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Middle East Edition
18th September 2024
 
THE HOT STORY
UAE workplace revolution: A new era
The UAE workplace is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by modern employee value proposition (EVP) elements such as purpose-driven roles, flexible work models, and improved work-life balance. Marketa Simkova, partner at KPMG Lower Gulf, emphasised that “employees increasingly seek roles that offer much more than just a paycheque; they desire work that contributes positively to societal and environmental well-being.” KPMG's recent report indicates that 47% of employees view values and purpose as critical to their engagement and satisfaction. The shift towards flexible and hybrid work models not only enhances employee well-being but also promotes environmental sustainability. As Simkova noted: “Happy employees will create more satisfied customers who will be part of a more comfortable community.” This evolution in the workplace is not merely a trend but a strategic approach for companies aiming to thrive in a competitive landscape.
LEGAL
Lafarge accused of complicity in crimes against humanity
French cement company Lafarge SA is under scrutiny for its operations in Syria during the civil war, where it allegedly paid millions to Islamic State (IS) to maintain its factory's operations. The US Justice Department fined Lafarge $778m in 2022 for conspiring to support terrorist groups, marking a significant legal precedent. Additionally, over 800 Yazidis, represented by Amal Clooney, are suing Lafarge for its complicity in IS atrocities. The ongoing French criminal case against Lafarge could lead to unprecedented accountability for corporations involved in war crimes. Mark Taylor, author of "War Economies and International Law," noted that while companies often escape accountability, the Lafarge case may change that narrative.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Brave CF champions women in sports
Brave Combat Federation (Brave CF) is making significant progress in transforming the sports corporate culture in the GCC by promoting gender diversity and inclusion. The organisation is setting new standards by placing women in leadership roles, with over 40% of its workforce comprising women. Valeria Lang, Brave CF chief operating officer, stated: “The organisation’s commitment to gender diversity is evident in its day-to-day operations.” This commitment not only empowers women but also reflects the diverse cultures of its global audience. Brave CF's inclusive practices extend to its events and partnerships, ensuring accessibility and appeal to a wide audience, thereby fostering a culture of empowerment in the traditionally male-dominated sports industry.
TECHNOLOGY
AI integration set to soar in 2024
According to the latest State of the Automation Professional Report by UiPath, 2024 is poised to be a pivotal year for artificial intelligence (AI) integration, with 90% of automation professionals either using or planning to use the technology. The report, based on a survey of 1,909 automation professionals, highlights that 66% are motivated by increased productivity. Notably, 61% of respondents reported growth in their automation teams, and 81% anticipate hiring more professionals in the coming year. Agi Garaba, chief people officer at UiPath, stated: “Automation professionals are benefiting greatly from taking a leap forward with specialised AI and GenAI integrations.” The findings indicate a strong belief in the future of automation, with 84% of respondents confident in the sector's growth.
Revolutionising employment with Tawteen Platform
Dr Mahad bin Said Baowain, Minister of Labour, recently presided over the signing ceremony for the Tawteen Platform and the Employment Applications System, aimed at enhancing employment initiatives in Oman. "The Tawteen platform is an integrated digital system aimed at bridging the gap between job-seekers and available opportunities in the market," stated Eng Azhar bin Ahmed al Kindi, Technical Director of the National Employment Programme. This platform is designed to support the National Employment Strategy by fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, thereby increasing job opportunities and localisation rates. It also provides a comprehensive database of job opportunities and performance tracking dashboards, enabling decision-makers to make informed choices. The initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040, promoting sustainable development and enhancing local competencies.
Generative AI: A workforce game changer
Generative artificial intelligence (genAI) is often perceived as a threat to jobs, but a recent survey by KPMG reveals a different narrative. Writing in the Times, Jon Holt, chief executive of KPMG UK, says: "71% of UK chief executives see genAI as an opportunity to try new ways of working." The survey indicates that many leaders believe genAI can enhance productivity without significant job losses, with a third even anticipating job creation. While challenges such as trust, regulation, and skills gaps exist, Holt stresses the potential of combining human intelligence with AI to address the UK's productivity issues. He advocates for collaboration between government and businesses to equip young people with the necessary skills for the future.
WORKFORCE
Israel restricts NGO access in Gaza
Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner General, announced that the Israeli government has halted visa issuance to heads and staff of international NGOs. He stated: "As humanitarian needs continue increasing, we need more humanitarian workers, not less," highlighting the growing challenges faced by these organisations in Gaza and the West Bank. Lazzarini expressed concern that the Israeli government is "phasing out representation from humanitarian organisations or those engaged in reporting on the atrocities of this war," which hampers their ability to provide assistance. He called for an end to these restrictions, emphasising the need for humanitarian organisations and international media to operate freely.
HIRING
Police recruitment falls short again
Despite a nationwide recruitment campaign across Israel, only 1,300 new police officers were hired in the past year, significantly below the 3,000 positions authorised by the Finance Ministry. A ministry representative informed the Knesset Finance Committee that as of May 2024, the permanent police force comprised 27,300 officers, up from 26,000 in May 2023. The representative stated: “The Finance Ministry budgeted for 3,000 positions but the employment rate was lower than that.” The ministry attributed the shortfall to reduced salary expenditures, with savings redirected towards procurement and other war-related needs.
INVESTMENT
UN: Failure to invest in women costing $10tn a year
According to the latest Gender Snapshot report from UN Women, governments are neglecting investments in women and girls, leading to significant economic losses. The report highlights that failing to adequately educate young women could cost the global economy $10tn annually, while low- and middle-income countries risk losing $500bn over the next five years if the gender gap in internet access is not addressed. Papa Seck, head of UN Women's research and data section, said: “The cost of not achieving gender equality is just way too high but at the same time, the potential returns of doing so are also too high to ignore for societies.”
EVENTS
Qatar leads GCC aviation meeting
The State of Qatar, represented by the General Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA), hosted the 20th meeting of the Executive Committee of Civil Aviation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. Mohammed bin Faleh Al Hajri, managing QCAA, emphasised the importance of collaboration to tackle challenges in the civil aviation sector. He stated: "The integration of our air systems and the modernisation of aviation infrastructure are a top priority." The meeting addressed establishing a Gulf Civil Aviation Authority and enhancing cooperation on safety assessments for foreign aircraft. Discussions also included achievements in air navigation and potential partnerships with Turkey and Central Asian countries.
INTERNATIONAL
Deloitte equalises paid parenting leave
Deloitte has announced a new policy to equalise paid parenting leave in the UK, offering all parents 26 weeks of fully paid leave. The initiative, effective from 1 January 2025, combines various family leave types, including maternity, paternity, and shared parental leave. According to YouGov research commissioned by Deloitte, 87% of employees consider family leave a significant factor when choosing an employer. Additionally, some 54% of working mothers said that if their partner had more parenting leave, it would help them to progress in their career. Richard Houston, senior partner and CEO, said of the changes: “They demonstrate both the significance and value we place on looking after our people during some of the most important moments in their lives.” Additionally, the firm will provide paid time off for fertility treatment and extra leave for parents of children requiring neonatal care. Jackie Henry, managing partner for people and purpose, highlighted the policy's role in promoting gender equality and shared family responsibilities.
PwC making tangible investments to secure future in China
PwC is taking significant steps to secure a sustainable future in China following a record penalty imposed by Chinese regulators. The firm’s mainland unit, PwC Zhong Tian LLP, received a six-month suspension and a fine of 441m yuan (£62m) due to its involvement in the audit of the troubled property developer China Evergrande Group. In an internal memo, PwC acknowledged the challenges faced by its staff, stating: "We want to recognise that this has been an extremely challenging period for all of you." The firm said it was committed to making "tangible investments" to ensure long-term success in the region. Meanwhile, the firm also faces a lawsuit in Hong Kong filed by Evergrande's liquidators and Hong Kong's Accounting and Financial Reporting Council said its review of PwC's local practice remains ongoing.
 


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