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Employees at New Seasons Market reported that a wave of layoffs disproportionately affected workers active in union organizing. Several of the dismissed employees had been publicly involved in bargaining committees or union communications, raising concerns about retaliation. The company maintains that the cuts were tied to financial pressures, but workers say the pattern suggests otherwise. The dispute has intensified tensions at stores where unionization efforts have been gaining traction.

Argentina’s major labor federations announced a nationwide strike to oppose President Milei’s proposed labor‑law overhaul, which they argue would erode job security and weaken collective bargaining. Union leaders say the reforms would make it easier for employers to fire workers and reduce protections that have existed for decades. The planned strike is expected to disrupt transportation, public services, and industrial operations. This confrontation marks one of the strongest organized responses to Milei’s economic agenda so far.

Union leaders representing VA employees filed a motion arguing that the agency improperly voided their negotiated contract and replaced it with terms imposed unilaterally. Their filing points out that the VA’s move came after years of bargaining and undermines statutory collective‑bargaining rights. The unions also emphasize that the imposed terms weaken grievance procedures and limit worker protections. The case now sits before a federal judge who will determine whether the original contract must be restored.

An investor coalition asked Starbucks shareholders to vote against several board members, citing the company’s handling of ongoing labor disputes with unionizing workers. The group argues that the board has not adequately overseen labor‑relations strategy or addressed legal risks tied to union complaints. Starbucks maintains that it is committed to bargaining in good faith and improving workplace conditions. The vote will take place at the company’s upcoming annual meeting.

UAW Local 4811 voted to authorize a potential unfair‑labor‑practice strike covering roughly 40,000 academic workers across the University of California system. The union says the UC administration has violated bargaining rules and failed to address concerns raised during previous negotiations. UC officials dispute the allegations and say they remain committed to following established labor processes. A strike has not been scheduled, but the vote gives union leadership the authority to call one if talks break down.

Employees at the Fayette County Detention Center raised concerns about staffing shortages after a detainee’s escape attempt left an officer injured. Workers say chronic understaffing has increased safety risks for both staff and inmates. Local officials acknowledge the challenges but say they are working to fill vacancies and improve conditions. The incident has renewed calls from employees for stronger staffing commitments.

A new survey found that roughly one‑third of UK employers expect to reduce hiring because of upcoming labor reforms. Businesses say the changes—such as expanded worker protections and new employment rules—will raise costs and administrative burdens. Supporters of the reforms argue they will improve job security and workplace standards. The findings highlight ongoing tensions between employer groups and policymakers over labor regulation.

A labor dispute involving Kenya Airports Authority workers caused delays at Nairobi’s main international airport. Staff raised concerns about pay, job security, and working conditions, prompting slowdowns that disrupted passenger processing. Management said it was working to resolve the issues and restore normal operations. The government urged both sides to continue negotiations.

New federal data shows the U.S. added 130,000 jobs in January, far surpassing expectations and easing fears of a sharp labor‑market slowdown. Health care, social assistance, and construction drove most of the gains, while some white‑collar sectors continued to shed jobs. The unemployment rate dipped to 4.3%, suggesting continued resilience despite high‑profile layoffs. These numbers will likely influence upcoming labor‑policy debates, including wage standards and workforce‑training initiatives.