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Recent Editions
Human Times
North America
U.S. law enforcement is probing allegations from former Meta Platforms contractors suggesting that company personnel have gained access to WhatsApp messages, contradicting the company's assertions that the service hosts private and encrypted communications. The claims, which highlight alleged “unfettered” access to chats, are being investigated by special agents from the U.S. Department of Commerce, and echo similar allegations raised in a 2024 whistleblower complaint to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The ongoing inquiry has not been publicly disclosed until now.
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Human Times
UK
Employers anticipate stable or increased pay growth in the coming year, driven by rising living costs, according to a poll by Incomes Data Research (IDR). The survey of 121 businesses employing nearly 3m people revealed that 44% expect pay growth to remain around 3%, while 28% predict higher increases. Zoe Woolacott from IDR said: "Inflation is currently higher than it was a year ago and this has applied upward pressure on pay." The median pay award is projected at 3.4%, with some firms considering increases of 4% or more.
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Human Times
Europe
LVMH's cognac maker Hennessy has reached a pay deal with unions to compensate for lost bonuses due to weak sales last year. The agreement includes one-off payments of 6.8% of annual salaries, with minimum payments around €3,200 and a maximum of €6,500. The deal is aimed at preventing strike action; LVMH's champagne brands Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot have seen strikes over similar bonus issues. Hennessy has faced challenges, with profits halved in the past two years, impacted by US tariffs and declining demand for alcoholic drinks.
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Human Times
Middle East
Qatar is committed to a 'just transition' for workers by aligning labour policies with environmental sustainability. At the Abu Dhabi Dialogue, Minister of Labour Dr Ali bin Smaikh al-Marri said the country is investing in green skills and modern training systems to prepare workers, especially migrants, for a changing economy. The Ministry has integrated a just transition into labour market policies, focusing on upskilling and retraining workers for green jobs. Dr al-Marri emphasised the importance of safe labour mobility and updating legal frameworks to protect workers' rights in the evolving job market.
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