THE HOT STORY

Crypto plays growing role in human trafficking networks, report says

Cryptocurrency flows to suspected human trafficking services, largely based in Southeast Asia, grew 85% in 2025, reaching a scale of hundreds of millions across identified services, according to a new report by US-based blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis. The analysis tracked four primary categories of suspected cryptocurrency-facilitated human trafficking, including Telegram-based “labour placement” services that facilitate kidnapping and forced labour for scam compounds.

Chainalysis

CNBC

WORKFORCE

New incentive system for employers that meet Omanisation targets

The Ministry of Labour in Oman has introduced a new incentive system for companies that meet Omanisation targets. Employers can receive a 30% discount on expatriate permit fees if they comply with these quotas. Conversely, non-compliance will result in doubled fees. The Ministry said that compliant employers can also compete for government contracts and access wage subsidies, supporting the national economy and Sustainable Development Goals. Delays in renewing permits will incur fines, capped at RO500 per worker. Employers are exempt from fees in specific circumstances, such as pending labour complaints or worker deaths.

Oman Observer

WORKPLACE

du recognised at CIPD Middle East People Awards

Telecom and digital services provider du has been recognised at the CIPD Middle East People Awards 2025, winning the Best Wellbeing Programme award while receiving highly commended honours for Best Digital Innovation or AI Programme in HR/ L&D and Best Nationalisation Programme. "These prestigious awards reflect our commitment to creating an environment where innovation thrives, employee wellbeing is prioritised, and UAE talent is empowered to lead in the digital age," said Fatima Al Afeefi, Chief People & Impact Officer (Acting) at du. "Our approach to people development not only strengthens our workforce but contributes meaningfully to the UAE's vision of becoming a global leader in technological advancement and human capital excellence."

Zawya EN

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Capgemini hosts Egypt AI hackathon

Capgemini hosted the "Hack the Future of Tourism in Egypt" hackathon during the AI Everything Middle East & Africa 2026 Summit. Over two days, 24 students formed six teams to create AI applications for enhancing the visitor experience in Egypt. The top three teams received spots in the Capgemini Egypt Young Professionals Program, which offers training and mentorship. Hossam Seifeldin, chief executive of Capgemini Egypt, said: "Through this hackathon, we are empowering young talent to develop practical, scalable solutions with real impact." The event aimed to foster digital skills and innovation in the region.

Zawya EN

HIRING

France's Thales is hiring in the UAE and Saudi Arabia

Thales, the French defence and aerospace giant, plans to recruit over 9,000 employees worldwide in 2026, including 60 roles in the UAE and 30 in Saudi Arabia. The company aims to fill 150 positions across the Middle East and Africa, with a focus on engineering roles. Patrice Caine, chief executive of Thales, said: "Together, we are shaping the future by inspiring an increasing number of young people, especially young women, to pursue careers in science and technology."

Gulfnews.com

INTERNATIONAL

Philippines needs whistleblower protection law to beat corruption, UN says

Whistleblowers in the Philippines face significant risks due to the absence of protective laws, a top United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) official has said. The lack of support leaves them vulnerable to retaliation, perpetuating corruption and impunity. Kirbee Tibayan, UNODC country representative, highlighted the need for a national Whistleblower Protection Act and reforms to the Bank Secrecy Act. She said: "Whistleblowers provide most corruption intel, but they're not adequately protected." Additionally, she called for a broader Freedom of Information Act to enhance transparency and inter-agency cooperation in combatting corruption.

Gulfnews.com

Belgian workers strike over Israeli officer's visit

Factory workers at FN Herstal in Belgium went on strike after Col. Moshe Tetro, an Israeli officer, participated in a tour organised by the Belgian Defence Ministry. The General Labour Federation of Belgium condemned Tetro's visit as "unacceptable," citing violations of international law. Workers halted production and protested outside the factory. Dyab Abou Jahjah, chairman of the Hind Rajab Foundation, praised the strike and labelled Tetro a "war criminal." He called for the Belgian government to expel Tetro and has filed complaints against him in the International Criminal Court.

The Times of Israel

Hong Kong's auditors warned over IPO workloads

Hong Kong's Accounting and Financial Reporting Council has warned auditors handling initial public offerings to evaluate their resources and expertise. The regulator has expressed concern that increased listing activity could compromise audit quality. In an open letter, officials noted that some auditors serving public interest entities are managing exceptionally high workloads alongside existing responsibilities, warning that the situation raises questions about their ability to maintain professional standards.

Bloomberg Tax

Russia taps India for workers

Russia is facing a significant labour shortage exacerbated by the ongoing war in Ukraine. Traditional sources of labour from Central Asia have dwindled, prompting Moscow to turn to India for assistance. In 2022, nearly 72,000 work permits were issued to Indian nationals, an increase from 5,000 in 2021. President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime ‌Minister Narendra Modi signed a deal in December to make it easier for Indians to work in Russia. Denis Manturov, Russia's first ‌deputy prime minister, said at the time that Russia could accept an “unlimited number” of Indian workers.

Arab News

OTHER

Chinese filial respect service ignites controversy

A Chinese mobile app called UU Paotui has cancelled a controversial service which enabled users to hire proxies to bow to elderly relatives during Lunar New Year visits. The service was intended to help those unable to visit family to maintain traditional customs. "Filial piety should not be commoditised," one critic remarked. Following the backlash, UU Paotui said: "After careful consideration, we have voluntarily removed the services that caused controversy." The app continues to offer other services, including a New Year greeter option.

U.S. News

The Human Times is designed to help you stay ahead, spark ideas and support innovation, learning and development in your organisation.

The links under articles indicate original news sources. Some links lead directly to the source material. Others lead to paywalls where you may need a subscription. A third category are restricted by copyright rules.

For reaction and insights on any stories covered in the Human Times, join the discussion by becoming a member of our LinkedIn Group or Business Page, or follow us on X.

Online

Advertise

This e-mail has been sent to [[EMAIL_TO]]

Click here to unsubscribe