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Human Times
North America
U.S. economy added 147K jobs in June

In June, U.S. employers added 147,000 jobs, showcasing the labor market's resilience amid uncertainties surrounding President Trump's economic policies. The Labor Department's monthly report also revealed that the unemployment rate decreased to 4.1%, down from 4.2% in May, with hiring surpassing economists' expectations. State government payrolls climbed by the most since the start of 2023, led by education, while employment at local governments also surged. Health care payrolls rose 59,000, the least in four months. Employment also moderated in leisure and hospitality, as a 20,000 increase in June followed a downward revision of similar size in May. Payrolls declined in manufacturing, wholesale trade and business services. Average hourly wages increased by 0.2% from May and 3.7% year-over-year, to $36.30. The Labor Department's weekly jobless report, meanwhile, revealed that initial claims for unemployment benefits fell 4,000 in the seven days to June 28th; the four-week moving average declined 3,750 to 241,500, while total claims, reported with a one-week lag, were unchanged at 1.964m. 

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Human Times
UK
Hiring confidence hits 13-year low

Hiring confidence among UK employers has reached its lowest point in 13 years, according to BDO’s Business Trends barometer. The report highlights that the rise in national insurance, which adds £20bn annually to employers' costs, has led to a "prolonged caution from UK business." Many firms are hesitant to recruit due to policy uncertainty and the prospect of further tax increases in the autumn budget. Scott Knight, head of growth at BDO, commented: "We're seeing early signs of recovery in business output," primarily driven by the services sector. "But as we all know, we can't rely on good weather forever." A separate survey by the CBI found optimism among financial services bosses has fallen sharply, with many signalling that they plan to cut headcount in the coming months.

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Human Times
Europe
Greece's employment bill sparks outrage

Greece's Ministry of Labour has proposed a contentious bill that significantly alters the employment landscape, leading to strong opposition from trade unions and political parties. The General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) condemned the legislation, calling it a “tombstone for the eight-hour workday,” and warned it could lead to 13-hour shifts under a single employer. Labour Minister Niki Kerameus defended the bill, asserting that the eight-hour day remains intact while allowing for extended overtime. The Ministry claims the changes will enhance workers' income and align with European norms, but critics argue it undermines collective bargaining and workers' rights. As protests loom, the outcome of this legislation could reshape Greece's workforce dynamics amid ongoing economic recovery efforts.

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Human Times
Middle East
GPSSA warns employers on contributions

The UAE General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) has issued a warning to private sector employers regarding the timely payment of contributions for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals. Starting from July 2025, employers who delay these payments will incur additional fines, as stipulated by federal pension laws. The GPSSA emphasised that contributions are due from the first day of the month following the month owed, with a fine of 0.1% per day imposed from the 16th of the month for any delays. The initiative is part of the Unified System for Extending Insurance Protection, ensuring GCC nationals receive the same insurance coverage as in their home countries. The GPSSA stated: "Employers are obligated to register their GCC national employees and pay their contributions in accordance with the insurance system of the employee's home country." The system is mandatory for both public and private sectors.

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