcare preparedness has been strengthened with the publication of the Climate Health Impact Assessment Report, which monitors heat-related illnesses and deaths. Hospitals and healthcare centres, particularly those with emergency services, have improved their capacity to manage heat-related conditions. Additionally, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, Republic of Korea, has called for meetings with other governmental institutions across different sectors.

Local governments, especially in urban areas like Seoul, lead heat mitigation efforts through urban cooling strategies, public awareness campaigns, and the expansion of green spaces.

Initiatives include installing green roofs, promoting public transportation through the Climate Card programme, and constructing cooling stations in public areas to offer relief from heat.

Public-private partnerships have been instrumental in enhancing the country’s resilience to extreme heat. The Seoul Metropolitan Government collaborates with private real estate developers to implement green rooftops across the city, while telecommunications company SK Telecom partners with KMA to send real-time heatwave alerts to millions of subscribers.

Currently, emergency information about heatwaves is being provided through the cell broadcast service in Korea. Hyundai Motor Company collaborates with local governments in urban cooling projects, such as installing cooling stations in public areas. These stations provide cool air and water, offering relief to residents and visitors during heatwaves. LG Electronics partners with Seoul National University Hospital to develop and distribute advanced cooling technologies for healthcare facilities, ensuring hospitals are equipped with energy-efficient air conditioning systems that improve patient care during extreme heat periods. These examples demonstrate the impact of leveraging resources and expertise to enhance resilience to extreme heat.

On the international stage, the Republic of Korea partners with organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) Asia-Pacific Centre for Environment and Health, the Green Climate Fund, and the International Vaccine Institute-all located in the country-to advance knowledge and technical capacity for climate resilience. These collaborations contribute to their leadership in responding to extreme heat.

Through its coordinated approach involving national agencies, local governments, public-private partnerships, and international collaboration, the Republic of Korea has strengthened its ability to manage extreme heat. Key achievements include the updated heatwave alert system, localized urban cooling projects, and strengthened healthcare preparedness, positioning the country as a regional leader in climate adaptation.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: United Kingdom of Great Britan and Northern Ireland

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

The United Kingdom, through the collaborative efforts of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office, has developed comprehensive strategies for managing extreme heat.

In England – one of the four nations of the UK – the Adverse Weather and Health Plan (AWHP) defines and guides planning and response efforts related to the health impacts of extreme heat and other adverse weather. The AWHP outlines a common framework for responding to adverse weather, including periods of high temperature, and defines the roles and responsibilities of the different delivery groups at the local, regional, and national levels. The AWHP is underpinned by four core pillars: the Plan itself; guidance; the supporting evidence base; and the Weather-Health Alerting system. Other UK nations, such as Scotland (Public Health Scotland), have recently published their own AWHP.

In England, two early warning systems operate to address the diverse impacts of extreme temperatures. The Heat-Health Alerts (HHA), part of the Weather-Health Alerting system, are issued by UKHSA and the Met Office for England to protect vulnerable populations and health and social care services with yellow, amber, and red alerts. The National Severe Weather Warning System (NSWWS), managed by the Met Office across the UK, issues amber and red alerts for broader public impacts in addition to health, including effects on sectors like transport and utilities. These systems are coordinated to ensure consistent public messaging, aligning HHA and NSWWS warnings when necessary for clear, authoritative communication on heat risks.

Public health campaigns play an integral role in the UK’s strategy. The UKHSA’s “Beat the Heat” and the Met Office’s “Weather Ready” campaigns provide practical advice on how to stay cool during hot weather, with materials distributed to the public, particularly targeting high-risk groups. UKHSA and the Met Office, in collaboration with various partners, lead these awareness efforts across multiple communication platforms.

UKHSA coordinates with the Met Office, local governments, and emergency services to ensure a comprehensive national response to extreme heat. Local and national authorities are tasked with implementing action plans and providing critical services during extreme heat events.

The UK engages in partnerships with academic institutions, community organizations, and the private sector to bolster heat resilience. Public-private partnerships, particularly with utilities and infrastructure sectors, focus on energy efficiency and public health protection during extreme heat events.

The UK has seen measurable success in managing extreme heat, as evidenced by the response to the record-breaking 2022 heatwave. Despite the extreme conditions, over 1,000 fewer heat-related deaths occurred than historically expected for such record-breaking temperatures. After the event, a Met Office survey revealed that 98% of the public took some form of action in response to issued alerts and warnings during the record-breaking heat period. UKHSA’s and Met Office initiatives, including early warnings and public health interventions, contributed to reducing heat-related illnesses and fatalities. The increased public awareness and improved coordination between health services and local authorities highlight the effectiveness of the planning and early warning systems.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) Establishes “Model Farm” to Promote Sustainable Agriculture in Kenya

Source: APO

Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has completed its Drought-Resistant Agricultural Practices Project in Wajir County, located in northeastern Kenya. Implemented in collaboration with the Wajir County Government, the project established a model farm to demonstrate sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural techniques.

As part of the initiative, a solar-powered shallow water well, a two-acre open-field drip irrigation system, a shaded greenhouse, and an agricultural nursery with tree species adapted to arid climates were constructed. The handover ceremony was attended by Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, TİKA’s Coordinator in Nairobi Yasemin Cansuz Kurt, local officials, and residents of the area.

In the initial phase of the project, crops such as papaya, watermelon, various vegetables, and drought-tolerant forage species were harvested at the model farm. Plants like Napier grass, moringa, and sorghum hold strategic importance for livestock farming, which is the traditional livelihood of the local community.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Abdullahi stated, “Drought poses a serious threat not only to food production but also to livestock farming due to the degradation of pastureland. Through this project, we aim to offer our people a new perspective on agriculture and empower them to sustain their livelihoods using drought-resistant farming methods.”

TİKA’s Coordinator in Nairobi, Cansuz Kurt, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond providing support, it represents a development model focused on long-term transformation. She noted that following the completion of the project, many local residents reached out to TİKA seeking information about agricultural suppliers, reflecting growing interest in sustainable farming solutions.

About the model farm

The model farm, now officially handed over to the Wajir Governorate, will serve not only as a production site but also as a center for education and capacity building. Local farmers will receive hands-on training in areas such as irrigation techniques, soil enhancement, tree planting, and organic fertilizer production.

Through its projects in Kenya, TİKA continues to strengthen community resilience and promote sustainable livelihoods with a particular focus on climate change mitigation, food security, and rural development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).

Media files

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 26, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to North Dakota Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Adverse Weather

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in North Dakota of the deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by adverse weather conditions occurring in the counties listed below.

The disaster declarations cover the counties listed below:

Declaration Number	Primary Counties	Neighboring Counties	Incident Type	Incident Date	Deadline
20941	Burke, Mercer and Oliver	Burleigh, Divide, Dunn, McLean, Morton, Mountrail, Renville, Stark, Ward and Williams.	Drought, Heat, and Winds	July 30–Oct. 6, 2024	8/25/25
20942	Cavalier, Pembina, Ransom and Sargent	Barnes, Cass, Dickey, LaMoure, Ramsey, Richland, Towner and Walsh in North Dakota, Kittson and Marshall in Minnesota, Brown, Marshall and Roberts in South Dakota.	Excessive Rain and Flooding	April 1–Oct. 1, 2024	8/25/25
20943	Sioux	Adams, Emmons, Grant and Morton in North Dakota, Campbell, Corson and Perkins in South Dakota.	Wildfire and High Winds	Sept. 12–Oct. 2, 2024	8/25/25

Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

To apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Aug. 25.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Montana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Adverse Weather

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Montana of the deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by adverse weather conditions occurring as indicated below.

The disaster declarations cover the counties listed below:

Declaration Number	Primary Counties	Neighboring Counties	Incident Type	Incident Date	Deadline
20940	Dawson	McCone, Prairie, Richland and Wibaux.	Hail and High Winds	Sept. 17, 2024	8/25/25
20945	Toole	Glacier, Liberty and Pondera.	Drought, Excessive Heat and High Winds	June 15, 2024, and continuing	8/25/25

Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Aug. 25.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the heels of a heat advisory issued this week and extreme heat conditions rising across Wisconsin, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined her colleagues in introducing the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act, legislation to protect the safety and health of workers who are exposed to dangerous heat conditions in the workplace.

“Far too many of our workers are being pushed to the brink in dangerous heat conditions – it’s wrong, and they deserve the dignity to be protected,” said Senator Baldwin. “As we continue to face record-breaking heat waves, we have to stand up for these workers and give them the protections that they need and deserve – and I am proud to work with my colleagues to introduce this bill that will do just that.”

The legislation would protect workers against occupational exposure to excessive heat by requiring the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to establish an enforceable federal standard to protect workers in high-heat environments with commonsense measures like paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, limitations on time exposed to heat, and emergency response for workers with heat-related illness. The bill also directs employers to provide training for their employees on the risk factors that can lead to heat illness and guidance on the proper procedures for responding to symptoms.

The legislation is named in honor of Asunción Valdivia, who died in 2004 after picking grapes for 10 hours straight in 105-degree temperatures. Mr. Valdivia fell unconscious, but instead of calling an ambulance, his employer told Mr. Valdivia’s son to drive his father home. On his way home, he died of heat stroke at the age of 53.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2024 was the warmest year on record for the United States. The past decade, including 2024, was the hottest on record, marking a decade of extreme heat that will only get worse. Heat-related illnesses can cause heat cramps, organ damage, heat exhaustion, stroke, and even death. Between 1992 and 2017, heat stress injuries killed 815 U.S. workers and seriously injured more than 70,000. The Washington Center for Equitable Growth estimates hot temperatures caused at least 360,000 workplace injuries in California from 2001 to 2018, or about 20,000 injuries a year. The failure to implement simple heat safety measures costs U.S. employers nearly $100 billion every year in lost productivity.

From 2011-2020, heat exposure killed at least 400 workers and caused nearly 34,000 injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work; both are likely vast underestimates. Farm workers and construction workers suffer the highest incidence of heat illness. And no matter what the weather is outside, workers in factories, commercial kitchens, and other workplaces, including ones where workers must wear personal protective equipment (PPE), can face dangerously high heat conditions all year round.

A new analysis by the nonprofit group Climate Central finds extreme heat streaks are becoming more common across the state. In Wisconsin, the city of Milwaukee has warmed 3.4 degrees in the last 55 years and other cities like Wausau, Green Bay, Madison, La Crosse and Eau Claire have seen temperatures increase between 1.6 to 2.8 degrees during the same timeframe.

The Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act has the support of a broad coalition of over 250 groups, including: Rural Coalition, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE!, Communication Workers of America, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Sierra Club, United Farm Workers, Farmworker Justice, Public Citizen, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, Union of Concerned Scientists, United Steelworkers, National Resources Defense Council, American Lung Association, and Health Partnerships.

“Every worker safety rule in America is written in blood,” said UFW President Teresa Romero. “The UFW has been fighting for heat safety protections for decades. Over 20 years later, Asuncion Valdivia’s death still hurts. There are so many other farm workers — many whose names we do not know — who have also been killed by extreme heat on the job in the years since. Enough is enough. Every farm worker deserves access to water, shade, and paid rest breaks — it’s past time for Congress get this done.”

“For the Steelworkers Union, we represent workers in manufacturing settings and in a host of other areas where not only is it hot outside, but the areas that they work around are as hot as up to 3,000 degrees and they must wear protective equipment. The Asunción Valdivia Heat, Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act is important because it will provide a basic standard for not just outdoor, but indoor workplaces as well to ensure that there is proper rest breaks and the ability to stay cool. The Steelworkers are absolutely supportive of this bill and are going to work with Republicans and Democrats to ensure that heat illness is the last thing a worker should worry about,” said Roy Houseman, Legislative Director of United Steelworkers.

“Everyone deserves safe working conditions, but powerful corporations have not done enough to protect their workers from hot working environments, exacerbated by the climate crisis,” said Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO. “Extreme heat is increasingly causing indoor and outdoor workers to collapse or even die on the job, and our union family has already lost too many members to preventable, work-related heat illness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) must issue a strong heat rule, not a weak one, to ensure workers have specific protections they need and to be able to raise unsafe working conditions without fear of retaliation.”

“It’s long past time for meaningful legislation to protect Teamsters and other workers from the effects of prolonged heat exposure and dangerous heat levels while at work,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “Paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, and limitations on time exposed to heat are simple common sense steps that should be mandated immediately. Waiting to implement these measures is unacceptable and will result in the further loss of lives.”

The legislation is led by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and co-sponsored by 21 of their Senate colleagues.

Full text of the legislation is here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: In hard-hitting human rights address, Guterres calls for urgent action on Gaza, authoritarianism and climate justice
Source: United Nations 2

Recalling his own experience living under dictatorship in Portugal, Mr. Guterres told participants at the Global Assembly of the international rights charity Amnesty International on Friday that the fight for human rights is “more important than ever.”

He called on states to uphold international law and defend human rights “consistently and universally, even – or especially – when inconvenient,” urging collective action to restore global trust, dignity and justice.

‘A moral crisis’

Mr. Guterres painted a stark picture of a world in turmoil, citing multiple ongoing crises – foremost among them, the war in Gaza.

While reiterating his condemnation of the 7 October 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups in Israel, the Secretary-General said that “nothing can justify the explosion of death and destruction since.”

“The scale and scope is beyond anything we have seen in recent times,” he said.

“I cannot explain the level of indifference and inaction we see by too many in the international community. The lack of compassion. The lack of truth. The lack of humanity.”
Key takeaways from the address
- Gaza – “A moral crisis that challenges the global conscience”
- Ukraine – Call for a “just and lasting peace” based on the UN Charter, international law and resolutions
- Authoritarianism – A “global contagion”, with political repression, scapegoating of minorities and shrinking civic space
- Climate Justice – Bold action needed to cut emissions; transition to clean energy must uphold human rights
- Digital Threats – Concern over algorithm-driven disinformation, hate speech and manipulation on social media
- Call to Action – “Human rights are the solution, foundation of peace and engine of progress”
UN staff ‘neither dead nor alive’

He described UN staff in Gaza as working in “unimaginable conditions,” many of them so depleted they “say they feel neither dead nor alive.”

Since late May, he noted, more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed trying to access food – not in combat, but “in desperation – while the entire population starves.”

“This is not just a humanitarian crisis. It is a moral crisis that challenges the global conscience.”

Ready to scale up aid

Mr. Guterres said the UN stands ready to dramatically scale up humanitarian operations “as we successfully did during the previous pause in fighting,” but called for an “immediate and permanent ceasefire,” the unconditional release of all hostages and full humanitarian access.

“At the same time, we need urgent, concrete and irreversible steps towards a two-State solution,” he stressed.

He also spoke about other conflicts, including Sudan as well as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where he called for a “just and lasting peace” based on the UN Charter, international law and relevant UN resolutions.

UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Secretary-General Guterres (left) addresses Amnesty International’s Global Assembly via video link.

Rising authoritarianism

The Secretary-General warned that authoritarian tactics are on the rise globally.

“We are witnessing a surge in repressive tactics aiming at corroding respect for human rights,” he said. “And these are contaminating some democracies.”

Political opposition movements are being crushed, accountability mechanisms dismantled, journalists and activists silenced, civic space strangled, and minorities scapegoated.

Rights of women and girls in particular are being rolled back – most starkly, he said, in Afghanistan.

“This is not a series of isolated events. It is a global contagion.”

Weaponization of technology

He decried the growing weaponization of digital platforms, saying algorithms are “boosting the worst of humanity – rewarding falsehoods, fuelling racism and misogyny, and deepening division.”

He called on governments to uphold the Global Digital Compact adopted by countries at the UN General Assembly last September, and to take stronger action to combat online hate and disinformation.

© ICJ-CIJ/Frank van Beek

Activists outside the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague as the Court delivers its advisory opinion on the obligations of States in respect of climate change.

Climate justice is human rights

Turning to climate, Mr. Guterres described the environmental emergency as a “human rights catastrophe,” with the poorest and most vulnerable communities suffering most.

He welcomed the International Court of Justice (ICJ)’s advisory opinion this week, affirming that climate change is a human rights issue and that states have obligations under international law to protect the global climate system.

But he cautioned against a transition to clean energy that sacrifices human rights.

“We cannot accept a clean energy future built on dirty practices…We cannot accept enormous violations of human rights – many of them against children – in the name of climate progress.”

He called for urgent emissions cuts, a just transition away from fossil fuels and real financing for developing countries to adapt, build resilience, and recover from loss and damage.

A legacy of activism

The Secretary-General concluded by praising Amnesty International’s decades of activism, calling its work “indispensable” to the global human rights movement.

“When you stand for human rights, you stand with what is right,” he told delegates.

“Your courage continues to change lives. Your persistence is shifting the course of history. Let’s keep going. Let’s meet this moment with the urgency it demands. And let’s never, ever give up.”

Founded in 1961, Amnesty International is a global human rights movement that campaigns to end abuses and promote justice. The organization has long worked in collaboration with the United Nations, participating actively in the development of international human rights law and mechanisms.

Today’s speech by Mr. Guterres is first-ever address by a UN Secretary-General to Amnesty International’s Global Assembly – the charity’s highest decision-making body. The UN chief spoke via a video link to the event in Prague.

MIL OSI United Nations News –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Congressman Sorensen Demands Accountability in Aftermath of Texas Floods
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

Last week, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) continued to lead Democrats in sounding the alarm over cuts in funding to the National Weather Service in the wake of the deadly Texas floods. On Friday, he led a letter with Representatives Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) demanding answers from President Trump on why hundreds of Americans were unprepared to evacuate from the flash floods.

MSNBC: All in with Chris Hayes: Congressman Sorensen calls for a NTSB for weather in aftermath of deadly flash flooding in Texas
- Congressman Sorensen: “We need a NTSB just for weather. We need to understand how the meteorology was disseminated to the people. Were they able to react to it? Where they able to get to a higher ground? We have to understand all of the facets here so that we make better decisions in the future. Because we know these storms have had huge floods on the Guadalupe River in the 1970s, in 2002, and now in 2025.”
NBC News NOW: Meet the Press NOW: Need to ‘invest’ in NWS so Texas disaster is ‘a thing of the past’: Congressman & fmr. meteorologist
- Congressman Sorensen: “We have to invest in the National Weather Service. We have to get President Trump to understand that investing in the National Weather Service – making sure we have more accurate weather models – could maybe make these types of disasters a thing of the past.”
- Congressman Sorensen: “Also going forward, we need to make sure there is a commitment from the Administration that the National Weather Service is just that – it is a service. We take it for granted that our phones are going to off in the middle of the night when the tornado warning or the flash flood warning is issued. But we need to know when that happens that there is going to be a way for us to escape.”
Center Square: Illinois congressman pushes for NWS funding as Trump’s budget faces scrutiny
- Illinois U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-Rockford, a former meteorologist, said he and others are pushing bipartisan legislation to strengthen NWS operations and staffing, warning that shortfalls may be putting lives at risk.
- Sorensen stressed the need for stronger communication tools, warning systems and a long-term investment in the agency’s capabilities.
NBC News: Bipartisan support picks up for a natural disaster review board
- In an email to NBC News, Congress’ only meteorologist, Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-Ill., said he was working with colleagues to create an NTSB-styled program to investigate deadly storms.
- “It would be amazing if meteorologists could have access to investigative reports that help us to figure out what — if anything — went wrong and what we can do in the future to be better,” Sorensen said, adding that “clearly the tragic floods in Texas would benefit from such a report.”
The Hill: House Democrats call for ‘urgent review’ of deadly Texas flooding
- Three House Democrats sent a letter to President Trump and two officials involved in weather infrastructure Friday expressing concerns about the government’s preparedness for future flood disasters and extreme weather events.
- “This tragedy echoes a troubling national pattern of accelerating flash flood disasters that have claimed lives: 46 lives in the greater New York City area in September 2021, 345 lives in Kentucky in July 2022, 20 lives in Tennessee in August 2021, and 250 lives across the Southeast in September 2024,” Democratic Reps. Lloyd Doggett (Texas), Marcy Kaptur (Ohio) and Eric Sorensen (Ill.) wrote.
- The lawmakers expressed concern about whether the Department of Government Efficiency-driven staff reductions at the National Weather Service delayed warnings about the Texas floods, which have claimed at least 120 lives. The New York Times reported the vacancies may have complicated efforts to coordinate with local officials and that some of the unfilled positions predate the Trump administration.
As the only meteorologist in Congress, Congressman Sorensen has been a fierce advocate for protecting and strengthening NOAA and the NWS from cuts. Starting last year, he has been warning about the impact of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle and privatize NOAA and the NWS. As the Department of Government Efficiency began making cuts to the agencies, Congressman Sorensen has been speaking out, introducing legislation, and calling on the Administration to bring a stop to the disastrous cuts. He recently introduced the Weather Workforce Improvement Act to help the NWS fully staff critical positions at their offices and the Rural Weather Monitoring Systems Act to help strengthen weather forecasting in rural America.

MIL OSI USA News –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Activities of Secretary-General in Brazil, 5-9 July

Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday evening, 5 July, to attend the Seventeenth Summit of the BRICS [Brazil, Russian Federation, India and China] countries.

On Sunday afternoon, 6 July, after being welcomed by Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the President of Brazil, the Secretary-General addressed an outreach session on “Strengthening multilateralism, economic-financial affairs and artificial intelligence”. He highlighted that artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping economies and societies, and that the fundamental test is how wisely we guide this transformation.

The Secretary-General also emphasized that AI cannot be a club of the few, but must benefit all, and in particular developing countries, which must have a real voice in the governance of artificial intelligence.

In the evening, the Secretary-General attended an official cocktail on the occasion of the BRICS Leader’s Summit, hosted by the President of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Janja Lula da Silva.

On Monday morning, 7 July, soon after his arrival at the 17^th Summit of the BRICS venue, the Secretary-General took part in the family photo. He then addressed an outreach session on “Environment, COP30 [Thirtieth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] and global health”, warning that our environment is being attacked on all fronts. Mr. Guterres pointed out that across the world, lives and livelihoods are being ripped apart, and sustainable development gains left in tatters as disasters accelerate.

The Secretary-General noted that the most vulnerable and the poorer pay the highest price and stressed that we need to tackle the point where climate and health meet. He also emphasized that we need Governments to build on the progress of last year’s biodiversity COP, particularly reaching an ambitious agreement on finance, adding that we need to make COP30 a success.

In the afternoon, in a bilateral meeting on the margins of the BRICS Summit, the Secretary-General and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iran, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, discussed the situation in the Middle East. The Secretary-General noted the importance of the consolidation of the ceasefire to lay the groundwork for the resumption of negotiations.

Immediately after, the Secretary-General held a bilateral meeting with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan. The Secretary-General and the Minister discussed the strong partnership between the United Nations and Türkiye. They also exchanged views on the war in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and the next round of meetings on Cyprus.

Also in the afternoon, the Secretary-General met Sergio Diaz-Granados, the Executive President of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean.

On Tuesday morning, 8 July, the Secretary-General met with the Premier of the State Council of China, Li Qiang. They discussed cooperation between the United Nations and China, sustainable development, climate change and financing.

The Secretary-General commended China for its commitment to multilateralism and thanked China for its valuable contribution to the United Nations and its activities.

The Secretary-General departed Rio de Janeiro in the afternoon of Tuesday, 8 July.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: UN chief welcomes China, EU commitment to strengthen cooperation on climate change

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

UNITED NATIONS, July 25 (Xinhua) — UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomes the commitment of China and the European Union (EU) to strengthen cooperation on climate change and ensure a global just transition, Deputy Spokesman for the UN Secretary-General Farhan Haq said on Thursday.

“The Secretary-General believes that it is critical for China and the European Union, as the world’s two largest economies, to continue working together to ensure that the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Brazil becomes a major turning point in global efforts to tackle the climate crisis,” Hack said in a statement.

“The Secretary-General reiterates his call for all G20 countries to submit NDCs [nationally determined contributions to combat climate change by 2035],” he said.

On Thursday, leaders of China and the EU issued a joint statement on stepping up efforts to combat climate change following the 25th China-EU summit in Beijing. At the meeting, the two sides acknowledged that strengthening China-EU cooperation on climate change will benefit the well-being of both peoples and is of great and special significance to upholding multilateralism and advancing global climate governance. –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Six months into Congo’s war, cholera is killing more than four people every day
Source: Oxfam –
Aid cuts and humanitarian deadlock are fuelling a full-blown public health disaster.

In Sake and Minova, 500 people are sharing a single water tap.

Six months since the renewed war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a full-blown public health emergency is accelerating, Oxfam warned today.

Since January, more than 35,000 suspected cholera cases and at least 852 related deaths have been reported – an average of more than four deaths every day and a 62 percent increase compared to 2024.

After M23 fighters seized Goma in January civilians were ordered to return to their villages within 72 hours. More than 3.16 million people have since returned back only to find their homes reduced to rubble, and aid system on the verge of collapse.

Water networks, including storage facilities have been obliterated, leaving families to drink from contaminated streams and stagnant lakes. Basic health services have crumbled, with hospitals out of medicine and sanitation systems in ruins. In some of the hardest-hit areas, like Sake and Minova, 500 people are now sharing a single water tap.

Dr. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam’s Director in DRC said:

“This is a full-blown public health emergency. Families are returning to ruins—no shelters, no toilets, no clean water. In many areas, latrines have been flooded or stripped for firewood, forcing people to defecate in the open and contaminate the only water available. The air reeks of sewage. Hospitals are out of medicine, and we can’t reach cut-off communities with even the most basic aid.”

In South Kivu’s Uvira region, cholera is surging with 100 new cases being reported each day. Floodwaters from Lake Tanganyika routinely inundate homes and latrines overflow into the lake, even as families are forced to drink lake water.

The forced closure and destruction of more than 20 displacement sites in Goma alone has left 700,000 people without safe shelter, clean water or basic sanitation In Rusayo, Lushagal, and Bhimba —where Oxfam had been supporting over 100,000 people—entire sites have been razed or abandoned, including more than $700,000 worth of water and sanitation infrastructure, such as pipelines, latrines, and tanks.
“This is a full-blown public health emergency. Families are returning to ruins—no shelters, no toilets, no clean water. In many areas, latrines have been flooded or stripped for firewood, forcing people to defecate in the open and contaminate the only water available. The air reeks of sewage. Hospitals are out of medicine, and we can’t reach cut-off communities with even the most basic aid.”

Dr. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam’s Director in DRC

Oxfam

Despite a US-brokered ceasefire, insecurity, roadblocks, and ongoing clashes have severed vital supply routes, cutting off communities from lifesaving food, clean water, and medicine. Aid agencies like Oxfam are now being forced to detour through Rwanda, severely hampering relief efforts. Cross-border access through Burundi has been entirely blocked, while illegal taxes and bureaucratic obstruction are further choking humanitarian deliveries.

Deep aid cuts since the start of 2025 have pushed the humanitarian response to the brink of failure. Only a fraction of the $2.54 billion needed this year as humanitarian aid in DRC has been received to date—forcing agencies like Oxfam to scale back or suspend life-saving operations. Even a UN investigation into possible war crimes has been frozen for lack of funding.

“People are suffering because we cannot reach them,” said Balume Loutre, Oxfam’s Public Health Engineering Team Leader in Eastern DRC. “They’re drinking from contaminated water sources, and we lack the resources to deliver even basic aid. In some villages, 15,000 families need help, but we can only support 500. We’re forced to make impossible choices, leaving thousands behind.”

The situation is particularly alarming for women and girls. Since the cuts to USAID funding, more than 8,200 people living with HIV have lost access to antiretroviral treatment. Emergency post-rape care kits are vanishing, even as a child is reported raped every half an hour in eastern DRC, according to UNICEF.

Despite the collapse of the aid system, Oxfam and its partners continue to deliver lifesaving assistance – constructing water systems, building latrines and distributing soap and hygiene kits, food and seed. But urgent funding is needed to reach 400,000 people in high-risk cholera zones.

“We need an immediate injection of funds, and all warring parties to commit to a permanent ceasefire and allow aid to flow freely. After six months of chaos, people need dignity and respite from relentless violence. The world cannot look away,” said Mangundu.
MIL OSI NGO –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: United Kingdom helps Guatemala to combat plastic pollution
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements
World news story

United Kingdom helps Guatemala to combat plastic pollution

English

Español de América Latina

Deputy Head of Mission (DHM) Paul Huggins participated in the launch of Guatemala’s National Plastics Action Partnership (NPAP).
During the event, he offered closing remarks highlighting the United Kingdom’s commitment to the Global Plastics Action Partnership (GPAP), of which Guatemala has been a member since January 2025, and underscored the importance of international collaborations in addressing global environmental challenges.

DHM Huggins praised Guatemala’s leadership in creating inclusive, evidence-based policies and welcomed its recent membership in the UK-founded High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution (HAC). He also reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to concluding negotiations for a legally binding global treaty on plastics by August of this year.

The event was attended by the Minister of Environment, Patricia Orantes; the Vice Minister for Climate Change, Edwin Castellanos, and representatives of partner organizations and implementers of the NPAP in Guatemala.

The UK, through the Blue Planet Fund and in collaboration with other partners has contributed £24 million to the GPAP program since 2018, supporting initiatives that promote the circular economy and improve the conditions of informal waste workers.

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Published 25 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Phillips 66 Reports Second-Quarter Results

Source: Phillips

Reported second-quarter earnings of $877 million or $2.15 per share; adjusted earnings of $973 million or $2.38 per share; including $239 million of pre-tax accelerated depreciation on Los Angeles Refinery
Operated at 98% capacity utilization in Refining with 86% clean product yield
Completed Midstream acquisition of EPIC NGL, now renamed Coastal Bend
Announced sale of 65% interest in our Germany and Austria retail marketing business
Generated $845 million of net operating cash flow, $1.9 billion excluding working capital
Returned $906 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases

HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) announced second-quarter earnings.
“Phillips 66 delivered strong financial and operating results across our integrated value chain, reflecting the continued execution of our strategy. During the quarter, Refining ran at the highest utilization since 2018, achieved its lowest cost per barrel since 2021, strong market capture and record year-to-date clean product yield. Our results were made possible through disciplined execution and investment,” said Mark Lashier, chairman and CEO of Phillips 66.
“We also continued our strong growth trajectory in Midstream, which generated approximately $1 billion of adjusted EBITDA following the acquisition of Coastal Bend. The Dos Picos II gas processing plant in the Midland Basin recently came online ahead of schedule and on budget. These assets further our stable earnings growth, enhance returns and increase shareholder value as we progress our wellhead-to-market strategy. Looking ahead, we are focused on organic Midstream growth as we advance toward our 2027 targets.”
Financial Results Summary (in millions of dollars, except as indicated)

2Q 2025

1Q 2025

Earnings

$

877

487

Adjusted Earnings (Loss)1

973

(368)

Adjusted EBITDA1

2,501

736

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Earnings Per Share – Diluted

2.15

1.18

Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Per Share – Diluted1

2.38

(0.90)

Cash Flow From Operations

845

187

Cash Flow From Operations, Excluding Working Capital1

1,920

259

Capital Expenditures & Investments

587

423

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired

2,220

—

Return of Capital to Shareholders

906

716

Repurchases of common stock

419

247

Dividends paid on common stock

487

469

Cash and Cash Equivalents, including cash classified within Assets held for sale2

1,144

1,489

Debt

20,935

18,803

Debt-to-capital ratio

42%

40%

Net debt-to-capital ratio1

41%

38%

1 Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are included within this release.

2 Includes cash and cash equivalents of $92 million classified within Assets held for sale at June 30, 2025.

Segment Financial and Operating Highlights (Millions of dollars, except as indicated)

2Q 2025

1Q 2025

Change

Earnings (Loss)1

$

877

487

390

Midstream

731

751

(20)

Chemicals

20

113

(93)

Refining

359

(937)

1,296

Marketing and Specialties

571

1,282

(711)

Renewable Fuels

(133)

(185)

52

Corporate and Other

(428)

(376)

(52)

Income tax (expense) benefit

(212)

(122)

(90)

Noncontrolling interests

(31)

(39)

8

Adjusted Earnings (Loss)1,2

$

973

(368)

1,341

Midstream

731

683

48

Chemicals

20

113

(93)

Refining

392

(937)

1,329

Marketing and Specialties

660

265

395

Renewable Fuels

(133)

(185)

52

Corporate and Other

(383)

(355)

(28)

Income tax (expense) benefit

(283)

78

(361)

Noncontrolling interests

(31)

(30)

(1)

Adjusted EBITDA2

$

2,501

736

1,765

Midstream

972

885

87

Chemicals

148

244

(96)

Refining

867

(452)

1,319

Marketing and Specialties

718

315

403

Renewable Fuels

(110)

(162)

52

Corporate and Other

(94)

(94)

—

Operating Highlights

Pipeline Throughput – Y-Grade to Market (MB/D)3

956

704

252

Chemicals Global O&P Capacity Utilization

92%

100%

(8%)

Refining

Turnaround Expense4

53

270

(217)

Realized Margin ($/BBL)2

11.25

6.81

4.44

Crude Capacity Utilization

98%

80%

18%

Clean Product Yield

86%

87%

(1%)

Renewable Fuels Produced (MB/D)

40

44

(4)

1 Segment reporting is pre-tax.

2 Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are included within this release.

3 Represents volumes delivered to fractionation hubs, including Mont Belvieu, Sweeny and Conway. Includes 100% of DCP Midstream Class A Segment and Phillips 66’s direct interest in DCP Sand Hills Pipeline, LLC and DCP Southern Hills Pipeline, LLC.

4 Excludes turnaround expense of all equity affiliates.

Second-Quarter 2025 Financial Results
Reported earnings were $877 million for the second quarter of 2025 versus $487 million in the first quarter of 2025. Second-quarter earnings included pre-tax special item adjustments of $(89) million in the Marketing and Specialties segment, $(45) million impacting Corporate and Other and $(33) million in the Refining segment. Adjusted earnings for the second quarter were $973 million versus an adjusted loss of $368 million in the first quarter.

Midstream second-quarter 2025 adjusted pre-tax income increased compared with the first quarter mainly due to higher volumes, largely driven by the acquisition of Coastal Bend, partially offset by seasonal maintenance expense and property taxes.

Chemicals adjusted pre-tax income decreased mainly due to lower margins driven by lower sales prices.

Refining adjusted pre-tax results increased mainly due to higher realized margins resulting from improved market crack spreads, as well as higher volumes and lower costs.

Marketing and Specialties adjusted pre-tax income increased primarily due to higher margins and volumes.

Renewable Fuels pre-tax results improved primarily due to higher realized margins including inventory impacts, as well as increased credits.

Corporate and Other adjusted pre-tax loss increased mainly due to higher net interest expense, partially offset by impacts from our investment in NOVONIX.

As of June 30, 2025, the company had $1.1 billion of cash and cash equivalents and $3.7 billion of committed capacity available under credit facilities.
Business Highlights and Strategic Priorities Progress

Advanced NGL wellhead-to-market strategy by acquiring Coastal Bend and nearing completion of a related pipeline expansion project, expected to increase capacity from 175 MBD to 225 MBD

Expanded natural gas gathering and processing capacity with the startup of Dos Picos II, a 220 MMCF/D plant in the Midland Basin

Maintained disciplined operations in Refining and achieved $5.46 per barrel in Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs 1, excluding adjusted turnaround expense in the second quarter and $6.17 per barrel year-to-date

Achieved a record year-to-date clean product yield of 87%, reflecting a 2% increase from the same period in 2024

On track to cease operations at the Los Angeles Refinery, as well as complete the Germany and Austria transaction by year-end.

1 Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are included within this release.

Investor Webcast
Members of Phillips 66 executive management will host a webcast at noon ET to provide an update on the company’s strategic initiatives and discuss the company’s second-quarter performance. To access the webcast and view related presentation materials, go to phillips66.com/investors and click on “Events & Presentations.” For detailed supplemental information, go to phillips66.com/supplemental.
About Phillips 66
Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information—This news release includes the terms “adjusted earnings (loss),” “adjusted pre-tax income (loss),” “adjusted EBITDA,” “adjusted earnings (loss) per share,” “adjusted controllable cost,” “cash from operations, excluding working capital,” “net debt-to-capital ratio,” and “realized refining margin per barrel.” These are non-GAAP financial measures that are included to help facilitate comparisons of operating performance across periods, to help facilitate comparisons with other companies in our industry and to help facilitate determination of enterprise value. Where applicable, these measures exclude items that do not reflect the core operating results of our businesses in the current period or other adjustments to reflect how management analyzes results. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are included within this release.
References in the release to earnings refer to net income attributable to Phillips 66.
Basis of Presentation— Effective April 1, 2024, we changed the internal financial information reviewed by our chief executive officer to evaluate performance and allocate resources to our operating segments. This included changes in the composition of our operating segments, as well as measurement changes for certain activities between our operating segments. The primary effects of this realignment included establishment of a Renewable Fuels operating segment, which includes renewable fuels activities and assets historically reported in our Refining, Marketing and Specialties (M&S), and Midstream segments; change in method of allocating results for certain Gulf Coast distillate export activities from our M&S segment to our Refining segment; reclassification of certain crude oil and international clean products trading activities between our M&S segment and our Refining segment; and change in reporting of our investment in NOVONIX from our Midstream segment to Corporate and Other. Accordingly, prior period results have been recast for comparability.
In the third quarter of 2024, we began presenting the line item “Capital expenditures and investments” on our consolidated statement of cash flows exclusive of acquisitions, net of cash acquired. Accordingly, prior period information has been reclassified for comparability.
Cautionary Statement for the Purposes of the “Safe Harbor” Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995—This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies relating to NGL, crude oil, natural gas, refined petroleum or renewable fuels products pricing, regulation or taxation, including exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits, including those necessary for capital projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum products, renewable fuels, renewable feedstocks and natural gas prices, and refined product, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for our products; changes to government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for biofuels; liability resulting from pending or future litigation or other legal proceedings; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs or technical requirements for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities or transporting our products; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected technological or commercial difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products, including chemical products; the level and success of producers’ drilling plans and the amount and quality of production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; changes in the cost or availability of adequate and reliable transportation for our NGL, crude oil, natural gas and refined petroleum and renewable fuels products; failure to complete definitive agreements and feasibility studies for, and to complete construction of, announced and future capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to our credit profile or illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets; damage to our facilities due to accidents, weather and climate events, civil unrest, insurrections, political events, terrorism or cyberattacks; domestic and international economic and political developments including armed hostilities, such as the war in Eastern Europe, instability in the financial services and banking sector, excess inflation, expropriation of assets and changes in fiscal policy, including interest rates; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and properties, plants and equipment and/or strategic decisions or other developments with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; substantial investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of existing or future environmental rules and regulations, including greenhouse gas emissions reductions and reduced consumer demand for refined petroleum products; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates) applicable to our business; political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of our joint ventures that we do not control; the potential impact of activist shareholder actions or tactics; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Earnings (Loss)

Millions of Dollars

2025

2024

2Q

1Q

Jun YTD

2Q

Jun YTD

Midstream

$

731

751

1,482

767

1,321

Chemicals

20

113

133

222

427

Refining

359

(937

)

(578

)

302

518

Marketing and Specialties

571

1,282

1,853

415

781

Renewable Fuels

(133

)

(185

)

(318

)

(55

)

(110

)

Corporate and Other

(428

)

(376

)

(804

)

(340

)

(662

)

Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

1,120

648

1,768

1,311

2,275

Less: Income tax expense (benefit)

212

122

334

291

494

Less: Noncontrolling interests

31

39

70

5

18

Phillips 66

$

877

487

1,364

1,015

1,763

Adjusted Earnings (Loss)

Millions of Dollars

2025

2024

2Q

1Q

Jun YTD

2Q

Jun YTD

Midstream

$

731

683

1,414

753

1,366

Chemicals

20

113

133

222

427

Refining

392

(937

)

(545

)

302

615

Marketing and Specialties

660

265

925

415

722

Renewable Fuels

(133

)

(185

)

(318

)

(55

)

(110

)

Corporate and Other

(383

)

(355

)

(738

)

(340

)

(662

)

Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

1,287

(416

)

871

1,297

2,358

Less: Income tax expense (benefit)

283

(78

)

205

278

504

Less: Noncontrolling interests

31

30

61

35

48

Phillips 66

$

973

(368

)

605

984

1,806

Millions of Dollars

Except as Indicated

2025

2024

2Q

1Q

Jun YTD

2Q

Jun YTD

Reconciliation of Consolidated Earnings to Adjusted Earnings (Loss)

Consolidated Earnings

$

877

487

1,364

1,015

1,763

Pre-tax adjustments:

Impairments

—

21

21

224

387

Net (gain) loss on asset dispositions1

89

(1,085

)

(996

)

(238

)

(238

)

Legal accrual

33

—

33

—

—

Legal settlement

—

—

—

—

(66

)

Professional advisory fees

45

—

45

—

—

Tax impact of adjustments2

(40

)

200

160

13

(10

)

Other tax impacts

(31

)

—

(31

)

—

—

Noncontrolling interests

—

9

9

(30

)

(30

)

Adjusted earnings (loss)

$

973

(368

)

605

984

1,806

Earnings per share of common stock (dollars)

$

2.15

1.18

3.32

2.38

4.10

Adjusted earnings (loss) per share of common stock (dollars)

$

2.38

(0.90

)

1.47

2.31

4.21

Adjusted Weighted-Average Diluted Common Shares Outstanding (thousands)

407,934

409,182

409,012

425,734

429,003

Reconciliation of Segment Pre-Tax Income (Loss) to Adjusted Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

Midstream Pre-Tax Income

$

731

751

1,482

767

1,321

Pre-tax adjustments:

Impairments

—

—

—

224

283

Net gain on asset dispositions1

—

(68

)

(68

)

(238

)

(238

)

Adjusted pre-tax income

$

731

683

1,414

753

1,366

Chemicals Pre-Tax Income

$

20

113

133

222

427

Pre-tax adjustments:

None

—

—

—

—

—

Adjusted pre-tax income

$

20

113

133

222

427

Refining Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

$

359

(937

)

(578

)

302

518

Pre-tax adjustments:

Impairments

—

—

—

—

104

Legal settlement

—

—

—

—

(7

)

Legal accrual

33

—

33

—

—

Adjusted pre-tax income (loss)

$

392

(937

)

(545

)

(302

)

(615

)

Marketing and Specialties Pre-Tax Income

$

571

1,282

1,853

415

781

Pre-tax adjustments:

Net (gain) loss on asset dispositions1

89

(1,017

)

(928

)

—

—

Legal settlement

—

—

—

—

(59

)

Adjusted pre-tax income

$

660

265

925

415

722

Renewable Fuels Pre-Tax Loss

$

(133

)

(185

)

(318

)

(55

)

(110

)

Pre-tax adjustments:

None

—

—

—

—

—

Adjusted pre-tax loss

$

(133

)

(185

)

(318

)

(55

)

(110

)

Corporate and Other Pre-Tax Loss

$

(428

)

(376

)

(804

)

(340

)

(662

)

Pre-tax adjustments:

Impairments

—

21

21

—

—

Professional advisory fees

45

—

45

—

—

Adjusted pre-tax loss

$

(383

)

(355

)

(738

)

(340

)

(662

)

1. Gain on disposition of our 49% non-operated equity interest in Coop Mineraloel AG in 1Q 2025. In connection with our pending disposition of our Germany and Austria retail marketing business, in the second quarter of 2025 we recognized a before-tax unrealized loss from foreign currency derivatives.

2. We generally tax effect taxable U.S.-based special items using a combined federal and state annual statutory income tax rate of approximately 24%. Taxable special items attributable to foreign locations likewise generally use a local statutory income tax rate. Nontaxable events reflect zero income tax. These events include, but are not limited to, most goodwill impairments, transactions legislatively exempt from income tax, transactions related to entities for which we have made an assertion that the undistributed earnings are permanently reinvested, or transactions occurring in jurisdictions with a valuation allowance.

Millions of Dollars

Except as Indicated

2025

2Q

1Q

Reconciliation of Consolidated Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA Attributable to Phillips 66

Net Income

$

908

526

Plus:

Income tax expense

212

122

Net interest expense

230

187

Depreciation and amortization

816

791

Phillips 66 EBITDA

$

2,166

1,626

Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

Impairments

—

21

Net (gain) loss on asset dispositions

89

(1,085

)

Legal accrual

33

—

Professional advisory fees

45

—

Total Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax)

167

(1,064

)

Change in Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

2

15

Phillips 66 EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items and Change in Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

$

2,335

577

Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

17

18

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

15

14

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

184

187

Adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests

(50

)

(60

)

Phillips 66 Adjusted EBITDA

$

2,501

736

Reconciliation of Segment Income before Income Taxes to Adjusted EBITDA

Midstream Income before income taxes

$

731

751

Plus:

Depreciation and amortization

260

233

Midstream EBITDA

$

991

984

Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

Net gain on asset dispositions

—

(68

)

Midstream EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

$

991

916

Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

4

3

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

3

3

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

24

23

Adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests

(50

)

(60

)

Midstream Adjusted EBITDA

$

972

885

Chemicals Income before income taxes

$

20

113

Plus:

None

—

—

Chemicals EBITDA

$

20

113

Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

None

—

—

Chemicals EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

$

20

113

Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

13

13

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

(1

)

(1

)

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

116

119

Chemicals Adjusted EBITDA

$

148

244

Refining Income (loss) before income taxes

$

359

(937

)

Plus:

Depreciation and amortization

443

456

Refining EBITDA

$

802

(481

)

Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

Legal accrual

33

—

Refining EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

$

835

(481

)

Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

—

—

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

3

2

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

29

27

Refining Adjusted EBITDA

$

867

(452

)

Marketing and Specialties Income before income taxes

$

571

1,282

Plus:

Depreciation and amortization

33

20

Marketing and Specialties EBITDA

$

604

1,302

Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

Net gain on asset disposition

89

(1,017

)

Marketing and Specialties EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

$

693

285

Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

—

2

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

10

10

Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

15

18

Marketing and Specialties Adjusted EBITDA

$

718

315

Renewable Fuels Loss before income taxes

$

(133

)

(185

)

Plus:

Depreciation and amortization

23

23

Renewable Fuels EBITDA

$

(110

)

(162

)

Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

None

—

—

Renewable Fuels EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

$

(110

)

(162

)

Corporate and Other Loss before income taxes

$

(428

)

(376

)

Plus:

Net interest expense

230

187

Depreciation and amortization

57

59

Corporate and Other EBITDA

$

(141

)

(130

)

Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

Impairments

—

21

Professional advisory fees

45

—

Total Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax)

45

21

Change in Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

2

15

Corporate EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items and Change in
Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

$

(94

)

(94

)

Millions of Dollars
Except as Indicated

June 30, 2025

March 31, 2025

Debt-to-Capital Ratio

Total Debt

$

20,935

18,803

Total Equity

28,626

28,353

Debt-to-Capital Ratio

42

%

40

%

Cash and Cash Equivalents, including cash classified within Assets held for sale1

1,144

1,489

Net Debt-to-Capital Ratio

41

%

38

%

1. Includes cash and cash equivalents of $92 million classified within Assets held for sale at June 30, 2025.

Millions of Dollars

Except as Indicated

2025

2Q

1Q

Reconciliation of Refining Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes to Realized Refining Margins

Income (loss) before income taxes

$

359

(937

)

Plus:

Taxes other than income taxes

94

110

Depreciation, amortization and impairments

446

457

Selling, general and administrative expenses

32

46

Operating expenses

848

1,074

Equity in earnings of affiliates

2

105

Other segment expense, net

(47

)

(5

)

Proportional share of refining gross margins contributed by equity affiliates

234

141

Special items:

None

—

—

Realized refining margins

$

1,968

991

Total processed inputs (thousands of barrels)

152,005

124,453

Adjusted total processed inputs (thousands of barrels)*

174,772

145,559

Income (loss) before income taxes (dollars per barrel)**

$

2.36

(7.53

)

Realized refining margins (dollars per barrel)***

$

11.25

6.81

*Adjusted total processed inputs include our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate.

**Income (loss) before income taxes divided by total processed inputs.

***Realized refining margins per barrel, as presented, are calculated using the underlying realized refining margin amounts, in dollars, divided by adjusted total processed inputs, in barrels. As such, recalculated per barrel amounts using the rounded margins and barrels presented may differ from the presented per barrel amounts.

Millions of Dollars

Except as Indicated

2025

2Q

1Q

June YTD

Reconciliation of Refining Operating and SG&A Expenses to Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs

Turnaround expenses

$

53

270

323

Other operating expenses

795

804

1,599

Total operating expenses

848

1,074

1,922

Selling, general and administrative expenses

32

46

78

Refining Controllable Costs

880

1,120

2,000

Plus:

Proportional share of equity affiliate turnaround expenses1

24

27

51

Proportional share of equity affiliate other operating and SG&A expenses1

161

173

334

Total proportional share of equity affiliate operating and SG&A expenses1

185

200

385

Special item adjustments (pre-tax):

Legal accrual

(33

)

—

(33

)

Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs

1,032

1,320

2,352

Total processed inputs (MB)

152,005

124,453

276,458

Adjusted total processed inputs (MB)2

174,772

145,559

320,331

Refining turnaround expense ($/BBL)3

0.35

2.17

1.17

Refining controllable costs, excluding turnaround expense ($/BBL)3

5.44

6.83

6.07

Refining Controllable Costs per Barrel ($/BBL)3

5.79

9.00

7.24

Refining adjusted turnaround expense ($/BBL)4

0.44

2.04

1.17

Refining adjusted controllable costs, excluding adjusted turnaround expense ($/BBL)4

5.46

7.03

6.17

Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs ($/BBL)4

5.90

9.07

7.34

1. Represents proportional share of operating and SG&A of equity affiliates for our Refining segment that are reflected as a component of equity in earnings of affiliates on our consolidated statement of income.

2. Adjusted total processed inputs include our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate.

3. Denominator is total processed inputs.

4. Denominator is adjusted total processed inputs.

Millions of Dollars

Except as Indicated

2024

2023

2022

2021

Reconciliation of Refining Operating and SG&A Expenses to Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs

Turnaround expenses

$

484

538

772

497

Other operating expenses

3,243

3,707

3,958

3,663

Total operating expenses

3,727

4,245

4,730

4,160

Selling, general and administrative expenses

209

169

152

131

Refining Controllable Costs

3,936

4,414

4,882

4,291

Plus:

Proportional share of equity affiliate turnaround expenses1

68

93

118

118

Proportional share of equity affiliate other operating and SG&A expenses1

626

641

721

619

Total proportional share of equity affiliate operating and SG&A expenses1

694

734

839

737

Special item adjustments (pre-tax):

Hurricane-related (costs) recovery

—

—

21

(40

)

Winter-storm-related costs

—

—

—

(17

)

Alliance shutdown-related costs

—

—

(20

)

(32

)

Legal accrual

(22

)

(30

)

—

—

Los Angeles Refinery cessation costs

(44

)

—

—

—

Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs

4,564

5,118

5,722

4,939

Total processed inputs (MB)

588,316

607,958

612,741

638,145

Adjusted total processed inputs (MB)2

680,043

685,435

691,855

715,780

Refining turnaround expense ($/BBL)3

0.82

0.88

1.26

0.78

Refining controllable costs, excluding turnaround expense ($/BBL)3

5.87

6.38

6.71

5.95

Refining Controllable Costs per Barrel ($/BBL)3

6.69

7.26

7.97

6.72

Refining adjusted turnaround expense ($/BBL)4

0.81

0.92

1.29

0.86

Refining adjusted controllable costs, excluding adjusted turnaround expense ($/BBL)4

5.90

6.55

6.98

6.04

Refining Adjusted Controllable Costs ($/BBL)4

6.71

7.47

8.27

6.90

1. Represents proportional share of operating and SG&A of equity affiliates for our Refining segment that are reflected as a component of equity in earnings of affiliates on our consolidated statement of income.

2. Adjusted total processed inputs include our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate.

3. Denominator is total processed inputs.

4. Denominator is adjusted total processed inputs.

Source: Phillips 66

MIL OSI Global Banks –

July 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) concludes El Nino Emergency Drought Relief Response through the global humanitarian fund in Namibia

Source: APO – Report:

.

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in collaboration with partner organisations, has successfully wrapped up a critical a nine-month emergency response in support of the Government of Namibia’s Emergency Drought Response Plan to the El Niño-induced drought.

With a contribution of US$3 million from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (UN-CERF), WFP supported the government in delivering life-saving food and nutrition assistance to over 63,000 vulnerable people across Kavango East, Kavango West, and Omaheke regions between October 2024 and June 2025.

In addition to food assistance, the project served as a platform for integrated service delivery. At food distribution sites, UNICEF provided outreach and basic health screenings for more than 83,500 people and facilitated referrals for malnourished children. UNFPA reached more than 22,400 people with Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) services through daily mobile outreach in schools and communities. A community feedback mechanism system was also established, enabling affected populations to share their needs, concerns and suggestions to help shape and improve the response.

“This emergency response was about more than just delivering food, it was about restoring dignity and hope to communities hit hardest by the drought,” said Naouar Labidi, WFP Country Representative in Namibia. “Thanks to the generous support from UN-CERF and our collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister and UN partners, namely the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), we reached tens of thousands of people with vital humanitarian assistance. But we also used this moment to invest in local capacity, strengthen partnerships, and helping communities build the resilience they need to face climate shocks.”

The contribution from CERF allowed over 41,000 people (nearly 7000 households) to receive three rounds of food vouchers, enabling them to purchase essential items such as maize meal, canned fish and cooking oil from 25 participating retailers. This not only supported immediate needs, but also helped boost the local economy, laying the groundwork for longer-term resilience by supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening local supply chains. At the same time, 22,000 children received hot and nutritious meals from 155 conveniently located soup kitchens.

WFP remains committed to working closely with the Government of Namibia, UN agencies and partners to strengthen food systems, build community resilience and enhance emergency preparedness to future climate shocks.

– on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Mashatile highlights role of SMEs in economic growth and job creation

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has highlighted the critical role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as crucial contributors to economic development and job creation.

“Speaking of job creation, the SMEs are significant contributors to economic development and job creation globally. We can attribute their relevance in reducing unemployment to their ability to react swiftly to market changes,“ he said on Thursday.

The country’s second-in-command was delivering his closing remarks during the inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting at the Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg, Gauteng.

The Deputy President has called for prioritising the development of SMEs to create jobs and enhance income for youth, women, and marginalised groups.

He stressed the need for a commitment to resolving regulatory bottlenecks related to cross-border trade and investment, urging participants to focus on local value creation and expanding local supply chain opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“This can be achieved by ensuring that the Green Economy Transition is supported by clear green industrialisation policies,” he added.

The Global SME Ministerial Meeting served as a vital platform for fostering partnerships and setting a collaborative agenda aimed at propelling SMEs towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to support SMEs worldwide, as leaders gathered to address the challenges and opportunities they face in a rapidly changing global landscape.

“This inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting could not have come at a better time,” he told the attendees.

The discussions revolved around key themes such as enhancing access to finance, promoting digital transformation, and facilitating green transitions within the SME sector.

Mashatile expressed optimism, highlighting the potential for collaboration and shared goals to unlock significant opportunities for SMEs globally.

He also took the time to commend the role of the United Nations (UN) in fostering multilateral cooperation during a time when unilateralism is challenging the sustainability of nations.

“This relationship is critical in this challenging period of abrupt shifts towards unilateralism, which jeopardise the sustainability of our respective countries and the world,” Mashatile added.

The Deputy President touched on the “Call to Action” that emerged from the meeting, which reaffirmed support for vital multilateral initiatives, including the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, the Declaration on Future Generations, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and Group of 20 (G20).

He stressed South Africa’s position as the G20 Presidency, under the theme of ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,’ focused on championing developmental issues, particularly in Africa.

As the G20 Leaders’ Summit approaches, Deputy President Mashatile told attendees that the meeting was instrumental in gathering ministers from the continent and the Global South to exchange insights relevant to the larger G20 agenda.

“We have heard your voices and will ensure that we champion the issues you have raised in the broader G20 processes and the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November,” he said.

In addition, a meeting of Trade Promotion Organisations took place alongside the Ministerial Meeting, where participants discussed the impacts of trade protectionism and disruptions to global supply chains.

The Deputy President urged governments to enhance trade and economic diplomacy, emphasising the importance of multilateral trade agreements in bolstering economic growth.

“We must enhance our capabilities to strengthen trade and economic diplomacy, allowing ourselves to engage more effectively in both bilateral and multilateral trade agreements,” Mashatile stated.

South Africa’s efforts to strengthen regional trade through agreements like the Southern African Customs Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) were highlighted as pivotal steps towards unlocking Africa’s economic potential.

“The Free Trade Area Agreement can significantly enhance Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape by reducing trade barriers and increasing market access, enabling youth to expand businesses, innovate products and services, and seize untapped opportunities within the continent.” – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Italy: EIB and Banca Ifis provide €200 million in financing to back Italian pharmacies, with a focus on female entrepreneurs and cohesion
Source: European Investment Bank

EIB
- The EIB has approved a new €100 million credit line to Banca Ifis to make it easier for Italian pharmacies to access finance.
- Banca Ifis will match the EIB’s contribution with its own resources, bringing the total funding for businesses to €200 million.
- At least €60 million will go to pharmacies managed by women. This operation brings the total investments supported by the EIB and Banca Ifis to €800 million since 2019.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Banca Ifis have signed a €200 million agreement to back the development of pharmacies in Italy, with a particular focus on female entrepreneurs and cohesion. The signature was announced today by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and Banca Ifis Vice-President Rosalba Benedetto.

“This agreement marks a further step towards a more inclusive, dynamic and sustainable economy. Backing small and medium companies strengthens a country’s business environment and becomes even more of a strategic imperative when access to finance means new opportunities for female entrepreneurs, promoting growth, innovation and social cohesion,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti.

“This agreement confirms our support for Italian small and medium companies and our commitment to backing gender equality and female entrepreneurship. The pharmacies we are backing with sector specialist Banca Credifarma provide access to local primary care services and are a vital focal point for local communities. This agreement reinforces our years-long journey with an institution at the highest echelons of the European Union – the EIB – which has always put environmental, social and governance issues at the heart of its initiatives with the aim of accelerating the sustainable transition of our economy,” said Banca Ifis Vice-President Rosalba Benedetto.

In concrete terms, the agreement states that EIB will provide Banca Ifis with €100 million by signing two contracts of €50 million each, opening a credit line with favourable interest rates. Banca Ifis will match the amount provided by the EIB, bringing the total funding offered to Italian pharmacies to €200 million. The loan will be granted by Banca Credifarma, a Banca Ifis-controlled financial institution specialised in supporting the needs of pharmacies.

Of the €200 million total, at least 30% (over €60 million) will back female entrepreneurs in pharmacies meeting the following criteria: i) at least 51% owned by women; ii) managed by a woman; iii) implementing inclusive policies promoting female employment, exceeding the national sector average. A particular focus will be placed on pharmacies located in cohesion regions.

The agreement signed today is the sixth between the EIB and Banca Ifis, with the two organisations providing over €800 million to Italian small and medium companies since 2019. This is also the EIB’s first credit line to focus solely on the Italian pharmacy sector.

EIB

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality. In the last five years, the EIB Group has provided more than €58 billion in financing for projects in Italy. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. The EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support €1 trillion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Over half of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a healthier environment. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower.

Banca Ifis

Banca Ifis is an Italian challenger bank providing specialty finance services for the real economy. Founded in 1983, it is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange and has around 2 000 employees. Banca Ifis’ business model mainly focuses on three pillars: commercial and corporate banking services; acquisition and management of non-performing loan portfolios in the small tickets unsecured segment; and retail savings solutions with the Rendimax 20-year deposit account. Its 40-year presence on the market means that Banca Ifis can anticipate businesses’ needs, supporting them on a day-to-day basis with tailored financial solutions. Technological innovation research and ongoing digital transformation are enabling the bank to expand its range of products and services and to improve the quality and speed of service to businesses. It implements its sustainable business approach by seeking solutions promoting the environmental transition and inclusion.

To this end, Banca Ifis created the Kaleidos social impact lab to help spread of a more equitable, inclusive and supportive culture. Created under the auspices of Chairman Ernesto Fürstenberg Fassio, the initiative is backed by a proprietary social impact measurement model enabling Banca Ifis to measure positive impact inside and outside the company. In 2025, the bank successfully acquired illimity Bank in a public takeover and exchange offer that launched a new development phase in which Banca Ifis aims to consolidate its leadership in the Italian specialty finance market.
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 25, 2025

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