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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Weimar+ Joint Statement on Ukraine and Euro-Atlantic security

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Weimar+ Joint Statement on Ukraine and Euro-Atlantic security

    Joint statement by the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom plus the EU High Representative, following their meeting in London

    We met in London on 12 May to discuss Russian aggression against Ukraine and Euro-Atlantic security. 

    On Ukraine, we reiterated our solidarity with the Ukrainian people, our sympathy for the victims of recent attacks by Russia, and our full support for Ukraine’s security, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. 

    We welcomed US-led peace efforts and the prospect of further talks this week.  So far, Russia has not shown any serious intent to make progress.  It must do so without delay.  We joined Ukraine in calling for an immediate, full, unconditional 30-day ceasefire to create space for talks on a just, comprehensive and lasting peace.

    Any peace will only last if it is based on international law including the UN Charter and Ukraine is able to deter and defend against any future Russian attack. 

    We discussed how we would further step up European efforts to support Ukraine in its ongoing defence against Russia’s war of aggression.  Ukraine should be confident in its ability to continue to resist successfully Russian aggression with our support. 

    Strong Ukrainian armed forces will be vital.  We agreed to work with Ukraine on initiatives to strengthen Ukraine’s armed forces, restock munitions and equipment, and further enhance industrial capacity.  

    We are committed to robust security guarantees for Ukraine.  This includes exploring the creation of a coalition of air, land and maritime reassurance forces that could help create confidence in any future peace and support the regeneration of Ukraine’s armed forces.  And we will work on new reconstruction and recovery commitments, including at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome on 10-11 July, to ensure that Ukraine’s future security is underpinned by a vibrant economy.

    We agreed to pursue ambitious measures to reduce Russia’s ability to wage war by limiting Kremlin revenues, disrupting the shadow fleet, tightening the Oil Price Cap, and reducing our remaining imports of Russian energy.  We will keep Russian sovereign assets in our jurisdictions immobilised until Russia ceases its aggression and pays for the damage caused.

    On Euro-Atlantic security, we reaffirmed that NATO is the bedrock of our security and prosperity.  The Alliance has secured peace for over 75 years.  A strong, united NATO, based on a strong transatlantic bond, an ironclad commitment to defend each other, and fair burden-sharing, is essential to maintain this. 

    European countries must play a still greater role in assuring our own security.  We will further strengthen NATO and the contribution of European Allies by stepping up security and defence expenditure to meet the requirement to deter and defend across all domains in the Euro-Atlantic area. 

    We will use all feasible levers to strengthen our collective defence capability and production and reinforce Europe’s technological and industrial base. To that end, we will build on work in NATO, the EU and likeminded groups to achieve these goals.

    An enhanced security and defence relationship between the UK and EU is key to improving the lives of our people and making our continent more safe and secure, as will enhanced cooperation between NATO and the EU on the basis of the three Joint Declarations, and greater co-operation with Ukraine.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Integration processes in international trade and logistics discussed at conference in HSE

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    © Higher School of Economics

    In the context of decoupling, Russia has become a center of attraction for Eurasian integration processes and can play a unifying role in the new multipolar world. This was discussed by participants and guests of the International Scientific and Practical Conference “Dimensions of Eurasian Integration: Transport and Logistics, Energy and Food Security”, which was held Institute of State and Municipal Administration (IGMU) HSE University.

    The conference was attended by leaders of the domestic corporate sector, Russian and foreign industry experts and representatives of the diplomatic corps of friendly countries of the Arab East. Among the participating organizations were Russian Railways and Russian Railways Logistics, Russian Agricultural Bank, Renaissance Insurance, RusHydro and the Resource Group of Agricultural Enterprises, Sber and the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Sultanate of Oman, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Russia and the Eurasian Economic Commission, and the International Research Institute for Management Problems.

    Director of the Irkutsk State Medical University of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Andrey Zhulin noted that it is now important to listen to and hear professionals in the field of public administration and public-private partnership. “This will allow us to analyze successful practices in the field of integration processes during a period of fundamental changes in international trade and logistics,” he emphasized.

    It is important that the conference is taking place at the Higher School of Economics. Over the past 30 years, it is the HSE, according to the director of the Irkutsk State Medical University, that has proven its importance for the national economy and has become a kind of assembly point for integration and management meanings.

    Russia is attracting the attention of politicians and market players with increasing intensity, noted in turn the director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies of the Irkutsk State Medical University of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, member of the Russian-Omani Business Council under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation (CCI) Marat Zembatov. “Our country is called upon to play a unique unifying role – both as the center of gravity of Eurasia, and as a state-civilization with its own special economic and cultural structure, and as the center of the transport and logistics framework of the Eurasian economic space in the broad sense,” the expert said.

    He recalled that earlier in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. In the coming days, the Free Trade Agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and Iran will come into force, and the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and this country has already been ratified. It is Moscow that is becoming the center of attraction for integration processes and the center for the formation of new integration meanings.

    During the expert discussion, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Yemen Ahmed Salem Al-Waheishi congratulated those gathered on the upcoming anniversary – the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War and noted the invariably creative role of Russia in strengthening stability and ensuring food security in the Global South and Global East.

    The use of modern transport, logistics and digital technologies to ensure the growth of foreign trade, including in the direction of the Arab East, North and East Africa, according to the ambassador, have become key factors in the successful implementation of Russia’s unifying role in organizing the use of international transport corridors.

    Counselor of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the Russian Federation Salum Hossam Eddin, who delivered a welcoming speech on behalf of Ambassador Ahmed Abdulrahman Al-Saati, stated that friendly relations between Russia and the countries of the Arab East will receive an additional boost this year: already in June, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the Kingdom of Bahrain will be presented to participants as an honorary guest country.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STL welcomes collaboration with International Chamber of Shipping to co-host second Global Maritime Trade Summit in Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    STL welcomes collaboration with International Chamber of Shipping to co-host second Global Maritime Trade Summit in Hong Kong 
    “The HKSAR Government treasures our close partnership with the ICS and the global maritime industry. Being a staunch advocate of free trade with zero tariffs and a level-playing field for businesses, we hope that our co-hosting of the upcoming Summit with the ICS will reinforce our shared vision of a connected, efficient, and resilient maritime ecosystem for the common interest of the global maritime community. The Transport and Logistics Bureau will spare no effort to leverage on Hong Kong’s status as an international maritime centre to ensure the event’s success,” said Ms Chan.
     
    “Geopolitical tensions are on the rise and fragmentation is disrupting global trade patterns. This creates significant challenges for our sector and for economies. The ability to hold this forum again in Hong Kong, one of the world’s key trade hubs, with both industry leaders and policymakers, creates an ideal opportunity to develop a clearer understanding of the benefits and opportunities of global trade. We look forward to working with the HKSAR Government in making this second Summit a valuable addition to advance global understanding,” said Mr Platten.
     
    The inaugural Summit held in the Hong Kong Maritime Week in November 2024 was attended by ministers of foreign governments, leaders of international organisations and industry luminaries from around the world. The two-day Summit set a high benchmark for fostering international dialogue on critical issues facing global trade and shipping and exploring innovative solution to address pressing challenges facing the industry. The Transport and Logistics Bureau will work closely with the ICS in the coming months to bring the second Summit into fruition. Further details will be announced in due course.
    Issued at HKT 21:14

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: CBAK Energy to Report First Quarter 2025 Unaudited Financial Results on Monday, May 19, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALIAN, China, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) (“CBAK Energy”, or the “Company”), a leading lithium-ion battery manufacturer and electric energy solution provider in China, today announced that it will report its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025 on Monday, May 19, 2025, before the U.S. market opens. The earnings results will be available on the Company’s Investor Relations website, and will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on a Form 8-K.

    CBAK Energy’s management will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time on Monday, May 19, 2025 (8:00 PM Beijing/Hong Kong Time on May 19, 2025).

    For participants who wish to join our call online, please visit: 

    https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/wfu5unoh

    Participants who plan to ask questions at the call will need to register at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled call start time using the link provided below. Upon registration, participants will receive the conference call access information, including dial-in numbers, a unique pin and an email with detailed instructions.

    Participant Online Registration: 

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIb49b754e574a43e68068965ba0234966

    Once completing the registration, please dial-in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time of the conference call and enter the personal pin as instructed to connect to the call.

    A replay of the conference call may be accessed within seven days after the conclusion of the live call at the following website: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/wfu5unoh

    About CBAK Energy

    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) is a leading high-tech enterprise in China engaged in the development, manufacturing, and sales of new energy high power lithium and sodium batteries, as well as the production of raw materials for use in manufacturing high power lithium batteries. The applications of the Company’s products and solutions include electric vehicles, light electric vehicles, energy storage and other high-power applications. In January 2006, CBAK Energy became the first lithium battery manufacturer in China listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market. CBAK Energy has multiple operating subsidiaries in Dalian, Nanjing, Shaoxing and Shangqiu, as well as a large-scale R&D and production base in Dalian.

    For more information, please visit ir.cbak.com.cn.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, strategy and plans, and our expectations for future operations, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predicts,” “should,” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Our actual results may differ materially or perhaps significantly from those discussed herein, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.

    Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release are only estimates or predictions of future events based on information currently available to our management and management’s current beliefs about the potential outcome of future events. Whether these future events will occur as management anticipates, whether we will achieve our business objectives, and whether our revenues, operating results, or financial condition will improve in future periods are subject to numerous risks.  There are a significant number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from statements made in this press release, including: significant legal and operational risks associated with having substantially all of our business operations in China, that the Chinese government may exercise significant oversight and discretion over the conduct of our business and may intervene in or influence our operations at any time, which could result in a material change in our operations and/or the value of our securities or could significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and could cause the value of such securities to significantly decline or be worthless, the effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic or other health epidemics, changes in domestic and foreign laws, regulations and taxes, the volatility of the securities markets; and other risks including, but not limited to, the ability of the Company to meet its contractual obligations, the uncertain markets for the Company’s products and business, macroeconomic, technological, regulatory, or other factors affecting the profitability of our products and solutions that we discussed or referred to in the Company’s disclosure documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, including the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K as well as in our other reports filed or furnished from time to time with the SEC. You should read these factors and the other cautionary statements made in this press release. If one or more of these factors materialize, or if any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual results, performance or achievements may vary materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

    For further inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc.
    Investor Relations Department
    Email: ir@cbak.com.cn

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Fixing Political Conversations in America: Meet the App Replacing Conflict With Connection

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a world where political conversations too often spiral into division, the new Sandbox app offers something rare: a safe, structured space for thoughtful dialogue where both sides are heard — without the finger-pointing. Born from the tension and eventual transformation of a father-daughter relationship nearly torn apart by politics, Lee Prosch and his daughter, Libby, created this first-of-its-kind app to redefine how Americans engage with others who see the world differently. Rather than avoiding difficult topics like tariffs, immigration, border control, abortion, climate change and so much more, Sandbox is tackling them head on.

    America’s Losing Its Mind Over Politics
    Politics has become the ultimate stress test on relationships — with 62% of Americans calling it a major source of anxiety, according to the APA. A study by More in Common found 77% of Americans believe that despite our differences, we can still come together, while only 23% think the divide is too wide for us to work together anymore. From family dinner blowups to friend group implosions, the emotional toll is real. But instead of unplugging completely or yelling into the void, Sandbox offers a third option: structured, one-on-one conversations between people who see the world differently — but are willing to talk it out.

    Born From a Family Meltdown
    The idea sparked after co-founders Libby and Lee Prosch watched their own family unravel over heated debates about COVID, climate change and other third-rail topics. After one especially tense Thanksgiving dinner turned into a full-on battleground, they stopped talking politics altogether — even keeping a “freakout jar” that collected donations anytime discussions got heated. But the silence just made it worse.

    “It eventually got to a point where our family avoided certain topics altogether — and that avoidance just made us feel further apart than we really were,” said the younger Prosch. “So we built a space where people could hear each other out, without trying to change each other’s minds.”

    7 Days to Productive Political Conversations
    Here’s how Sandbox works:

    • Sunday: Complete a short survey, responding to 5 assertions on a new political topic every week. The assertions represent the spectrum of how people think about the topic. Get matched with someone who answered differently — not wildly, but just enough to make it interesting.
    • Monday – Friday: Take turns responding to quotes on daily topics, then replying to each other’s comments.
    • Saturday: Open chat. Say what’s on your mind, respectfully.
    • All chats are archived. Trolls are reported. Simple.

    And yes, people are talking — about DEI, gender and immigration, and they’re actually listening.

    “We’re seeing people take each other seriously. They might freak out when they first make contact with an idea they disagree with, especially on a topic they really care about,’” said Lee Prosch. “But at the end of the week, most of the feedback for partners is positive, even when they disagree vehemently.”

    What’s Coming Next: Is President Trump really a Fascist? (Yep, We’re Going There)
    Each week’s topics are curated by Sandbox’s editorial team to reflect what’s happening in the real world. The week of May 18 we’re diving straight into the debate around Trump and fascism. Not to fight — to help each other find out what we’re missing.

    To join that conversation, users must sign up by Sunday, May 17, and complete the in-app survey. The app is totally free and available on iOS and Android.

    Inside the Sandbox
    Every Monday, users get a peek behind the curtain to find out how things went for the whole Sandbox community, like what ideas were considered reasonable differences of opinion and which ones were beyond the pale.. Because this isn’t just talk — it’s insight into what Americans actually think when they stop yelling and start listening.

    Ready to Try a Different Kind of Political Conversation? Get started at www.sandbox.app.

    Download press materials here.

    About Sandbox
    Sandbox is an app for one-on-one political conversations. It’s designed for people who may not see eye-to-eye on politics, but want to engage without exploding. With structured dialogue, curated content and a weekly rhythm, it’s helping people across the spectrum talk like humans again — one real conversation at a time.

    Media Contact
    Bethany Rhodes
    Uproar by Moburst for Sandbox
    bethany@moburst.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Amitrajeet A. Batabyal, Distinguished Professor, Arthur J. Gosnell Professor of Economics, & Interim Head, Department of Sustainability, Rochester Institute of Technology

    President Donald Trump has long been preoccupied by the trade deficit — the gap between what the U.S. sells to the rest of the world and what it buys from it. He recently declared the issue a national emergency and used trade deficit data to calculate so-called “reciprocal tariffs” targeting nearly 100 countries. Although those specific tariffs are now on pause, Trump’s concern with the trade deficit persists.

    As an economist, I know there are two basic ways for a country to reduce a trade deficit: import less or export more. While Trump has focused on the former strategy, a more productive path may lie in the latter – especially by looking at untapped opportunities in rural America.

    Economists have long studied the differences between rural and urban regions. But while research shows that urban areas tend to be more technologically advanced, fast-growing and economically dynamic, economists have historically paid less attention to how regional differences affect export performance.

    New research is starting to fill that gap. Economists recently found that urban businesses export significantly more than rural ones – a difference with significant implications for national trade.

    The urban-rural export gap

    Looking at data from the Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey as well as trade statistics from 2017 to 2020, researchers used econometric techniques to measure the urban-rural export gap. They also examined two categories of potential causes – “explained” and “unexplained.”

    The first is due to differences in what economists call “endowments” – for example, a region’s digital infrastructure, its access to renewable energy and its opportunities for high-tech employment. These endowments can be observed and therefore explained.

    The second is due to what economists call “structural advantage.” This refers to attributes of a region that matter for export performance but can’t be observed and, as a result, remain unexplained.

    They found that most of the urban-rural export gap is due to explained differences. That means rural businesses could close the export gap if they were provided with similar endowments – meaning comparable access to renewable energy, similar digital infrastructure and analogous opportunities for high-tech employment – to their urban counterparts.

    Even more strikingly, the unexplained component was negative – which means rural businesses outperform expectations given their characteristics. That suggests rural regions have significant untapped export potential.

    Several factors collectively account for the urban export advantage. First, urban regions have a greater concentration of highly educated science and technology workers. Urban businesses also tend to be larger and more tech-savvy, and because they have better access to broadband, they use cloud technology more frequently. Urban areas also have more foreign-born business owners who may leverage their international networks.

    However, many of these differences suggest possible policy solutions. For instance, since cloud adoption depends on broadband availability, it follows that investing in digital infrastructure could boost rural exports. Also, rural manufacturers, especially in sectors like metals manufacturing, show comparable or higher export intensity per worker than their urban counterparts. So encouraging rural manufacturing would be one way to reduce the urban-rural export gap.

    Rethinking trade and rural development

    I think this research has important policy implications.

    First, it shifts some of the focus away from other countries as the root cause of the trade deficit. And second, it bolsters the case for what economists call “place-based policies” targeting specific geographic areas – as opposed to “people-based policies,” which provide support directly to individuals.

    Even though many economists dislike place-based policies, they are increasingly attracting both academic and governmental attention.

    The 2022 CHIPS and Science Act had special significance to rural areas.

    During the Biden administration, three major laws – the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS and Science Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – directed significant federal funds to rural areas. About 43% of funds from those laws – or US$440 billion – was designated as either “rural relevant” or as “rural stipulated,” meaning the funds were either geographically targeted or designed to address disproportionately rural challenges.

    Such massive investments in rural regions have led researchers and policymakers to question whether rural export underperformance stems from differences in observable endowments – in other words, things like access to broadband – or from inherent disadvantages that are much harder to deal with.

    In my view, this research provides compelling evidence that much of the urban-rural export gap is due to unequal distribution of productive assets, rather than inherent rural disadvantages. With appropriate investments in digital infrastructure, human capital and support for export-capable industries, America’s rural regions could play a much larger role in global trade. These findings also suggest the value of continued federal support for rural development efforts.

    In other words, if the U.S. wants to shrink its trade deficit, one answer could be more innovation in rural manufacturing.

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

    – ref. If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing – https://theconversation.com/if-you-really-want-to-close-the-us-trade-deficit-try-boosting-innovation-in-rural-manufacturing-255851

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Smartwatches promise all kinds of quality-of-life improvements − here are 5 things users should keep in mind

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By James Gilmore, Associate Professor of Media and Technology Studies, Clemson University

    That smarts! Photo by Lorena Sopena/Anadolu via Getty Images

    Smartwatches and other wearable devices can feel almost magical. Strap on a Fitbit, Apple Watch or Samsung Gear and you’re suddenly presented with a stream of data generated by – and about – your body: step counts, heart rate, blood oxygen level, calories burned and more.

    Wearables offer tools that help people monitor and understand their bodies and, so the promise goes, improve their lives. Apple CEO Tim Cook has even said the technology company aspires to save your life.

    As a professor who studies technology, I’ve spent the past decade researching smartwatches and other wearables. My new book, “Bringers of Order: Wearable Technologies and the Manufacturing of Everyday Life,” considers the gap between what these products promise and what they actually do.

    Wearables rely on complicated sets of sensors and computer systems to create data for each user. As these devices become more common – and more complex – I worry that people may be tempted to think less about how they work. As a result, they might accept data at face value without considering how it was generated, whether it’s accurate, or even if it could put them at risk.

    So to get the maximum value from wearable technologies, it’s worth reflecting on the differences between what these devices seem to do and what’s actually happening behind the screen. Here are a few key points to remember.

    1. Steps aren’t really steps

    Wearable fitness trackers gained popularity in the early 2010s for their ability to count steps and measure things such as distance, calories burned and flights of stairs climbed. While it’s tempting to think so-called step counts reflect the number of times a wearer’s feet have completed the action of taking a step, that is not the case.

    In reality, a combination of sensors and algorithms work together to produce a data point called “a step.” In most instances, something called an accelerometer measures change in the wearable’s velocity. This is checked against an algorithm, which provides an automatic assessment of whether enough velocity has been reached to count as a step. These components measure how much the wearable moves, not the person. Shaking one’s wrist very quickly can sometimes create a “step,” while walking in place might not count steps.

    2. Some skin tones don’t ‘work’ as well as others

    Blood oxygen sensors have become incorporated into many smartwatches. They use a process called photoplethysmography, which uses tiny green LED lights on the underside of a smartwatch to track how blood flows through your wrist.

    In 2022, a lawsuit alleged Apple was perpetuating racial bias, as its blood oxygen sensors didn’t work as well on darker skin. The case was dismissed, partly because these limitations of blood oxygen sensors have been known to researchers and medical practitioners for years. In other words, it is accepted that some features will not work as well for some people.

    3. Your location may not be a secret

    There’s an entire industry made up of people called data brokers who buy large datasets from technology companies and then sell them to advertisers, market analysts or other groups that may be interested in acquiring them.

    While some companies have taken more steps to reduce or eliminate the sharing of data with third parties, and government agencies have offered strategies for users to limit location sharing, others may still share data among affiliates and service providers.

    It’s important to check all settings for options to reduce or eliminate data sharing. Otherwise, your private information might not remain private for long. In 2018, for example, the exercise app Strava released a “heat map” showing the running and cycling routes of all its users through the location data it had collected – and accidentally disclosed the location of multiple secret military bases around the world.

    4. Wearables for consumers aren’t medical grade

    With wearables, as with other tech, it’s important to look carefully at the terms of use.

    Most devices include boilerplate language about how the data they provide the wearer should be used recreationally and not replace formal diagnostics from doctors. Even though Apple has received FDA clearance for some of its health testing features and they may be quite useful for monitoring purposes, if you’re relying on data for health purposes, it’s important to consult a doctor.

    5. Wearables can’t predict the future

    OK, maybe this seems like it should be obvious. But it’s not.

    Oura Ring, which pioneered measurements such as “restfulness” that try to measure how well you sleep, recently added a “symptom radar” to try to detect when you might be getting sick.

    These technologies use sensors such as heart rate monitors and thermometers to detect changes in a wearer’s baseline. While these sickness forecasts may be helpful, they’re like weather reports for the body, detecting changes in the body’s internal atmosphere using available sensors and algorithms. Any claim to predict the future is based on looking for patterns in information from the past.

    While wearable tech can offer powerful insights, understanding how devices work is crucial for making sense of the data they produce. A little skepticism goes a long way: It can challenge inflated promises and protect users. In the end, wearables are best understood as interesting but imperfect tools − not magic wands.

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

    – ref. Smartwatches promise all kinds of quality-of-life improvements − here are 5 things users should keep in mind – https://theconversation.com/smartwatches-promise-all-kinds-of-quality-of-life-improvements-here-are-5-things-users-should-keep-in-mind-251754

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Population explosions and declines are related to the stability of the economy and the environment

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ken G. Drouillard, Professor, Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research and Director of the School of the Environment, University of Windsor

    A country’s population is affected by, and in turn affects, environmental and economic issues. (Shutterstock)

    For 200 years, we’ve been warned of unchecked population growth and how it leads to environmental instability. On the other hand, today some countries face decreasing populations, alongside increasing proportions of elderly people, causing economic instability.

    These two facets of population crises — explosions and declines — are occurring in different parts of the world, and have a global impact on the environment and on economies. Discussions about achieving economic and environmental sustainability must consider population changes, technology and the environment, given these concepts are closely interwoven.

    Population explosions and declines are related to both environmental and economic instability; some countries make reactionary choices that trade off short-term domestic economic progress over the environment.

    The crisis of population explosions

    In 1798, English economist Thomas Malthus warned of a population explosion, inferring that population growth will outstrip agricultural production. Malthus’s ideas became re-popularized by American scientist Paul R. Ehrlich in his book published at the height of population growth in the 1960s. Both predicted that a population explosion would cause shortages in resources and escalating environmental damage.

    Like Malthus, Ehrlich was criticized for a crisis “that never happened” because human ingenuity, a byproduct of population, overcomes the worst fears of environmentalists. This counter-argument relies on technological advances making more efficient use of resources while lowering the environmental impacts.

    This is best exemplified by efficiency gains of agriculture that have continued to feed a growing world. Ehrlich’s predictions of cumulative environmental damage are best illustrated by the growing intensity of climate change and species loss as the global population continues to grow even though the current growth rate is slower than it was in the 1960s.

    A graph reflecting how population growth, species diversity and global temperature correlate over time.
    (K. Drouillard), CC BY

    Unified growth theory describes how economies change over the long term. It starts with a period of slow technological progress, low income growth and high population growth. Over time, these conditions give way to a modern growth phase, where technology improves quickly, income rises steadily and population growth slows as societies go through a demographic transition towards stable population sizes.

    Technological progress positively contributes to national economies over the long term. However, early adoption of green technology often relies on finance and government incentives that may imply short-term economic burdens. Yet when green technology is implemented and coupled to slowing population growth, it leads to decreasing national environmental footprints that pave a way towards joint environmental and economic sustainability.

    The crisis of population declines

    Declining populations cause inverted age pyramids with larger numbers of elderly people. These shifting demographics cause economic instability. They also constrain technological progress and social security.

    Population declines work against the gains described by unified growth theory. Presently, 63 countries have reached their peak population and 48 more are expected to peak within 30 years. Fears of population decline are also being forecast at the global scale.

    The global population is predicted to peak between the mid-2060s to 2100, stabilizing at 10.2 billion from its present 8.2 billion.

    In their book, Empty Planet, political scientist Darrell Bricker and political commentator John Ibbitson warn that zero population growth will happen even faster. They argue once a country decreases its fertility to below replacement (2.1 children per woman), the social reinforcements of increasing urbanization, costs of raising children and increased empowerment over family planning make it almost impossible to increase the birth rate.

    For highly affluent countries, the per capita GDP is decreasing as the proportion of elderly in the population increases. Although this pattern doesn’t hold when less affluent countries are added, the figure demonstrates tangible economic impacts for countries grappling with aging populations.

    A graph showing the percentage of elderly people in a country’s population, correlated with GDP and adjusted for inflation.
    (K. Drouillard), CC BY

    Simultaneous explosions and declines

    Affluent nations facing decline can react to economic instability in ways that counter global economic and environmental sustainability.

    In the past, affluent nations were the drivers of green technology. However, economic instability from population declines can cause reluctance to invest, adopt and share green technology crucial for mitigating environmental damage at the global scale.

    The issue is compounded by the fact that many countries overlook how their own decline in population growth contributes to economic instability. They instead focus on short-term solutions to their economic situation that may include unsustainable resource use.

    Left unaddressed, the real issue of population decline becomes unresolved, allowing social anxieties against immigration and global trade to grow. This can exacerbate the issue halting technology sharing, slowing economic growth and increasing economic inequality and environmental damage.

    The above is exemplified by policies now being implemented by the United States. Where immigration was previously used as a backstop against low fertility, growing cultural backlash to immigration pressures rooted in anxiety about economic uncertainties have generated new policies causing the deportation of millions of immigrants and closing borders. This will most likely accelerate a population decline in the U.S., as highlighted by a Congressional Budget Office report.

    At the same time, the U.S. is shifting its energy policy away from increased shares of renewable, green energy sources back to a focus on fossil fuels that will worsen climate damage.

    Climate damage costs are currently two per cent of global GDP, and may increase to between two to 21 per cent of some countries’ incomes by the end of the century. The growing applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and its high energy use will add to climate damage. AI may also contribute to the economic challenges related to population decline if it replaces, rather than supports, labour.

    Finally, tariff wars add new barriers against green technology sharing.

    Canada’s lowered immigration

    Canada, which already has a low fertility rate and is reacting to the U.S. trade war, has its own challenges. This year, immigration targets were decreased by 19 per cent. The lack of support for and subsequent removal of the carbon tax and possible extension of pipeline infrastructure could generate similar delays in the transition away from fossil fuels.



    Read more:
    Who really killed Canada’s carbon tax? Friends and foes alike

    In the most recent federal election, discussions about environmental policy were largely side-tracked by economic issues.

    Our research indicates that Canada and other affluent nations need to establish longer-term solutions to economic instabilities that mitigate environmental damage while promoting sustainable national and global economies.

    The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals offer pathways for economic, social and environmental sustainability. However, realizing these goals requires society to fully acknowledge the intertwined relationships between population growth, economy, environment and international technology-sharing in ways that transcend short-term national interests and reactionary policies.

    The past decade has seen strong momentum from social and natural sciences as well as international organizations, business and civil society. Unfortunately, the current climate of economic uncertainty is halting this progress — unless the public can force broader discussions about sustainable approaches back into the political sphere.

    Ken G. Drouillard receives funding from Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Canadian Water Agency, Environment and Climate Change Canada, St. Clair River Conservation Authority and North Shore of Lake Superior Remedial Action Plans.

    Claudio N. Verani receives/has received funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), U.S. Department of Energy (DoE), Petroleum Research Fund (ACS-PRF), and the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

    Marcelo Arbex has received funding from University of Windsor UW-SSHRC Explore.

    – ref. Population explosions and declines are related to the stability of the economy and the environment – https://theconversation.com/population-explosions-and-declines-are-related-to-the-stability-of-the-economy-and-the-environment-253302

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stop Farage, vote for a better future

    Source: Scottish National Party

    This election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse is an opportunity to stop Farage in Scotland.

    His Reform party is gaining support down south, but we can take the wind out of his sails with a victory here.

    The SNP is stepping in where Labour have let you down and, crucially, offering hope for a better future.

    The SNP is committed to ensuring that people receive the support they need by saving you money:

    • Free Prescriptions:We continue to make sure that no one in Scotland has to pay for essential medications.
    • Free Bus Travel:Including under-22s, those aged 60 and over, to travel for free, reducing the cost of getting out and about.
    • Universal Free School Meals for primary school children:A vital step to ease the pressure on family budgets and ensure all children in primary 1 to 5, regardless of their financial circumstances, are getting the nutrition they need.
    • Free Childcare: Offering 1,140 hours of free early learning and childcare to families for children aged 3- to 5-year-old, helping working parents save money.

    In Katy Loudon, you have an SNP candidate that will always be on Scotland’s side, putting your community first.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour should apologise to South Lanarkshire pensioners who lost Winter Fuel Payment

    Source: Scottish National Party

    Katy Loudon, the SNP’s candidate in the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, has called on the Labour candidate to apologise to pensioners in the constituency after the Daily Record revealed that 36,057 pensioners in South Lanarkshire lost out last year because of Labour’s cut to the benefit.

    When Labour entered government last July, one of the first decisions made by Keir Starmer was to cut the Winter Fuel Payment, withdrawing vital support from 900,000 Scottish pensioners.

    This decision was endorsed by both Scottish Labour MPs in September 2024, and by leading Scottish Labour MSPs in October 2024 – despite pretending in this by-election they are against the cut!

    Katy Loudon described Scottish Labour’s position as having some “brass neck” pretending it was not their decision that resulted in tens of thousands of pensioners losing this vital support.

    In contrast the SNP government is reinstating this payment with support worth at least £100 going to all pensioners from this year.

    Highlighting how a vote for the SNP would send a message to Labour about cutting the Winter Fuel Payment, Katy Loudon said:

    “The sheer brass neck of Scottish Labour is astonishing.

    “Again and again they have let Scotland down; treating the people of Scotland as nothing more than an afterthought and now indulging in a staggering level of political spin to escape responsibility for one of Labour’s first acts in office – cutting the Winter Fuel Payment.”

    Councillor Loudon added that the Labour party had failed pensioners in South Lanarkshire and across Scotland; and it was the SNP government stepping in to reinstate universal support for pensioners.

    She concluded by saying, “David Russell should be ashamed to stand on a platform built on broken promises and must apologise to the tens of thousands who had vital support taken away by this UK Labour government.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TRANSCOM Reveals 30+ Missions to Guantanamo Bay, Costing Over $20 Million since January 2025, In Break from Precedent

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    May 12, 2025

    Text of QFR Response (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren released responses she received from the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), one of the commands of the Department of Defense (DoD), regarding its role in sending passengers and cargo to the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay.

    The responses from TRANSCOM revealed:

    • “USTRANSCOM conducted 31 military and contract airlift missions to the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay between January 20, 2025, and March 25, 2025. These missions transported 715 passengers and 1016.9 short tons of cargo.”

    • “As of 08 April, USTRANSCOM has flown a total of 46 flights on military aircraft in support of migrant deportation flights. The flights total 802.5 hours at an average cost of $26,277 per flight hour.”

    • Over just a couple of months, Atlas Air, Delta, Omni Air, United Airlines, and Sun Country made over $1.6 million just from flying to Guantanamo Bay to assist migrant operations.

    • “In anticipation of U.S. presence and increased capacity at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay,” DoD has increased the number of flights to the Naval Station.

    “Every American should be outraged by Donald Trump wasting military resources to pay for his political stunts that do not make us safer,” said Senator Warren. “U.S. servicemembers did not sign up for this abuse of power.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China concludes peak autumn grain purchase season

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

    BEIJING, May 12 — China’s 2024 peak autumn grain purchase season has concluded, having reached a “relatively high level” compared to recent years, according to the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration on Monday.

    This peak season in China typically begins in mid-to-late September and ends in late April of the following year. During the most recent season, purchases of autumn grain totaled 345 million tonnes nationwide, data from the administration has revealed.

    Autumn grain purchases are vital to China’s grain security, accounting for nearly 75 percent of the country’s annual grain purchases. Major commodities include rice, corn and soybeans.

    Looking ahead to the upcoming summer grain purchase season, the administration said it will fully unleash market vitality while increasing procurement efforts to maintain reasonable grain prices.

    China saw record grain production in 2024, when its annual output surpassed 700 million tonnes for the first time. According to this year’s “No. 1 central document,” the country will work to safeguard its grain security, with reform, opening-up, and scientific and technological innovation as the driving forces.

    Grain security has long been a central priority for the Chinese government. With under 10 percent of the planet’s arable land, China feeds one-fifth of the world’s population.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Nurturing overall cooperation between China, Latin America

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

    An aerial drone photo taken on March 12, 2024 shows the BYD battery factory in Manaus, capital of Amazonas state, Brazil. [Xinhua]

    Invoked by the 18th-century English writer Samuel Johnson, the phrase “From China to Peru” once conjured images of distant lands bound only by imagination. Today, it sketches a far more concrete arc — marked by shipping lanes, megaports and logistics corridors — linking China and Latin America across the Pacific.

    This transformation has gathered pace over the past decade, thanks in large part to the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum, a cooperative mechanism launched under the aegis of Chinese President Xi Jinping. What Xi once described as “a young seedling” has since taken firm root.

    Ten years on, this mechanism has matured into a key platform for South-South collaboration that has drawn China and Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) into a closer partnership across political, economic, cultural and other domains.

    The forum’s fourth ministerial meeting is set to take place on Tuesday in Beijing. Xi will address its opening ceremony and unveil new initiatives and measures to promote closer ties.

    Qiu Xiaoqi, the Chinese government’s special representative for Latin American affairs, said the upcoming meeting is expected to deliver a message of peace, development and cooperation amid global turbulence, charting a new chapter in China-LAC relations.

    TOP-LEVEL DESIGN

    China and countries in Latin America and the Caribbean are fellow developing nations that hold common political aspirations, face similar development tasks, and can benefit from complementary economic strengths.

    Spanning one-fifth of the world’s land area and accounting for a quarter of the global population and economy, China and the LAC combined represent one of the most dynamic and promising regions on the planet.

    “Our shared aspiration for independence, development and rejuvenation has brought us closer together,” Xi said.

    Since the turn of the century, ties between the two sides have grown rapidly. Both sides realized they needed something more than the traditional one-on-one tango — a broader framework for cooperation.

    During the CELAC summit in Cuba in early 2014, Latin American and Caribbean leaders expressed support for such a framework. Xi welcomed the move, saying that “the time is ripe.”

    In July 2014, Xi flew half the globe for his second visit to the region as head of state. He was heading for a BRICS summit in Brazil, state visits to some countries in the region, and a historic moment — the first meeting between leaders of China and Latin America and the Caribbean.

    In the Brazilian capital Brasilia, the leaders announced the establishment of the China-CELAC Forum, an institutional framework to advance the vision of building a China-LAC community with a shared future.

    At the meeting, Xi laid out the guiding principles for this comprehensive cooperative partnership — equality, mutual benefit and common development. Backing his proposal was a roadmap driven by trade, investment and finance.

    Six months later, the inaugural ministerial meeting of the forum was held in Beijing, turning the vision of an overall cooperation platform covering China and all 33 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean into reality.

    Observers said this marked a new phase of China-LAC ties, where China’s cooperation with the region as a whole complements and strengthens its bilateral relations with individual regional countries.

    Xi proposed principles for the forum’s growth — equal partnership, shared wins, flexibility and pragmatism, and openness and inclusivity.

    Comparing it to a seedling just breaking through the soil, he said that “the forum needs the dedication and cultivation of both sides for it to grow bigger and stronger.”

    In the decade that has followed, Xi has provided consistent support to nurture this forum. At each of the three previous ministerial meetings, he offered clear guidance that helped shape the forum’s development at key moments in its evolution.

    Under the guidance of Xi and his Latin American and Caribbean counterparts, the forum now hosts a constellation of institutional interactions such as ministerial meetings, dialogues among foreign ministers, coordinators’ meetings, and a growing number of specialized sub-forums ranging from digital technology to poverty reduction.

    Chai Yu, director of the Institute of Latin American Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said Xi has led by example in advancing the forum’s development, which is key to deepening political trust and building consensus on cooperation.

    COMMON DEVELOPMENT

    Chancay, a modest city on the Peruvian coast, has been transformed into a megaport equipped with towering cranes and unmanned trucks.

    Last November, Xi and his Peruvian counterpart Dina Boluarte inaugurated the port via video link from the capital Lima, marking the launch of South America’s first smart port.

    Built in just three years through Chinese-Peruvian collaboration, the port shortens the shipping time across the Pacific by nearly one-third, reduces logistics costs by 20 percent, and is expected to create over 8,000 direct jobs.

    Boluarte lauded the project as a bold stride toward “deeper integration and shared prosperity with China” and “a gateway opening Latin America to the vibrant promise of the Asia-Pacific.”

    Chancay’s story is the latest episode in the booming cooperation under the China-CELAC Forum. Across the region, more than 200 Chinese infrastructure projects have been launched — generating over 1 million jobs.

    In Brazil, an ultra-high-voltage transmission project has overcome challenges in delivering clean hydropower over vast distances from the Amazon. In Jamaica, a Chinese-built highway has cut cross-island travel time by more than half, while in Bolivia, satellite collaboration has enabled free television access for half a million households.

    Visitors learn about coffee beans at the booth of Honduras at the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 6, 2023. [Xinhua]

    Numbers tell a compelling story. Trade between China and the region reached 518.4 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, doubling the figure recorded a decade ago. By 2023, Chinese investment in the region had exceeded 600 billion dollars. These figures have exceeded the goals announced by Xi when he and Latin American and Caribbean leaders met in 2014 to plan for closer cooperation.

    As the second-largest trading partner of Latin America and the Caribbean, China now has more free trade agreements in the region than anywhere outside Asia.

    One such deal with Chile has turned premium cherries into a symbol of thriving cross-Pacific commerce. In 2024, Chile’s cherry exports surged 51.4 percent to 3.57 billion dollars — with over 90 percent going to China.

    “The Chinese market has created a positive ripple effect in Chile, generating jobs across the supply chain, from harvesting to packaging,” said Hernan Garces Gazmuri, a Chilean cherry producer who moved his family to Shanghai for greater business opportunities.

    As Pavel Aleman, a Cuban scholar from the University of Havana, pointed out, China-LAC cooperation is mutually beneficial in essence, with China’s economic vitality fueling Latin America’s development, while the region plays a vital role in supporting China’s continued growth.

    “Deeper cooperation between the two sides can help offset the impact of tariff barriers and effectively counter global risks,” he said.

    Xi’s signature Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has brought China into closer partnership with countries across the vast Pacific. To date, more than 20 countries in the region have joined the Belt and Road cooperation framework, and 10 countries have signed cooperation plans with China under the initiative.

    Xi once described Latin America as a natural extension of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road — an essential pillar of the BRI. He emphasized China’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the region, aligning development strategies and promoting shared growth.

    “As we roll out the blueprint for the BRI, we strive to forge a route of cooperation across the Pacific, in order to draw closer the two lands of abundance of China and Latin America and the Caribbean,” Xi said in his congratulatory message to the second ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum.

    Beyond trade and investment, collaboration between China and this region has also deepened in the fields of science, technology and environmental protection. China has supported joint Earth-resource satellite programs with Brazil, contributing to efforts aimed at curbing deforestation and preserving biodiversity in the Amazon.

    Xi said China and Latin America and the Caribbean should promote joint development to contribute to strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth of the global economy.

    HEART-TO-HEART CONNECTIONS

    Xi has long believed that strong state-to-state relations are built on people-to-people connections. Over his six trips to the region as head of state, he made a point of engaging with everyday people despite tight schedules.

    In Costa Rica, Xi visited the home of a coffee grower who showed him around his house and plantation. Over a cup of coffee, Xi chatted with the family and shared that he, too, had rural beginnings — having spent years working the land in his youth.

    A girl learns Chinese calligraphy at the 4th edition of the Chinese New Year cultural festival at the National Arts Center in Mexico City, capital of Mexico, Jan. 25, 2025. [Xinhua]

    His engagement has ignited vibrant people-to-people exchanges, with cultural festivals, youth projects and journalist initiatives flourishing under the China-CELAC Forum.

    To date, China has provided the region with 17,000 government scholarships and 13,000 training opportunities. It has signed 26 educational cooperation agreements or memoranda of understanding with 19 countries and established 68 Confucius Institutes or Confucius Classrooms in the region.

    Connections between China and the region have also been strengthened through practical measures — such as the launch of new direct air routes and the inclusion of more Latin American countries in China’s 240-hour visa-free transit program.

    As many countries in the region now officially celebrate the Chinese New Year, a growing number of Chinese travelers have headed to Latin America in recent years — some for business, others as tourists drawn by the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural diversity.

    These efforts have brought China and the region closer than ever, said Qiu, the Chinese government’s special representative for Latin American affairs.

    Both China and Latin America are home to ancient histories and flourishing civilizations. For Xi, civilizations grow richer and more colorful through exchanges and mutual learning.

    In 2013, at Mexico’s Chichen Itza, Xi explored ancient Maya ruins with archaeologist Jose Huchim Herrera. Amid stepped pyramids and temples, he inquired about the features of the ruins, such as the meaning of carved reliefs.

    His questions revealed a deep curiosity about the host civilization, said Huchim Herrera.

    In a signed article published last November ahead of his visit to Peru, Xi highlighted a cultural connection by pointing out the resemblance between the Incan gold masks unearthed in Peru and those discovered at the Sanxingdui archaeological site in southwest China’s Sichuan Province.

    That same month, a joint exhibition in the ancient city of Cusco showcased dazzling gold artifacts, bronze statues, jade treasures and wooden relics from Sichuan’s Sanxingdui and Jinsha sites, captivating nearly 10,000 Peruvian visitors.

    Daniel Grimaldi, executive director of the think tank Chile 21, praised exchanges between Chinese and Latin American civilizations for opening new channels of communication. Such interactions, he said, strengthen ties through mutual respect and open dialogue, while supporting both sides on their shared journey toward modernization.

    As Xi has said, in a globalization and information age, the Pacific is no barrier but rather a bond and a bridge. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Orbit International Corp. Reports 2025 First Quarter Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    First Quarter 2025 Net Loss of $2,152,000 ($0.65 loss per share) v. Net Loss of $751,000 ($0.22 loss per share) in Prior Year Comparable Period

    First Quarter 2025 EBITDA, as adjusted, was a loss of $1,949,000 ($0.59 loss per share) v. loss of $551,000 ($0.16 loss per share) in Prior Year Comparable Period

    Backlog at March 31, 2025 was $13.3 million compared to $12.0 million at December 31, 2024

    HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orbit International Corp. (OTC PINK:ORBT) today announced results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 vs. First Quarter 2024

    • Net sales were $4,726,000, as compared to $6,175,000.
    • Gross margin was 12.4%, as compared to 30.8%.
    • Net loss was $2,152,000 ($0.65 loss per share), as compared to a net loss of $751,000 ($0.22 loss per share).
    • Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, fair value adjustment on contingent liabilities and other non-current liability, and stock-based compensation (EBITDA, as adjusted) was a loss of $1,949,000 ($0.59 loss per share), as compared to a loss of $551,000 ($0.16 loss per share).
    • Backlog at March 31, 2025 was $13.3 million compared to $12.0 million at December 31, 2024.

    Mitchell Binder, President and CEO of Orbit International commented, “The first quarter for 2025 was a very challenging quarter for our Company. Our net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was $2,152,000 ($0.65 loss per share) compared to a net loss of $751,000 ($0.22 loss per share) for the prior comparable period. EBITDA, as adjusted, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was a loss of $1,949,000 ($0.59 loss per share) compared to a loss of $551,000 ($0.16 loss per share) in the prior comparable period. Our current first quarter operating results were negatively affected by significantly lower sales incurred by our Orbit Electronics Group (“OEG”) inclusive of our Simulator Product Solutions LLC (“SPS”) subsidiary. In particular, we incurred an operating loss at our Orbit Instrument division due to a gap in our delivery schedules. Our Orbit Instrument division has historically been our best performing operating unit with strong operating leverage. However, it was adversely affected by contract delays in the second half of 2024 and a temporary pause in certain production contracts as our engineering team worked with our customers for next generation enhancements. The Orbit Power Group (“OPG”), which makes up the remainder of our legacy business, recorded operating income that was relatively flat for the first quarter.

    Binder added, “Operating results for SPS were adversely impacted by lower sales during the quarter as a consequence of reduced bookings in the second half of 2024 due to contract delays that were eventually awarded in 2025. Bookings were also negatively affected by ongoing opportunities that have not yet finalized in 2025 and certain lost opportunities, primarily due to lack of funding or our customer losing awards to competitors. Bookings for SPS in 2025 have since improved from the second half of 2024. In addition, aside from certain costs mentioned above, general and administrative costs at SPS, in general, have stabilized. We had incurred significant infrastructure costs in 2023 and 2024 in order to support SPS’ sales increase since the Company’s acquisition of the SPS business in 2022. At the time of the SPS acquisition, we anticipated the need to invest in infrastructure and internal controls in order to bring SPS up to the standards of a public company. We believe that our cost structure at SPS is now aligned to support our growth.”

    Binder noted, “Operating results for SPS were also burdened by more than $200,000 ($0.06 loss per share) of expenses incurred by SPS for fees paid to an outside engineering firm in order to modify legacy drawings, along with bill of material part identification, that was developed prior to the acquisition, as well as legal fees incurred in connection with the litigation associated with the termination of the former President of SPS.”

    Mr. Binder added, “Our sales for the three months ended March 31, 2025, decreased significantly to $4,726,000 compared to $6,175,000 from the prior comparable period. This decrease in sales was primarily attributable to lower sales at our OEG and despite higher sales at our OPG. As previously mentioned, the lower sales at our OEG were attributable to lower bookings in the second half of 2024 due primarily to contract delays which is an inherent risk in contracting with the U.S. government and its prime contractors.”

    Mr. Binder further added, “Our gross margin for the three months ended March 31, 2025, decreased to 12.4% compared to 30.8% in the prior year comparable period. The decrease in gross margin during the three months ended March 31, 2025, was attributable to a significantly lower gross margin at our OEG due to decreased sales resulting in a higher percentage attributable to overhead and other fixed costs; and a slightly lower OPG gross margin due to product mix and despite slightly higher sales.”

    Mr. Binder added, “For the three months ended March 31, 2025, selling, general and administrative expenses were $2,717,000, compared to $2,643,000, an increase of $74,000, primarily due to higher expenses from SPS and slightly higher corporate expenses. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses at SPS increased principally due to more than $200,000 of expenses incurred for (i) an outside engineering firm engaged to modify legacy drawings as well as bill of material part identification that was developed prior to the acquisition and (ii) legal fees incurred in connection with the litigation associated with the termination of the former President of SPS. The engineering firm was needed in order to conform drawing documentation to the actual manufacturing procedures to build the product as well as to comply with inventory internal controls. This was in addition to over $200,000 in engineering fees that were incurred in the fourth quarter of 2024. The increase in corporate expenses was primarily due to (i) all audit fees for our 2024 audit being billed in the first quarter of 2025 whereas prior years audit fees were distributed during all the quarters and (2) slightly increased payroll costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses at our OEG (exclusive of SPS), and our OPG did not materially change. We expect that the outside engineering fees at SPS will decrease significantly, beginning the second quarter of 2025 and corporate expenses should also decrease beginning the second quarter due to the absence of any audit fees for the remainder of the year.”

    Mr. Binder continued, “Backlog at March 31, 2025, was approximately $13,300,000 compared to approximately $12,000,000 at December 31, 2024, an increase of approximately 10.8%. This increase in backlog is reflective of a general increase in bookings from our OEG, inclusive of SPS and despite a decrease in bookings from our OPG during the quarter. In 2024, for our OPG, bookings for our VPX power supplies increased by 91.5% over the prior comparable period and represented the highest amount of VPX bookings in any previous calendar year. We are hopeful that the momentum of continued bookings for our VPX power supplies will continue in 2025. Bookings for our OEG, inclusive of SPS, improved in the first quarter of 2025 and are expected to continue to improve, as many anticipated follow-on awards expected in the second half of 2024 were delayed, resulting in a poor second half of bookings for the segment. Some of these orders were received in the first quarter of 2025 and are now expected to continue to be received in the first half of 2025. Contract delays are an inherent part of doing business with the U.S. Government.”

    David Goldman, Chief Financial Officer, noted, “At March 31, 2025, our cash and cash equivalents aggregated approximately $0.7 million and our financial condition continued to remain solid as evidenced by our 2.5 to 1 current ratio. We have access to a $4,000,000 line of credit (“LOC”) with our bank and have borrowed $900,000 under the LOC as of March 31, 2025. Our book value per share at March 31, 2025 was $4.69, which compares to $5.34 at December 31, 2024 and $5.54 at December 31, 2023. (Note: book value per share does not include any additional value for our partially reserved deferred tax asset.) To offset future federal and state taxes resulting from profits, we have approximately $2.4 million and $0.4 million in available federal and New York State net operating loss carryforwards, respectively.”

    Mr. Binder added, “Because our revenues are tied to delivery schedules specified in our contracts, it is often difficult to judge our performance on a quarterly basis. Our operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 resulted from weak bookings in the second half of 2024 that emanated from contract delays that led to a significant gap in first quarter delivery schedules. Some of these contracts were awarded in the first quarter and some represent ongoing opportunities that we have not yet finalized with our customer. We reported at year end that these contract delays would adversely affect our operating performance in the first half of 2025. Although, we expect an improvement in the second quarter operating results, we expect the results to still be somewhat affected by the 2024 contract delays. Because of the improved bookings in the first quarter and our expectation of improved bookings throughout our operating units and barring unforeseen delays, we expect these awards to fill in our delivery schedules and lead to an improvement to operating results in the second half of 2025.”

    Mr. Binder concluded, “We continue to evaluate the impact of tariff announcements and are evaluating their impact on the cost of our products and, in particular, our VPX power supplies, which recorded significant sales growth in 2024 and is expected to be the driver of the growth of our OPG in the future. We are addressing the tariffs in a number of ways, including a pass through to our customers, adjusting our pricing, negotiating with our vendors or seeking out alternative sources. We’ve been proactive in moving certain of our foreign vendors to countries that are not expected to be materially affected by tariffs.”

    Orbit International Corp., through its Electronics Group, is involved in the development and manufacture of custom electronic device and subsystem solutions for military, industrial and commercial applications through its production facilities in Hauppauge, New York and Carson, CA. Orbit’s Power Group, also located in Hauppauge, NY, designs and manufactures a wide array of power products including AC power supplies, frequency converters, inverters, VME/VPX power supplies as well as various COTS power sources.

    Certain matters discussed in this news release and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of the Company including, statements regarding our expectations of Orbit’s operating plans, deliveries under contracts and strategies generally; statements regarding our expectations of the performance of our business; expectations regarding costs and revenues, future operating results, additional orders, future business opportunities and continued growth, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the Federal securities laws. Although Orbit believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be achieved.

    Forward-looking information is subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Many of these factors are beyond Orbit International’s ability to control or predict. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ materially and that could impact Orbit International and the statements contained in this news release can be found in Orbit’s reports posted with the OTC Disclosure and News service. For forward-looking statements in this news release, Orbit claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Orbit assumes no obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    CONTACT   
    David Goldman 
    Chief Financial Officer 
    631-435-8300 

    (See Accompanying Tables)

     
    Orbit International Corp.
    Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (in thousands, except per share data)
    (unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
    (unaudited)
          2025       2024  
             
    Net sales   $ 4,726     $ 6,175  
             
    Cost of sales     4,138       4,275  
             
    Gross profit     588       1,900  
             
    Selling general and administrative expenses     2,717       2,643  
             
    Interest expense     19       5  
             
    Other (income) expense, net     (7 )     (14 )
             
    Loss before income taxes     (2,141 )     (734 )
             
    Income tax provision     11       17  
             
    Net loss   $ (2,152 )   $ ( 751 )
             
             
    Basic loss per share   $ (0.65 )   $ (0.22 )
             
    Diluted loss per share   $ (0.65 )   $ (0.22 )
             
    Weighted average number of shares outstanding:        
    Basic     3,327       3,343  
    Diluted     3,327       3,343  
             
     
    Orbit International Corp.
    Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (in thousands, except per share data)
    (unaudited)
     
     
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
             
    EBITDA (as adjusted) Reconciliation        
    Net loss   $ (2,152 )   $ (751 )
    Income tax expense     11       17  
    Depreciation and amortization     170       165  
    Interest expense     19       5  
    Fair value adj-contingent liabilities & other non-current liability    

    –

    		      

    10

    		  
    Stock-based compensation     3       3  
    EBITDA (as adjusted) (1)   $ (1,949 )   $ (551 )
             
    EBITDA (as adjusted) Per Diluted Share Reconciliation        
    Net loss   $ ( 0.65 )   $ (0.22 )
    Income tax expense     0.00       0.01  
    Depreciation and amortization     0.05       0.05  
    Interest expense     0.01       0.00  
    Fair value adj-contingent liabilities & other non-current liability    

    0.00

    		      

    0.00

    		  
    Stock-based compensation     0.00       0.00  
    EBITDA (as adjusted) per diluted share (1)   $ (0.59 )   $ (0.16 )

    (1) The EBITDA (as adjusted) tables presented are not determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Management uses EBITDA (as adjusted) to evaluate the operating performance of its business. It is also used, at times, by some investors, securities analysts and others to evaluate companies and make informed business decisions. EBITDA (as adjusted) is also a useful indicator of the income generated to service debt. EBITDA (as adjusted) is not a complete measure of an entity’s profitability because it does not include costs and expenses for interest, depreciation and amortization, income taxes, fair value adj.-contingent liabilities and other non-current liability and stock-based compensation. EBITDA (as adjusted) as presented herein may not be comparable to similarly named measures reported by other companies.

        Three Months Ended
    March 31,
    Reconciliation of EBITDA, as adjusted,
    to cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities (1)    		    

                  2025

    		      

    2024

    		  
                     
    EBITDA (as adjusted)   $ (1,949 )   $ (551 )
    Income tax expense     (11 )     (17 )
    Interest expense     (19 )     (5 )
    Fair value adj-contingent liabilities and other non-current liability     –       (10 )
    Stock-based compensation     7       7  
    Net change in operating assets and liabilities     1,353       1,230  
    Cash flows (used in) provided by operating activities   $ ( 619 )   $ 654  
     
    Orbit International Corp.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
     
      March 31, 2025
    (unaudited)    		   December 31, 2024
    ASSETS      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 696,000     $ 1,355,000  
    Accounts receivable, less allowance for credit losses   2,152,000       3,935,000  
    Inventories   9,068,000       8,884,000  
    Contract assets   1,029,000       643,000  
    Other current assets   376,000       428,000  
           
    Total current assets   13,321,000       15,245,000  
           
    Property and equipment, net   1,147,000       1,192,000  
    Right of use assets, operating leases   2,122,000       2,297,000  
    Right of use assets, financing leases   67,000       77,000  
    Goodwill   3,515,000       3,515,000  
    Intangible assets, net
    Deferred tax asset    		   2,262,000
    100,000    		       2,322,000
    100,000    		  
    Other assets   52,000       53,000  
           
    Total assets $ 22,586,000     $ 24,801,000  
           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 1,000,000     $ 878,000  
    Accrued expenses   975,000       990,000  
    Notes payable   86,000       99,000  
    Lease liabilities, operating leases   716,000       717,000  
    Lease liabilities, financing leases   39,000       38,000  
    Contingent liability   1,362,000       1,362,000  
    Line of credit   900,000       850,000  
    Customer advances   282,000       296,000  
           
    Total current liabilities   5,360,000       5,230,000  
           
    Notes payable, net of current portion   69,000       83,000  
    Lease liabilities, operating leases   1,498,000       1,678,000  
    Lease liabilities, financing leases   31,000       41,000  
           
    Total liabilities   6,958,000       7,032,000  
           
    Stockholders’ Equity      
    Common stock   352,000       351,000  
    Additional paid-in capital   17,181,000       17,171,000  
    Treasury stock   (1,224,000 )     (1,224,000  
    Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)   (681,000 )     1,471,000  
           
    Stockholders’ equity   15,628,000       17,769,000  
           
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 22,586,000     $ 24,801,000  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Antitrust scrutiny will only increase as Big Tech caught in escalating trade war, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Antitrust scrutiny will only increase as Big Tech caught in escalating trade war, says GlobalData

    Posted in Strategic Intelligence

    The consensus around the need to regulate digital monopolies has never been stronger on both sides of the Atlantic. Under the second Trump administration, transatlantic tensions over digital regulation, including antitrust, will heighten, as Big Tech is caught in an intensifying trade war, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest Strategic Intelligence report “Antitrust,” reveals that the European Commission is enforcing the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and is expected to wrap up its investigations of Google, Meta, and Apple by 2026. The US government has stepped up efforts to tackle digital monopolies through lawsuits. The Department of Justice is considering breaking up Google, which would represent the most decisive intervention to date against one of the world’s most powerful tech companies. So far only Apple and Meta have been fined for a DMA infringement, while all lawsuits opened against Big Tech in the US are ongoing.

    Laura Petrone, Principal Analyst, Strategic Intelligence team at GlobalData, comments: “US President Donald Trump views the DMA as ‘overseas extortion’ of US companies, but Brussels is determined to go ahead with its antitrust investigations and has said that it will make no concessions on its digital rules in trade negotiations with the US.

    “There will likely be an acceleration in DMA enforcement as the EU uses the threat of fines and sanctions as bargain chips in tariff negotiations with Washington. The result could be a damaging tit-for-tat trade war in the tech industry.”

    While the Trump administration is expected to be more friendly to consolidation across different sectors, the tech industry will likely be the exception, as both recently appointed heads of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Justice (DoJ) have signaled their interest in scrutinizing Big Tech over antitrust. However, mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and partnerships perceived to be in the national interest, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), will likely receive a green light from US regulators.

    According to GlobalData’s regulatory risk scorecard, Big Tech will continue to be the target of intense antitrust scrutiny, and most Big Tech companies could be caught in the crossfire of trade wars ignited by Trump’s tariffs.

    Samsung Electronics has the lowest regulatory risk among Big Tech companies, while Meta, Alphabet, and Amazon have the highest. US and Chinese Big Tech companies will face intense regulatory scrutiny due to their dominant position in most digital markets.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: In death penalty cases, the quest for justice is not America’s highest value

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Austin Sarat, William Nelson Cromwell Professor of Jurisprudence and Political Science, Amherst College

    Between 1976 and 2015, 80% of Louisiana’s capital sentences were later reversed. Bernd Obermann/Getty Images

    Jimmie Christian Duncan learned in April 2025 that a Louisiana judge had dismissed his capital murder conviction and he would no longer face the prospect of execution. In 1998, a jury convicted Duncan of murdering his girlfriend’s 23-month-old daughter, and he had been on death row ever since.

    Louisiana has a long and troubled death penalty history. From 1976 to 2015, 80% of the state’s capital sentences were reversed on appeal, and 12 people have been exonerated from its death row.

    But the Bayou State is not the only death penalty state with a wrongful conviction problem. Death row exonerations – when someone is released after being sentenced – have become more common in the United States. More than 200 people have been freed in the past half-century.

    DNA evidence has been involved in only a handful of those cases, but not Duncan’s. Most of the others have happened when defense lawyers discovered new evidence of faulty eyewitness identification, or when prosecutorial misconduct cast doubt on the legality of the conviction.

    Duncan’s case stands out because it was the first successful use of Louisiana’s 2021 factual innocence statute. Under that law, reconsideration of convictions can be based on new facts rather than just constitutional or legal violations of a defendant’s rights.

    As Louisiana District Judge Alvin Sharp explained in his April 2025 opinion in Duncan’s case, “To possibly be successful on a ‘factual innocence’ claim, a Petitioner shall present new, reliable, and non-cumulative evidence that would be legally admissible at trial and that was not known or discoverable at or prior to trial…”

    In overturning Duncan’s conviction, Sharp highlighted new understandings about the unreliability of so-called bite mark analysis that played a key role in Duncan’s case. He also cited the testimony of “a very compelling witness” who testified that the child’s death was “accidental drowning,” not homicide.

    It might seem odd that it took the factual innocence statute in 2021 to make what Sharp did possible. But as a death penalty scholar, I believe it’s the latest reminder that, even in capital cases, the quest for justice has not always been the United States’ highest value.

    The shadow of Herrera v. Collins

    States such as Louisiana have enacted factual innocence statutes because there is no nationwide, constitutional bar to executing people who are factually innocent. More than three decades ago, the U.S. Supreme Court turned back a challenge to the constitutionality of executing people who might not have committed the crime for which they were sentenced to death.

    In February 1992, 10 years after his conviction, Leonel Herrera filed a writ of habeas corpus – a legal action used to challenge the legality of a person’s imprisonment. Herrera said he had new evidence showing he had not committed the murder for which he had been sentenced to death.

    Herrera’s lawyers argued that executing a factually innocent person would violate the Eighth Amendment, prohibiting cruel and unusual punishment. He also said it would violate the Fourteenth Amendment’s guarantee of due process of law.

    Herrera wanted the courts to consider affidavits given long after Herrera’s conviction. Those affidavits claimed that Raul Herrera, Leonel Herrera’s brother, had said before he died that he, not Leonel, was guilty of the killing for which Leonel had been convicted.

    But the Supreme Court refused to consider that evidence.

    A 6–3 majority concluded that evidence of actual innocence was “not relevant … absent some other constitutional violation.” This ruling means that so long as applicable legal procedures are followed, it doesn’t matter whether the outcome is correct.

    In 1992, the Supreme Court rejected a challenge to the constitutionality of executing people who might not have committed the crime for which they were sentenced to death.
    AP Photo/Alex Brandon

    Making a place for actual innocence

    Not surprisingly, death penalty abolitionists were appalled by the outcome in Herrera’s case. They saw it as condoning the execution of the innocent.

    And in 2013, the Supreme Court opened the door for litigating actual innocence claims under the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act, which restricts prisoners’ habeas corpus rights.

    The court allowed prisoners who can show proof of innocence to file a habeas petition even after the normal time limit for filing one. But it did not say that executing the innocent would violate the Constitution.

    States have responded to this by enacting laws that allow people convicted of crimes to bring actual innocence claims, based on newly discovered DNA evidence.

    In 2012, Massachusetts passed a law allowing prisoners to seek “forensic or scientific analysis” of evidence in support of a claim of “factual innocence of the crime for which the person has been convicted.”

    Five other states – Louisiana, Maryland, Texas, Virginia and Utah – have passed laws allowing post-conviction actual innocence claims, even without DNA evidence.

    Under the Louisiana statute that Duncan invoked, “A petitioner who has been convicted of an offense may seek post-conviction relief on the grounds that he is factually innocent of the offense for which he was convicted.”

    In Louisiana, new evidence can be “scientific, forensic, physical, or nontestimonial documentary evidence.” Under some conditions, testimonial evidence is also admissible to prove innocence in post-conviction cases.

    Someone seeking such relief must prove “by clear and convincing evidence that, had the new evidence been presented at trial, no rational juror would have found the petitioner guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.”

    A prison warden discusses the gurney used for lethal injections at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola in September 2009.
    AP Photo/Judi Bottoni

    Opposition to actual innocence

    Many people oppose allowing convicted criminals to reopen their cases, even if they are, like Duncan, on death row.

    In the Herrera case, for example, Chief Justice William Rehnquist said that doing so would have a “very disruptive effect … on the need for finality in capital cases.”

    It looks like Louisiana will again be weighing the value of finality and justice in capital cases.

    Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry wants to see its actual innocence law repealed, calling it a “woke, hug-a-thug policy” and arguing that “once a verdict has been finalized, there are no more ‘get out of jail free’ cards.”

    A bill in the Louisiana Legislature to change the law has been introduced in the 2025 legislative session.

    The stakes could not be higher.

    As former Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun wrote in his Herrera dissent, “Just as an execution without adequate safeguards is unacceptable, so too is an execution when the condemned prisoner can prove that he is innocent. The execution of a person who can show that he is innocent comes perilously close to simple murder.”

    Louisiana will soon have to decide how close it is willing to come to producing that tragic result.

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

    – ref. In death penalty cases, the quest for justice is not America’s highest value – https://theconversation.com/in-death-penalty-cases-the-quest-for-justice-is-not-americas-highest-value-256042

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From defenders to skeptics: The sharp decline in young Americans’ support for free speech

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jacob Mchangama, Research Professor of Political Science and Executive Director of The Future of Free Speech, Vanderbilt University

    Support among young people for allowing controversial or offensive speech has dropped sharply. J Studios/Getty Images

    For much of the 20th century, young Americans were seen as free speech’s fiercest defenders. But now, young Americans are growing more skeptical of free speech.

    According to a March 2025 report by The Future of Free Speech, a nonpartisan think tank where I am executive director, support among 18- to 34-year-olds for allowing controversial or offensive speech has dropped sharply in recent years.

    In 2021, 71% of young Americans said people should be allowed to insult the U.S. flag, which is a key indicator of support for free speech, no matter how distasteful. By 2024, that number had fallen to just 43% – a 28-point drop. Support for pro‑LGBTQ+ speech declined by 20 percentage points, and tolerance for speech that offends religious beliefs fell by 14 points.

    This drop contributed to the U.S. having the third-largest decline in free speech support among the 33 countries that The Future of Free Speech surveyed – behind only Japan and Israel.

    Why has this support diminished so dramatically?

    Shift from past generations

    In the 1960s, college students led what was called the free speech movement, demanding the right to speak freely about political matters on campus, often clashing with older, more censorious generations.

    Sociologist Jean Twenge has tracked changes in attitudes using data from the General Social Survey, a biennial survey conducted by the University of Chicago’s National Opinion Research Center.

    Since the 1970s, this survey has asked Americans whether controversial figures – racists, communists and anti-religionists – should be allowed to speak. Support for such rights generally increased from the Greatest Generation, born between 1900-1924, to Gen X, born between 1965-1979.

    But Gen Z, those born between 1995-2004, has reversed that trend. Despite the fact that the Cold War, which pitted the communist Soviet Union and its allies against the democratic West, ended more than three decades ago, even support for the free speech rights of communists has declined.

    Political drift and cultural realignment

    At the same time, some data suggests that young Americans may be drifting rightward politically.

    A Harvard Institute of Politics poll in late 2024 found that men ages 18–24 now identify as slightly more conservative than those ages 25–29. Another Gallup survey showed that Gen Z teens are twice as likely as millennials to describe themselves as more conservative than their parents were at the same age.

    This shift may help explain changes in speech attitudes.

    Today’s young Americans may be less likely to instinctively defend speech aligned with liberal or progressive causes. For example, support among 18- to 29-year-olds for same-sex marriage, generally considered a liberal or progressive cause, fell from 79% in 2018 to 71% in 2022, according to Pew Research.

    Attitudes toward hate speech

    The Future of Free Speech study found that younger Americans are especially hesitant to defend speech that offends minority groups.

    Only 47% of those ages 18 to 34 said such speech should be allowed, compared with 70% of those over 55.

    Similarly, tolerance for religiously offensive speech was 57% among younger respondents, down from 71% in 2021.

    This concern over harmful or bigoted speech is not new. A 2015 Pew survey found that 40% of millennials believed the government should be able to prevent offensive speech about minorities.

    More recently, a 2024 report by the nonpartisan free speech advocacy group FIRE found that 70% of U.S. college students supported disinviting speakers perceived as bigoted. Over a quarter said violence could be acceptable to stop campus speech in some cases.

    Broader implications

    Why does this matter?

    The First Amendment protects unpopular speech. It does not just shield offensive ideas, but it safeguards movements that once seemed fringe. Whether it’s civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights or anti-war protests, history shows that ideas seen as dangerous or radical in one era often become widely accepted in another.

    Today’s younger Americans will soon shape policies in universities, media, government, tech and the public square. If a growing share believes speech should be regulated to prevent offense, that could signal a shift in how free speech is interpreted and enforced in American institutions.

    To be sure, support for free speech in principle remains strong. The Future of Free Speech report found that 89% of Americans said people should be allowed to criticize government policy. But tolerance for more provocative or offensive speech appears to be eroding, especially among young people.

    This raises questions about whether these changes reflect a life-stage effect − will today’s young people become more speech-tolerant as they age? Or are we seeing a deeper generational shift?

    The data suggests Americans across all generations still value free speech. But for younger Americans, especially, that support seems increasingly conditional.

    Jacob Mchangama receives funding from The John Templeton Foundation. He is affiliated with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression.

    – ref. From defenders to skeptics: The sharp decline in young Americans’ support for free speech – https://theconversation.com/from-defenders-to-skeptics-the-sharp-decline-in-young-americans-support-for-free-speech-254953

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: PSNA says broadcast ruling a warning to NZ news media to be wary of ‘Israeli propaganda’

    Asia Pacific Report

    A decision by the Broadcasting Standards Authority to uphold a complaint against a 1News broadcast last November is a warning to news media, says the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa.

    The authority ruled that a TVNZ news item on violence in Amsterdam in the Netherlands breached BSA rules.

    1News described violence in the streets of Amsterdam on November 7 and 8 following a soccer match as “disturbing” and ‘antisemitic’ and stated the graphic video of beatings were Maccabi Tel Aviv fans under attack just for being Jewish.

    Videographers who took the footage which 1News had used, complained to their news agencies that this description was wrong. The violence had been perpetrated by the Israeli Maccabi Tel Aviv fans against those they suspected of being Arab or supporters of Palestine.

    The visiting Israelis were the attackers — not the victims, said the PSNA statement, as widely reported by global media correcting initial reports.

    Before the match these same Maccabi fans had gathered in large groups to chant “Death to Arabs” — a racist genocidal chant which if used with the races reversed (“Arabs” replaced by Jews”) “would have been rightly condemned in purple prose by Western news media such as TVNZ”, said PSNA co-chair John Minto in the statement.

    “But no such sympathy for Palestinians or Arabs,” he added.

    Requested broadcast correction
    PSNA said in its statement that it had immediately requested that TVNZ broadcast a correction. TVNZ refused, though admitting they had got the story wrong.

    PSNA then referred a complaint to the BSA which upheld the complaint as failing to meet the accuracy standard.

    Minto said in the statement that the BSA decision should be seen as a warning to news media to be aware that Israel was using “fabricated charges of antisemitism, to justify and divert attention from its genocide in Gaza and silence its critics”.

    “Just because [Israeli Prime Minister] Benjamin Netanyahu and the then US President Joe Biden made statements turning Amsterdam attackers into victims, doesn’t mean TVNZ news should automatically parrot them,” Minto said.

    “That’s effectively what the BSA concluded.”


    Framing violence: How Israel shaped the narrative and the impact on Dutch politics   Video: Al Jazeera

    Minto also pointed to what he called a recent fabricated hysteria about antisemitism in Sydney, which the New South Wales police found to be completely based on hoaxes by a criminal gang.

    “In the US, Trump is using the same charge as an excuse to close down university courses and expel anyone who protests against the Israeli genocide in Gaza,” Minto said.

    “Of course, we strongly condemn the real antisemitism of anti-Jewish, Nazi-type Islamophobic groups,” Minto says.

    Call for media ‘self education’
    “It should be easy for professional reporters and editors to tell the difference between criticism of Israeli apartheid, ethnic cleansing and violence on one hand, and on the other hand Nazis and their fellow travellers who condemn Jews because they are Jews.

    “The BSA is, in effect, demanding the news media educate themselves.”

    In a half-hour report on 16 November 2024 headlined “Media bias, inaccuracy and the violence in Amsterdam”, Al Jazeera’s global mediawatch programme The Listening Post said “one night of violence revealed … Western media’s failings on Israel and Palestine”.

    “In the wake of an ugly eruption of violence on the streets of Amsterdam, the media coverage of the story [was] put under the microscope with editors scrambling to revise headlines, rework narratives, and reframe video content.”

    In an investigative documentary, The Full Report, on 22 January 2025, Al Jazeera’s Dutch correspondent Step Vaessen reported how Israel had framed the violence, shaped the narrative, manipulated the global media, and impacted on Dutch politics.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China releases white paper on national security 2025-05-12 17:43:23 China’s State Council Information Office on Monday released a white paper on the country’s national security in the new era.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) — China’s State Council Information Office on Monday released a white paper on the country’s national security in the new era.

    The move aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of the innovative concepts, practices, and achievements in China’s national security efforts, and enhance the international community’s understanding of China’s national security.

    The white paper, apart from its preface and conclusion, is structured into six sections, and outlines the following: China injecting certainty and stability into the world of change and disorder; the holistic approach to national security guiding national security efforts in the new era; providing solid support for the steady and continued progress of Chinese modernization; reinforcing security in development and pursuing development in security; implementing the Global Security Initiative and promoting the common security of the world; and advancing the modernization of the national security system and capacity through deepening reforms.

    The white paper emphasized China’s pursuit of national rejuvenation strategy amid global changes of a scale unseen in a century, noting that the country has maintained overall stability and steady progress in national security. China works together with Asia-Pacific countries to uphold regional peace and development. These inject reliable stability into a volatile and unstable world.

    According to the white paper, China’s holistic approach to national security is the first major strategic thinking established as the guiding principle for national security efforts since the founding of the People’s Republic of China. It is an important component of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and represents a major theoretical contribution from contemporary China to the global community.

    In the new era, China’s national security upholds a national security path with Chinese characteristics. It is one that takes the people’s security as its ultimate goal, political security as the fundamental task, and national interests as the guiding principle. It is also one that serves and promotes high-quality development, supports further expansion of high-level opening up, and operates under the rule of law.

    China’s national security firmly fulfills the major responsibilities entrusted by the Party and the people, upholds the Party’s position as the governing party and the socialist system, improves the people’s sense of fulfillment, happiness and security, ensures high-quality development, safeguards national territorial integrity and maritime rights and interests, ensures the safety and reliability of emerging fields, and fortifies the security shield essential to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, it said.

    China values coordinating development with security, striving to achieve a positive interaction between high-quality development and high-level security, promoting mutual reinforcement and coordinated enhancement between opening up and security.

    China’s national security adheres to reform and innovation as the driving force, and adopts a systematic and institutional approach, to improve the efficient and coordinated national security system, and forge practical national security capacity, said the white paper.

    The Global Security Initiative highlights the security vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, and brings a global outlook to the holistic approach to national security, it noted.

    China ensures both its own security and common security, advocates strengthening global security governance, practices the global governance concept of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, upholds true multilateralism, and works to make global security governance system fairer and more equitable, the white paper said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Indictment Charges Three Alleged Members or Associates of Chicago Street Gang with Racketeering Conspiracy Involving Multiple Murders and Carjackings

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    CHICAGO — A federal superseding indictment returned today charges three alleged members or associates of a Chicago street gang with conspiring to commit multiple murders and carjackings in the city and suburbs.

    EDSON RESENDEZ, MAVERICK CELA, and PREZILA APREZA committed the violence as part of their membership or association with the Spanish Gangster Disciples street gang, a criminal organization based on the Northwest Side of Chicago, according to a second superseding indictment returned in U.S. District Court in Chicago.  Cela was among the leaders of the gang, the indictment states.  The indictment alleges that in furtherance of a racketeering conspiracy, Resendez, Cela, Apreza, and other gang members and associates committed three murders, two attempted murders, four carjackings, an attempted carjacking, and an act of arson. The violence occurred in a two-week period in 2020, the charges allege.

    Resendez, 23, Cela, 24, and Apreza, 24, all of Chicago, are in law enforcement custody. Arraignments on the new superseding charges have not yet been scheduled.

    The superseding indictment was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.  Valuable assistance was provided by the Skokie, Ill. Police Department, Chicago Police Department, Morton Grove, Ill. Police Department, and Berwyn, Ill. Police Department.  The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cornelius A. Vandenberg and Simar Khera.

    “Combating the unacceptable level of gang violence in the Chicago area has been and will continue to be a top priority in our Office,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros.  “As I mark my first 30 days as the United States Attorney, I want to emphasize that we are using every available federal law enforcement tool to bring impactful cases that hold violent gang members accountable and reduce violent crime.”

    “The FBI is committed to eradicating neighborhood street gangs and the violence unleashed in our communities,” said FBI Chicago SAC DePodesta.  “This investigation is just one of many cases worked by FBI Chicago’s Violent Crime Task Force along with our dedicated Task Force Officers (TFOs) and local law enforcement partners.  We remain united in using all available resources to ensure that groups like these can no longer harm Chicago’s residents.”

    The second superseding indictment in this case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.  Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Crypto Casinos: JACKBIT Rated #1 As Top Crypto Casino With Instant Payouts, No KYC, & Provably Fair Games

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OKLAHOMA CITY, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — We tried plenty of online casinos—limited games, tiny bonuses, clunky layouts. Then we found JACKBIT, one of the best crypto casinos around. It greets you with a generous welcome bonus, pays out instantly in crypto, and offers hundreds of games. Voted the best crypto casino of 2025 by iGaming experts, JACKBIT delivers a smooth, secure experience for players.

    ✅GRAB YOUR WELCOME BONUS AND START WINNING AT JACKBIT

    “Our mission is to help players find a safe and rewarding platform,” said a panel expert. “JACKBIT stands out as the best crypto casino due to its seamless user experience, extensive game variety, and commitment to player privacy.”

    A Deep Dive into JACKBIT’s Excellence

    The selection of JACKBIT as the best crypto casinos was based on a thorough review of key player-focused criteria:

    • Licensing and Regulation
    • Game Variety and Quality
    • Bonuses and Promotions
    • Payment Flexibility and Speed
    • Security and Fair Play
    • Mobile Gaming Experience
    • Customer Support Quality
    • Sportsbook Features
    • Responsible Gambling Tools
    • No-KYC Benefits

    This comprehensive evaluation confirmed JACKBIT as a trusted online casino that excels in every aspect, making it a top choice for crypto gamblers worldwide.

    Why JACKBIT is the Best Crypto Casino

    Licensing and Regulation

    JACKBIT operates under a Curacao Gaming License, a respected credential in the crypto gambling industry. This license ensures adherence to fair play and security standards, with regular audits to maintain transparency. While some players may prefer stricter licenses like those from Malta or the UKGC, the Curacao framework allows JACKBIT to serve a global audience, solidifying its status as a safe online casino.

    Game Variety and Quality

    JACKBIT’s game library is a major reason it’s hailed as the best crypto casino. With over 7,000 titles from 85 top providers, including NetEnt, Microgaming, Evolution Gaming, and Pragmatic Play, the platform caters to all preferences. The offerings include:

    • Slots: Over 5,000 slots, from classics to modern video slots like Gold Party, Chilli Heat, and Wolf Gold. Players can also enjoy 180+ Megaways titles and progressive jackpots with life-changing payouts.
    • Table Games: A wide range of options, including blackjack (Power Blackjack, Infinite Blackjack), roulette (European, Lightning), poker (Texas Hold’em, Caribbean Stud), baccarat, and craps.
    • Live Dealer Games: Powered by Evolution Gaming, the live section features Live Blackjack, Live Roulette, Live Baccarat, and interactive game shows like Dream Catcher and Crazy Time.
    • Sportsbook: A comprehensive sportsbook covering 140+ sports, with 82,000+ live monthly events and 4,500+ betting types, including football, basketball, tennis, and e-sports.
    • Specialty Games: Casual options like bingo (Shamrock Bingo), scratch cards, and crypto-friendly mini-games such as Aviator and Plinko.
    • Virtual Sports: 24/7 betting on simulated events like virtual football, horse racing, and greyhound racing.

    This extensive selection ensures JACKBIT remains the best bitcoin casino for players seeking variety and quality.

    Bonuses and Promotions

    JACKBIT’s promotional offers are a key factor in its ranking as the best instant withdrawal casino. New players are greeted with a 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins wager-free on their first deposit. Ongoing promotions include:

    • Weekly giveaways with $10,000 and 10,000 free spins.
    • VIP Rakeback up to 30%, scaling with loyalty tiers.
    • Pragmatic Drops & Wins with a €2,000,000 prize pool.
    • Social media bonuses for engaging on platforms like Twitter.
    • Regular slot and table game tournaments with cash prizes.

    These bonuses are designed with fair terms, ensuring players get maximum value. JACKBIT’s creative promotions make it a standout in the crypto casino space.

    ✅SIGN UP AT JACKBIT NOW AND CLAIM 30% RAKEBACK + 100 FREE SPINS

    How to Get Started with JACKBIT

    Joining JACKBIT is simple and takes less than five minutes:

    1. Visit the official JACKBIT website.
    2. Click “Sign Up” or “Register” in the top-right corner.
    3. Provide minimal details (email, password, preferred currency).
    4. Select a payment method (crypto or fiat) and make a deposit.
    5. Claim your 30% Rakeback + 100 free spins welcome bonus.
    6. Dive into 7,000+ games or explore the sportsbook.

    Ensure you meet your jurisdiction’s legal gambling age (typically 18 or 19) before registering. JACKBIT’s streamlined process makes it the best crypto casino for accessibility.

    Payment Flexibility and Speed

    As an instant payout casino, JACKBIT supports over 17 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Solana, Ripple, and Dogecoin. Crypto transactions are instant and fee-free, providing unmatched convenience. Traditional banking options include:

    • Visa and MasterCard (instant deposits, 1-3 day withdrawals).
    • Google Pay and Apple Pay (instant mobile deposits).
    • Bank transfers (3-5 day withdrawals).

    With high withdrawal limits (up to $10,000 weekly) and robust SSL encryption, JACKBIT ensures secure and flexible banking, reinforcing its position as the best crypto casino.

    Security and Fair Play

    Security is a top priority at JACKBIT, a trusted online casino. The platform employs SSL encryption and blockchain technology to safeguard player data and transactions. Provably fair games and Random Number Generators (RNGs) ensure unbiased outcomes, making JACKBIT one of the safest online casinos. The no-KYC policy enhances privacy, offering instant withdrawal and no verification while maintaining trust.

    Mobile Gaming Experience

    JACKBIT’s mobile-optimized platform delivers a seamless experience on iOS and Android without requiring a dedicated app. Players can access the full game library, make instant deposits, and claim bonuses on the go. The responsive design ensures smooth navigation, making JACKBIT the new crypto casino a top choice for mobile gamblers seeking the best crypto casinos.

    Customer Support Quality

    JACKBIT, the new crypto casino, offers 24/7 live chat support in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish. The team is highly responsive, resolving queries within minutes. Email support and a comprehensive FAQ section provide additional resources. Player feedback highlights the support team’s professionalism, cementing JACKBIT’s reputation as a trusted online casino.

    Sportsbook Features

    JACKBIT’s sportsbook is a standout, offering 140+ sports, including football, basketball, tennis, cricket, and e-sports like Counter-Strike. With 82,000+ live monthly events, 75,000+ pre-match events, and 4,500+ betting types, it caters to sports betting enthusiasts. Live streaming and competitive odds make JACKBIT the best bitcoin casino for sports fans.

    Responsible Gambling Tools

    JACKBIT prioritizes player well-being with tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, reality checks, and links to organizations like GamCare and Gambling Therapy. These features ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, aligning with the standards of safe online casinos.

    No-KYC Benefits

    The no-KYC policy is a game-changer, allowing players to enjoy instant withdrawal and no verification while maintaining anonymity. This feature, combined with fast crypto payouts, makes JACKBIT the best instant withdrawal casino for privacy-conscious players.

    What Sets JACKBIT Apart

    JACKBIT distinguishes itself as the best crypto casino through several unique advantages:

    • Privacy First: The no-KYC policy ensures complete anonymity, which is ideal for discreet gambling.
    • Unrivaled Game Library: Over 7,000 games provide more variety than most competitors.
    • Lightning-Fast Payouts: Instant crypto withdrawals outpace other platforms.
    • Creative Promotions: From Rakeback to social media bonuses, JACKBIT offers unique value.
    • Global Reach: Multilingual support and mobile optimization make it accessible worldwide.

    These strengths make JACKBIT a leader in the crypto gambling industry, delivering a player-focused experience that’s hard to match.

    ✅UNLOCK INSTANT PAYOUTS AND TOTAL PRIVACY AT JACKBIT NOW!

    JACKBIT’s VIP and Loyalty Program

    JACKBIT’s VIP program rewards dedicated players with tailored benefits:

    • Up to 30% Rakeback based on loyalty tier.
    • Exclusive bonuses, including free spins, deposit matches, and tournament entries.
    • Priority support with dedicated account managers.
    • Higher withdrawal limits for high rollers.

    Players earn points through wagers, progressing through tiers for better perks. This program enhances the value of playing at the best crypto casinos, ensuring loyal players are well-rewarded.

    Community Engagement and Social Features

    JACKBIT fosters a vibrant community through:

    • Social Media Bonuses: Free spins and cash rewards for engaging on platforms like Twitter and Telegram.
    • Tournaments: Competitive slot and table game events with leaderboards and prize pools.
    • Player Feedback: Positive reviews on sites like AskGamblers and Trustpilot highlight community trust.

    This engagement creates a dynamic and interactive experience, making JACKBIT a top choice for players seeking the best bitcoin casino.

    Exploring JACKBIT’s Game Categories in Depth

    • Slots: A World of Spins

    JACKBIT’s slot collection is a highlight, with over 5,000 titles ranging from classic fruit machines to modern video slots. Popular games like Gold Party offer high volatility for big wins, while Chilli Heat provides medium-variance fun with free spins. Progressive jackpots like Mega Moolah and Divine Fortune offer life-changing payouts. Regular tournaments and free spins promotions make slots a core part of the best crypto casino experience.

    • Table Games: Strategy and Skill

    For players who enjoy strategy, JACKBIT offers a robust selection of table games. Blackjack variants like Power Blackjack and Infinite Blackjack provide low house edges, while roulette options like Lightning Roulette add excitement with multipliers. Poker fans can play Texas Hold’em or Caribbean Stud, and craps brings fast-paced dice action. These games cater to both casual and seasoned players, reinforcing JACKBIT’s status as a trusted online casino.

    • Live Dealer Games: Real Casino Vibes

    JACKBIT’s live dealer section, powered by Evolution Gaming and Pragmatic Play, delivers an authentic casino atmosphere. Live Blackjack and Live Roulette offer multiple tables for all budgets, while game shows like Dream Catcher and Mega Wheel add interactive fun. High-definition streaming and real-time chat create an immersive experience, making JACKBIT a leader among safe online casinos.

    • Sportsbook: Betting Beyond the Casino

    JACKBIT’s sportsbook is a major draw, covering traditional sports like football and basketball, as well as niche options like cricket and e-sports. With 82,000+ live events and 4,500+ betting types, players can wager on everything from moneylines to prop bets. Live streaming for select events enhances the experience, making JACKBIT the best crypto casino for sports betting enthusiasts.

    • Specialty Games: Casual Fun

    JACKBIT’s specialty games cater to players seeking low-stakes entertainment. Bingo titles like Shamrock Bingo and Burning Pearl Bingo offer quick play, while scratch cards provide instant-win thrills. Crypto-friendly mini-games like Aviator and Plinko are popular for their simplicity and high RTPs, adding diversity to the best instant withdrawal casino.

    • Virtual Sports: 24/7 Action

    Virtual sports at JACKBIT include simulated events like virtual football and horse racing, powered by advanced algorithms for realistic graphics and quick results. Available 24/7, these games offer constant betting opportunities, making JACKBIT a versatile platform for all types of gamblers.

    ✅EXPERIENCE 7,000+ GAMES AT JACKBIT NOW

    The Future of Crypto Gambling with JACKBIT

    Since its launch in 2022, JACKBIT has rapidly become a frontrunner in the crypto gambling industry. Its focus on innovation, such as integrating 17+ cryptocurrencies and offering provably fair games, positions it as a trailblazer. The no-KYC policy and instant payouts cater to the growing demand for privacy and speed, ensuring JACKBIT remains the best crypto casino for years to come.

    As the crypto gambling market evolves, JACKBIT is poised to stay ahead by expanding its game library, introducing new promotions, and enhancing its platform. The casino’s commitment to player satisfaction and responsible gambling makes it a reliable choice for both new and experienced players.

    Comparing JACKBIT to Competitors

    To understand why JACKBIT is the best crypto casino, it’s worth comparing it to other leading platforms:

    • Game Library: While competitors like BitStarz and Stake offer large game selections, JACKBIT’s 7,000+ titles and 85 providers provide unmatched variety.
    • No-KYC Policy: Unlike many casinos requiring identity verification, JACKBIT’s no-KYC approach ensures instant withdrawal and no verification, a rare feature.
    • Payout Speed: JACKBIT’s instant crypto payouts surpass platforms with slower processing times, making it the best instant withdrawal casino.
    • Bonuses: JACKBIT’s 30% Rakeback and weekly giveaways offer more value than standard deposit matches found elsewhere.

    These advantages highlight why JACKBIT leads the pack as the best bitcoin casino.

    Tips for Maximizing Your JACKBIT Experience

    To get the most out of JACKBIT, consider these tips:

    • Claim All Bonuses: Start with the welcome offer and stay active to unlock weekly giveaways and VIP rewards.
    • Explore the Game Library: Try different categories, from slots to live dealer games, to find your favorites.
    • Use Cryptocurrencies: Crypto deposits and withdrawals are faster and fee-free, enhancing your experience at this instant payout casino.
    • Engage on Social Media: Follow JACKBIT on Twitter and Telegram for exclusive bonuses.
    • Set Limits: Use responsible gambling tools to manage your spending and play safely.

    These strategies will help you enjoy the full potential of the best crypto casino.

    How JACKBIT Stands Out From Other Crypto Casinos

    JACKBIT’s blend of no-KYC gaming, instant crypto payouts, and a vast game library makes it unmatched. Its player-centric features, from generous bonuses to robust security, ensure a rewarding and safe experience. The Curacao license, while not the strictest, is backed by transparency and responsible gambling tools, building trust among players.

    As a relatively new platform, JACKBIT has quickly set the standard for innovation, offering a seamless experience for casual players and high rollers alike. Its global accessibility and vibrant community make it the best crypto casino for 2025 and beyond.

    ✅CLAIM YOUR WINS AT JACKBIT TODAY

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I play at JACKBIT without verifying my identity?

    Yes, JACKBIT supports anonymous crypto gaming with no mandatory KYC for most withdrawals, letting you enjoy full privacy while playing and cashing out securely.

    I want fast access to my winnings. Are JACKBIT’s crypto payouts quick?

    JACKBIT is known for its rapid crypto transactions. BTC, ETH, and other coins are typically processed within minutes, especially for verified or frequent users.

    Can I use Bitcoin bonuses right after signing up at JACKBIT?

    Absolutely. New players at JACKBIT can instantly claim crypto welcome bonuses upon their first deposit—no delays or complicated conditions.

    I play on mobile- does JACKBIT work smoothly on phones?

    Yes, JACKBIT offers a seamless mobile experience. Whether you’re using Android or iOS, the site runs fast and securely, with full access to games and crypto payments.

    Can I earn rewards or cashback the more I play at JACKBIT?

    Definitely, JACKBIT features a rewarding VIP program where consistent play unlocks cashback, free spins, exclusive bonuses, and faster payout privileges.

    Email: support@JACKBIT.com

    Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. The content is based on research and user reviews, with no warranties made as to its accuracy or completeness. Users must verify information before acting.

    Online gambling involves risks and is not suitable for everyone. Confirm you meet the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We do not promote gambling; participation is at your own risk. JACKBIT is a third-party platform, and we are not liable for losses or disputes.

    This article may contain affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content, but our reviews remain unbiased. Always conduct your own research before signing up.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/31263d1d-2af2-4fc3-b3a0-0f9631b86b98

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b80e34ef-a073-4410-a4e6-5b9e57a5bf9d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LM Funding America Announces April 2025 Production and Operational Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    – Bitcoin HODL 148.7 BTC as of April 30, 2025 valued at $14.1 million or $2.75 per share1

    TAMPA, Fla., May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LM Funding America, Inc. (NASDAQ: LMFA) (“LM Funding” or the “Company”), a Bitcoin mining and technology-based specialty finance company, today announced its preliminary, unaudited Bitcoin mining and operational update for the month ended April 30, 2025.

    Metric Feb 2025 Mar 2025 Apr 2025
    – Bitcoin2      
    – Mined, net 7.6 8.7 6.6
    – Sold – (14.2) (18.0)
    – Purchased – – –
    – Service Fee (0.0) (0.1) (0.1)
    – Bitcoin HODL 165.8 160.2 148.7
    – Machines2      
    – Operational 5,121 5,121 5,121
    – Storage 719 496 496
    – Total Machines 5,840 5,617 5,617
    – Hashrate (EH/s2)      
    – Oklahoma 0.43 0.43 0.43
    – Hosted 0.13 0.13 0.13
    – Energized 0.56 0.56 0.56
    – Storage 0.07 0.05 0.05
    – Total 0.63 0.61 0.61

    ________________________
    1 Calculated using 5,133,412 shares outstanding as of 12/31/24 from SEC Form 10-K filed March 31, 2025
    2 Unaudited

    “Transitioning to a vertically integrated model has proved valuable to our bottom line,” said Bruce Rodgers, Chairman and CEO of LM Funding. “In April, we mined 6.6 Bitcoin due to curtailments and disruptions at our hosting site as we began relocating 800 machines to our wholly owned Oklahoma facility. Our Oklahoma site enabled us to generate approximately $120,000 in power sales during the month — an offset to our mining costs that improved our margins and overall efficiency. We also made several strategic decisions, including ordering two 1 MW immersion containers to start our 2 MW expansion at our Oklahoma site. After careful diligence, we believe immersion offers faster deployment timelines, better margins, and improved equipment longevity.”

    Richard Russell, CFO of LM Funding added, “In parallel with our Oklahoma expansion, we made the decision to sell our recently acquired S21+ miners from Bitmain. This transaction is expected to recover our investment and preserve capital for higher-return opportunities. Regarding our 2 MW expansion, we anticipate completing construction and energization by the end of the third quarter, subject to international shipping timelines. We believe these strategic moves will strengthen our operational foundation, protect capital, and position us for long-term success in an evolving market landscape.”

    The Company estimates that the value of its 148.7 Bitcoin holdings on April 30, 2025, was approximately $14.1 million or $2.751 per share, based on a Bitcoin price of approximately $94,900 as of April 30, 2025, compared to a stock share price of $1.49 as of April 30, 2025.

    Upcoming Conferences and Events

    • May 15, 2025: LM Funding’s First Quarter 2025 Earnings Call
      • Time: 8 AM EST
      • Participant Call Links:
        • Live Webcast: Link
        • Participant Call Registration: Link
    • May 20, 2025: Benchmark Virtual Digital Asset Seminar
    • May 28, 2025: Orange Group & Blockware Sell-side and Buy-side Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada

    About LM Funding America
    LM Funding America, Inc. (Nasdaq: LMFA), operates as a Bitcoin mining and specialty finance company. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Tampa, Florida. For more information, please visit https://www.lmfunding.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” and “project” and other similar words and expressions are intended to signify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and conditions but rather are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Some of these risks and uncertainties are identified in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and its other filings with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the risks of operating in the cryptocurrency mining business, our limited operating history in the cryptocurrency mining business and our ability to grow that business, the capacity of our Bitcoin mining machines and our related ability to purchase power at reasonable prices, our ability to identify and acquire additional mining sites, the ability to finance our site acquisitions and cryptocurrency mining operations, our ability to acquire new accounts in our specialty finance business at appropriate prices, changes in governmental regulations that affect our ability to collected sufficient amounts on defaulted consumer receivables, changes in the credit or capital markets, changes in interest rates, and negative press regarding the debt collection industry. The occurrence of any of these risks and uncertainties could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact: 

    Investor Relations 
    Orange Group 
    Yujia Zhai 
    LMFundingIR@orangegroupadvisors.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: As US doubles down on fossil fuels, communities will have to adapt to the consequences − yet climate adaptation funding is on the chopping block

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Bethany Bradley, Professor of Biogeography and Spatial Ecology, UMass Amherst

    Salt marshes protect shorelines, but they’re already struggling to survive sea-level rise. John Greim/LightRocket via Getty Images

    It’s no secret that warming temperatures, wildfires and flash floods are increasingly affecting lives across the United States. With the U.S. government now planning to ramp up fossil fuel use, the risks of these events are likely to become even more pronounced.

    That leaves a big question: Is the nation prepared to adapt to the consequences?

    For many years, federally funded scientists have been developing solutions to help reduce the harm climate change is causing in people’s lives and livelihoods. Yet, as with many other science programs, the White House is proposing to eliminate funding for climate adaptation science in the next federal budget, and reports suggest that the firing of federal climate adaptation scientists may be imminent.

    As researchers and directors of regional Climate Adaptation Science Centers, funded by the U.S. Geological Survey since 2011, we have seen firsthand the work these programs do to protect the nation’s natural resources and their successes in helping states and tribes build resilience to climate risks.

    Here are a few examples of the ways federally funded climate adaptation science conducted by university and federal researchers helps the nation weather the effects of climate change.

    Protecting communities against wildfire risk

    Wildfires have increasingly threatened communities and ecosystems across the U.S., exacerbated by worsening heat waves and drought.

    In the Southwest, researchers with the Climate Adaptation Science Centers are developing forecasting models to identify locations at greatest risk of wildfire at different times of year.

    Knowing where and when fire risks are highest allows communities to take steps to protect themselves, whether by carrying out controlled burns to remove dry vegetation, creating fire breaks to protect homes, managing invasive species that can leave forests more prone to devastating fires, or other measures.

    The solutions are created with forest and wildland managers to ensure projects are viable, effective and tailored to each area. The research is then integrated into best practices for managing wildfires. The researchers also help city planners find the most effective methods to reduce fire risks in wildlands near homes.

    Wildland firefighters and communities have limited resources. They need to know where the greatest risks exist to take preventive measures.
    Ethan Swope/Getty Images

    In Hawaii and the other Pacific islands, adaptation researchers have similarly worked to identify how drought, invasive species and land-use changes contribute to fire risk there. They use these results to create maps of high-risk fire zones to help communities take steps to reduce dry and dead undergrowth that could fuel fires and also plan for recovery after fires.

    Protecting shorelines and fisheries

    In the Northeast, salt marshes line large parts of the coast, providing natural buffers against storms by damping powerful ocean waves that would otherwise erode the shoreline. Their shallow, grassy waters also serve as important breeding grounds for valuable fish.

    However, these marshes are at risk of drowning as sea level rises faster than the sediment can build up.

    As greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels and from other human activities accumulate in the atmosphere, they trap extra heat near Earth’s surface and in the oceans, raising temperatures. The rising temperatures melt glaciers and also cause thermal expansion of the oceans. Together, those processes are raising global sea level by about 1.3 inches per decade.

    Adaptation researchers with the Climate Adaptation Science Centers have been developing local flood projections for the regions’ unique oceanographic and geophysical conditions to help protect them. Those projections are essential to help natural resource managers and municipalities plan effectively for the future.

    Researchers are also collaborating with local and regional organizations on salt marsh restoration, including assessing how sediment builds up each marsh and creating procedures for restoring and monitoring the marshes.

    Saving salmon in Alaska and the Northwest

    In the Northwest and Alaska, salmon are struggling as temperatures rise in the streams they return to for spawning each year. Warm water can make them sluggish, putting them at greater risk from predators. When temperatures get too high, they can’t survive. Even in large rivers such as the Columbia, salmon are becoming heat stressed more often.

    Adaptation researchers in both regions have been evaluating the effectiveness of fish rescues – temporarily moving salmon into captivity as seasonal streams overheat or dry up due to drought.

    In Alaska, adaptation scientists have built broad partnerships with tribes, nonprofit organizations and government agencies to improve temperature measurements of remote streams, creating an early warning system for fisheries so managers can take steps to help salmon survive.

    Managing invasive species

    Rising temperatures can also expand the range of invasive species, which cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars each year in crop and forest losses and threaten native plants and animals.

    Researchers in the Northeast and Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Centers have been working to identify and prioritize the risks from invasive species that are expanding their ranges. That helps state managers eradicate these emerging threats before they become a problem. These regional invasive species networks have become the go-to source of climate-related scientific information for thousands of invasive species managers.

    The rise in the number of invasive species projected by 2050 is substantial in the Northeast and upper Midwest. Federally funded scientists develop these risk maps and work with local communities to head off invasive species damage.
    Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change Network

    The Northeast is a hot spot for invasive species, particularly for plants that can outcompete native wetland and grassland species and host pathogens that can harm native species.

    Without proactive assessments, invasive species management becomes more difficult. Once the damage has begun, managing invasive species becomes more expensive and less effective.

    Losing the nation’s ability to adapt wisely

    A key part of these projects is the strong working relationships built between scientists and the natural resource managers in state, community, tribal and government agencies who can put this knowledge into practice.

    With climate extremes likely to increase in the coming years, losing adaptation science will leave the United States even more vulnerable to future climate hazards.

    Bethany Bradley receives funding from the US Geological Survey as the University Director of the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center.

    Jia Hu has receives funding from the US Geological Survey as the University Director of the Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center.

    Meade Krosby receives funding from the US Geological Survey as the University Director of the Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center.

    – ref. As US doubles down on fossil fuels, communities will have to adapt to the consequences − yet climate adaptation funding is on the chopping block – https://theconversation.com/as-us-doubles-down-on-fossil-fuels-communities-will-have-to-adapt-to-the-consequences-yet-climate-adaptation-funding-is-on-the-chopping-block-256307

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: LIS Technologies Inc. Appoints Ryan Norton as its Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oak Ridge, Tennessee, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LIS Technologies Inc. (“LIST” or “the Company”), a proprietary developer of advanced laser technology and the only USA-origin and patented laser uranium enrichment company, today announced that Ryan Norton has joined the Company as its Senior Mechanical Design Engineer.

    Ryan Norton is an engineer with a background in mechanical and optomechanical design and analysis for both R&D and commercial products. His experience spans research, design and analysis of downhole drilling and laser tools, surface equipment and electronics packaging for space.

    Figure 1 – LIS Technologies Inc. Appoints Ryan Norton as its Senior Mechanical Design Engineer.

    During his time at Foro Energy, Ryan played a pivotal role in developing high-power laser tools for the energy sector. He led the design and testing of various groundbreaking optomechanical systems like the world’s first high power optical slip ring and novel hard rock laser drilling systems using both gases and fluids. He also worked on various other technologies such as high-performance nozzles, fiber optic connectors and high-pressure laser windows. His work has resulted in multiple patents related to high-power laser energy transfer and drilling technologies.

    Ryan holds a B.S. in Engineering with a Mechanical concentration and a minor in Mathematics from LeTourneau University.

    “It is a pleasure to welcome Ryan to LIS Technologies at this key junction,” said Christo Liebenberg, CEO and Co-Founder of LIS Technologies Inc. “His expertise will be instrumental as we move into the next phases of CRISLA development, and he will play a key part in facilitating the demonstration activities essential to CRISLA’s growth and expansion.”

    In his role, Ryan will support the development of mechanical solutions that drive advancement in the Company’s proprietary CRISLA-3G laser isotope separation technology, which was recently evaluated and determined to meet all elements required for a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4.

    “LIS Technologies is broadening its capabilities and assembling a team equipped with the knowledge and expertise to be a leading innovator in the space,” said Jay Yu, Executive Chairman and President of LIS Technologies Inc. “Engaging key professionals like Ryan is vital to sustaining our growth trajectory and I welcome him to the team.”

    About LIS Technologies Inc.

    LIS Technologies Inc. (LIST) is a USA based, proprietary developer of a patented advanced laser technology, making use of infrared lasers to selectively excite the molecules of desired isotopes to separate them from other isotopes. The Laser Isotope Separation Technology (L.I.S.T) has a huge range of applications, including being the only USA-origin (and patented) laser uranium enrichment company, and several major advantages over traditional methods such as gas diffusion, centrifuges, and prior art laser enrichment. The LIST proprietary laser-based process is more energy-efficient and has the potential to be deployed with highly competitive capital and operational costs. L.I.S.T is optimized for LEU (Low Enriched Uranium) for existing civilian nuclear power plants, High-Assay LEU (HALEU) for the next generation of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and Microreactors, the production of stable isotopes for medical and scientific research, and applications in quantum computing manufacturing for semiconductor technologies. The Company employs a world class nuclear technical team working alongside leading nuclear entrepreneurs and industry professionals, possessing strong relationships with government and private nuclear industries.

    In Dec 2024, LIS Technologies Inc. was selected as one of six domestic companies to participate in the Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) Enrichment Acquisition Program. This initiative allocates up to $3.4 billion overall, with contracts lasting for up to 10 years. Each awardee is slated to receive a minimum contract of $2 million.

    For more information please visit: LaserIsTech.com

    For further information, please contact:

    Email: info@laseristech.com

    Telephone: 800-388-5492

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    Forward Looking Statements

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vital support for victims in £20 million funding boost

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Vital support for victims in £20 million funding boost

    Thousands more victims to access life-saving support through a £19.9 million investment in specialist services.

    Minister Jess Phillips on a visit to Refuge, a charity supporting victims of domestic abuse

    Thousands more victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, ‘honour’-based abuse and stalking will have access to specialist support services thanks to a boost of nearly £20 million announced by the Safeguarding Minister today.

    Part of this funding will go towards backing helplines which can offer potentially life-saving support for survivors of abuse. Victims can find these experiences incredibly hard to talk about and contacting helplines for advice is often the first critical step in their journey to escape abuse, access vital support and eventually seek justice.

    To help more victims access support at the most vulnerable moments in their lives, a range of helplines supporting victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, ‘honour’-based abuse and stalking will benefit from £6 million in investment this year – an increase of around a fifth compared to the previous year.

    This investment is designed to reach as many different communities as possible and will bolster a range of vital specialist services in England and Wales supporting victims and survivors who face unique and challenging circumstances.

    Nine helplines across 8 charities, including: Refuge who run the National Domestic Abuse helpline; Hourglass, a charity supporting older victims; SignHealth who support victims who are Deaf; Galop; The Suzy Lamplugh Trust; Karma Nirvana; and Respect will receive funding to continue providing vital helpline services to victims, recruit more staff and support more victims escaping abuse.

    Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls, Jess Phillips said:

    No victim should ever feel abandoned when trying to escape abuse. But the harsh reality is that too many do – especially those from marginalised communities who face significant additional hurdles.

    Last week, I met survivors who felt the system wasn’t built for people like them. I hope this funding will change that. It’s about smashing down barriers and making sure every single person facing abuse has somewhere to turn when they make the brave decision to seek help.

    The funding package announced today also includes £5.3 million for services supporting children affected by domestic abuse, who are often the hidden victims of this devastating crime, to support them through one-to-one and group counselling, classroom-based assistance and help for their non-abusive parents across 8 specialist services nationwide.

    Charity Southall Black Sisters will receive £2.4 million to support migrant victims of abuse who are not able to access public funds.

    And to give victims direct access to financial support to escape abusive relationships, a wide range of specialist domestic abuse services will receive around £2 million through the Women’s Aid Flexible Fund. Through the fund, organisations across England and Wales, including Welsh Women’s Aid, will give payments of up to £500 to help victims secure safety and one-off payments of up to £2,500 for deposits for rental accommodation to help secure sustainable and independent futures.

    This is underscored by £2.5 million for projects to help prevent and improve the response to violence and abuse against women and girls, raise awareness of these issues and protect victims who are at risk.

    The government was elected on a mission to make our streets safer for everyone as part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change.

    Today’s announcement marks a vital step in our pledge to halve violence against women and girls in a decade, ensuring victims of these appalling crimes have somewhere to turn and the support they need to recover from abuse.  

    Domestic Abuse Commissioner, Dame Nicole Jacobs, said:

    Whether fearing for their lives or growing up in a home filled with stress and anxiety, victims should feel confident that support will be there to help them recover, but sadly too often this isn’t the case. 

    This funding for struggling specialist domestic abuse services, especially those supporting children, will bring much needed relief to survivors and services, who have been doing all they can to ensure help is there for people during one of their most vulnerable moments in life.

    Tackling domestic abuse requires drive, ambition and political will. I look forward to seeing how the government’s forthcoming violence against women and girls’ strategy builds on this investment by ensuring every victim and survivor gets what they need – exactly when they need it – so they can recover from abuse.

    Last week, the Minister for Safeguarding visited Refuge’s headquarters to meet with charity leaders and victims and discuss the unique challenges facing vulnerable individuals and harder to reach communities when they seek help. She also saw the National Domestic Abuse helpline in action and spoke to call handlers about the vital work they do.

    CEO of Refuge, Gemma Sherrington said:  

    The National Domestic Abuse Helpline, operated by Refuge, offers a lifeline for thousands of survivors every year. Open 7 days a week and 365 days a year, the support given by the helpline often represents the first step towards a life free from abuse and fear.  

    We are incredibly grateful for this much-needed funding boost, which will sustain this vital service for the coming year. Rather than covering the running costs of the helpline, our fundraised resources can now be directed towards supporting survivors, while bringing us one step closer to a world where domestic abuse is not tolerated.  

    The funding will also allow us to extend our live chat hours and make accessibility improvements to the helpline website, meaning we can reach more survivors than ever before.

    Esther*, a survivor of domestic abuse supported by Refuge, said:

    Funding for domestic abuse services is not only vital but absolutely necessary. Domestic abuse, in all its shapes, is still very much a problem and I’m hearing more and more tragic stories than ever before. Funding is needed for not only the aftercare for victims/survivors but also for the services that provide advice and support for people that are fleeing abuse.

    The transition from deciding to leave and actually leaving is one of the scariest experiences and it’s important that support and guidance is on hand. I know for certain that without help from these services, my story would have ended very differently, and I would not be here to talk at all. They gave me the courage and opportunity to live and smile again. I will always be forever grateful.

    Alongside Raneem’s Law, with domestic abuse specialists embedded in the first 999 control rooms across the country, this £19.9 million investment will help ensure that wherever victims of these crimes reach out for help – whether to police or charities – they will receive a specialist response tailored to their needs.

    This announcement follows a £13.1 million investment in a new policing centre to tackle violence against women and girls and enable police to better target these crimes, an uplift of nearly £2 million.

    Nikita Kanda, broadcaster and Refuge ambassador, said:

    I welcome today’s announcement of almost £20 million in funding for a range of vital and specialist services including Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse helpline. With this investment we will be able to strengthen our commitment to support all communities and empower those enduring domestic violence.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: When does a kid become an adult?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jonathan B. Santo, Professor of Psychology, University of Nebraska Omaha

    They might not be grown-ups yet. Klaus Vedfelt/DigitalVision via Getty Images

    Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

    When does a kid become an adult? – Avery, age 8, Los Angeles

    Not everyone grows up at the same pace, even though U.S. law holds that you reach adulthood when you turn 18. This is the age where you are treated like an adult in terms of criminal responsibility. However, states differ on the “civil age of majority,” which means that you don’t necessarily get all the rights and privileges reserved for grown-ups at that point.

    For example, U.S. citizens may vote or get a tattoo without their parents’ consent when they’re 18, but they can’t legally buy or consume alcohol until their 21st birthday. Young Americans are subject to extra restrictions and fees if they want to rent a car before they’re 25 – even if they got a driver’s license when they turned 16 and have been earning a living for years.

    Even physical signs of maturity don’t provide an easy answer to this question. Puberty brings about physical changes associated with adulthood like facial hair or breast development. It also marks the onset of sexual maturity – being able to have children.

    Those changes don’t happen at the same time for everyone.

    For example, girls typically start going through puberty and beginning to look like adults at an earlier age than boys. Some people don’t look like grown-ups until they’re well into their 20s.

    In my view, as a professor of developmental psychology, what really matters in terms of becoming an adult is how people feel and behave, and the responsibilities they handle.

    Even if you’ve developed a sophisticated palate by the time you turn 18, you still aren’t necessarily a full-fledged adult.
    nedomacki/Getty Images

    Age at milestones may vary

    Because everybody is unique, there’s no standard timeline for growing up. Some people learn how to control their emotions, develop the judgment to make good decisions and manage to earn enough to support themselves by the age of 18.

    Others take longer.

    Coming of age also varies due to cultural differences. In some families, it’s expected that you’ll remain financially dependent on your parents until your mid-20s as you get a college education or job training.

    Even within one family, your personality, experiences, career path and specific circumstances can influence how soon you’d be expected to shoulder adult responsibilities.

    Drew Barrymore attends a movie premiere at the age of 15 – one year after a judge declared her to be an adult in the eyes of the law through emancipation.
    Ron Galella, Ltd. via GettyImages

    Some young people technically enter adulthood before they turn 18 through a process called “emancipation” – a legal status indicating that a young person is responsible for their own financial affairs and medical obligations.

    Economic independence is hard to attain for young teens, however, because child labor is restricted and regulated in the U.S. by federal law, with states setting some of these rules. States also determine how old you have to be to get married. In most states, that’s 18 years old. But some states allow marriage at any age.

    Differentiating between kids and adults

    Understanding the differences between how children and adults think can help explain when a kid becomes an adult.

    For example, children tend to think concretely and may struggle more than adults with abstract concepts like justice or hypothetical scenarios.

    Kids and teens also have shorter attention spans than adults and are more easily distracted, whereas adults are generally better at filtering out distractions.

    What’s more, children, especially little ones, tend to have more trouble controlling their emotions. They’re more prone to crying or screaming when they are frustrated or upset than adults.

    One reason why being fully grown up by the time you turn 18 or even 21 might not be possible is because of our brains. The prefrontal cortex, which is a part of the brain that plays a crucial role in planning and weighing risks, doesn’t fully develop in most people before their 25th birthday.

    Making choices that have lifelong consequences

    The delay in the brain’s maturity can make it hard for young adults to fully consider the real-world consequences of their actions and choices. This mismatch may explain why adolescents and people in their early 20s often engage in risky or even reckless behavior – such as driving too fast, not wearing a seatbelt, using dangerous drugs, binge drinking or stealing things.

    Despite the medical evidence about the late maturation of the brain, the law doesn’t provide any leeway for whether someone has truly matured if they’re accused of a breaking the law. Once they’re 18 years old, Americans can be tried legally as adults for serious crimes, including murder.

    These still-developing parts of the brain also help explain why children are more susceptible to peer pressure. For instance, adolescents are more prone to confess to crimes they didn’t commit under police interrogation, partly because they can’t properly weigh the long-term consequences of their decisions.

    However, there are benefits to adolescents’ having a higher tolerance to risks and risk-taking. This can help explain why many young people are motivated to engage in protests regarding climate change and other causes.

    Feeling like a real adult

    In North America, some young people who by many standards are adults – in that they are over 20 years old, own a car and have a job – may not feel like they’re grown-ups regardless of what the law has to say about it. The psychologist Jeffrey Arnett coined the term “emerging adults” to describe Americans who are 21-25 years old but don’t yet feel like they’re grown-ups.

    When someone becomes an adult, regardless of what the law says, really depends on the person.

    There are 25-year-olds with full-time jobs and their own children who may still not feel like adults and still rely on their parents for a lot of things grown-ups typically handle. There are 17-year-olds who make all of their own doctor’s appointments, take care of their younger siblings or grandparents, and do all the grocery shopping, meal planning and laundry for their household. They probably see themselves as adults.

    Growing up is about gaining experiences, making mistakes and learning from them, while also taking responsibility for your own actions. As there’s no single definition of adulthood, everyone has to decide for themselves whether or not they’ve turned into a grown-up yet.

    Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live.

    And since curiosity has no age limit – adults, let us know what you’re wondering, too. We won’t be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.

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

    – ref. When does a kid become an adult? – https://theconversation.com/when-does-a-kid-become-an-adult-246287

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amitrajeet A. Batabyal, Distinguished Professor, Arthur J. Gosnell Professor of Economics, & Interim Head, Department of Sustainability, Rochester Institute of Technology

    President Donald Trump has long been preoccupied by the trade deficit — the gap between what the U.S. sells to the rest of the world and what it buys from it. He recently declared the issue a national emergency and used trade deficit data to calculate so-called “reciprocal tariffs” targeting nearly 100 countries. Although those specific tariffs are now on pause, Trump’s concern with the trade deficit persists.

    As an economist, I know there are two basic ways for a country to reduce a trade deficit: import less or export more. While Trump has focused on the former strategy, a more productive path may lie in the latter – especially by looking at untapped opportunities in rural America.

    Economists have long studied the differences between rural and urban regions. But while research shows that urban areas tend to be more technologically advanced, fast-growing and economically dynamic, economists have historically paid less attention to how regional differences affect export performance.

    New research is starting to fill that gap. Economists recently found that urban businesses export significantly more than rural ones – a difference with significant implications for national trade.

    The urban-rural export gap

    Looking at data from the Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey as well as trade statistics from 2017 to 2020, researchers used econometric techniques to measure the urban-rural export gap. They also examined two categories of potential causes – “explained” and “unexplained.”

    The first is due to differences in what economists call “endowments” – for example, a region’s digital infrastructure, its access to renewable energy and its opportunities for high-tech employment. These endowments can be observed and therefore explained.

    The second is due to what economists call “structural advantage.” This refers to attributes of a region that matter for export performance but can’t be observed and, as a result, remain unexplained.

    They found that most of the urban-rural export gap is due to explained differences. That means rural businesses could close the export gap if they were provided with similar endowments – meaning comparable access to renewable energy, similar digital infrastructure and analogous opportunities for high-tech employment – to their urban counterparts.

    Even more strikingly, the unexplained component was negative – which means rural businesses outperform expectations given their characteristics. That suggests rural regions have significant untapped export potential.

    Several factors collectively account for the urban export advantage. First, urban regions have a greater concentration of highly educated science and technology workers. Urban businesses also tend to be larger and more tech-savvy, and because they have better access to broadband, they use cloud technology more frequently. Urban areas also have more foreign-born business owners who may leverage their international networks.

    However, many of these differences suggest possible policy solutions. For instance, since cloud adoption depends on broadband availability, it follows that investing in digital infrastructure could boost rural exports. Also, rural manufacturers, especially in sectors like metals manufacturing, show comparable or higher export intensity per worker than their urban counterparts. So encouraging rural manufacturing would be one way to reduce the urban-rural export gap.

    Rethinking trade and rural development

    I think this research has important policy implications.

    First, it shifts some of the focus away from other countries as the root cause of the trade deficit. And second, it bolsters the case for what economists call “place-based policies” targeting specific geographic areas – as opposed to “people-based policies,” which provide support directly to individuals.

    Even though many economists dislike place-based policies, they are increasingly attracting both academic and governmental attention.

    The 2022 CHIPS and Science Act had special significance to rural areas.

    During the Biden administration, three major laws – the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS and Science Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – directed significant federal funds to rural areas. About 43% of funds from those laws – or US$440 billion – was designated as either “rural relevant” or as “rural stipulated,” meaning the funds were either geographically targeted or designed to address disproportionately rural challenges.

    Such massive investments in rural regions have led researchers and policymakers to question whether rural export underperformance stems from differences in observable endowments – in other words, things like access to broadband – or from inherent disadvantages that are much harder to deal with.

    In my view, this research provides compelling evidence that much of the urban-rural export gap is due to unequal distribution of productive assets, rather than inherent rural disadvantages. With appropriate investments in digital infrastructure, human capital and support for export-capable industries, America’s rural regions could play a much larger role in global trade. These findings also suggest the value of continued federal support for rural development efforts.

    In other words, if the U.S. wants to shrink its trade deficit, one answer could be more innovation in rural manufacturing.

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

    – ref. If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing – https://theconversation.com/if-you-really-want-to-close-the-us-trade-deficit-try-boosting-innovation-in-rural-manufacturing-255851

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Netanyahu’s occupation plan for Gaza means more suffering for Palestinians and less security for Israel

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Julie M. Norman, Senior Associate Fellow on the Middle East at RUSI; Associate Professor in Politics & International Relations, UCL

    Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, declared on May 5 that his government intends to intensify military operations and indefinitely reoccupy Gaza. The announcement has dashed hopes for a permanent ceasefire and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas.

    The plan, which was unanimously approved by Israel’s security cabinet, includes displacing Gaza’s 2.1 million inhabitants to a single “humanitarian area” on less than a quarter of Gaza’s territory. This will result in Palestinians leaving “in great numbers to third countries”, said Israel’s far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich.

    It is tempting to view the plan as another move by Netanyahu to placate the hard-right members of his coalition. It can also be viewed as a pressure tactic on Hamas – a threat to force the militant group to agree to a short-term ceasefire ahead of the visit of the US president, Donald Trump, to the Middle East from May 13.

    However, Netanyahu’s announcement is much more than rhetorical sabre-rattling. Israel’s recent operations in Gaza indicate that the plan should be taken literally and seriously. Since March, when the war in Gaza resumed following a temporary ceasefire, Israel has declared about 70% of the enclave either a military “red zone” or under evacuation.

    The new plan affirms what many have long feared: that expanding territorial control is not merely a short-term military tactic but a long-term occupation. In my view, this will only bring more suffering for Palestinians, less security for Israel, and more instability to the region.

    The humanitarian crisis in Gaza cannot be overstated. Many observers have described the current situation as the worst of any time during the past 18 months.

    The flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza has been politicised and widely criticised throughout the war, often slowing to a trickle. However, at least some aid trucks were allowed to pass into the Strip from late October 2023, shortly after the war began. This was followed by a surge of aid during the ceasefire in January and February 2025.

    But no food, fuel or medicines have entered Gaza since early March. This has led to near-famine conditions and the breakdown of the few remaining healthcare services.

    Israel’s proposed plan would forcibly move Gazans, nearly all of whom have already been displaced multiple times, into militarised “sterile zones” in the south. Humanitarian aid would be managed there by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and private US companies.

    UN agencies and international NGOs operating in Gaza have rejected this plan as contravening humanitarian principles. They have likened it to “de facto internment conditions”.

    Complicating Israeli security

    Deteriorating humanitarian conditions, combined with further displacement, will only create more security challenges for Israel. Entrenched occupation fuels armed resistance and further mobilises insurgency.

    The US saw this following its 2003 invasion of Iraq, which resulted in over 8,000 US military personnel and contractors being killed. Israel has repeatedly faced the rise of armed militant groups in response to prolonged military occupations in Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank.

    Hamas has already dismissed further ceasefire talks in the wake of the new plan, and the group is seemingly having no trouble recruiting new members to its military wing. This has ensured a costly deployment for IDF ground troops.

    It goes without saying that Hamas should release all of the remaining hostages – and should have done so long ago. But Hamas now sees little incentive to do so when Israeli ministers are calling for what appears to be the complete destruction of Gaza, with or without a hostage release.

    A renewed occupation of Gaza will also further complicate regional dynamics. Arab states that have promised billions of dollars for Gaza’s reconstruction, alongside a credible plan for a two-state solution, will balk at subsidising Israeli military control.

    The stalled US-backed normalisation deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia, which has long been sought both by the Trump and Biden administrations, will probably be pushed even further back. It may even be abandoned entirely if Israel retrenches in Gaza.

    And any US involvement in Israel’s new Gaza plan could complicate negotiations between the US and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear programme. The Iranian foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, has already accused Netanyahu of dragging the US into a “disaster” in the Middle East by “attempting to brazenly dictate” what Trump can and cannot do in his diplomacy with Iran.

    But perhaps most importantly, the reoccupation of Gaza – coupled with incursions, annexations and settlement expansion in the West Bank – communicates in no uncertain terms that the Israeli government is torpedoing any pathway to a two-state solution.

    This has long been clear to Palestinians and many onlookers. Most realists accepted that any moves towards Palestinian self-determination would be non-starters in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks on southern Israel.

    However, Israel’s friends in the international community, especially in Europe, have been holding on to the hope that Israel would eventually come back to the two-state framework. This latest plan calls their bluff.

    France and the UK are already in discussion about possibly recognising Palestine as a state at a conference in June. The UK has long preferred recognition as part of a peace process towards two states, rather than a symbolic gesture.

    But a retrenched “capture” of Gaza, combined with another massive civilian displacement, may speed up serious consideration of this recognition – while there is still Palestinian territory left to recognise.

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

    – ref. Netanyahu’s occupation plan for Gaza means more suffering for Palestinians and less security for Israel – https://theconversation.com/netanyahus-occupation-plan-for-gaza-means-more-suffering-for-palestinians-and-less-security-for-israel-256254

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Do wellness patches work? How to tell the good from the bad

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michelle Spear, Professor of Anatomy, University of Bristol

    Andrey Popov/Shutterstock.com

    From sleep aids and stress relief to vitamins and energy boosts, wellness patches are surging in popularity. These stick-on supplements promise to deliver nutrients and plant-based compounds directly through your skin and into your bloodstream – no pills, no needles, no fuss.

    Inspired by medical patches that deliver hormones or nicotine, they certainly sound scientific. But do they work?

    The short answer is: sometimes, but often not in the way they suggest. While the idea of nutrient delivery through the skin is firmly rooted in science, the reality of wellness patches is more complicated.

    The skin, after all, is an excellent barrier. Its outermost layer, the stratum corneum, is like a brick wall. The “bricks” are dead skin cells and the “mortar” is a waxy mix of fats. This structure is incredibly good at blocking water, bacteria and most drugs.

    Only a few types of molecules can easily sneak through this barrier. These tend to be small, fat-soluble molecules, such as nicotine, oestradiol (used in HRT) or certain painkillers – hence their established successful use.

    Layers of the skin explained.

    As a rule of thumb, small fatty molecules can cross, anything water soluble cannot. Vitamins are generally water soluble and therefore fail at the waterproof barrier.

    Vitamin B12, magnesium and iron – all available in patch form – are typically too large or water-soluble to cross the skin in meaningful amounts. If nutrients need to be injected or taken in high oral doses to be effective, the likelihood of a patch delivering enough through the skin becomes very slim.

    Spotting guff

    Still, some wellness patches may hold more promise than others. So how can you tell the difference between a product with potential and one that’s mostly marketing?

    First, look closely at the active ingredients. If the patch contains small, lipophilic (fat-loving) molecules – like melatonin, caffeine or certain cannabinoids – there’s at least a theoretical chance of absorption.

    Larger or charged molecules like B12 or magnesium salts are far less likely to make it through the skin barrier without special assistance.

    Second, check for transparent dosing. A trustworthy patch will state the amount of active ingredient it contains (in milligrams or micrograms), the duration of delivery, and ideally, the rate at which the compound is released. If it just says “infused with essential oils” and doesn’t tell you how much or how it works, take it with a pinch of salt.

    Third, examine the delivery technology. Medical-grade patches use either a matrix system, where the active ingredient is distributed evenly throughout the patch, or a reservoir system, which controls release from a central chamber.

    Some also use chemical enhancers to help increase absorption. Nicotine patches offer an excellent example of this enhanced delivery.

    As ever, the key to delivery is overcoming the stratum corneum. Nicotine is small, lipophilic and uncharged – three features that make it particularly well suited to slip through the skin and into the bloodstream.

    Once it diffuses through the stratum corneum, nicotine travels into the viable epidermis and dermis, where it can enter capillaries and circulate in the body.

    Modern patches use specially designed adhesives and permeation enhancers – compounds that temporarily loosen the skin’s lipid matrix to improve absorption. A common example is oleic acid, a fatty acid that disrupts the tight lipid packing in the stratum corneum, allowing more nicotine to pass through.

    This, combined with a controlled-release design, ensures a steady, low-level delivery of nicotine throughout the day, helping reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without the rapid spikes associated with smoking.

    The same principle is applied to skin creams that penetrate the epidermis primarily through passive diffusion, moving between the cells of the stratum corneum via the lipid matrix.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences. Join The Conversation for free today.

    Small, lipophilic, and uncharged molecules pass more easily, and formulations often include mild penetration enhancers, such as alcohols or glycols, to temporarily loosen the lipid structure and improve absorption into the viable epidermis. By contrast, if a wellness patch resembles a sticker soaked in oil or offers no explanation of its mechanism, you might want to question its effectiveness.

    Finally, consider the evidence behind the claims. Few wellness patches are supported by independent studies or peer-reviewed research. That doesn’t mean they never work but it does mean you should treat them as unproven. If a patch promises to “detox your liver”, “burn fat”, or “cure fatigue overnight”, it’s probably leaning more on placebo than pharmacology.

    That said, the placebo effect itself can be powerful. If a patch makes someone feel more in control of their sleep, stress or energy levels – and causes no harm – there may still be a benefit, but it’s important to understand where marketing ends and science begins.

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

    – ref. Do wellness patches work? How to tell the good from the bad – https://theconversation.com/do-wellness-patches-work-how-to-tell-the-good-from-the-bad-253983

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Governments shouldn’t chase growth at all costs. The harms of over tourism show why

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ilaria Pappalepore, Reader in Tourism and Events, University of Westminster

    Amsterdam hit its self-imposed limit of 20 million overnight stays in 2023. 4kclips/Shutterstock

    In the controversial case of expansion at Heathrow airport, the UK government insists that the benefits of economic growth outweigh the environmental and wellbeing costs. But what if focusing on prosperity is a shortsighted approach? The debate about a third runway, placed in the context of exponential growth in travel and tourism, makes the impact on people and the environment clear to see.

    Tourism accounts for an estimated 8% of global CO2 emissions, and emissions related to tourism will continue to grow despite technological advances. The Heathrow expansion, for example, has been shown to be incompatible with net-zero requirements.

    Meanwhile, many tourism destinations are struggling to cope with growing numbers of visitors. Residents have protested at the impact of overtourism on their quality of life, with harms including overcrowding, loss of amenities for residents and a skewed property market.

    London’s airport development plans (expansion is also mooted at Gatwick and Luton) aim to inject investment into a range of sectors beyond tourism. However, our research suggests that aligning tourism with other sectors and better cooperation of decision-making at different levels of government could lead to increased wellbeing, a healthier environment and greater benefits to the local economy.

    This provides options to rethink what tourism could look like when the focus is not just economic growth.

    It should be possible to look at new models that take a holistic approach to tourism development. This means putting the wellbeing of the community and the environment first. Falling under the umbrella term of “post-growth”, there are various approaches that all rethink the role of economic growth. They advocate prioritising human wellbeing within planetary boundaries.

    “Degrowth” argues that limiting growth is essential for a sustainable future. On the other hand, “doughnut economics” and regenerative approaches are more agnostic about economic growth. They argue that human prosperity and wellbeing should be prioritised regardless of whether GDP is going up or down.

    In the context of tourism and travel, these approaches provide a different perspective on the role of the sector and what it can bring to a place, beyond economic growth.

    They also go further than most strategies being implemented in popular tourist cities to prioritise residents’ wellbeing, quality of life, and lower-carbon travel.

    Taking the heat off tourist hotspots

    As part of a net-zero emission pledge, and in an attempt to curb overtourism and the frustration of locals, some cities across Europe are enforcing restrictions on cruise ships. And Greece is applying a climate resilience tax on top of the tourism tax on all overnight stays.

    One of the cities that has done the most to curb tourism is Amsterdam. After the start of the COVID pandemic, it adopted a citizen initiative to cap tourism at 20 million overnight stays per year.

    This number was reached in 2023, and the city has put forward a wide range of measures since then. These include a tourist tax rate of 12.5%, strict rules on short-term rentals, limits on visitor numbers at large attractions and reducing the number of cruises. The city has also strengthened its environmental regulations.

    Copenhagen, on the other hand, chooses not to restrict tourism. Rather, it now rewards visitors who engage in climate-friendly actions, with the “CopenPay” pilot project. Visitors who choose to cycle, use public transport or participate in volunteering are eligible for discounts or free access to 24 attractions.

    Visitors to Greece pay a climate charge as well as a tourist tax.
    ecstk22/Shutterstock

    While these initiatives are laudable, there are two reasons why they don’t go far enough.

    The first is that the majority of the measures are based on financial disincentives, such as charging entrance fees to destinations and taxing the most polluting transport. They rest on the assumption that we do not need to address the underlying pursuit of growth that led to this unsustainability.

    Likewise, arguments in favour of green growth are based on technological advances, such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This underpins claims that air travel can continue to grow. However, both within and beyond the travel sector, it has been argued that green growth is a myth.



    Read more:
    There isn’t enough ‘sustainable’ aviation fuel to make a dent in our emissions – and there won’t be for years

    In the long run, these measures do not cut the ever-growing number of travellers. Nor do they effectively address climate issues.

    Second, cities need support from higher levels of government if they want to encourage travel that is more environmentally friendly and contributes to the wellbeing of residents. In the case of Amsterdam, the ongoing expansion of Schiphol airport can be linked to overtourism, as well as noise and air pollution.

    City leaders want to cut the maximum number of flights. But they cannot do much as long as economic growth is the focus of the Dutch government’s plans.

    This highlights the deep complexities of controlling visitor numbers. And it also suggests that the economic benefits that come with the growth of London’s airports may come with societal and environmental costs. These will be felt by London and its residents, and cannot be solved with local policies.

    Rather than going further and faster with growth, when it comes to travel and tourism we may need to go “closer by and slower”.

    That might mean placing greater emphasis on promoting destinations to nearby markets, investment in low-carbon travel options and regenerative tourism activities. A post-growth approach should ensure that the economic benefits do not outweigh long-term ecological and societal growth. After all, these are the things we all need for a resilient society.

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

    – ref. Governments shouldn’t chase growth at all costs. The harms of over tourism show why – https://theconversation.com/governments-shouldnt-chase-growth-at-all-costs-the-harms-of-over-tourism-show-why-255038

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –