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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joint Media Statement of the 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    The 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs (DGs) was held on 3 – 5 June 2025 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam. The Meeting was chaired by Mr. Azizil Hakim Brahim, Acting Controller of Customs, Royal Customs and Excise Department, Brunei Darussalam and attended by 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS) and the ASEAN Secretariat.

     

    We express concern over the recent introduction of unilateral tariffs by the U.S. This has caused uncertainty and will bring significant challenges to businesses, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as to global trade dynamics. The unprecedented imposition of tariffs by the U.S. will disrupt regional and global trade and investment flows, as well as supply chains, affecting businesses worldwide and hindering economic progress in ASEAN. We reaffirm our support for a predictable, transparent, free, fair, inclusive, sustainable, and rules-based multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, and we acknowledge the critical role that the WTO has played in fostering global economic growth. ASEAN will remain steadfast in deepening our regional economic integration, leveraging on opportunities amidst global challenges. We will continue to work together more closely, with greater unity and solidarity and remain committed to ASEAN’s rule-based trade. This collective effort will enable ASEAN to cope with and overcome the global trade crisis, minimise the impact on our people, and continue to grow sustainably.

     
    Download the full statement here
    The post Joint Media Statement of the 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on Eid al-Adha

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Eid al-Adha:

    “Today, Muslims in British Columbia and around the world will gather to celebrate the holiest days in the Muslim calendar.

    “Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, commemorates the devotion of the Prophet Ibrahim.

    “Muslims will gather to pray at their local mosque, to share meals with loved ones and to provide food to people in need. The values of charity and kindliness are central to the celebration of Eid al-Adha.

    “Eid al-Adha also marks the conclusion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage made by Muslims to the Holy City of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

    “This joyous and sacred celebration offers an opportunity for all of us to reflect on how fortunate we are in British Columbia to have diverse and vibrant Muslim communities with connections to every corner of the world. Those communities make tremendous contributions in making our province a better place.

    “To all who celebrate – Eid Mubarak!”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1107, Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1107 would permanently authorize certain health care professionals employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to prescribe, deliver, and dispense controlled substances to eligible VA patients via telemedicine, regardless of whether they have conducted an in-person medical examination. VA has had temporary authority to do so since the start of the COVID-19 public health emergency. CBO anticipates that implementing the bill would change how prescriptions for certain controlled substances are fulfilled but would not significantly change the number of medications prescribed or dispensed.

    Based on the cost of similar regulatory efforts, CBO estimates that updating VA policies and guidance documents to reflect the permanent authority in the bill would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period; any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Noah Callahan. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Military Committee Visits Luxembourg

    Source: NATO

    On June 5th and 6th, the NATO Military Committee conducted an official visit to Luxembourg at the invitation of the Chief of Defence, General Steve Thull. During the visit, the Committee toured the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) and Société Européenne des Satellites (SES). The Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, also met with the Minister of Defence of Luxembourg, Yuriko Backes.

    The Military Committee was welcomed by the Chief of Defence General Steve Thull, and received briefings on Luxembourg’s contributions to NATO operations, missions, and activities, most notably Luxembourg’s significant contributions in cyber and space capabilities.

    Following this, the Military Committee visited SES, a global leader in satellite-based content connectivity, which included a briefing on GovSat, a public-private partnership between the Government of Luxembourg and SES. GovSat provides secure and reliable governmental satellite communication services to Allied nations and NATO. The visit highlighted the importance of strengthening strategic partnerships in satellite communications, cyber security, and resilient connectivity.

    On the second day, Admiral Cavo Dragone met with Minister of Defence of Luxembourg, Yuriko Backes, to discuss the global security environment, focusing in particular on Luxembourg’s contributions to NATO. Their meeting also addressed the outcomes of the recent Meeting of NATO Ministers of Defence and Luxembourg’s approach to implementing its capability targets.

    The visit concluded at the NSPA, where the Military Committee was briefed on how the NSPA links industry and nations’ requirements to find the most efficient, effective and responsive solutions for the Alliance, its nations and partners. This included a briefing on the NSPA’s strategic initiatives in supporting Ukraine. Admiral Cavo Dragone emphasised that NATO’s strength lies in its unity, and that “more defence investment should always lead to more security’. He underscored the importance of a collective approach to planning and praised the NSPA for its close involvement in these efforts.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Kicks off with urban rescue training in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025 [Image 9 of 9]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    VIRAC, Philippines (June 2, 2025) – Hawaii National Guardsmen and personnel from the
    Armed Forces of the Philippines conduct urban rescue training with local emergency responders and civilian authorities in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.02.2025
    Date Posted: 06.03.2025 20:23
    Photo ID: 9081883
    VIRIN: 250602-N-YV347-2143
    Resolution: 7857×5238
    Size: 28.16 MB
    Location: VIRAC, PH
    Web Views: 31
    Downloads: 5

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Kicks off with urban rescue training in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025 [Image 9 of 9], by PO2 Jordan Jennings, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: NordVPN validated in independent security and performance evaluation by West Coast Labs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NordVPN, a leading cybersecurity service, has achieved exceptional results in independent testing conducted by West Coast Labs (WCL), a globally recognized technical research and product testing organization.

    The evaluation, carried out under AMTSO (Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization) guidelines, assessed NordVPN’s performance across key technical categories, confirming its reliability, speed, and security.

    “Independent testing is one of the most honest measures of our work. This evaluation confirms that NordVPN delivers strong security while maintaining high levels of speed and usability — a result we’re proud to stand behind,” says Marijus Briedis, CTO at NordVPN.

    Performance and security benchmarks

    WCL’s tests used Windows 11/10 applications on a high-speed 1Gbps uplink, comparing NordVPN against three randomly selected, undisclosed competitors. The results highlighted NordVPN’s industry-leading capabilities in speed, security, and reliability.

    The WCL assessment focused on main areas of VPN performance:

    • VPN functionality – Verified that key features such as auto-launch on boot, auto-connect, internet kill switch, and split tunneling performed correctly and consistently, ensuring a secure connection setup.
    • Speed performance – Measured download/upload speeds, latency, and connection time across seven global regions. Compared to undisclosed competitors, NordVPN delivered 15.2% faster downloads, 12.4% faster uploads, and 7.9% lower latency.
    • Security and leak protection – Eight separate leak scenarios were tested, including IP address, DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leak checks, as well as protection during server switching, Wi-Fi hotspot changes, and mobile data transitions. The evaluation also included two advanced cases: a split-tunneling flaw and the TunnelVision attack — a known vulnerability that can be particularly challenging to defend against. NordVPN passed all scenarios, demonstrating strong leak protection even under complex conditions.
    • Website accessibility – Tested access to 100 of the most visited websites before and after connecting to the VPN. All websites remained accessible with 100% success, although a small number of Cloudflare CAPTCHA challenges were triggered in some cases while connected to NordVPN.
    • VPN time to connect – The average time for NordVPN to establish a secure tunnel was 1.67 seconds, making it 36.1% faster than the industry average. This was measured from the moment a user initiated a connection to the point when traffic was securely routed through the VPN.
    • System resource impact while connected to VPN – During browsing tests, NordVPN showed a minimal impact on system performance, with memory usage increasing by just 1.1% and processor usage by 3.8% compared to operating without a VPN connection.

    “This evaluation reflects the work we’ve put into making NordVPN fast, reliable, and secure. We design it to work quietly in the background — quick to connect, light on system resources, and ready to protect across a range of scenarios, including those that test for serious vulnerabilities like TunnelVision. It’s good to see those goals confirmed,” says Briedis.

    ABOUT WEST COAST LABS

    West Coast Labs is an independent security testing and research organization based in the US. Known for evaluating and certifying cybersecurity products, the organization assesses the effectiveness of security solutions against real-world threats, such as viruses, malware, and cyberattacks. The company strives to perform its tests “in a secure, real-world test environment and within a framework of confidentiality that ensures integrity of information and test data.” The cybersecurity industry widely regards certification by WCL as a significant achievement.

    ABOUT NORDVPN

    NordVPN is the world’s most advanced VPN service provider, chosen by millions of internet users worldwide. The service offers features such as dedicated IP, Double VPN, and Onion Over VPN servers, which help to boost your online privacy with zero tracking. One of NordVPN’s key features is Threat Protection Pro™, a tool that blocks malicious websites, trackers, and ads and scans downloads for malware. The latest creation of Nord Security, NordVPN’s parent company, is Saily — a global eSIM service. NordVPN is known for being user friendly and can offer some of the best prices on the market. This VPN provider covers 165 locations across 118 countries. For more information, visit https://nordvpn.com.

    More information: brigita@nordsec.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI Expert Says Musk Just Outran Big Tech in the AI Race

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALTIMORE, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — New briefing reveals Elon Musk has quietly built the most powerful AI system in America — far from Silicon Valley, and without the help of Big Tech.

    In a new briefing to the public, tech entrepreneur and bestselling author James Altucher reveals what he describes as a rogue AI breakthrough — hidden in plain sight.

    According to Altucher, Elon Musk’s xAI has constructed a private supercomputer called Project Colossus, located in Memphis, Tennessee, that has already surpassed Microsoft, Google, and Meta in scale — and is set to grow exponentially before July 1.

    “He’s Already Passed Them”

    Altucher claims Musk’s project was built outside the traditional tech pipeline — with no reliance on legacy platforms or government partnerships.

    “Elon Musk has created the AI mothership… an innovation of such enormous proportion… that he has already surpassed all the leading AI developers.”

    He says the facility is now home to over 200,000 AI chips — and that the system’s scale is unlike anything in commercial use.

    “It contains not just one or two… but 200,000 units of Nvidia’s all-powerful AI chips… making it the most advanced AI facility known to man.”

    A Presidential Assist — But Not a Partnership

    While Altucher says Project Colossus is not a government project, it was unlocked by a key political move: the repeal of Biden’s AI executive order.

    “In one of his FIRST acts as President… Donald Trump overturned Executive Order #14110.”

    That reversal, he says, “cleared the path” for developers like Musk to act quickly — and without interference.

    Not ChatGPT — Something Bigger

    Altucher warns that while most people are still fixated on chatbots, Musk’s system is aiming for something far more advanced.

    “AI 2.0… gives that knowledge to intelligent machines that I believe will solve our problems for us.”

    He claims the system will soon receive a major upgrade that could “10X its power” overnight — potentially revealing what he calls the first working form of Artificial Superintelligence.

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author. He studied AI at Cornell and Carnegie Mellon, worked with IBM on the Deep Blue supercomputer, and built early AI-driven systems on Wall Street. His latest work focuses on the rise of independent AI infrastructure and the figures driving it.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ICC proposal to reduce tax challenges of cross-border teleworking

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC proposal to reduce tax challenges of cross-border teleworking

    Five years after the pandemic, many organisations have largely returned to office-centric working models. Yet, the crisis fundamentally changed how we work, establishing new expectations around flexibility and remote work that continue to persist. In many ways, we accidentally discovered a way of working that actually fits how people live – one where handling a family crisis abroad didn’t preclude delivering excellent work.

    This shift in expectations has created a new reality for businesses navigating the complex tax risks of flexible work arrangements.

    The gap between employee needs and tax reality

    ICC’s 2023 internal global survey of its members revealed that over 80% of employers receive temporary teleworking requests prompted by family circumstances, health-related needs, caregiving responsibilities, or the use of a secondary residence. Despite these arrangements generally being temporary and arising from normal life circumstances, employers frequently find themselves caught between employee expectations and regulatory uncertainty. These seemingly straightforward requests are hampered due to concerns around permanent establishment risk – the potential for creating a taxable business presence in another country – employer tax and social security obligations, and complex compliance requirements.

    The 60-day teleworking solution

    To address these challenges, ICC has proposed the introduction of a 60-day teleworking ‘safe harbour’, under which an employee’s temporary physical presence in a jurisdiction for teleworking purposes would not, in itself, give rise to a permanent establishment risk, or trigger employer-related tax or social security liabilities. The proposal aligns to the broader principles of international tax law, would not affect a country’s tax rights beyond a limited scope, and can be considered and reflected in the revised Commentary to Article 5 OECD Model Tax Convention and in the Commentary to the UN Tax Convention, without the need to work on a new article.

    Why this benefits everyone, from business to country

    For companies, ‘safe harbour’ eliminates legal uncertainty, allows for project continuity and continued revenue generation, and transforms potential talent retention risks into a competitive advantage.

    For people, it supports workforce well-being by accommodating short-term teleworking needs in times of personal, medical or geopolitical emergencies.

    For tax authorities, it reduces enforcement and compliance burdens and eliminates low-risk, low-revenue case loads from already stretched resources.

    For countries, it ensures that the employee’s country of employment retains its income tax revenue, while the temporary work location benefits from increased consumption and sales tax receipts.

    How it would work in practice

    The proposal is built around several key components:

    • Short-term and on request: The presence of an employee in a country different from the country of employment should be limited in time (e.g. maximum of 60 days per year) and at the request of the employee.
    • A clear definition of a day: Consistent with approaches in tax residency rules, a day should be counted if any work activity is performed from the jurisdiction in question.
    • Individual treatment of multiple employees abroad: The presence of multiple employees in the same country should not be treated cumulatively for determining employer tax liabilities. Each employee’s teleworking days should be assessed independently to avoid unintentionally triggering permanent establishment risks or compliance obligations based on collective presence.
    • Administrative simplification: Where possible, encourage administrative filing to be done in a single country through optional one-stop-shop mechanisms or employer-led tax remittance models..

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: NMFDC Strengthens Medical Expeditionary Capabilities With New NEC

    Source: United States Navy

    JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas – The Naval Medical Forces Development Command (NMFDC) is enhancing the Navy’s expeditionary forces’ ability to provide critical en-route medical care by establishing a new Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) – Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appliance servicing company which used high pressure sales tactics on elderly and vulnerable is shut down

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appliance servicing company which used high pressure sales tactics on elderly and vulnerable is shut down

    Service Plan UK Ltd pressured elderly people – some of whom had Alzheimer’s and dementia – into service agreements to protect household appliances.

    • UK Service Plan Ltd sold monthly and annual plans which they said would provide service cover for household appliances.  

    • The company had a pattern of behaviour which involved targeting the elderly and vulnerable and creating direct debits without permission.  

    • The company was subject to a successful winding up order at the High Court in London on 19 May 2025, and its director was disqualified for eight years. 

    A company which used high pressure sales tactics to sell service plans for household appliances has been shut down after an Insolvency Service investigation found it targeted the elderly and vulnerable.  

    UK Service Plan Ltd, registered at Princess Street in Manchester and formerly Trafalgar Place, Brighton, offered protection plans for white goods to cover the cost of callouts, replacement parts and labour. 

    The company charged around £29 a month for a service plan, and some people were persuaded to take on lengthy agreements of up to three and five years. 

    Additionally, the company pressured people – some via cold calls – into buying plans by offering a discount which they falsely claimed was only applicable if they pay on the day. 

    The Insolvency Service looked at 14 complaints which had been received from UK Service Plan Ltd customers, all of whom were over the age of 71.  

    Seven of the complainants were described as being vulnerable, with variable memory recall and conditions including Alzheimer’s or dementia.  

    Three were cold called despite being registered with the Telephone Preference Service. 

    Six had direct debits set up apparently without their permission and three were told they were existing customers when they were not.  

    Insolvency Service Chief Investigator Mark George said:  

    UK Service Plan Ltd targeted and pressured some of the most vulnerable people in our society.  

    They were persuaded into buying a service agreement, which it appears many did not want or need.    

    Being able to shut this company down is a vital step toward protecting the public from becoming victims of their bad business practices.

    The company was not represented at the hearing and did not defend the petition, with the company’s director – 41-year-old Mohamed Anoir Dhimi, of Manchester – giving an undertaking to the court not to be involved in the promotion, formation or management of any company whose business is in the same or a similar field for a period of eight years. 

    Dhimi did not fully co-operate with the investigation and provided limited information to the Insolvency Service. 

    As evidence of poor trading practice, between August 2021 and July 2022, it was found the company had paid more than £200,000 in refunds to 740 people.  

    In 2022, the company claimed to have a turnover of more than two million pounds. 

    But the recorded cash in the filed accounts did not match the balance in the known bank account at the relevant date. 

    In addition, the company failed to maintain accurate records and accounts the company filed at Companies House contained potentially false information. 

    UK Service Plan Ltd, incorporated in 2021, was last registered at an address on Princess Street in Manchester. It claimed to have 10 employees, but no actual trading address has been found.  

    The company had previously been registered in London and Brighton. 

    The Official Receiver has been appointed as liquidator of UK Service Plan Ltd.   

    The Insolvency Service worked in collaboration with Trading Standards on the investigation. 

    All enquiries concerning the affairs of the company should be made to the Official Receiver of Public Interest Unit: PO Box 16664, Birmingham, B2 2JQ. piu.or@insolvency.gov.uk. 

    Further information 

    • UK Service Plan Ltd (Companies House number: 13225650) 

    • Mohamed Anoir Dhimi: Date of Birth, October 1983. Address: Princess Street, Manchester. 

    • The Insolvency Service can investigate complaints about corporate abuse by live companies. This may include serious misconduct, fraud, scams or dishonest practice in the way the company operates. Further information on our live investigations can be found here    

    • Further information about the work of the Insolvency Service, and how to complain about financial misconduct.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Iconic Lancaster Bomber flypast to honour Stoke-on-Trent Day

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Friday, 6th June 2025

    An iconic Second World War aircraft will fly over Stoke-on-Trent later this week as part of the city’s Centenary celebrations.

    The People’s Parade and Party in the Park, taking place on Saturday, 7 June 2025, will be marked by a flypast from a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster Bomber.

    One of the most notable aircraft of the Second World War, the Lancaster became famous for its role in the Dambusters raids and missions over occupied Europe.

    The aircraft, will approach from west to east just after 3pm, flying over Stoke on Trent College, across Hanley Park and then the city centre, providing a striking tribute from the skies as the Party in the Park unfolds below.

    One of only two airworthy Lancasters in the world, the plane is part of the Royal Air Force’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and is a powerful symbol of the UK’s wartime resilience.

    Stoke-on-Trent Lord Mayor, and Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Steve Watkins, said: “I’m honoured to welcome the RAF’s iconic Lancaster Bomber to our skies for the very first Stoke-on-Trent Day.

    “This flypast will be a spectacular moment – visually striking, but also deeply meaningful. It stands as a powerful tribute to our city’s role in the Second World War and our long-standing history of service and resilience.

    “In our Centenary year, this is especially poignant. I encourage everyone to find a good vantage point, look to the skies and take pride in the rich heritage of Stoke-on-Trent.”

    The Lancaster can be tracked on the day via Flight Radar 24 using aircraft reference PA474.

    The People’s Parade is a major event in the city’s Centenary programme and will feature community groups, marching bands, artists and performers from across all six towns. The Party in the Park will keep the 100th birthday celebrations going in Hanley Park until 6pm.

    For more information and the full Centenary programme go to: sot100.org.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth welcomes expansion of Free School Meals scheme

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plymouth City Council has welcomed the Government’s announcement that more children will benefit from free school meals at school.

    From September 2026, the Government has announced that any child whose household is on Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals.

    Currently, children are only eligible if their household receives Universal Credit and has an annual income of less than £7,400 per year.

    The expanded eligibility will mean that more than 10,000 Plymouth children in school years 3 to 11 will be able to benefit from a free, healthy and nutritious lunch during each school day. 

    All children in Reception, Year 1 and 2 already receive universal free school meals. 

    Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “This is a hugely positive step forward for children and families in Plymouth. This is about children thriving and achieving, and we know that access to a healthy, balanced meal at school can make a real difference to a child’s wellbeing, concentration, and academic performance.

    “We recognise the pressures that many households are facing and this change will help to reduce child poverty and food insecurity.

    “We’ll be working closely with our schools and catering providers to ensure that there’s a smooth and effective rollout of this policy in 2026, so that as many children as possible can benefit.”

    For more information about current free school meal eligibility and how to apply, families can visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 6 June 2025 Departmental update New WHO online course series strengthens readiness for chemical hazards

    Source: World Health Organisation

    In his report to the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly on Pillar 3 of WHO’s Triple Billion targets: One billion more people enjoying better health and well-being, the WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus drew attention to the under-recognized fact that 24% of all fatalities are linked to modifiable environmental factors including chemicals, waste and pollution. His report detailed some of the challenges that exist, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In particular, he pointed out that the low availability of critically needed poison centers in more than half of all countries worldwide and the paucity of health surveillance systems to monitor the impact of chemicals and waste on human health make it very difficult to provide effective prevention and response.

    Of more than 100 000 chemicals in everyday commerce, the lack of information on their harmful properties leads to further challenges, including how to respond to releases of these chemicals to the environment, such as in the case of chemical accidents and leaks.

     To strengthen the capacity of health professionals, emergency responders, and technical partners to manage chemical incidents safely and effectively, WHO has led the development of a new four-part online learning series on chemical hazards.

    Part I: An Introduction to Chemical Hazards helps learners distinguish between everyday chemicals and those used as chemical warfare agents (CWAs). It also introduces toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) and provides real-world examples of accidental and intentional chemical releases. Course participants gain hands-on experience using a digital tool to identify and mitigate chemical threats.

    Part II: Elements for Assessment builds on this foundation by teaching participants how to recognize and interpret environmental, clinical, and classification evidence to assess chemical releases. This course is ideal for those involved in early-stage incident investigation and response.

    Part III: Immediate Actions at the Event Site focuses on operational safety and decision-making at the scene of a chemical incident. Learners explore how to arrive safely, position themselves appropriately, and adapt their actions based on the evolving situation.

    Part IV: Response at the Hospital Site, currently in development, will address the management of chemical victims upon arrival at health-care facilities. This module will include standard operating procedures and best practices for triage, decontamination, and treatment.

    These courses are available free of charge on the WHO Academy platform and are designed to be completed in sequence for maximum impact. They are part of WHO’s broader efforts to enhance global preparedness and response to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats.

    Related links:

    1. Course 1, Chemical Hazards Part I: An Introduction to Chemical Hazards: WHO Academy
    2. Course 2, Chemical Hazards Part II: Elements for Assessment: WHO Academy
    3. Course 3, Chemical Hazards Part III: Immediate Actions at the Event Site: WHO Academy
    4. Course 4, Response at the hospital site (in development)

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on passing of former President Edgar Lungu of Zambia

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General has learned of the passing of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu of Zambia. Former President Lungu made significant contributions to diplomacy and spearheaded key infrastructure projects in the country during his tenure. The Secretary-General extends his condolences to his family, the Government and the people of Zambia.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA intercepts 577 kg of cannabis at the Montreal Marine and Rail Service

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Montreal, Quebec, June 6th, 2025 – Canada Border Services Agency

    On May 23, 2025, Canadian border services officers at Montreal’s Marine and Rail Service intercepted and seized 577.43 kg of suspected cannabis from a container in the process of being exported to the Netherlands. 

    During inspection of the container, border services officers detected the contraband concealed in 1,023 vacuum-sealed packages hidden in custom-built crates and surrounded by bundles of engineered wood. The cannabis is valued at over CA $4.2 million.

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is committed to protecting our communities from contraband and organized crime. CBSA reiterates that although cannabis has been legalized and regulated in Canada, importing or exporting cannabis in any form without a permit or exception authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence, punishable by arrest and prosecution. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada reaffirms international collaboration with the European Space Agency

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 6, 2025 – Longueuil, Quebec

    Today, Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), joined CSA President Lisa Campbell and the Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA), Dr. Josef Aschbacher, at the John H. Chapman Space Centre (the CSA‘s headquarters in Longueuil). The two heads of space agencies signed a joint statement reaffirming Canada and ESA‘s unique, proven and productive partnership. This signature marks a key milestone in the mid-term review of the Canada–ESA Cooperation Agreement.

    For nearly 50 years, the Canada–ESA Cooperation Agreement has advanced Canadian innovation and expertise on the world stage. Canada’s unique status as ESA‘s only non-European cooperating state gives Canadian companies privileged access to the European space market. Every dollar awarded to Canadian companies through ESA contracts generates nearly three dollars in return, benefitting Canadian businesses and injecting value into the Canadian economy. 

    This collaboration helps Canada’s space sector build long-term relationships with the European space community and contributes to strengthening innovation, competitiveness, and technological capabilities. It has propelled numerous Canadian organizations to the forefront of their fields, positioning Canadian expertise at the heart of bold international space missions. 

    Dr. Aschbacher‘s visit to Canada was a unique and timely opportunity to underscore the deep ties between the space programs of Canada and Europe and to emphasize the shared commitment to fortifying their alliance in order to accelerate and grow their respective space sectors. As Canada looks to strengthen its ties with like-minded countries, including those in Europe, this longstanding partnership provides an opportunity and a proven path for Canada to bolster diversification of the space sector for the benefit of Canadians.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. 

    The two leaders discussed the longstanding relationship between Canada and India, including deep people-to-people ties and significant commercial links. Importantly, there was agreement to continued law enforcement dialogue and discussions addressing security concerns.

    Prime Minister Carney extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to attend Canada’s 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

    Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Modi agreed to remain in contact and looked forward to meeting at the G7 Leaders’ Summit later this month.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Minister Guilbeault on Eid al-Adha

    Source: Government of Canada News

    OTTAWA, June 6, 2025

    Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, issued the following statement:

    Today, Muslim communities in Canada and around the world are marking Eid al-Adha.

    This sacred day in the Islamic calendar celebrates the conclusion of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, known as the Hajj. It is observed with morning prayers, social and family gatherings, festive meals and charitable donations to the most vulnerable people in our society.

    The spirit of Eid al-Adha—meaning the Feast of Sacrifice or Greater Eid—is one of happiness and gratitude. Yet it comes at a time of ongoing war and conflict, bringing fear and anxiety to Canadians with loved ones in Gaza, the West Bank, Sudan and many other regions. Canada remains committed to supporting ceasefire efforts in Gaza, as well as the urgent safe and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid for civilians.

    This year, the holiday also coincides with the fourth anniversary of the tragic terrorist attack on a Canadian Muslim family killed in London, Ontario on June 6, 2021. Fondly remembered as “Our London Family,” their lives were taken simply because they were Muslim, in a horrifying act of Islamophobia.

    Our government stands with the community in London, with all those affected by this tragedy, and with all victims of Islamophobia and every form of hatred. We are committed to ensuring that all Canadians feel safe and protected in their communities. This includes providing at-risk communities with access to financial support to protect their gathering spaces and to launch local initiatives that bring Canadians together and combat racism. We also continue to work with Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, Amira Elghawaby, to fight Islamophobia, including with The Canadian Guide on Understanding and Combatting Islamophobia: For a more inclusive Canada.

    The Canadian identity is rooted in our diversity. Canada is stronger because of its people, their different backgrounds, and the stories that make our mosaic one of the most vibrant and unique in the world.

    On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish all Muslims in Canada a happy Eid al-Adha, celebrated in unity, solidarity and peace.

    Eid Mubarak!

    “!عيد مبارك

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Kelly Announces Launch of 2025 Congressional App Challenge

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) announced the opening of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for middle and high school students in Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District. This annual competition encourages students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by creating and showcasing their own software applications.

    “The Congressional App Challenge is a fantastic opportunity for our young innovators to demonstrate their creativity and technical skills,” said Rep. Kelly. “I am continually impressed by the talent and ingenuity of our students, and I look forward to seeing the innovative apps they develop this year.”

    Competition Details:

    • Eligibility: Open to all middle and high school students residing or attending school in Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District.
    • Registration Deadline: September 30, 2025.
    • Submission Deadline: October 30, 2025
    • Students are encouraged to register early to receive updates and resources.

    How to Participate:

    • Register for the competition at: www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us
    • Develop an original app on any platform (e.g., mobile, web, desktop).
    • Submit the app along with a demonstration video and required documentation by the submission deadline.

    The winning app from Pennsylvania’s 16th District will be featured on the Congressional App Challenge website and displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building. Winners will also be invited to the #HouseOfCode celebration in Washington, D.C., where they can showcase their app to Members of Congress and the tech community.

    For more information, please contact Julie Swartfager, Director of Constituent Services, at Julie.Swartfager@mail.house.gov.

    Learn more about the competition at Kelly.House.Gov/Services/Congressional-App-Challenge and at www.congressionalappchallenge.us/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Statement on New Trump Travel Ban

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    Dingell Statement on New Trump Travel Ban

    Washington, June 5, 2025

     Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) released the following statement on Donald Trump’s new travel ban.   
     
    “Donald Trump’s renewed travel ban will not make us safer, it will create more division. It’s based on bigotry and xenophobia, just like the last one. U.S. policy should not be guided by hatred. This travel ban should not stand, and we must fight against it.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell, Joyce, Ross, Joyce Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Streamline FDA Review of Nonprescription Sunscreens

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA), Congresswoman Deborah Ross (D-NC), and Congressman Dave Joyce (R-OH) introduced the SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act to streamline the FDA review process of the effectiveness and safety of new ingredients for nonprescription sunscreens.

    “We know sunscreen is an incredibly effective, affordable tool to prevent the most common cancer in our country, yet America still lacks the same sunscreen technology that many other nations are using,” Rep. Dingell said. “We should be making it as easy as possible for people to get the best sunscreen available. This bill will allow for the FDA to approve new, advanced sunscreen ingredients to better protect Americans from dangerous sun exposure and reduce their risk of skin cancer.”

    “As a physician legislator and a board-certified dermatologist, I have seen firsthand the benefits of sunscreens to help prevent melanoma and other skin cancers,” said Rep. John Joyce, M.D. “It is very disappointing that the FDA has ignored Congressional intent and continues to stall the approval of new sunscreen ingredients despite legislation to streamline this process. Through the introduction of the bipartisan SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act, we can ensure that the FDA quickly approves new sunscreen ingredients, giving the American public access to the best skin protection available.”

    “Skin cancer continues to affect far too many Americans, so it’s imperative that we make high-quality sunscreen more available,” said Rep. Ross. “For too long, outdated FDA rules have kept Americans from accessing the most effective sun protection available. This bipartisan bill is a commonsense step to modernize the approval process and keep families safe and healthy during the summer months and beyond.”

    “As skin cancer rates continue to rise across the country, it’s unacceptable that sunscreen innovation has remained virtually stagnant,” said Rep. Dave Joyce, Co-Chair of the Skin Cancer Caucus. “As a melanoma survivor, I understand the importance of quality sunscreen and am proud to introduce this legislation to fast track the review and implementation of new sunscreen products. It’s high time for the Food and Drug Administration to start a new chapter in skin health and embrace new advancements that will expand access to cutting-edge sunscreens for all Americans. As we enter the summer months, I encourage everyone to continue taking proactive, preventative measures for their skin health.” 

    Background:

    • The United States represents approximately one-third of all global skin cancer diagnoses.
    • Over 5 million Americans are treated for skin cancer each year at a cost of over $8 billion.
    • The estimated number of new melanoma cases diagnosed in 2025 is projected to increase by 5.9 percent.
    • Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and unlike many cancers whose origin is unknown, we know that sun exposure is the primary cause of skin cancer.
    • In 2014, Congress passed the Sunscreen Innovation Act to establish a process for review and approval of active sunscreen ingredients.
    • Despite this legislation, it has been more than twenty years since the FDA approved of new sunscreen ingredients.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Levin, Craig Reintroduce Legislation to Require Carbon Monoxide Detectors in Hotel Rooms and Short-Term Rentals

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    June 05, 2025

    Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Levin (CA-49) and Angie Craig (MN-02) reintroduced legislation to require that carbon monoxide detectors be installed in every hotel and motel room and short-term rental across the country.

    Rep. Craig originally introduced the Stay Safe Act in 2020 after hearing the story of Minnesotan Leslie Lienemann. While travelling for a hockey tournament, Leslie and her son were hospitalized with serious illnesses due to near-fatal carbon monoxide levels being left undetected in their hotel room.

    “Every year, too many families fall victim to the silent killer of carbon monoxide,” said Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49). “That includes John Heathco, the son of my constituents, Chuck and Jill Heathco, who lost his life to a preventable carbon monoxide leak while on vacation. Their story is a powerful reminder that we have the tools to prevent these tragedies, but we must use them. We must turn this tragedy into legislation to prevent incidents like John’s from happening again.”

    “We have the tools to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and save lives – and we should be using them,” said Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02). “I first introduced this legislation to require carbon monoxide detectors be installed in every hotel and motel room after hearing tragic stories like the Lienemanns’. It’s time to get this common-sense bill signed into law before another American family has to suffer from the impacts of carbon monoxide poisoning.”

    The Minnesota legislature passed similar legislation to require carbon monoxide in hotels, motels and lodges, which went into effect on August 1, 2024.

    The bill is endorsed by the National Hockey League, Consumer Federation of America, the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association, the Jenkins Foundation, the Lienemann Family and the John Wesley Heathco Legacy Foundation. 

    “My son and I suffer life-long physical and emotional effects of carbon monoxide poisoning because there was no carbon monoxide alarm in our hotel room. Carbon monoxide is undetectable without a CO alarm. Even as our poisoning symptoms worsened, nothing warned us to escape the dangerous level of poison gas. Luckily, we went to the emergency room before our exposure became fatal. Other families lose their loved ones needlessly,” said Leslie Lienemann. “We urge Congress to take the only effective action to prevent CO injury and death by requiring hotels to install CO detectors. Thank you, Rep. Craig, for protecting families as they travel. No family should suffer death or injury from carbon monoxide for lack of a CO alarm.”   

    “No other family should have to endure the pain we have experienced by losing Johnny,” said Jill Heathco, the mother of John Heathco. “He died from something that could have been prevented, and our family’s mission going forward is to do everything we can so no other traveler loses their life to carbon monoxide poisoning. This legislation is a critical step in that mission because it will require hotels to do the bare minimum to protect their guests and staff from this deadly gas by installing CO detectors. We appreciate that Representative Craig and Representative Levin have introduced this bill, and we urge all members of Congress to support it because it’s needed, it’s commonsense, and it will save lives.” 

    You can read the full text of the Stay Safe Act here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day: Money Mutual Launches New Platform to Support Bad Credit Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Jackson, Mississippi, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Money Mutual, a leading online marketplace for payday loans, continues to provide consumers with quick, easy access to payday loans with no credit check required. Money Mutual connects borrowers with trusted lenders, making it possible to access loans as large as $500 payday loan guaranteed, and even up to $5,000 payday loans in as little as 24 hours*.

    Whether you’re looking for payday loans near me, instant payday loans online guaranteed approval, or $255 payday loans online same day, Money Mutual offers a platform where you can quickly submit your information and get matched with a lender who can provide the funds you need. The service is designed to make borrowing fast, simple, and secure, helping you get back on your feet when emergencies arise.

    CHECK IF YOU QUALIFY FOR PAYDAY LOANS WITH NO CREDIT CHECK TODAY!

    New Platform Features Deliver Enhanced User Experience

    Money Mutual’s latest updates focus on improving the speed and accessibility of loan connections, particularly for borrowers seeking $255 payday loans online same day and other quick cash solutions. The enhanced platform now offers even faster lender matching, allowing qualified borrowers to receive loan offers within minutes of application submission.

    “Our commitment to helping Americans access financial assistance when they need it most drives our continuous platform improvements,” said a Money Mutual spokesperson. “These enhancements ensure that whether someone needs $255 payday loans online same day or is looking for a $500 payday loan guaranteed, our platform can connect them with appropriate lenders quickly and securely.”

    Key Service Highlights

    • Fast Processing for Urgent Needs: Money Mutual’s streamlined system connects borrowers seeking instant payday loans online with guaranteed approval with a network of over 60 verified lenders. The platform’s efficiency ensures that approved borrowers can receive funds in as little as 24 hours.
    • No Credit Check Application Process: The platform specializes in payday loans no credit check, making financial assistance accessible to individuals with varying credit histories. This feature particularly benefits those searching for payday loans for bad credit or small payday loans online no credit check.
    • Flexible Loan Amounts: Money Mutual facilitates connections for various loan amounts, from small emergency loans to larger financial needs up to $5,000, accommodating diverse borrower requirements.
    • Secure Digital Platform: The enhanced security features ensure safe processing of applications for online payday loans and protect borrower information throughout the matching process.

    FIND OUT IF YOU CAN GET A BAD CREDIT PAYDAY LOAN – APPLY NOW!

    Why Choose Money Mutual for Your Payday Loan Needs?

    • No Hard Credit Check: Apply for payday loans online without worrying about your credit score. Money Mutual does not conduct hard credit checks, which means your credit score remains unaffected.
    • Quick and Easy Loan Decisions: Money Mutual connects you with lenders who offer fast decisions, meaning you can get the money you need without a lengthy approval process.
    • Trusted by Millions: With more than 2 million customers, Money Mutual has become the go-to choice for people looking for same-day payday loans or urgent financial assistance.

    Addressing Market Demand for Quick Financial Solutions

    Recent market trends show increased demand for accessible payday loan solutions, with consumers frequently searching for “payday loan companies near me” and “sameday payday loan” options. Money Mutual’s platform addresses this need by providing a centralized marketplace where borrowers can access multiple lender options through a single application.

    The platform’s effectiveness is demonstrated through customer feedback, with users praising the quick turnaround time and straightforward process. One customer noted, “I needed money urgently, and Money Mutual connected me with a lender who provided the funds the next day without any hassle.”

    Platform Accessibility and Reach

    Money Mutual’s services are available to qualified borrowers across most U.S. states, with basic eligibility requirements including:

    • Minimum age of 18 years
    • U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
    • Steady monthly income of at least $800
    • Active checking account

    The platform’s simple five-minute application process eliminates the complexity often associated with traditional lending, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking 1 hour payday loans no credit check or payday loans online no credit check instant approval.

    Commitment to Transparency and Consumer Education

    As a marketplace rather than a direct lender, Money Mutual maintains transparency about its role in connecting borrowers with lenders. The platform provides comprehensive information about the lending process and encourages borrowers to carefully review all loan terms before accepting offers.

    “We believe in empowering consumers with information and choice,” the spokesperson added. “Our platform connects borrowers with lenders, but the final decision always remains with the borrower after they’ve reviewed the specific terms offered by each lender.”

    CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR URGENT TRIBAL LOANS WITH NO CREDIT CHECK.

    About Money Mutual

    Founded with the mission of simplifying access to short-term financial solutions, Money Mutual operates as a secure online marketplace connecting borrowers with a network of verified lenders. The platform has facilitated millions of loan connections, earning recognition as a trusted resource for consumers seeking quick financial assistance.

    Money Mutual is headquartered at 2510 E. Sunset Rd., Ste 6, #85, Las Vegas, NV 89120, and can be reached at 844-276-2063. For more information about services or to begin the application process, visit www.Moneyutual.com.

    Disclaimer: Money Mutual is not a lender and does not make loan decisions. The platform connects borrowers with potential lenders who determine loan approval based on individual criteria. Loan terms, including interest rates and repayment schedules, vary by lender. Cash advances should be used only for immediate financial needs and not as long-term financial solutions. Not all applicants will qualify for requested loan amounts, and funding times may vary based on individual circumstances and lender requirements.

    Mail: customerservice@moneymutual.com

    Brand website: https://moneymutual.com/
    Project name: Money Mutual
    Address: 2510 E. Sunset Rd.
    Ste 6, #85
    Las Vegas NV, 89120
    Postal code: 89120
    Media Contact:
    Full Name – Chloe Simon
    Company website: https://moneymutual.com/
    Email: (edited) customerservice@moneymutual.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bango 2024 Full Year Results and Outlook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bango (AIM: BGO), today announces its full year results for the 12 months ended 31 December 2024 and provides an update on current trading and outlook for 2025.

    FY24 Financial Overview:

    Results for the 12 months ended 31 December 2024  FY24 FY23 YoY Change
           
    Transactional Revenue1 $36.2M $32.7M +11%
    DVM & One Off Revenue2 $17.2M $13.4M +28%
           
    Total Revenue $53.4M $46.1M +16%
           
    Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) 3 $14.0M $8.8M +59%
    Net Retention4 125% 137%  
           
    Adjusted EBITDA5 $15.3M $6.4M +139%
           
    Loss After Tax ($3.7M) ($8.8M) $5.1M
           
    Net (debt)/cash at 31 December6 ($1.8M) ($4.0M) $2.2M


    FY24 Operational highlights:

    • 9 new Digital Vending Machine® (DVMTM) license customers (total 27 at end of 2024)
    • 110 content providers connected to the DVM, up from 93 at the end of 2023
    • Launched Disney+ with Continente – Portugal’s largest high-street retailer, in only 12 weeks from first customer contact
    • First two DVM CX (user interface) customers signed, including Altice in the US
    • First Eastern European DVM customer signed

    Post period-end

    Digital Vending Machine®

    • 6 new DVM customers to date in 2025, including:
      • New US wins mean the Bango DVM now serves 6 out of the top 8 US communication providers (by subscriber count)
      • First DVM customer in South Korea – leading Telco selected Bango DVM for bundling
      • New DVM Telco customer in Benelux marks the first win from an improved Western Europe DVM pipeline
    • First customer launch of the Bango DVM CX (user interface) with Altice in the US. The DVM CX reduces the effort for resellers when launching bundled offers, allowing them to launch much faster. It is sold as an additional license fee.
    • DVM is on track to once again deliver double digit revenue growth in-line with consensus7.

    Transactional

    • 98% of traffic acquired with DOCOMO Digital has been migrated to the Bango platform
    • The high cost of sales routes acquired from DOCOMO Digital have experienced volatility and are below expectation however, given the margin profile of these routes, there is minimal impact to EBITDA. Work to optimize or restructure these routes is ongoing.
    • Bango has disconnected several small, unprofitable routes since the DOCOMO Digital acquisition and continues to launch selected new routes where there is significant growth potential.
    • Core Transactional revenue (excluding the high cost of sales routes) is in-line with expectations.

    Financing

    • Bango has secured financing which will be used to strengthen the balance sheet and provide further flexibility on the timing of cost reductions.
      • Bango has secured an enhanced loan facility from NHN. Under the agreement, the existing loan will increase by $2.85M and include a deferral of principal repayments for 18 months (further information can be found detailed in the RNS announcement published earlier today titled, ‘Loan Agreement and Related Party Transaction’).
      • In addition, Bango has secured a $15M Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) with NatWest. This provides a committed, long-term financing solution that will replace the existing £3M overdraft from Barclays.

    Efficiency Initiatives

    • Bango expects to report FY25 Adj. EBITDA in-line with consensus7
    • Further efficiencies are expected to result in a modest increase to Adj. EBITDA vs consensus7 in FY26 of $1M.
    • A reduction in R&D capital expenditure versus current consensus7, of $0.5M in FY25 and $1M in FY26 is planned.

    Board changes

    • As separately announced, (See ‘Directorate Change’ RNS published today), Anil Malhotra and Frank Bury will formally step down from the Board at the conclusion of the AGM on 30 June 2025.

    Investor Presentation:

    Bango is hosting a presentation, open to all existing and potential shareholders, at 10.30am BST today. Investors can sign up to Investor Meet Company for free and register to join the call here: https://www.investormeetcompany.com/bango-plc/register-investor

    Bango CEO, Paul Larbey, said:

    “2024 was a pivotal year for Bango, marked by strong revenue growth, a significant increase in profitability, and strategic progress across both our Digital Vending Machine® and Payments businesses. We delivered a 16% increase in total revenue and more than doubled Adjusted EBITDA to $15.3M, reflecting the operational leverage of our platform and disciplined cost management. The DVM continues to gain global traction, with 9 new customers added during the year and a strong pipeline rapidly converting in 2025 with 6 new wins including our first customer in South Korea.

    With tens of millions of subscriptions already managed, and the scalability to support hundreds of millions more, Bango is uniquely placed to benefit from the structural shift toward subscription-based services and indirect distribution models. Increasingly, the Bango DVM is becoming the standard platform for subscription bundling – not just in capability, also in reputation. It’s the solution recommended by some of the world’s largest content providers when their partners want to scale subscriptions and build customer engagement, and now serves 6 of the top 8 US communication service providers. This positions Bango at the very heart of the global subscription economy.

    In the Payments business, Bango continues to have a leading position in the market and remains the largest Direct Carrier Billing partner for the Google Play store, the only partner powering DCB for the Amazon store in Japan and the sole provider of online DCB services to NTT DOCOMO Japan – the largest operator, in the most valuable DCB market. With the migration of traffic from the DOCOMO Digital platform to the Bango platform we are optimizing our Payments business for cash and profitability by simplifying operations.

    The financing provided by NatWest and NHN demonstrate strong confidence in Bango’s business model & strategic plan and materially strengthens the balance sheet. The decision to make the strategic investment in DVM coupled with the market growth in “Super bundling” are driving a strong sales pipeline. This combined with disciplined cost management, a reduction in R&D capex and the inherent operational leverage of our platform will deliver a step-change in cash generation in FY26 and drive shareholder returns. We view the future opportunity with both confidence and excitement.”

    See the full RNS announcement: https://bangoinvestor.com/link/XyOG0y

    Notes:

    The Annual Report, including full accounts, is available at, https://bangoinvestor.com/results-reports, and will be sent to shareholders shortly.

    1 Transactional Revenue is revenue derived by charging a percentage of the retail price paid by the consumer and is made up of carrier billing, resale and e-Disti revenue share amounts.
    2 DVM & One Off Revenue includes all DVM license and support fees, revenue from Bango Audiences (discontinued in Q1 FY24) and one off fees including DVM set-up and change requests.
    3Annual Recurring Revenue is the expected annual revenues to be generated in the next 12 months
    based on contracted revenues recognized as at 31 December.
    4 Net Retention is a measure of the retention and expansion of revenue from existing customers over a specific period and is calculated by dividing the ARR from existing customers at the end of a period by the ARR generated from those same customers at the beginning of the period.
    5Adjusted EBITDA is earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization, negative goodwill, exceptional items and share based payment charge.
    6Net debt is cash and cash equivalents plus short-term investments less loans and borrowings.
    7Current consensus market expectations prior to today’s announcement.

    The information contained within this announcement is deemed to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No.596/2014. Upon the publication of this announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. The person responsible for making this announcement on behalf of Bango is Paul Larbey, Chief Executive Officer.  

    For further information, please contact:


    About Bango

    Bango enables content providers to reach more paying customers through global partnerships. Bango revolutionized the monetization of digital content and services, by opening-up online payments to mobile phone users worldwide. Today, the Digital Vending Machine® is driving the rapid growth of the subscriptions economy, powering choice and control for subscribers.

    The world’s largest content providers, including Amazon, Google and Microsoft trust Bango technology to reach subscribers everywhere.

    Bango, where people subscribe. For more information, visit www.bangoinvestor.com

    Subscribe to our news alert service: https://bangoinvestor.com/auth/signup

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Biggest Crypto Casinos Listed: Most Trusted Bitcoin Casinos of 2025 by All iGaming

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Birmingham, Alabama, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The crypto casino landscape is booming, with platforms promising everything from massive bonuses to instant withdrawals. However, finding a reliable, secure, and player-focused crypto casino requires more than just a glance at flashy promotions. All igaming, a trusted authority in online gambling reviews, has been empowering players with expert, unbiased insights into the world of cryptocurrency gambling since its inception. 

    >>LEADING CASINOS LISTED – FIND OUT WHO’S THE WINNER

    This guide breaks down how All igaming evaluates the best crypto casinos, ensuring you make informed choices for a safe and thrilling gaming experience.

    Why All igaming is Your Go-To Resource

    All igaming stands out for its commitment to transparency and player empowerment. Every crypto casino is rigorously assessed to ensure it meets high standards for safety, fairness, and performance. Unlike generic review sites, All igaming provides detailed, objective evaluations of trusted crypto casinos, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. Whether you’re searching for the best crypto casinos or a no-KYC platform, All igaming equips you with the knowledge to choose wisely.

    How All iGaming Ranks the Top Crypto Casinos

    All igaming employs a comprehensive, player-centric evaluation process to identify top-tier crypto casinos. Each platform is judged on critical factors that shape the gaming experience, from security to game variety. Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria:

    • Licensing and Compliance: Only legal crypto casinos licensed by reputable jurisdictions like Malta Gaming Authority or Curaçao eGaming make the list. All igaming verifies licensing details to ensure adherence to strict regulatory standards, protecting players from rogue operators.
    • Provably Fair Systems: The best crypto casinos offer provably fair games, allowing players to independently verify outcomes via blockchain. All igaming examines game algorithms and RTP percentages to confirm fairness across slots, table games, and live dealer options.
    • Transaction Efficiency: Speedy and secure crypto transactions are a must. All igaming tests deposit and withdrawal times, ensuring support for popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and USDT, alongside robust security measures like end-to-end encryption and 2FA.
    • Bonus Clarity: Misleading bonus terms can sour the experience. All igaming scrutinizes wagering requirements, bonus caps, and eligibility criteria to recommend casinos with transparent, player-friendly offers like deposit matches, cashback, or free spins.
    • Game Selection: A diverse, high-quality game library is essential. All igaming evaluates offerings from leading providers like Betsoft, Playtech, and Microgaming, ensuring a mix of slots, poker, blackjack, and live dealer games with competitive RTPs.
    • Platform Usability: The best crypto casinos prioritize intuitive design and cross-device compatibility. All igaming tests mobile responsiveness, site navigation, and ease of access to ensure seamless gameplay on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

    >>RANKED CRYPTO CASINOS – HOW ALL I GAMING FINDS THE BEST FOR YOU

    • Customer Support Quality: Responsive support is critical. All igaming assesses 24/7 availability via live chat, email, or Discord, ensuring players receive prompt, professional assistance.
    • Privacy Options: For players valuing anonymity, All igaming highlights trusted crypto casinos with minimal or no KYC requirements, balancing privacy with regulatory compliance.

    >>CURIOUS ABOUT CRYPTO CASINOS? CHECK OUT OUR ULTIMATE GUIDE!

    The Value of Choosing a Trusted Crypto Casino – All igaming’s Expert Take

    With countless platforms vying for attention, selecting a reputable crypto casino is crucial to avoid scams, unfair practices, or delayed payouts. All igaming’s meticulous reviews steer players toward legal crypto casinos that prioritize security, transparency, and fairness. By focusing on verified platforms, All igaming helps you enjoy gaming without worrying about hidden risks.

    Beyond Reviews: All iGaming Educational Resources

    All igaming goes beyond rankings, offering tools and insights to enhance your gambling journey:

    • Guides on navigating crypto casino bonuses and avoiding common pitfalls
    • Explanations of blockchain’s role in ensuring game fairness
    • Tips for secure crypto wallet management and transaction safety
    • Insights into the risks of unlicensed platforms
    • Updates on emerging trends and innovations in crypto gambling
    • Strategies for responsible gaming, including setting budgets and time limits

    Navigating Crypto Gambling Regulations with All iGaming

    All iGaming ensures every recommended crypto casino operates under reputable licenses, meeting strict regulations to safeguard players. Key standards include:

    • Robust Data Security: SSL encryption and secure account protocols protect player information.
    • Transparent Game Fairness: Blockchain technology verifies provably fair game outcomes.
    • Clear Transaction Policies: Transparent rules for deposits, withdrawals, and bonuses ensure clarity.
    • Responsible Gambling Tools: Features like self-exclusion and deposit limits promote safe play.
    • Independent Audits: Regular checks by third-party bodies ensure ongoing compliance.

    All iGaming also offers straightforward guides on KYC requirements, tax obligations, and regional regulations, making it easy for players to understand the legal landscape.

    >>FIND THE TOP ONLINE CASINOS – SEE WHO’S LEADING THE GAME!

    Why Crypto Casinos Are Revolutionizing Gambling : Insights from All igaming

    Crypto casinos are transforming online gambling with their unique benefits:

    • Transparency: Blockchain ensures verifiable game fairness, building trust.
    • Speed: Cryptocurrency transactions enable near-instant deposits and withdrawals, unlike traditional banking methods.
    • Privacy: Many platforms offer no-KYC or low-KYC options, allowing anonymous play while maintaining security.
    • Global Access: Cryptocurrencies bypass fiat restrictions, enabling players worldwide to join the best crypto casinos.

    Emerging Trends in Crypto Gambling for 2025

    The crypto casino industry is evolving rapidly, and All igaming keeps you ahead of the curve with insights into the latest developments.

    Decentralized Casinos and Web3 Integration

    Decentralized casinos, built on blockchain protocols like Ethereum or Solana, are gaining traction. These platforms offer enhanced transparency and player control, with smart contracts automating payouts and game outcomes. All igaming tracks the rise of Web3 casinos, ensuring recommended platforms leverage cutting-edge technology for fairness and security.

    NFT and Play-to-Earn Integration

    Some crypto casinos are introducing NFT-based rewards and play-to-earn (P2E) models, where players can earn unique digital assets or tokens. All igaming evaluates platforms offering these innovative features, ensuring they deliver genuine value without compromising security.

    AI-Powered Gaming Experiences

    Artificial intelligence is enhancing crypto casinos with personalized game recommendations, dynamic bonuses, and improved customer support. All igaming assesses AI-driven platforms to ensure they prioritize player satisfaction while maintaining transparency.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rhode Island Man Sentenced for Setting Fires Around the Exterior of a Church and Assaulting Federal Officers

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Kevin Colantonio, 36, pleaded guilty in February 2025 to malicious damage by means of fire, obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs, and two counts of assault on a federal officer. He was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell Jr., to more than six years in federal prison. He intentionally set multiple fires around the exterior of a predominantly black church in North Providence, RI, in February 2024, and assaulted two federal correctional officers while detained at a federal detention center following his arrest.

    “This defendant acted with disdain against people of faith and complete disregard for law enforcement officers,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to vigorously prosecute anti-Christian bias in the United States and ensure Americans are free to worship without fear.”

    Colantonio previously admitted to a federal judge that on Feb. 11, 2024, he used gasoline and a lighter he purchased minutes earlier at a gas station within walking distance of Shiloh Gospel Temple Ministries, to ignite five fires around the exterior of the church. The fires were quickly extinguished by North Providence officers, but not before the church sustained some damage.

    During a Feb. 15, 2024, court-authorized search of Colantonio’s residence, an accelerant detection canine indicated a positive reaction on several items of seized clothing. These items matched the clothing Colantonio was wearing on the night of the arson, based upon surveillance footage. Colantonio admitted to setting the fires and assaulting the corrections officers.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Miron Bloom for the District of Rhode Island and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter I. Roklan for the District of Rhode Island and Taylor Payne of the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    The fires set at the Shiloh Gospel Temple Ministries were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with members of the North Providence, RI, Police Department and the Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office. The assault of the federal officers was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland Office partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Scotland Office partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, joined by his sleeping baby daughter, and Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive Liz Cameron sign the deal in Edinburgh

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, joined by his sleeping baby daughter, at today’s partnership agreement signing with Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive Liz Cameron in Queen Elizabeth House, Edinburgh.

    A partnership agreement to launch a Brand Scotland overseas trade missions initiative was signed today (Friday) by the Scotland Office and Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC).

    This collaboration will be supported by a UK Government grant of up to £100,000 for 2025/26 aimed at promoting Scottish trade and attracting foreign direct investment into Scotland.

    As part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, Brand Scotland is boosting economic growth by promoting Scottish products and services while attracting international inward investment.

    The initiative will include a series of trade missions focused on showcasing Scottish businesses globally.

    Ian Murray and Liz Cameron signed the agreement at the UK Government’s Queen Elizabeth HQ in Edinburgh.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:

    This agreement will help give Scotland a global platform to sell everything our brilliant country has to offer – from whisky and seafood to our world class services.

    The trio of trade deals secured by the Prime Minister in recent weeks is a huge opportunity for Scotland’s economy – with the most populous country in the world, the richest country in the world and our most important market. This partnership with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce will create valuable opportunities for Scottish firms and help kickstart economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.

    I have already been to Norway, Singapore, Malaysia, and the United States to bang the drum for Scotland and with this partnership we will take businesses to even more markets. The Scotland Office will be Scotland’s window to the world.

    Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive and Director Dr Liz Cameron CBE said:

    Delivering impactful trade missions that will sell Brand Scotland and our innovative and dynamic businesses will strengthen our global presence. This partnership with the Scotland Office is vital for economic growth and will help more businesses trade internationally and encourage more inward investment.

    The world wants our quality products and services and this significant investment in Brand Scotland will create even more opportunities to sell our nation internationally. Our businesses continue to successfully engage with SCC overseas missions and now by combining forces between SCC and the Scotland Office, we can drive our economy further by providing valuable platforms and alliances for more exporters to sell their fantastic products and services to new global markets.

    Scotland is open for business and we welcome Brand Scotland’s support to allow us to trade with confidence on a world stage.

    Leading entrepreneurs from a variety of sectors have also welcomed the agreement.

    Founder & CEO of Greenock-based PG Paper Dr Poonam Gupta OBE said: 

    At PG Paper, international trade is the backbone of our business. We have built a multi-million pound business by connecting with over 60 countries. This partnership between the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the Scotland Office sends a clear message: Scotland is ambitious, outward-looking, and ready to lead. The Scotland Office initiative will help businesses like ours expand our international reach, forge high-value connections, and drive economic impact both at home and abroad. This is exactly the kind of bold, collaborative action Scotland needs to accelerate exports and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

    CEO of Aberdeen-based PCL Group Dr Jeanette Forbes OBE said: 

    As a global IT and energy tech company operating in over 27 countries, we know first-hand how critical international trade is to business growth and innovation. Trade missions are strategic enablers that unlock new markets, foster long-term relationships, and elevate Scotland’s global standing. The collaboration between Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the Scotland Office is exactly the type of public-private partnership needed to amplify Scotland’s voice on the world stage and grow our economies.

    Details of trade missions will be confirmed in due course.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Testing results on Haribo Candies

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​In response to overseas reports suggesting that Haribo candies may be contaminated and tested positive for cannabis, a government spokesperson stated today (June 6) that the Government Laboratory has completed the test on 58 samples of Haribo candy products that had already been removed from shelves. The results showed that none of the samples contained tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabis component. The relevant traders have been informed of the test results.

    Upon receiving relevant information, the Centre for Food Safety (the Centre) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department contacted local food traders and consulted authorities in the Netherlands. The affected batch of products was not imported into Hong Kong, but for prudence sake, the Centre had previously informed the trade to temporarily remove the brand’s candies from shelves.

    The government will continue to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate actions as needed.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Zia Yusuf turned Reform into an election winner – his angry resignation leaves Nigel Farage weakened

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Parveen Akhtar, Senior Lecturer: Politics, History and International Relations, Aston University

    Zia Yusuf, a self-made billionaire and Muslim, has resigned as chairman of Reform, breaking with Nigel Farage just weeks after delivering unprecedented success for the party in local elections.

    Yusuf announced his sudden departure on social media platform X, saying he no longer believed “working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time”.

    Having been one of the party’s largest donors, Yusuf was appointed to the role less than a year ago and has widely been credited as the power behind Reform’s professionalisation. He is said to be the driving force behind growing its national infrastructure and membership, which now stands at around 235,000.

    Yusuf’s resignation post came a few hours after another, in which he referred to a question posed in the House of Commons by new Reform MP Sarah Pochin as “dumb”.

    Pochin had used her first chance to speak in the Commons to call on prime minister Keir Starmer to ban burqas in the UK. It is reported that there had been tensions between Yusuf and other figures in Reform, but this appears to have been the straw that broke the camel’s back.

    Sarah Pochin uses a question at PMQs to call for a burqa ban.

    Yusuf has faced Islamophobic abuse from some within the party’s ranks. On social media, some Reform supporters have questioned whether a Muslim can ever truly belong in the party, while others have threatened to leave it because of him.

    Asked on GB News whether Yusuf viewed Pochin’s question as a slight against himself, party leader Nigel Farage suggested instead that Yusuf more likely didn’t see banning the burqa as a high priority issue for Reform. Both Farage and former party chairman Richard Tice have stood by Pochin, saying a debate is needed on banning the burqa.

    Yusuf, once heralded as a rising star in Reform and in British politics, didn’t go into further detail but referred to his successes in the party instead: “I’ve worked full time as a volunteer to take the party from 14 to 30%, quadrupled its membership and delivered historic electoral results.”

    Yusuf was referring to the fact that Reform is currently polling at 30%, has five MPs and has recently taken control of ten councils in England – the first time it has ever held governing roles.

    Shortly after Yusuf’s departure, Nathaniel Fried, who had been brought into Reform to spearhead the party’s Doge-style efficiency drive in local councils, also resigned, stating he had doubts about the future of the project.

    Reform will now be asking itself if it can continue its successful trajectory without theses figures. We’ll soon find out if it was Yusuf alone who was responsible for the professionalisation that has recently delivered so much electoral success.

    Treading a fine line from the start

    When he was first appointed, Yusuf promised to “bring all my expertise, energy and passion to the role to ensure we achieve our mission of returning Great Britain to greatness”. Mirroring the Maga project is the US, Yusuf’s focus was on making the UK great again by controlling the country’s borders and restoring sovereignty.

    Yusuf’s attachment to Reform, a party which has made anti-immigration its political focus, was significant given that his own parents were first-generation immigrants from Sri Lanka. Yet Yusuf was the face of established ethnic minority communities in the UK who have immigration backgrounds but take a tough line on newcomers.

    He describes himself as a British Muslim patriot, who loves his country. My forthcoming research with colleagues details how the justifications used by minorities who voted for Brexit were very similar to those in the public at large – with an uncontrolled immigration being a key issue.

    Party leader Nigel Farage said he was sorry to see Yusuf go and recognised that he was a loss for the party. Farage claimed that the two of them “barely had a disagreement” in working together but that others had not got on well with Yusuf.

    Farage claimed that Yusuf’s business background left him struggling in politics and that he brought a “bit of a Goldman Sachs mentality” to his job, which put him at odds with others. He said interpersonal skills were “at the top of his list of attributes”.

    However, in a significant new development, Farage did acknowledge that Yusuf had faced abuse on social media from the “alt-right”. This was the first time he has ever publicly acknowledged the abundance of racist and Islamophobic abuse Yusuf has received on social media by Reform supporters.

    He did somewhat contradict himself later by blaming “Indian bots” for spreading content that misled Reform voters. Tim Montgomerie, another high-profile former Conservative Reform supporter also cited personal abuse as a factor: “He faced a lot of prejudice, not necessarily from inside the party but on social media, I think that affected him.”

    Given that for years the racism and Islamaphobia faced by Yusuf was never publicly acknowledged, it’s interesting that the party elite clearly see the need to recognise the racism as part of the damage limitation exercise they’ve now had to undertake.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    No doubt Farage saw Yusuf as an asset to the party. Only days before the falling out, he had heralded him as an example of why Reform could not be accused of being racist: “I would remind everybody that the chairman of the party is Scottish-born, but comes from parents who come from the Indian subcontinent. But we don’t talk about race at all. We think everybody should be treated equally. We object very strongly to the segmentation of people into different types.” Farage acknowledged that Yusuf’s race was a benefit to him when responding to his resignation, too.

    It matters that Reform’s highest profile minority member is no more. It also shows the disunity in a political party which is growing very quickly. This is a pattern from yesteryear. Party infighting used to happen in the old days of Reform’s predecessors, UKIP and the Brexit Party.

    It was a big part of why they did not reach the heights currently being enjoyed by Reform. This is, ironically, the first big test of the professionalisation drive that Yusuf led.

    Parveen Akhtar has previously received funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and the British Academy.

    – ref. Zia Yusuf turned Reform into an election winner – his angry resignation leaves Nigel Farage weakened – https://theconversation.com/zia-yusuf-turned-reform-into-an-election-winner-his-angry-resignation-leaves-nigel-farage-weakened-258382

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: 4 creative ways to engage children in STEM over the summer: Tips to foster curiosity and problem-solving at home

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Amber M. Simpson, Associate Professor of Mathematics Education, Binghamton University, State University of New York

    Families and caregivers can boost children’s confidence and interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics while school is out for summer. heshphoto/Getty Images

    The Trump administration is reshaping the pursuit of science through federal cuts to research grants and the Department of Education. This will have real consequences for students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM learning.

    One of those consequences is the elimination of learning opportunities such as robotics camps and access to advanced math courses for K-12 students.

    As a result, families and caregivers are more essential than ever in supporting children’s learning.

    Based on my research, I offer four ways to support children’s summer learning in ways that feel playful and engaging but still foster their interest, confidence and skills in STEM.

    1. Find a problem

    To support STEM learning outside of school, encourage children to find and solve problems.
    kali9/Getty Images

    Look for “problems” in or around your home to engineer a solution for. Engineering a solution could include brainstorming ideas, drawing a sketch, creating a prototype or a first draft, testing and improving the prototype and communicating about the invention.

    For example, one family in our research created an upside-down soap dispenser for the following problem: “the way it’s designed” − specifically, the straw − “it doesn’t even reach the bottom of the container. So there’s a lot of soap sitting at the bottom.”

    To identify a problem and engage in the engineering design process, families are encouraged to use common materials. The materials may include cardboard boxes, cotton balls, construction paper, pine cones and rocks.

    Our research found that when children engage in engineering in the home environment with caregivers, parents and siblings, they communicate about and apply science and math concepts that are often “hidden” in their actions.

    For instance, when building a paper roller coaster for a marble, children think about how the height will affect the speed of the marble. In math, this relates to the relationship between two variables, or the idea that one thing, such as height, impacts another, the speed. In science, they are applying concepts of kinetic energy and potential energy. The higher the starting point, the more potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, which makes the marble move faster.

    In addition, children are learning what it means to be an engineer through their actions and experience. Families and caregivers play a role in supporting their creative thinking and willingness to work through challenging problems.

    2. Spark curiosity

    Spontaneous learning moments can lead to deep engagement and learning of STEM concepts.
    cglade/Getty Images

    Open up a space for exploration around STEM concepts driven by their interests.

    Currently, my research with STEM professionals who were homeschooled talk about the power of learning sparked by curiosity.

    One participant stated, “At one time, I got really into ladybugs, well Asian Beatles I guess. It was when we had like hundreds in our house. I was like, what is happening? So, I wanted to figure out like why they were there, and then the difference between ladybugs and Asian beetles because people kept saying, these aren’t actually ladybugs.”

    Researchers label this serendipitous science engagement, or even spontaneous math moments. The moments lead to deep engagement and learning of STEM concepts. This may also be a chance to learn things with your child.

    3. Facilitate thinking

    In my research, being uncertain about STEM concepts may lead to children exploring and considering different ideas. One concept in particular − playful uncertainties − is when parents and caregivers know the answer to a child’s uncertainties but act as if they do not know.

    For example, suppose your child asks, “How can we measure the distance between St. Louis, Missouri, and Nashville, Tennessee, on this map?” You might respond, “I don’t know. What do you think?” This gives children the chance to share their ideas before a parent or caregiver guides them toward a response.

    4. Bring STEM to life

    Overhearing or participating in budget talks can help children develop math skills and financial literacy.
    SeizaVisuals/Getty Images

    Turn ordinary moments into curious conversations.

    “This recipe is for four people, but we have 11 people coming to dinner. What should we do?”

    In a recent interview, one participant described how much they learned from listening in on financial conversations, seeing how decisions got made about money, and watching how bills were handled. They were developing financial literacy and math skills.

    As they noted, “By the time I got to high school, I had a very good basis on what I’m doing and how to do it and function as a person in society.”

    Globally, individuals lack financial literacy, which can lead to negative outcomes in the future when it comes to topics such as retirement planning and debt.

    Why is this important?

    Research shows that talking with friends and family about STEM concepts supports how children see themselves as learners and their later success in STEM fields, even if they do not pursue a career in STEM.

    My research also shows how family STEM participation gives children opportunities to explore STEM ideas in ways that go beyond what they typically experience in school.

    In my view, these kinds of STEM experiences don’t compete with what children learn in school − they strengthen and support it.

    Amber M. Simpson receives funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation.

    – ref. 4 creative ways to engage children in STEM over the summer: Tips to foster curiosity and problem-solving at home – https://theconversation.com/4-creative-ways-to-engage-children-in-stem-over-the-summer-tips-to-foster-curiosity-and-problem-solving-at-home-257407

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –