Human Times

European Edition

11th September 2026

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THE HOT STORY

Jobs shape Sweden election debate

Employment and household finances emerged as key dividing lines ahead of Sweden’s general election. Social Democrat leader Magdalena Andersson argued that four years of rising unemployment and weaker purchasing power had made everyday life harder, while Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stressed economic growth and tax incentives. Sweden Democrats leader Jimmie Akesson took a tougher stance on unemployed immigrants, saying those “who aren't employable on the Swedish labour market” should either find work or leave. The competing approaches highlight a broader election choice between stronger welfare support and a right-wing programme combining lower taxes, tighter immigration controls and tougher expectations around employment. Polls showed the left narrowly ahead, although the final result remained highly uncertain.

France 24

HR & LEADERSHIP

Is your retention data lying to you?

Employee intent to stay in EMEA has dropped from 66% to 62% in a year, and voluntary turnover now costs the global economy $2.9 trillion annually. Most organisations treat this as a culture problem or a headcount problem but they're rarely looking in the right place. BAFTA-winning writer Adam Kay spent years inside a system that couldn't see its own people clearly, and he's joining Rippling's Wendy Harris and Eric Greenwood to make the case that your people aren't the problem. Your blind spots are. Join the free 45-minute session to find out what AI means for the headcount you can't yet see.

Save your seat

WORKFORCE

Amsterdam to cut 2,500 jobs by 2030

The municipality of Amsterdam plans to eliminate 2,500 full-time jobs by 2030, as stated by Alderman Hendrik Jan Biemond. The cuts aim to streamline operations and enhance efficiency following the coalition agreement. Most affected positions will be in management and policy-making, particularly within the Engineering Bureau, GGD Amsterdam, and other departments that expanded due to the integration of Weesp. The municipality currently employs around 22,000 people, with 18,000 in full-time roles. Proposals for the job cuts will be developed over the next six months, with final plans expected by the 2027 Framework Memorandum.

NL Times

Bucharest dominates Romania's job market

In 2026, Bucharest is set to account for nearly 50% of Romania's job openings, with around 71,000 positions posted on eJobs.ro from January to September. The total number of jobs listed on the platform reached almost 150,000 during this period. This significant concentration of job opportunities highlights Bucharest's role as a key player in the Romanian job market. As noted by eJobs, the capital's job market continues to thrive, attracting a substantial share of the country's employment opportunities.

Romaniapress

Job losses loom from new tax

Hospitality leaders warn that a new tourism tax could lead to the loss of 33,000 jobs in England. The Labour party's proposal allows mayors to impose an uncapped levy on overnight stays, which could cost the industry up to £1.6bn. Whitbread, owner of Premier Inn, and Butlin's have urged the government to reconsider, stating that the tax could undermine investment and job creation. Jon Hendry Pickup, chief executive of Butlin's, noted that the tax could make family holidays less affordable, impacting demand and hiring. Angela Rayner, Communities Secretary, defended the tax as a means to support local services.

Daily Express

PRODUCTIVITY

UK productivity shows signs of life

UK productivity may be entering its strongest period since the financial crisis, with revised measures showing output per job rising 1.4% in the year to June and alternative estimates pointing to faster gains since late 2024. Economists disagree over the cause, but some believe artificial intelligence is beginning to lift output, particularly in information and technology industries. John van Reenen of the London School of Economics called the improvement a "remarkable turnaround" that could represent "the first macroeconomic flowers of the AI boom". UK workers appear especially inclined to use AI to augment knowledge-based work rather than replace employees, although evidence from the US suggests productivity gains may also emerge through slower wage growth. Economists caution that forthcoming official measurements will be crucial in determining whether the recovery is sustained.

The Times

AI: the truth behind job cuts

For two years, discussions around AI have centered on its impact on white-collar layoffs and entry-level job losses. However, a new Bureau of Economic Analysis working paper suggests that AI may not be the scapegoat many believe. The study indicates that states and industries with high AI utilization have experienced increased output and employment post-2020. "The companies using AI most are growing and hiring," said Christos A. Makridis, an associate research professor at Arizona State University. Additionally, firms that adopted AI saw a 10% increase in employee headcount, particularly in entry-level positions. The report emphasizes that while AI adoption is rising, small businesses often lag behind larger firms. To maximize AI's potential, coordinated efforts are needed to support small businesses in adopting these technologies effectively.

The Hill

REMUNERATION

Migrant workers' wages to be protected

Employers in the Netherlands will no longer be allowed to deduct rent from migrant workers' wages starting mid-2028, as announced by Social Affairs Minister Hans Vijlbrief. Currently, employers can deduct up to 25% of the legal minimum wage for housing costs, often taking the full amount despite poor accommodation quality. Vijlbrief stated: "Many labor migrants are currently too dependent on their employer for a home," emphasising the need for fair housing prices. This change coincides with the Appropriate Rental Contracts Act, aimed at protecting migrant workers from exploitative landlords.

NL Times

INVESTMENT

UAE pledges €40bn investment in germany

The UAE has committed to investing €40bn in Germany, focusing on data centres and enhancing business relations. UAE Industry Minister Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber stated: "The UAE invests for the long term and builds partnerships that endure." This investment aims to strengthen ties, as Germany is the UAE's largest trading partner in the Gulf, with bilateral trade exceeding $15bn last year. During the visit, 29 agreements worth €9.4bn were signed. However, Human Rights Watch urged German leaders to address the UAE's human rights record amid ongoing regional conflicts.

Daily Sabah

France 24

Google's €13bn AI investment in Finland

Google has announced a €13bn investment in AI infrastructure in Finland, including a deal to purchase 50% of energy from the Loviisa Nuclear Power Plant for 22 years. This investment aims to create 37,000 jobs, with 7,000 permanent positions. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stated that this investment is "historical in Finland," promoting digitalisation and AI. However, Finland's Security and Intelligence Service has raised concerns about potential security risks associated with foreign-owned data centres. Google’s President Ruth Porat noted this is the company's first nuclear energy deal outside the US.

Deutsche Welle (EN)

STRATEGY

Volkswagen braces for major overhaul

Volkswagen is preparing for a significant restructuring, which may involve job cuts and potential plant closures. According to a report by Der Spiegel, the company anticipates costs of up to €16bn for reducing tens of thousands of jobs and shutting down facilities. The management estimates around €10bn will be needed for the job cuts alone by 2030. The supervisory board has approved a "future plan" aimed at making the company more competitive, with a target of achieving a higher profit margin by 2030. A spokesperson declined to comment on the figures.

Handelsblatt

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Management shake-up: major firms cut jobs

Major corporations like Volkswagen, Deutsche Bahn, BMW, and Bayer are significantly reducing management positions to streamline operations and cut costs. This trend, driven by a desire to eliminate outdated structures, has been accelerated by the rise of AI. Experts, including Fabiola Gerpott from WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management, noted that the true impact of AI on management roles is yet to be fully realised. As companies adapt, the role of middle management is evolving, with a shift towards more agile, cross-functional teams.

Handelsblatt

Richemont promotes founder’s son as Cartier owner steps up succession planning

Swiss luxury group Richemont has promoted Anton Rupert to non-executive co-deputy chair, advancing succession planning as the family prepares for future leadership amid governance concerns.

Financial Times

WORKPLACE

Deutsche Bahn slashes office space

Deutsche Bahn (DB) plans to reduce its office space by at least 20% over the next few years, aiming to save around €100m. CEO Evelyn Palla stated: "We are making the DB group leaner, faster, and more efficient." The restructuring follows a reduction in management positions and aligns with the "DB 2035" strategy to enhance performance. Palla faces pressure to improve service quality amid ongoing issues with the rail network, including delays and construction disruptions. The new transport minister, Steffen Bilger, has emphasised the need for visible improvements by 2029.

Handelsblatt

CYBERSECURITY

Berlin data breach: hackers strike again

The hacker group Rhysida stole sensitive data from Berlin's government, including employee files and official documents, and attempted to extort the city for 30 bitcoins, approximately €2m. After the city refused to pay, the data was published on the dark web, affecting two departments and around 1.4m records. Mayor Kai Wegner stated: "The State of Berlin will not give in to blackmail." Experts warn that the breach could have serious implications for individuals, as it includes personal data and information on critical infrastructure. The Berlin Senate is coordinating a response to the incident.

Deutsche Welle (EN)

LEGAL

Eni faces trial over data breach

The Milan Public Prosecutor's Office, led by Marcello Viola, has requested a trial for Eni regarding the Equalize case, which involves alleged unauthorised access to databases and illegal reports. The investigation, coordinated by prosecutors Eugenio Fusco and Francesco De Tommasi, includes numerous defendants, notably Eni's legal affairs director, Stefano Speroni, and former Equalize CEO, Enrico Pazzali. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 13 October. Eni stated: "The company considers the accusations unfounded and affirms the correctness of its operations." The prosecutor's office has concluded investigations into Eni, while other companies remain under scrutiny.

ANSA.it

TECHNOLOGY

Cegid and Silae merge to lead tech

Christian Pedersen has been appointed CEO of Cegid as it merges with Silae, creating a leading European technology platform for small and medium-sized businesses. The merger aims to enhance product integration across accounting, payroll, and HR solutions, serving 2m end-customers and over 15,000 chartered accountancy firms. The combined group is expected to be valued at over €10bn. Christian Lucas, Chairman of both companies, noted: "This combination is an exciting milestone." The merger is subject to regulatory approval and is anticipated to close in the first half of 2027.

ANSA.it

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Back injuries: the hidden costs

Back injuries account for 38.5% of all work-related musculoskeletal disorders, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average lost-time workers' compensation claim for 2022 and 2023 is $47,316, but actual settlements are often much lower. The Martindale-Nolo claimant survey found the median settlement for back injuries is between $20,000 and $25,000. Practitioners note that settlement amounts vary based on diagnosis and other factors. Emanuel Shirazi, an employment lawyer, emphasised the importance of understanding the nuances of workers' compensation claims and the potential impact on employment status.

The Baltic Times

INTERNATIONAL

California leads in worker protections

According to Oxfam's 2026 Best States to Work Index, California, Washington, D.C., and New York are the top states for worker protections, with minimum wages at least double the federal rate of $7.25. Cameryn Cobb, Ph.D., a social scientist at Oxfam America, said, “These states have continuously tried to meet the moment and pass policies to make sure that their workers are taken care of.” The index evaluates states based on wage scores, worker protection policies, and rights to organize. Notably, caregiver protection has been added to the list, addressing the needs of the “sandwich generation.” Cobb emphasized that states with strong worker rights also show better quality of life indicators, stating: “They have less people in poverty... a higher GDP per capita.” Raising the federal minimum wage, last increased in 2009, is also suggested as a necessary policy change.

CNBC

AND FINALLY...

AI race sparks a human exit

Jacob Coxon, a 27-year-old researcher, has resigned from Anthropic, citing safety concerns over AI development. He accused both Anthropic and OpenAI of irresponsibly racing towards self-improving superintelligence, which he believes could pose existential risks. Coxon stated: "The people building AI earnestly believe that it could kill us all by the end of the decade." His resignation follows a trend of AI employees voicing similar concerns, with nearly 1,400 workers previously signing a letter advocating for stronger regulations and a slower development pace. Anthropic acknowledged the risks but continues its work on AI models.

The Times of India

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