Human Times
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European Edition
16th January 2026
 
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THE HOT STORY

Ericsson cuts 1,600 more Swedish jobs

Ericsson plans to lay off 1,600 employees in Sweden, part of broader global efforts to improve cost efficiency amid weak telecoms spending and declining 5G investments. The company has cut staff steadily over three years, shrinking its global headcount from nearly 100,000 to about 90,000. A spokesperson said the move is meant to "maintain important investments that will secure our competitiveness and technology leadership." Shares rose 1.7% following the news, and J.P. Morgan analysts see the cost cuts as a possible driver for early margin recovery.
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REPORT

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WORKFORCE

Dutch firms slash jobs despite low unemployment

Dutch companies are experiencing significant job cuts, with a 42% increase in reorganisations announced in 2025, impacting nearly 25,000 workers. Major firms like Tata and ABN AMRO are leading the layoffs, driven primarily by cost-cutting measures rather than automation. Rob Witjes, a UWV labour market expert, said: "We haven't received so many notifications in a decade." Despite these layoffs, the national unemployment rate remains stable at 4%, although the number of people receiving unemployment benefits has risen by nearly 10%, reaching almost 200,000. Young and older workers are particularly vulnerable in this shifting job landscape.

Employers favour on-site work in 2025

In 2025, Romania's labour market showed a clear preference for on-site work, with over 95% of jobs requiring physical presence. Remote roles fell to just 4% of total postings, despite attracting 1.4m applications. Employers are preparing for the European directive on pay transparency, with 40% of job ads including salary information. Overall, job postings declined by 10% compared to 2024, yet the market remained active, particularly in retail and services. Bogdan Badea noted: "2025 was one of the most turbulent years in the recent history of the labour market."

Pension fund cnap not overwhelmed, insists ministry

Luxembourg's Ministry of Health and Social Security has refuted claims that the National Pension Insurance Fund (CNAP) is struggling with pension reforms. The reforms, passed in December, require workers to contribute longer for a full pension. The ministry clarified that CNAP is not overwhelmed, stating: "No additional workload will be created in the application process." The fund is also expanding its workforce to manage increasing complexities in applications. The CNAP aims to ensure clear communication regarding these changes, which will be implemented by January 2026.

Denmark's seniors embrace longer working lives

Denmark is witnessing a significant rise in the number of seniors working beyond retirement age, now exceeding 100,000. This trend is attributed to tax breaks, flexible working options, and supportive government policies. Employment Minister Kaare Dybvad Bek noted that changes in pension rules have made it "more economically attractive" for seniors to remain in the workforce. Jesper Rangvid, a finance professor, highlighted the appeal of tax-free bonuses for older workers. Despite the benefits, the government acknowledges that not all seniors can continue working until the state pension age of 70.

Sole traders rethink their business model

In Slovakia, rising insurance costs and unchanged taxes are prompting sole traders to consider switching to limited liability companies. The government abolished a controversial transaction tax for self-employed individuals, but many are cancelling their sole trader licences instead. Data shows over 66,000 sole traders closed their businesses last year, while nearly 25,000 new limited companies were registered. Marta Cesnaková from Slovenská sporiteľňa noted: "Entrepreneurs are cancelling sole trader licences rather than closing bank accounts." Analysts attribute this trend to increased insurance contributions and stricter labour inspections targeting "fake freelancers".
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REMUNERATION

Dutch MPs back plan to boost bank bonuses

Dutch MPs are poised to support a proposal that would relax bonus regulations for banks and fintech firms, allowing for increased variable pay for many employees in the financial sector. According to the Financieele Dagblad, a coalition of VVD, CDA, and D66 aims to eliminate the strict bonus cap for most staff, while maintaining existing rules for top executives and those in critical risk roles. The Dutch financial sector has long advocated for this change, arguing that the current cap of 20% of fixed pay hampers their ability to attract skilled personnel. "The cap puts us at a competitive disadvantage," said a sector representative.
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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Burnout risk rises for Romanian workers

In 2025, the Romanian Employee Wellbeing Index revealed that one in four employees were at risk of burnout. The index, conducted by RoCoach and Novel Research, showed a score of 70.3 out of 100, indicating moderate safety but increased vulnerability to workplace stressors. While 41% of employees maintained a reasonable work-life balance, only 30% reported high wellbeing. Mihai Stănescu, founder of RoCoach, noted: "Most employees do their jobs, but organisational systems force them to compensate through personal effort for what is missing from work design." High workloads and constant deadline pressure were identified as primary burnout sources.
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LEGAL

Aid workers acquitted after long trial

In a landmark ruling, a Greek court acquitted 24 aid workers, including Sara Mardini and Sean Binder, of charges related to rescuing migrants on Lesbos. The volunteers, who worked for the Emergency Response Centre International (ERCI) from 2015 to 2018, faced accusations of human trafficking and other offences. Presiding judge Vassilis Papathanassiou stated: "All defendants are acquitted of the charges" as their actions were aimed at providing humanitarian aid. Prosecutor Dimitris Smyrnis noted that "no independent basis establishing the criminal liability of the defendants has been demonstrated." Amnesty International welcomed the decision, urging protection for humanitarian efforts.
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HEALTH & SAFETY

Italy urges citizens to flee Iran

Italy's Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the withdrawal of most embassy staff from Tehran due to the Iranian government's violent repression of protests. He stated: "We will reduce the number of people working in the embassy. Only an indispensable number will remain." The foreign ministry has also urged all Italians in Iran to leave the country if possible, highlighting the escalating situation.
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WORKPLACE

Italy's top employers revealed for 2026

The Top Employers Institute has recognised 144 Italian companies in its 2026 rankings for excellence in human resources. Among these, 47 received European certification, while 14 achieved global certification across multiple continents. This recognition highlights the commitment of these firms to creating outstanding workplaces. The full list includes notable names such as Allianz, Amazon Italia, and Ferrari, showcasing a diverse range of industries.

Discover Luxembourg's best workplaces now

The Luxembourg Times has partnered with WorkL, a global employee engagement platform, to identify the best workplaces in Luxembourg. The initiative invites organisations to participate in a survey assessing employee engagement and satisfaction. Companies will receive insights into their workforce's confidence in leadership and inclusivity.

Lidl Malta shines as top employer

Lidl Malta has been recognised as a "Top Employer" for the eighth consecutive year by the Top Employers Institute. This accolade highlights the company's commitment to its 550-strong workforce and its focus on employee well-being, career development, and open communication.
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INTERNATIONAL

Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems reach deal

The Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) announced a tentative agreement with Boeing for a new collective bargaining contract affecting about 1,600 workers at Spirit AeroSystems. The proposal includes a 20% wage pool increase over five years, enhanced medical and dental benefits, and a $6,000 ratification bonus. James Hatfield, chair of the union's negotiation team, expressed satisfaction with the offer. Boeing's spokesperson stated: "We're pleased the union's bargaining committee has fully endorsed our Best and Final Offer." Union members have until January 30 to vote on the proposal.

NYC nurses strike enters critical negotiation phase

New York City nurses are resuming negotiations with hospital administrators after a four-day strike, the largest in decades. The New York State Nurses Association is meeting with NewYork-Presbyterian and other hospitals to address issues like health care benefits, staffing levels, and workplace safety. Nurse Sheryl Ostroff highlighted the violence nurses face, stating: "It's not acceptable, and we want our hospitals to protect us." Hospitals claim the union's pay demands are unrealistic, with proposals suggesting significant salary increases. The union continues to advocate for a fair contract that acknowledges the challenges in healthcare.
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AND FINALLY...

Secrets of a century-long career

Walter Orthmann, who worked for 84 years at the RenauxView company, shared his secrets to longevity in the workplace. He emphasised the importance of "staying curious, learning constantly, and really doing what you love." Walter advised maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress, stating: "Don't get nervous, do everything laughing." His colleagues viewed him as a mentor, appreciating his kindness and leadership. Born in Brazil in 1922, Walter began working at 15 to support his family and adapted through various roles until his retirement at 102 in August 2024, never intending to stop working.
 
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