|
revolutionary new world economy |
||||||||
 |
NewWork News Archives |
|||||||
| Home | ||||||||
|
|
||||||||
November 1996
Links included were live and functioning at time of publication.
They may not necessarily remain so, and this is not under our control.
|
revolutionary new world economy |
||||||||
|
NewWork News Archives |
|||||||
| Home | ||||||||
|
|
||||||||
November 1996
Links included were live and functioning at time of publication.
They may not necessarily remain so, and this is not under our control.
Traffic beginning to flow again in France (Saturday, 11/30/96)
Reuters reports that French truckers are removing their roadblocks following agreement with the French government. Here's the Washington Post story as well. The New York Times' Alan Riding says it amounts to an indirect defeat for the government.
Southeast Asian organization admits Burma, Cambodia and Laos (Saturday, 11/30/96)
Reuters reports that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations wants all ten southeast Asian countries included, as the world continues to reorganize regionally. Also from Reuters this morning, an employee found dead in the U.S. Department of Commerce building, and Jesse Jackson wants to meet with Donnelley & Sons executives about their big discrimination suit.
Workers unenthusiastic about political opposition in Yugoslavia (Saturday, 11/30/96)
Only lukewarm support is offered to the anti-Milosevic coalition, according to John Pomfret of the Washington Post.
Mishap ruins food and gifts stored in Illinois firehouse (Saturday, 11/30/96)
A flood in a firehouse basement has destroyed food and gifts that had been collected for the community's needy, but people are responding to provide replacements, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Another protest over sweatshop labor accusations (Saturday, 11/30/96)
Diane Lewis reports for the Boston Globe on protests against a sportswear maker. Also, Dan Reed reports that Canadian Airlines International has reached agreement with four unions.
Most parts of Ireland below European Union income average (Saturday, 11/30/96)
The Irish Times reports on new data from the Central Statistics Office. Also, Barry O'Keeffe reports that prospects for a national agreement now appear unlikely in an Irish labor dispute.
Children and the shrinking safety net (Saturday, 11/30/96)
Peter Kilborn of the New York Times reports on how children will be affected by the new welfare rules. Incidentally, contrary to popular belief, most welfare children in the United States are white. Also in the Times today, a friend of the poor in Cincinnati has been killed, companies and insurers face a midnight Monday deadline on healthcare subsidies, and a young entrepreneur is finding ways to bring Jews and Arabs together.
French strike still tying up country, but some deals are signed (Friday, 11/29/96)
French truckers are still blockading hundreds of roads and fuel stations in the country. Reuters reports that drivers' representatives have met with employers to sign agreements on some issues, but other issues remain. British truckers get to go home, as reported by the Irish Times and the London Times. Le Figaro and Liberation have the story in France, among other news organizations.
Jackson applauds court's blocking of Proposition 209 (Friday, 11/29/96)
American political activist Jesse Jackson is enthusiastic about the temporary blocking of California's controversial move to roll back affirmative action in the state. Here's the story from Reuters, which also has stories today about a discrimination suit against Donnelley that could last for years, and White House acknowledgment that it will try to amend the new welfare law, but says some reports have been premature.
Philips TV unit to cut 433 workers (Friday, 11/29/96)
De Financieel Economische Tijd reports that Philips Brugge, a television production division of the Philips electronics company, will cut another 433 jobs following 363 cuts earlier in the year. Here's more from today's New York Times.
Teen benefits to be cut (Friday, 11/29/96)
Switzerland's lower house has voted to eliminate unemployment benefits for people under 20 and also exclude the young people from government work programs, according to Tages-Anzeiger. Some officials believe that young people have been abusing the benefits, and say that they should continue with training and education until finding work. Thousands of high school and university students protested in Zurich yesterday because of the introduction of high school tuition and staff cuts at universities.
Compromise on retail hours (Friday, 11/29/96)
Austria's long-time restrictive retail hours will be relaxed beginning January 1, and now small family-owned shop owners have secured an exemption that will allow them to stay open until 9 PM each day. They feel that the exemption from the new rules will help them survive in the face of greater competition from large retail chains, according to Die Presse.
Do government statistics lie? (Friday, 11/29/96)
Economic decisions at all levels depend on the information available, and there is growing concern that U.S. government statistics have been getting less reliable. Here's a New York Times story via the Minneapolis Star Tribune telling about what some officials think needs to be done. Also in the Star Tribune today, Mark DePaolis tells about the high demand for women physicians among women.
Minnesota iron range attracting new kinds of jobs (Friday, 11/29/96)
Michael Phillips writes about how low wages, among other things, are attracting new industries and jobs to northeastern Minnesota's iron range. Minnesota provided a large proportion of the iron ore required by the Industrial Revolution, but America's movement into the new information economy has changed the region's role. Also, Susan Carey tells about a really long commute, and Pascal Zachary says that the temporary block put on California's Proposition 209 is just the beginning of some long legal battles.
More on the big discrimination ruling in Japan (Friday, 11/29/96)
Today's Washington Post reports on the story we told you about yesterday. Also, a New York judge rules that shelter has to be provided to families with children, the federal government has notified hundreds of thousands of parents that their children may lose disability benefits under the new welfare law, and the State Department is falling short on recruiting minority officers.
Population growth down in Japan (Friday, 11/29/96)
Population is still increasing in Japan, but at a lower rate than at any time since the end of World War II, according to today's Asahi Shimbun. Also in Japan, business leaders are a bit more optimistic about the Japanese economy, and the government gives a positive spin to news about unemployment in the country, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Women police in India unsure about new dress code (Friday, 11/29/96)
Here's the story from today's Deccan Herald.
On the trimming of Medicaid (Friday, 11/29/96)
Doris Sue Wong of the Boston Globe tells what providers think.
Here's late news on English brew (Friday, 11/29/96)
We mean really late. A new book says that most of the ale was brewed by women in merrie England. Here's the story from the London Times, which also reports today that judges will be working overtime for no pay.
French truckers win two issues, but continue strike (Thursday, 11/28/96)
Liberation reports that French truckers have reached agreement on retirement at age 55 plus payment in full for all hours worked, but issues remain. They've voted to extend the strike.
Judge blocks Proposition 209 (Thursday, 11/28/96)
California Governor Wilson and Attorney General Lungren are temporarily restrained from implementing the controversial measure while its constitutionality is determined. Reuters also reports on last week's unemployment figures in the United States and on the labor shortage in the fast-growing Israeli software industry.
Retailers scramble for holiday workers (Thursday, 11/28/96)
Shelley Donald Coolidge reports on the difficulty some firms are having finding enough employees to staff the stores during the holiday rush. Susan Feyder looks at the same problem from the perspective of one metropolitan area.
Union challenges hospital merger (Thursday, 11/28/96)
They fear some members would lose representation if the merger goes through, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Also, here's Joe Muldoon's commentary on the meaning of rich and poor.
Job losses in Austria continue (Thursday, 11/28/96)
Der Standard reports that Austria lost 80,000 jobs between 1991 and 1994, and the trend has continued since. Vienna has been hardest hit.
Turkish union opposes sale of steel producer (Thursday, 11/28/96)
Global reports that the head of the Turkish metal workers union ways 3,000 jobs could be lost if the government follows through with its plan to sell 30 percent of the state-controlled steel maker, Eregli Demir ve Celik Fabrikalari AS.
Swiss company to cut three-quarters of its jobs (Thursday, 11/28/96)
According to Tages-Anzeiger, Elestra Elektronik AG, a Swiss electronics company, will cut 75% of its jobs in a major reorganization move, as the Swiss economy contracts.
Big sex discrimination suit settled in Tokyo (Thursday, 11/28/96)
Shiba Credit Association will pay 13 female employees 100 million yen, according to Asahi Shimbun, which also has a story today on a plan to have patients pay more under the Japanese under national health insurance.
Baseball finally settles (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
A new five-year agreement is ratified. Here's the story from Reuters and the New York Times.
Trucker protests continue in France (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Talks continue, but slowly, and other unions may join in.
Texaco boycott to continue (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Despite settlement of the big discrimination suit, some say the company has made insufficient progress in changing its overall policies, so the boycott continues.
Steel collar employment improving (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Sherwood Ross reports on how well industrial robots are doing.
Reich says government will investigate poultry industry (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Reuters reports that some think the industry tolerates "sweatshop conditions".
Top labor official to meet with Haider (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Austrian right-wing political leader Joerg Haider has threatened to organize a rival system of labor unions. Oesterreichischer Gewerkschaftsverband's president Fritz Verzetnitsch will meet with him to try to change his mind, according to Salzburger Nachrichten.
Wage cut plan rejected (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Tages-Anzeiger reports this morning that Swissair ground staff at the Zurich airport are joining Basel area airline staff to resist management's 5 percent wage cut plan. Mediated talks may come soon.
Housesitting for the homeless (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Ann Scott Tyson reports for today's Christian Science Monitor. Also, David R. Francis writes about globalization and why it's occurring.
Families may be stabilizing in the U.S. (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
The pace of change may be slowing, according to a new Census Bureau report. Here's another view of the same story from today's Washintton Post.
Avis shuts down franchisee (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that the corporation has responded to a class-action race discrimination suit. Also in the Strib today, a commentator says that less immigration will mean less America.
Progress report on privatization in Mexico (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal contains a story by Joel Millman on how Mexican privatization has moved to the railroads. Also, Glenn Burkins reports on the shortage of skilled workers, and Sue Shellenbarger recommends some books to help you make sense of workplace happenings.
A success story, or is it something else? (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
The Washington Post's Peter Behr tells an affirmative action story.
Illinois suburb asked to pay employee legal bills (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Charles Nicodemus reports on a proposal from Cicero's president.
Sharing the cost of the uninsured (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Tens of millions of Americans lack health coverage, so who should pay? The Boston Globe's Alex Pham discusses a bill favored by the hospital industry.
Competition for students is heating up, so some colleges try a new approach (Wednesday, 11/27/96)
Here's a New York Times story about getting the word out earlier. Also, whoops! An error removes 6,000 people from welfare in New York. In addition, here are stories about how government employees can talk to the press now, Clinton's strategy for "fixing" the new welfare law now that the election is over, and AARP's plans for endorsing managed care programs.
APEC Summit adopts U.S. plan (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
President Clinton feels victorious after the APEC summit agrees to cut tariffs on information technology. Clinton says that the U.S. will "work together" with Asia. Reuters also reports that the White House seems to be trying to quiet the new controversy involving Mrs. Clinton and her remarks about wanting some sort of formal role in relation to welfare reform. In addition, here's a story about the breakdown of talks involving the French truckers. Craig Whitney also reports on the truckers strike for the New York Times. Meanwhile, the Belgian transportation federation says it will claim costs from the French government for losses to its members as a result of the French truckers strike, according to De Standaard
ILO urges full employment (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
The International Labor Organization, an agency of the United Nations, says that about one-third of the entire global workforce is either unemployed or underemployed. The organization is critical of governments that claim the inevitability of large-scale joblessness in a global economy. Here's the story from Reuters today, and also from the Christian Science Monitor.
Restructuring to cost 2,700 jobs at KeyCorp (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
The big banking company is cutting about 10 percent of its workforce. Saul Hansell also has the story at the New York Times
Biz economists see U.S. economic growth continuing (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
A survey of National Association of Business Economists finds optimism about growth continuing through next year.
Philips cuts jobs in the Netherlands (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
Het Financieele Dagblad reports this morning that Philips Electronics is cutting 150 jobs at its Roermond factory. The company will try to find other jobs for the persons who are affected.
Spain considering new labor contract (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
In an effort to encourage more stable employment, the Spanish government is considering a new labor contract that would offer more long-term job protection and reduce the cost to employers of reducing staff when necessary. It is hoped that the provisions would reduce the number of part-time and contract workers relative to full-time workers, according to El Pais. Also in Spain today, Expansion reports that Prime Minister Aznar says the government's decision to freeze the wages of civil servants is necessary and irreversible in order to qualify for the common European currency. There have been union threats of a general strike.
Resistance to military service in Israel (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
Ilene Prusher writes for the Christian Science Monitor today on conscientious objectors in Israel.
Better retail service because of welfare reform? (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
Marilyn Geewax of the Cox News Service thinks so. Here's her opinion article from the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
Two-year colleges getting larger role (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
The Wall Street Journal's Fred R. Bleakley reports on specific job training, and Hal Lancaster tells why you may be able to design your next job when you're ready for promotion.
Empowerment at the power company (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
Martha Hamilton tells about how some Pepco employees have gained from a discrimination settlement. Also in the Washington Post today, Jennifer Ordonez reports on a new approach to organizing for workers in the new economy. Here's the story about turning a new page at a Borders bookstore.
The suburban crawl in Chicago (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
The joys of getting to work as reported in the Chicago Sun-Times today, which also has stories about the Teamsters in the homestretch, and a bias suit at Donnelley.
Domestic partner benefits gradually spreading (Tuesday, 11/26/96)
Andrew Sherman of the Boston Globe reports that an increasing number of businesses and other organizations are providing coverage. Also, Diane Lewis says that more employers are giving two days off for Thanksgiving.
APEC moves to create world's largest free trade zone (Monday, 11/25/96)
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in Manila seems to be producing concrete results, in particular a growing commitment to encouraging free trade throughout Asia. The U.S. says it's pleased by what is happening, and President Clinton approves of the apparent commitment to free trade. Despite the tense atmosphere and some open conflict, Clinton seems relaxed, and takes time out to discuss economic issues of mutual interest with Japanese representatives. Meanwhile, as governments negotiate, business people do deals.
Hillary wants to watch welfare reform (Monday, 11/25/96)
The American First Lady wants some sort of formal role in monitoring the implementation of welfare reform, but the Administration is downplaying the whole idea.
Job outlook good, firm says (Monday, 11/25/96)
Manpower poll sees good job prospects ahead after the holiday season.
Ripple effect from Texaco case (Monday, 11/25/96)
The Texaco discrimination case seems to be encouraging other plaintiffs at other companies, Reuters reports this morning.
Turkish union opposed to new importation rules (Monday, 11/25/96)
The Metal Workers Union in Turkey will try to block the tax-free importation of automobiles into the country, which is scheduled to begin next June, according to Yeni Yuz Yil.
Union wants new rules for multinationals (Monday, 11/25/96)
Het Algemeen Dagblad reports today that FNV, the Dutch labor union, wants its government to advocate stricter codes of conduct for multinational companies when representatives get together at the big World Trade Organization meeting in Singapore in December. The union is concerned about trade at the expense of workers' rights.
Austrian metal workers agree on pay raise (Monday, 11/25/96)
Austrian employers and metal workers have agreed on a 1.8 percent average pay increase for next year. Negotiations have been going on for two months, and have not been harmonious. Kurier reports this morning.
Germany Chancellor says employers should create more jobs (Monday, 11/25/96)
Sueddeutsche Zeitung reports that Chancellor Helmut Kohl is calling on German companies to emphasize job creation to a greater extent, warning that, if they don't, they may have a Social Democratic government to deal with in two years. Also in Germany, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung reports that Labor Minister Bluem says that state pensions may no longer be guaranteed. He's hinting that they could be cut as part of the government's budget reforms.
Boom in boomers on the campuses (Monday, 11/25/96)
Alan Bunce writes in the Christian Science Monitor that boomers are returning to school in record numbers.
Getting tired of the materialism merry-go-round? (Monday, 11/25/96)
Karin Winegar of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune discusses how the cycle can be broken, as more people search for greater life meaning. Also, here's Jerry Ackerman's Boston Globe piece on how to keep up your exercise schedule while traveling.
Economy booms in Poland, but not necessarily enthusiasm (Monday, 11/25/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal contains stories on Poland's economic revitalization, as well as about leaving things unsaid at UAW and the auto companies, and also about finding ways to keep employees from wasting time digitally.
Will you be caught in a pension pinch? (Monday, 11/25/96)
The Washington Post's Spencer Rich reports on people who may end up with golden years that aren't so golden.
Study finds some HMOs coming up short (Monday, 11/25/96)
Some Illinois HMOs are sacrificing care for good financial health, according to this story in the Chicago Sun-Times.
Interview on the Mitsubishi case (Monday, 11/25/96)
Here's the view from Tokyo in an Asahi Shimbun interview.
Women veterans seek help (Monday, 11/25/96)
The Boston Globe's Doreen Iudica Vigue writes about veterans seeking help from VA counselors.
The special situation of some Israeli immigrants (Monday, 11/25/96)
Serge Schmemann reports for the New York Times.
APEC meeting continues in Manila (Sunday, 11/24/96)
A tense Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting moves on in the Philippines with the participation of the American president and First Lady. The U.S. and China are still at odds over WTO membership. Also, APEC is accused of ignoring human rights, and the U.S. warns of possible terrorism at the summit itself. Mrs. Clinton calls for greater empowerment of women throughout the world, while the President announces an anti-hunger campaign. Incidentally, in relation to Mrs. Clinton's call, here's an opinion piece by Kristine Holmgren on voices from the women's movement. Also, physician and cancer survivor Sandra K. Rosenberg discusses one of the consequences of growing economic pressures in health care.
Fed to use new computer model (Sunday, 11/24/96)
Hoping to generate more accurate forecasts of the American economy's activities, the American Federal Reserve will begin using a new computer model in which expectations of some of the economy's key participants will play a greater role. It may be coming at a good time, according to Robert Hershey of the New York Times, because there is widespread concern about the quality of economic data on which decisions are based.
Protests at Miss World pageant (Sunday, 11/24/96)
The Miss World pageant is being held in Bangalore, India this time, and not everybody likes the idea. Protesters say it amounts to commercial exploitation of women's bodies. Among other things, it amounts to a clash of traditional cultures that will become increasingly common in a world connected by communication technologies that greatly reduce the relevance of geographical distances. Here's the New York Times story on the pageant from the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, and here's the story from today's Washington Post.
Asian entrepreneurs build opportunity and community in Minnesota (Sunday, 11/24/96)
The metropolitan Twin Cities region has a large and diversified population with Asian origins, including immigrants and persons born to immigrant parents. Here's a story about some of the community's economic success. Incidentally, today's Boston Globe reports on how fear is returning to immigrants in Massachusetts.
Preparing for the next recession (Sunday, 11/24/96)
The Minneapolis Star Tribune editorializes about the next recession, which some people seem to think won't happen. Richard Stevenson of the New York Times also wonders about an economy of "happily ever after. Also, here are stories from the Boston Globe's Maria Shao on rocking the cradles of American capitalism, first at Harvard Biz, and then at the Sloan School.
Japanese minister approves hiring of more foreigners (Sunday, 11/24/96)
The Japan Times reports that the minister has reversed his position. Also, here are stories about the loss of a labor suit by Koreans in Japan, a scandal involving an apparent effort to set up a "welfare empire", and a lobbying effort on behalf of care of the elderly.
Saving and optimizing for college (Sunday, 11/24/96)
Here's help in how to save for college, and here's advice about how to make it most likely to qualify for student aid. Also, in the family finance department, Michael Brush says it may be time to take a look at that 401(K) option.
Aggressive cost cutting expected next year too (Sunday, 11/24/96)
Corporate treasurers expect cost cuts to continue next year, which may also mean continued job cuts.
Entrepreneur's heaven, or is it hell? (Sunday, 11/24/96)
Julia Rubin reports on what it takes to make it in the wild Moscow business climate, where you may find aggressiveness of all types.
Non-traditional workers seek organization (Sunday, 11/24/96)
We've been reporting for months on the declining emphasis on full-time jobs with benefits in many of the world's advanced economies, which means that a greater share of the work will be done by non-traditional workers. Here's a story about an attempt to organize these people for their mutual benefit. Here's more work-related news from the New York Times today: Graduate assistants strike to gain union recognition at Berkeley, while Erick Schmitt reports on attempts to prevent future training abuses in the military. Also, here's a story about the high risk of illegal border crossing, as well as a story about workers who don't pay dues to federal unions.
Army secretary forms panel, pushes probe (Saturday, 11/23/96)
A high-level investigation is underway in the Army sex scandal, according to Reuters, the New York Times, and the Washington Post today. Also, here's a different story about abuse in the military. Different military, different country, reports the London Times.
Teamsters claiming some victory with Federal Express (Saturday, 11/23/96)
The Teamsters have been trying to organize Federal Express Corporation, and are claiming partial success so far. In Chicago, a local Teamsters official faces disciplinary action in relation to unrelated issues.
Philadelphia pension board quitting Texaco stock (Saturday, 11/23/96)
The pension board for the city of Philadelphia has decided to divest its shares in Texaco in response to reports of racial bias, but a survey indicates few others will follow.
Layoffs at American Cybercast (Saturday, 11/23/96)
Cutbacks are announced by the Internet company.
Minnesota reputation provides no immunity, some say (Saturday, 11/23/96)
Experts on employment and diversity issues say Minnesota's reputation for being "nice" doesn't mean a Texaco-type incident couldn't happen there, according to today's Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Also in the Strib today, an editorial on school-to-work.
Republicans will resist "fixes" to new welfare law (Saturday, 11/23/96)
Judith Havemann of the Washington Post reports that Congressional Republicans don't intend to cooperate with President Clinton in softening some of the welfare changes.
More action needed on sexual equality, paper says (Saturday, 11/23/96)
An editorial in Asahi Shimbun calls for a broad perspective and a strong move ahead on equality for the sexes.
Indian Airlines maintenance workers to get a raise (Saturday, 11/23/96)
Losses continue at Indian Airlines, according to the Deccan Herald today, but agreement has been reached on increased pay for maintenance workers.
Move to organize California berry pickers (Saturday, 11/23/96)
Alex Pham of the Boston Globe reports that organizers for California berry pickers are looking for consumer support in their organization efforts.
New York official resigns following conflict of interest allegations (Saturday, 11/23/96)
He discussed job possibilities and shouldn't have, according to New York Times writer Abby Goodnough.
French trucker strike worsens, Paris grinding to a halt (Saturday, 11/23/96)
Susan Bell of the London Times reports that talks have broken down again, and French truckers are increasing pressure on the government. Also in the Times today, John Ashworth writes that pension funds are threatened by delayed tax. In addition, here's a report about a plan to cut 900 jobs at the Stationery Office.
Employees doing their share of stealing (Friday, 11/22/96)
American retailing loss to theft is about as large as some countries' GDP, according to a new study, and employees are responsible for a lot of it. Here's the story from Reuters, where you'll also find stories today on the slip of temp staffing shares along with the Dow, and an increase in jobless claims last week.
Rush to early retirement in Austria (Friday, 11/22/96)
Nearly 200,000 Austrians retired early during the first 10 months of this year, in part because the Austrian government seems ready to begin cutting benefits and limiting early retirement incentives as part of the country's austerity budget. Salzburger Nachrichten and other Austrian papers have the story today.
Trucker strike in France starting to pinch (Friday, 11/22/96)
Les Echos reports that the trucker strike is beginning to hurt the French economy, and talks are resuming. Also in France today, Le Figaro reports that French legislators may be ready to approve a bill that would authorize private pension funds for workers in the private sector to complement France's social security system. French civil servants already have private pension funds available.
Germany's battle over the wealth tax (Friday, 11/22/96)
Handelsblatt reports that the German government wants to abolish the wealth tax, thinking that it would encourage investment and job creation. The opposition Social Democrats want it retained, at least in part.
Clinton still wants a fix on welfare (Friday, 11/22/96)
Linda Feldmann of the Christian Science Monitor writes that President Clinton is getting ready to try to change some features of the new welfare law. He may have difficulty, though, because he will be trying to work with essentially the same Congress that sent the legislation to him in the first place. Also in the Monitor today, David Francis writes about changes needed by the working poor.
On the female pioneers of computing (Friday, 11/22/96)
Thomas Petzinger writes in today's Wall Street Journal, and Joann Lublin also writes in the Journal today about the stir in corporate boardrooms caused by the Texaco case.
Japan Freight Railway describes restructuring plan (Friday, 11/22/96)
The new five-year plan will cut costs and employees, according to the Japan Times.
The awakening of the Philippine economy (Friday, 11/22/96)
Keith Richburg writes for the Washington Post on the revival of the Philippine economy.
UPS in Illinois to hire more welfare recipients (Friday, 11/22/96)
A United Parcel Service official says business must do its part. Here's the story from today's Chicato Sun-Times.
Food stamp cuts to come in Massachusetts (Friday, 11/22/96)
Today's Boston Globe says the state is telling 6,500 persons they will lose their food stamps if they do not get jobs. Also, a Federal Reserve official urges businesses to help train and educate youth.
Corporate diversity programs not enough, consultant says (Friday, 11/22/96)
Maggie Jackson writes in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
New organization to make labor's case (Friday, 11/22/96)
Steven Greenhouse writes in the New York Times about the New York Workers' Rights Board.
Social Security workers charged in credit card scam (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Several employees of the American Social Security Administration are charged with accepting bribes in return for confidential information, according to Reuters this morning.
Cel phones for teachers (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Ma'ariv reports that the Teachers Association in Israel will pay $2.5 million to buy more than 30,000 cellular phones for its members.
Truckers in France step up strike (Thursday, 11/21/96)
The French government has called for employers to negotiate with truckers who are demanding more pay, better hours, and retirement at age 55. Truckers unions are stepping up the disruption of their strike, particularly in the Bordeaux region, according to Liberation.
Metal workers go ahead with protest (Thursday, 11/21/96)
As planned, more than 6,000 Austrian metal workers picketed in Vienna yesterday to protest the collapse of wage talks. It's the first time in two years that a union has demonstrated in Austria. Salzburger Nachrichten and other Austrian papers report today.
Physicians protest in Germany (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung reports that thousands of German doctors closed their offices yesterday to protest the German government's plan to cut reimbursements to physicians. The budget for medicine has been producing overruns.
Writer asks whose company it is (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Richard Cattani of the Christian Science Monitor analyzes Al Dunlap's restructuring of Sunbeam. Also, at a time that sexual exploitation and various forms of slavery seem to be increasingly prominent features of the new world economy, David Holmstrom reviews a new documentary film on the brothels of Bombay.
Disability claims rise with job cuts (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Nancy Ann Jeffrey reports on a new study showing the high cost of restructuring in today's Wall Street Journal.
Performance incentives increasingly common (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Here's a story about a "quiet revolution" in the work world. Incentive pay plans are extending throughout work organizations, not just for top executives, according to the Washington Post. Also, Dana Priest reports that sexual misconduct in the military has long been a problem.
Customer service reps trying to organize at USAir (Thursday, 11/21/96)
The movement is fueled by concern with job losses and pay cuts, according to Diane Lewis of the Boston Globe.
Shortage of seasonal workers in Dallas region (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Dallas-Fort Worth retailers are having difficulty finding enough workers to staff the stores during what may otherwise be a good holiday sales season. Here's the story from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, which also reports today on the vote by American Airlines pilots.
EEOC wants role in Texaco case (Thursday, 11/21/96)
Kurt Eichenwald reports for the New York Times. In addition, here's a story from Peter Passell about a little known feature of the new minimum wage law that may affect you.
Former Texaco executive charged with crime (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
He's accused of destroying evidence relating to a racial discrimination suit. All major American news services have the story today. Here's the Reuters version and also one from the New York Times. Also, Claudia Deutsch looks at corporate diversity in practice.
Arafat wants new economic accord with Israel (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Arafat accuses Israel of violating the current agreement, according to Reuters. Also from Reuters today, a new stock option plan for employees at BankAmerica.
Metal workers to demonstrate in Austria (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Salzburger Nachrichten reports that thousands of Austrian metal workers are expected to demonstrate in Vienna today to protest the collapse of talks over wages. Employers are insisting on no wage increases and also an increase in the length of the work week.
Auto workers put on holiday (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Turkish auto manufacturer Tofas Otomobil Fabrikasi AS has put workers on hiatus until November 26. The company has temporarily laid off workers three times during the past two months in order to reduce inventory due to slumping demand, according to Yeni Yuz Yil.
Swiss incomes up (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Neue Zuercher Zeitung reports that average income in Switzerland rose 2.6 percent to 45,300 Swiss francs in 1995. However, in the canton of Zug, average income was 75,300 francs. Incomes were lowest in the French-speaking region of the country.
French truck drivers to continue strike (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Truck drivers in France went out on strike Monday and are saying that they will continue as long as it takes to reach agreement with employers. They want higher wages as well as compensation for all the hours they work, plus retirement at age 55, according to La Tribune, which also reports today that Observatoire Francais des Conjonctures Economiques expects unemployment to rise in the country. The economic institute expects 40,000 to 50,000 additional unemployed each year until 2001. Also in France today, Industry Minister Borotra says the French government opposes job-cut plans at Renault and Peugeot. Les Echos reports this one.
Unions may strike in protest of murder charge (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
The Times of the Philippines reports that more than 180 labor unions are threatening to go out on strike during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting. They are protesting the arrest of a labor union leader on a murder charge.
Business seems to be adapting to new minimum wage without difficulty (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Despite earlier claims that the increase in the American minimum wage would cause hardship, loss of jobs, and so forth, today's Wall Street Journal reports that business seems to be requiring only minor adjustments. The Journal also reports today on how a hotel is handling diversity issues. The Wall Street Journal is on the web, but charges a subscription fee following a trial period. Also, you can obtain free access through the remainder of this year if you use Microsoft's browser.
Settlement in Massachusetts bias case (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
The Washington Post's Kirstin Downey Grimsley reports that the U.S. Department of Labor has reached a settlement with Timco.
U.S. employees of Japanese hotel try to unionize (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Amy Shiratori of Asahi Shimbun reports on the conflict at Japanese-owned New Otani Hotel and Garden in Los Angeles.
Questions follow air disaster in India (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
The Deccan Herald reports that some are questioning the clearing of air traffic controllers in India's largest air crash Tuesday even before an investigation has begun.
Slow start coping with welfare changes, according to reports (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Michael Grunwald of the Boston Globe says Massachusetts is off to a slow start on its career center initiative. Also in the Globe today, stories about settlement of an harassment case in a Massachusetts police department, the changing role of physicians in a major healthcare organization, and union charges against a hospital because of layoffs. The union says activists were targeted.
Low unemployment in Fort Worth region (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Four Texas counties have record low unemployment, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Women still joining military, despite recent abuses (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
Military recruiters are still finding a receptive audience, despite the highly publicized scandals, according to Warren Richey of the Christian Science Monitor. Also, here's a story by Laura Kay Rozen about peace without jobs in Bosnia.
New CIA careers may be ended before they begin (Wednesday, 11/20/96)
The latest security rupture at the CIA may have compromised the agency's new spy school graduates by giving away their identities, according to Tim Weiner of the New York Times. Also, here are stories about a suit against a hospital over pension funds, and hearings over how much Adelphi University's president is being compensated.
Congresswomen satisfied with Army's progress in their investigation (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Reuters reports that several Congresswomen have questioned Army officials and are convinced they are conducting an effective investigation. Today's Washington Post says that the Army may create ombudsmen positions.
Easy ratification at GM (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Members of the United Auto Workers union ratified the new contract with General Motors by a wide margin.
Swiss public sector workers want job sharing to save jobs (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Unions representing public sector workers in Switzerland want a shorter work week in order to save jobs. The Swiss Federal Railways plan to cut jobs and wages in order to reduce the budget deficit, according to Neue Zuercher Zeitung.
Dutch rail strike could be imminent (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Het Algemeen Dagblad reports that a rail strike shutting down travel in the Netherlands could begin Monday unless a satisfactory wage settlement is reached.
Disruption at Caterpiller in Belgium (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
De Standaard reports this morning that three labor unions in Belgium are disrupting operations at Belgian Caterpiller operations following the firing of 227 employees in order to cut costs. The unions want the jobs restored.
Talks progress in Italy (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Italian Prime Minister Prodi calls talks with union representatives "extremely positive." They're discussing a special "tax for Europe" to help reduce the country's budget deficit in preparation for European economic and monetary union. La Repubblica reports today.
German pensions to increase more than expected (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Handelsblatt reports that German pensions will rise 1.7 percent in Western German and 5 percent in Eastern Germany next year.
Palestinians seek jobs in Israel (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Ilene Prusher reports for the Christian Science Monitor on the penetration of Israel's barriers. Also in the Monitor today, Mark Nowak examines immigration myths.
Lockheed closes plants, cuts jobs (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Lockheed will cut 1,600 jobs. Here's the story from the Minneapolis Star Tribune and the Washington Post.
On the agony of job reviews (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal reports on performance evaluation today, as well as why being demoted doesn't mean the end of a good career, and how implementing the new welfare plan has renewed debate.
Boston police union hires PR firm (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
Shirley Leung writes in the Boston Globe about how the police union is telling the bad news. Also in the Globe today, help for job seekers using computerized databases, and a story about how single mothers are being hurt by the tight market for low-skill workers.
Average welfare check buys only half as much as in 1970 (Tuesday, 11/19/96)
The New York Times' Robert Pear reports on the declining buying power of welfare payments. Also, John Tagliabue tells about a Swiss company that is working to be sure that their products are not produced with child labor.
Thouands of harassment complaints received by Army (Monday, 11/18/96)
The U.S. Army has set up a hotline to assist in its investigation of sexual harassment complains and has received more than 4,000 calls, according to Reuters. Also from Reuters this morning, here's a story about the on-going disputes at the Rome food summit.
More on Philips job cuts (Monday, 11/18/96)
De Volkskrant reports that the Dutch labor union FNV expects that 65 jobs may go when Philips Electronics NV cuts production at its Oss, Netherlands factory by 33 percent.
Changes in VAT would support healthcare (Monday, 11/18/96)
Switzerland's Social Democratic party would like to raise the country's value-added tax in order to refinance the country's healthcare system, according to Neue Zuercher Zeitung.
German Chancellor critical of companies (Monday, 11/18/96)
Sueddeutsche Zeitung reports that Chancellor Kohl has issued a blast at German companies for not doing more to help reduce unemployment in Germany, despite government efforts to improve conditions for investment in the country. Also, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung says that the DGB union association has decided to continue defending Germany's social programs against "unbridled capitalism."
Glass ceiling still in place for most minorities (Monday, 11/18/96)
Shelley Donald Coolidge of the Christian Science Monitor writes about the underrepresentation of minorities in corporate America, particularly in the executive ranks. However, Steven Holmes of the New York Times reports on new data indicating improvements in the quality of life for black Americans overall. Meanwhile, many American blacks seem to feel that the boycott against Texaco is aiming at the wrong target, while they continue to purchase Texaco products. Also, Jonathan Kaufman and Alex Markels report in today's Wall Street Journal on black vs. white interpretations of the Texaco tape, as well as in relation to the Circuit City suit. Also, Texaco's top guy says problems in his own company represent only the tip of the iceberg in corporate America.
Will the Japanese economy boom again? (Monday, 11/18/96)
Cameron Barr writes about deregulation and financial reform in Japan and what it may or may not mean for economic growth, as the once mighty Japanese economy continues to sputter.
Downsizing in the war on wage increases (Monday, 11/18/96)
In her column today, Marjorie Kelly discusses the costs of downsizing and why companies that treat employees as valued resources tend to thrive. Also in the Minneapolis Star Tribune today, editorials calling for entitlement reform and for some fixes in the new welfare law, which William Branigin also discusses in his Washington Post article. In addition, here are two differing opinion pieces on California's Proposition 209. William Wong writes for the San Francisco Examiner, while Paul Craig Roberts writes for the Scripps Howard News Service.
Major report on technology and work (Monday, 11/18/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal contains an important section on high technology and the new work world, including several articles.
Managed care organization moves before new law takes effect (Monday, 11/18/96)
A new Maryland law will make it harder to terminate contracts with professionals, so the organization is cutting ties before the law goes into effect. Here's the story from today's Washington Post. Also, here are stories about how a man started at the bottom in the family firm, and a new directory of federal jobs.
Man sues doctor for canceling appointment, wins $10 (Monday, 11/18/96)
It's not the money, he says. Instead, it's the principle and the precedent. Adrienne Drell tells about the unusual case in the Chicago Sun-Times. Also, here's a story about teachers who have traded job protection for power in their school district.
Universal health coverage at issue in Japan too (Monday, 11/18/96)
Here's an interview with Japan's new health minister in Asahi Shimbun.
UAW local to release results of election (Monday, 11/18/96)
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram has the story about a General Motors plant in Texas.
Additional problems for young academics seeking tenure (Monday, 11/18/96)
For the most part, there is no shortage of people with academic credentials seeking jobs as well as job security. Now, it's harder to publish too, so harder to gain tenure, according to the New York Times. Also today, here are stories from the Times on the role of anti-immigration feelings in a French mayoral race, building opposition to Governor Pataki's welfare bill, Jesse Jackson's criticism of the White House on affirmative action, and the possible role of outsourcing in the ValuJet crash.
Arguments at Rome food summit (Sunday, 11/17/96)
Reuters reports that the United States is disputing the "right to be fed" at the summit in Rome, and some Catholic and Islamic countries reiterate opposition to population control. Also, the UN announces that the world population explosion is slowing. Here's the New York Times story on the Minneapolis Star Tribune web site.
Protests against Texaco continue (Sunday, 11/17/96)
Despite the record discrimination suit settlement, protests continue in several regions, according to Reuters this morning. Here's the story from Maudlyne Ihejirika of the Chicago Sun-Times as well. Also, Steven Holmes of the New York Times writes that the size of the settlement may encourage additional suits.
On incivility in the workplace (Sunday, 11/17/96)
The Cox News Service reports on how common rude, annoying, or abusive behavior is in American work settings.
Boomers not confident about Social Security (Sunday, 11/17/96)
A survey conducted by the American Stock Exchange finds that the baby-boom generation isn't counting on Social Security being there when they'll need it.
Long-term care insurance a tough call (Sunday, 11/17/96)
Here's some advice from the Chicago Sun-Times about whether to buy long-term care insurance.
Here's a career you may not have considered (Sunday, 11/17/96)
The New York Times reports on how technology is changing one of the more specialized job roles.
Some consequences of the boom in Chile (Sunday, 11/17/96)
Chile's economy has been booming. Calvin Sims of the New York Times tells about it. The Times also has stories today about deregulation in Japan, another Hoffa at the Teamsters, the tenure decision by Minnesota's regents, the impact of welfare reform on the working poor, and the New York mayor's decision to support the governor's welfare plan.
Big settlement at Texaco (Saturday, 11/16/96)
Texaco has reached a $176 million settlement in the race discrimination case. Jesse Jackson will push ahead with the planned boycott anyway. Reuters and all other major news sources are reporting the story this morning, including the New York Times, accessible through the Minneapolis Star Tribune web site.
Castro speaks at World Food Summit (Saturday, 11/16/96)
Cuban leader Fidel Castro spoke at the food summit in Rome, saying that he doesn't approve. He thinks it's a "fig leaf."
More charges in Missouri (Saturday, 11/16/96)
The U.S. Army's investigation of the behavior of some of its personnel continues. Four more are charged in Missouri, according to Reuters. Also, here are stories about Yeltsin back at work, as well as about the likelihood that a ruling affecting credit unions may end up in the Supreme Court.
Stress increases risk of illness for women (Saturday, 11/16/96)
Research at the National Institute of Mental Health adds to reasons to suspect stress, including job stress, as a major health factor. Here's the story from the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Along those lines, C. Sara Hoppe comments on the study of working mothers. The Star Tribune also reports on the tough fight over the Teamsters presidency. In addition, here are opinion pieces from Josef Altholz and Mary Page relating to the ongoing conflict over tenure and related issues at the University of Minnesota that has attracted national attention.
U.S. employees of Japanese hotel protest treatment (Saturday, 11/16/96)
The Japan Times reports on complaints against the Hotel New Otani & Garden in Los Angeles. Also, here's a story about a demand for better care on the part of the homeless in the Shinjuku region of Tokyo.
Illinois politician revisits workers comp (Saturday, 11/16/96)
Illinois Senate President James Philip worked to change workers compensation laws in the state. Now, he's serving as a juror on a workers comp case.
New law on repetitive motion injuries (Saturday, 11/16/96)
Steve Lohr of the New York Times writes about the first U.S. law relating to repetitive motion injuries at work.
Caterpillar in Belgium to cut jobs (Saturday, 11/16/96)
La Libre Belgique reports that the Belgium part of Caterpillar Inc. will cut 227 employees. Labor unions vow to fight.
New pension contribution rules in Germany (Saturday, 11/16/96)
The legal contributions to pension insurance will rise on January 1 and will surpass 20 percent for the first time. The legal contribution will be 20.3 percent, as opposed to the present 19.2 percent. Frankfurter Rundschau and other German papers report.
Philippine shipping company loses labor case (Saturday, 11/16/96)
The Chronicle reports that Lorenzo Shipping Corporation has lost the case involving the dismissal of its operations manager. The case was decided by an arbiter.
Phone company technician jobs to go (Saturday, 11/16/96)
U.S. West will cut about 1 in 5 technician jobs in Minnesota and Colorado, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
When AIDS patients are able to work again (Saturday, 11/16/96)
Yesterday's Wall Street Journal contains stories about AIDS patients worrying about disability pay, about choosing between job and insurance, about cities resisting California's ban on affirmative action, and an increase in the number of companies taking out insurance against discrimination suits.
Pay for volunteer work (Saturday, 11/16/96)
Community service is growing and many corporations are supporting the movement. Here's Jay Mathews' report in the Washington Post about AT&T's big commitment. Also in the Post, Michael Fletcher writes that many African Americans are worried about Clinton's Cabinet moves, and Stephen Barr writes about a coalition of 60 women's groups and their concern with Cabinet appointments. Both African Americans and women voted for Clinton in large numbers during the recent presidential election.
Analysis of New York's welfare plan (Saturday, 11/16/96)
James Dao looks closely at New York's plan for coping with the welfare changes, saying it will shift power to localities. Also from the New York Times, a shoe company is moving more than 1,200 jobs to New York from Ohio and Connecticut, and AFL-CIO president John Sweeney seems pleased, despite the failure of organized labor to return the Congress to Democratic control with massive campaign spending.
More workplace violence (Friday, 11/15/96)
Reuters reports on a fatality at a Michigan Ford plant.
Texaco's problems increase (Friday, 11/15/96)
Reuters reports that the NAACP prepares to encourage investors to dump Texaco stock if there are not improved conditions and opportunities for minorities within the company. This follows a threatened boycott from civil rights leaders, including Jesse Jackson. The Christian Science Monitor reports that boycotts are an increasingly popular protest tool, but the New York Times says that they usually don't influence a company's bottom line. The Times' Kurt Eichenwald also reports that attention is shifting away from a few executives to the company's lawyers, given documents obtained by a federal grand jury. Texaco's lawyers will meet with officials of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission next week.
Now the sex scandal involves the Air Force too (Friday, 11/15/96)
Here's the latest from Reuters on the military sex scandal that we can no longer refer to simply as the Army's scandal. It's spread to a Texas Air Force facility. The Washington Post reports as well. Warren Richey of the Christian Science Monitor writes about the limits of military policies put into effect following the Tailhook scandal
Protest brings tighter security at Rome food summit (Friday, 11/15/96)
Protesters don't like some U.S. research activities. Also, Iraq and Libya complain at the summit about sanctions.
Cost of strikes at GM (Friday, 11/15/96)
Here's the bottom line on strikes at General Motors in Canada and the U.S. Also, Reuters reports today on new credit union rules and job cuts at DuPont.
One discharged and sentenced in Army case (Thursday, 11/14/96)
A U.S. Army drill sergeant has been discharged and sentenced to confinement in the sex scandal. Here's the story from Reuters and the Washington Post. The New York Times' Sara Rimer writes about the mood and discussion at the Maryland post where it all started.
Talk at food summit is of Zaire (Thursday, 11/14/96)
The big international conference on the food supply opened in Rome yesterday, and Zaire was much on people's minds. Stephen Buckley of the Washington Post writes that a refugee camp is seething and could explode before help arrives.
Texaco not hurt financially as yet (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Analysts are saying that Texaco's financial position has not yet been weakened as a consequence of recent very bad PR and a discrimination suit. Kurt Eichenwald of the New York Times writes about the larger issues.
Software firm to reduce (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Reuters reports that Mustang Software will cut jobs.
Labor Secretary not happy with Sunbeam (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Out-going United States Secretary of Labor Robert Reich is critical of Sunbeam's decision to cut half its jobs, according to this Reuters report. Incidentally, another Clinton Administration economics expert will be leaving. Also, here's a story about a new survey of Medicare recipients and what they think of HMOs. First, from Reuters, then from the Washington Post.
Scholarships in exchange for national service (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Ha'aretz reports that Israel's Ministry of Education will require students who apply for scholarships to serve in the military or serve in some other public service role in return.
Move toward private pensions in the UK (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Britain's Conservatives want all working people to shift to private pensions so that the current State Earnings Related Pension can be abolished. Private pensions would be mandatory for all workers, according to the Daily Telegraph. Also, the Britain, here's a New York Times story about the Major government's conflict with the EU over the 48-hour work week.
Swiss pension fund not doing well enough, according to board (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Neue Zuercher Zeitung reports that the Swiss pension fund's supervisory board will approve a change of rules governing the investment of the money. Presently, it's producing poor returns.
Dutch financial institution to restructure, cut jobs (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Rabobank Nederland will modernize its network and cut jobs during the next five years. They don't know yet how many jobs will go, according to De Telegraaf.
Public colleges now competing with private schools for funds (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Shelley Donald Coolidge reports in the Christian Science Monitor that public colleges are using professional fund raisers now too. Also in academe, the end of the department that Dewey built. Here's the report from today's Chicago Sun-Times. Here's more: The New York Times reports on some student loan streamlining at Columbia and on some plans to help parents save for college.
Innovations in child-care for the modern working, traveling family (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Marilyn Gardner writes in today's Christian Science Monitor about an experiment in Pennsylvania.
New York governor releases details of welfare plan (Thursday, 11/14/96)
Here's how New York will cut welfare gradually. Also in the New York Times today, Seth Faison reports on China's achieving high growth and low inflation with no slow in sight, and Peter Passell writes about supply-siding in the Ukraine.
Boycott of Texaco called for (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Reuters reports this morning that several American civil rights leaders are calling for a general boycott of Texaco until a discrimination suit is settled. Among these are Jesse Jackson, noted activist and former presidential candidate. Today's Christian Science Monitor analyzes an attitudinal climate which some regard as fairly typical in large corporations and says that this is Texaco's test.
Big conference on food begins in Rome (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Estimates are that approximately half of the world's 6 billion people suffer chronic hunger or malnutrition. Here are stories from Reuters and the New York Times about the big conference starting today in Rome. Part of the problem has to do with distribution, not simply supply. However, Peter Spotts of the Christian Science Monitor says that a bio breakthrough is needed. All this is with 6 billion people on the earth. What happens when it's 12 billion or 24 billion?
More charged in Army sex scandal; one pleads guilty (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Reuters reports the latest on the widening sex scandal at U.S. Army facilities. Also, here's a Washington Post story from the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Also, the New York Times reports that the Army has widened its investigation to all training bases, and Peter Grier and Jonathan Landay of the Christian Science Monitor reports that the scandal is bringing about a reconsideration of the military culture.
Massive restructuring at Sunbeam (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Fifty percent of the jobs at Sunbeam are cut, as the troubled company tries to become a different company with more focus.
Avis franchisee may not have tried hard enough (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
A class action discrimination suit is filed against the owner of several Avis franchises. Here's the story from Reuters and the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Dutch company cuts jobs in Germany (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Het Financieele Dagblad reports today that Philips Electronics NV is cutting 240 jobs in its German operations, where a company spokesman says that production costs are too high. Instead, production will be shifted to Poland and Singapore.
British PM threatens to disrupt EU (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
The European Court of Justice has ruled that the United Kingdom must implement a directive on a 48-hour work week, but Britain is resisting giving up sovereignty in order to be part of the organization. Prime Minister John Major wants changes in the treaty and is threatening to disrupt the European Union if the changes aren't made.
Unions concerned that joint venture will mean job cuts (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Le Soir reports that two Belgian labor unions are concerned that a joint venture between Usines Gustave Boel SA and a Dutch steel company will result in a loss of jobs. They prefer an alliance with Cockerill Sambre SA, Belgium's largest steel maker.
Swiss rail workers to step up protests (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Tages-Anzeiger says that the Swiss Federal Railway is intending to go ahead with wage cuts of about 1 percent next year as part of an effort to gets its deficit under control. Unions are beginning industrial action today, including working more slowly and less productively in response.
French car makers want permission to cut jobs (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
French car makers have been having a hard time, and a completely open French market is coming. In order to get ready, Renault and PSA want the government to allow them to make 40,000 job cuts over the next several years. They hope to do it mainly by offering incentives for early retirement, according to Les Echos.
No agreement on labor law reform (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Salzburger Nachrichten reports today that the governing coalition in Austria has failed to agree on how to reform labor and job training laws. The coalition partners completed a one-day meeting in response to concerns that production costs in Austria are among the highest across most European countries, placing the country at a competitive disadvantage .
Minimum wage to go into effect (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Workers in the German construction industry have wanted a minimum wage in order to protect jobs from less expensive foreign workers. Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung reports that it will go into effect in January.
Alternative route into the U.S. (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Here's a story from today's Christian Science Monitor on how some illegal immigrants are getting into the United States via Canada. Also in the Monitor today, Alexander MacLeod writes about what it takes to be a "workaholic", and Ilene Prusher views the world population explosion from Yemen.
Where the health care money goes (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
A report in the current edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association says that 100 million Americans have chronic illnesses, and these account for a major portion of health care costs. Here's the story from the Minneapolis Star Tribune, as well as Anthony Lewis' New York Times column on an asylum provision that's soon to kick in.
More bilingual employees getting better pay (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Peter Fritsch writes in today's Wall Street Journal about better pay but persistent fairness issues for rank-and-file workers.
Proposals for the Okinawan economy (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Many people claim that economic growth has been slowed in Japan's Okinawa Prefecture because of the dominance of U.S. military installations. The Japan Times reports on the national government's long list of proposals. Also, here's a report on a proposal for stimulating the ailing Japanese economy by pumping up public works projects.
America Online cuts jobs (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Things happen fast in cyberspace. Not long ago, Compuserve was the largest of the commercial online services, and there were several others. Then, suddenly, with the help of very aggressive promotion, America Online took over the number one spot with a tremendous increase in membership. However, a drift away from commercial services and in the direction of other Internet providers has brought about a pricing change at AOL as well as major job cuts, according to the Washington Post. Also, Bill McAllister reports on a diversity study going on in the American Postal Service.
Organization representing the homeless urges resistance to new welfare law (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
The organization claims the new law denies basic services to Hispanics, according to a Chicago Sun-Times story.
Mood not jubilant at opening of economic meeting in Cairo (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Douglas Jehl reports for the New York Times. Also, Peter Steinfels reports on the National Conference of Catholics Bishops reassertion of their moral convictions regarding economic life, and a group is urging the New York governor to waive a requirement under the new welfare law. Also, changes at USAir, but labor challenges persist.
Illegal immigrants arrested in Japan (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Thirteen persons thought to have entered Japan illegally have been arrested, according to Asahi Shimbun.
Health insurance reform needed in Hungary, World Bank says (Wednesday, 11/13/96)
Representatives of the World Bank say that pension reform is proceeding well in Hungary, but a dramatic change in the health care system is needed in order to avoid collapse. The Hungary Report has this story today, as well as a story about almost 3,000 foreign companies that registered to do business in the country during the first nine months of 1996.
Army scandal widens; top general comments (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
The U.S. Army's investigation of the sex scandal is focusing on another facility in a different part of the country, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff comments on the mess on American television.
ILO says 250 million children working full-time (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
The International Labor Organization, an agency of the United Nations, says previous estimates were off by 100%. Child labor, including slavery, has been growing across much of the world. There are various reasons, but the population explosion isn't helping. Along those lines, here's a story from Werner Fornos of the Christian Science Monitor on population and the food crisis.
Author of report doesn't like the way the government has used it (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
London's Financial Times reports on the gathering storm over the European Union's 48-hour work week directive. Professor John Harrington of Birmingham University wrote a confidential medical report which the UK government has used in its court challenge to the EU's 48-hour directive. He says that his conclusions don't support the British government's claims. He thinks a 48-hour week restriction is reasonable.
French Work Minister criticizes Prime Minister (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
Jacques Barrot, the French Minister of Work, says that Prime Minister Juppe's call for greater employment flexibility is badly timed, suggesting that companies may not be able to be more flexible during a time of high unemployment in the country.
Affirmative action dilemma for San Francisco (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
The city expects lawsuits, no matter what they do, now that Proposition 209 has passed.
On getting the most out of technology (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
The Minneapolis Star Tribune's Jonathan Gaw reports on an expert's speech about using hi-tech most effectively in the new economy.
Are the rich so different? (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
Anita Sharpe answers in today's Wall Street Journal.
Welfare test case in Michigan (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
Judith Havemann writes in the Washington Post about how the American experiment is playing out in a Michigan neighborhood. Also, Peter Kilborn writes in today's New York Times about how many welfare mothers will lose a bonus under the new rules, and James Dao reports on the New York governor's plans for sweeping changes in the state's welfare system.
New consumer assistance unit from the government (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
Under an agency reorganization, new services will be available to Medicare and Medicaid recipients.
Helping a mother be a good mother (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
The New York Times' Kenneth Noble tells about a different approach to child welfare in New York.
The "chainsaw" revs up at Sunbeam (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
Albert J. Dunlap gets ready to impose "shock therapy" on a company that is in trouble. Thousands of jobs will go. Here's the story from the New York Times and CNN Financial.
Tired of worrying about Medicare? For a change of pace, worry about Social Security for a while (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
No immediate emergency in the case of Social Security, but it will take planning to avoid problems later, according to CNN Financial today.
Special on women and money (Tuesday, 11/12/96)
The current edition of Money magazine has a special section on women and money, and it's available on the web.
Get ready to hear a lot more about Medicare (Monday, 11/11/96)
President Clinton wants the Republicans to join his Medicare team, but they think he's been as much a part of the problem as the solution recently. Still, leaders on all sides recognize that it's serious and that it's going to have to be a priority. Here's a story about Senate Majority Leader Lott's remarks on TV yesterday.
Austrian politics get a little strange, again (Monday, 11/11/96)
The highly controversial Joerg Haider, head of the ultra-conservative Freedom Movement, is calling for a new labor movement in the country and new unions. His party is capturing support from labor, which traditionally has voted more for leftist candidates. Last year, Haider solicited the support of former Nazi veterans. Die Presse and other Austrian newspapers have the story this morning.
Waigel wants tax cut in Germany (Monday, 11/11/96)
German Finance Minister Theo Waigel would like to lower the maximum income tax to 35 percent and place the minimum at 20 percent. He would like to stimulate the German economy by providing greater incentives for working harder. Controversy remains over the "solidarity tax," which finances economic development in Eastern Germany, according to Sueddeutsche Zeitung.
Government workers to get raise (Monday, 11/11/96)
Today reports in the Philippines that 1.4 million government workers will get pay raises starting next year that will cost an additional 27 billion pesos per year. This amounts to about US$1 billion.
Want to learn to work together? (Monday, 11/11/96)
Learn from a jazz trio, says Berenice Bleedorn in today's Minneapolis Star Tribune. Various business writers have used the metaphor of musical groups in identifying different kinds of business organization. Some years ago, Peter Drucker wrote about how most corporate executives might envy the typical symphony orchestra conductor.
Women and their new businesses (Monday, 11/11/96)
Stephanie Mehta writes in today's Wall Street Journal about women who are quitting good jobs to start their own businesses. It's not easy, and it may not pay so well, but there may be more time for family. When you're self-employed, the boss almost works you to death, but, at least, she has your best interests at heart. Secretary of Labor Reich says he's leaving the Clinton Administration in large part because of what a big job in Washington is costing his family, so it's a common problem.
Army scandal looking worse (Monday, 11/11/96)
Abusive trainers may also have made death threats, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Bradley Graham of the Washington Post says that the Army has been investigating but decided to make the investigation public for fear of charges of a coverup.
Labor not discouraged, writer says (Monday, 11/11/96)
Organized labor spent at least $35 million of members money in an effort to restore control of Congress to the Democrats, and that didn't work. Discouraged? Disappointed? Not! Here's Francine Knowles' report from the Chicago Sun-Times.
The new squeeze on the working poor (Monday, 11/11/96)
The poor who have been working all along may have to compete for increasingly scarce child care now, given the new welfare law. Jennifer Preston writes in the New York Times about the problem of making room for new families without displacing others.
Clinton no longer wants to do it all in one swell foop (Monday, 11/11/96)
President Clinton's earlier efforts to rebuild the American health care system from the ground up were met with something less than undiluted joy. Now, he's in favor of an incremental approach, according to Robert Pear.
British union plans pre-emptive strike against 48-hour week (Monday, 11/11/96)
More on the pains of greater European organization. Christine Buckley of the London Times reports on Unison's legal action.
Korean government to submit its own labor reform bill (Monday, 11/11/96)
Labor law revision is in the works in South Korea, and the government has some thoughts of its own. Nam In-soo of today's Korea Herald reports.
Suicide of 11-year-old girl fuels controversy over migrant support (Monday, 11/11/96)
Some are saying that it reflects a lack of sufficient support for migrants from the mainland, according to today's Hong Kong Standard. The Standard also has stories today about the sports centre cafe that will be run by mentally disabled workers, about an experiment with "critical illness benefits'' by the South African insurance industry, and charges that a former Australian ambassador encouraged Cambodian boys to become prostitutes.
New retirement funds could change Hong Kong investment industry (Monday, 11/11/96)
The Mandatory Provident Fund will require workers to contribute to a retirement fund, and the program may alter the entire investment system in Hong Kong, according to the Singapore Business Times. Traditionally, Chinese workers have regarded their children as their retirement plan, according to the story. Such significant change, or attempt at change, at this particular time is interesting, because the British colony will come under Chinese political control in less than a year, at which time all bets are probably off.
Powell still said to be interested, but phone isn't ringing (Sunday, 11/10/96)
According to Reuters, the Orlando Sentinel is reporting that Colin Powell has not ruled out accepting a position in the Clinton Administration Cabinet, but he says he hasn't been asked. On television this morning, David Brinkley asked President Clinton, whom Brinkley called a "bore" on TV the other night, whether Powell is under consideration, and the President was noncommittal. So far, Powell seems to be the only Republican expressing any interest at all in becoming part of a "bipartisan administration." Meantime, David Sanger writes in the New York Times today about the Administration's efforts to form a new team on the economy, now that most present Administration economic experts, including the Secretaries of Commerce and Labor, seem to be on their way home. Incidentally, today's interview with the President on ABC-TV marks the end of the Brinkley program's first 15 years and Brinkley's departure as headliner. It won't really be "This Week Without David Brinkley" from now on, though. He'll appear regularly, but, nearing 80, he's decided he doesn't want to be in charge any longer.
Army rape scandal widens (Sunday, 11/10/96)
Issues having to do with sexual abuse in the workplace have been put on the front page in recent days because of the U.S. Army scandal. Now, another 15 people have been suspended as an investigation picks up speed.
Republicans keeping their enthusiasm under control (Sunday, 11/10/96)
President Clinton would like to have a bipartisan effort in solving the Medicare problem, but Republicans feel that he engaged in "Medigoguery" during the campaign. They're willing to let him stew for a while.
Veterans are one-in-three seeking refuge (Sunday, 11/10/96)
A survey from the International Union of Gospel Missions says that veterans are very heavily represented among the homeless.
On choosing a health plan (Sunday, 11/10/96)
Glenn Howatt of the Minneapolis Star Tribune writes about how to make a health plan choice as options narrow. Speaking of health, sometimes the doctor is in, sometimes the doctor isn't. Carol Cropper of the New York Times tells about choices, real and apparent, in HMOs.
New survey on people who have been downsized out (Sunday, 11/10/96)
After a decade of downsizing, there's less stigma, but it's still difficult.
Postmortem on the effects of business and labor on the election (Sunday, 11/10/96)
Steven Pearlstein and Frank Swoboda of the Washington Post analyze the mixed results of big spending, much activism on the part of both business and labor in the recent election.
Judge tries to turn down sensitivity (Sunday, 11/10/96)
A judge in Los Angeles has overruled a jury's $11 million discrimination award in favor of an employee of Pitney Bowes, saying that society has become too sensitive. Overall, there have been recent indications that the pendulum may be swinging back after a long period of virtually no sensitivity followed by a period of hypersensitivity. For instance, a ruling by a Minnesota judge recently attempted to distinguish between genuine "sexual harassment" and more general offensiveness or crudeness. For decades, American society had its "detector" turned way down or perhaps all the way off, and we were missing most cases of incest and other sexual abuse, as well as sexual and ethnic discrimination and harassment and offensive language. In recent years, the "detector" has been turned up to a point where it may be generating false positives by responding to background static. Now, the trend may be reversing a bit. The still unresolved problem is how to protect victims and potential victims without creating other kinds of victims.
Preparing journalists for the new journalism (Sunday, 11/10/96)
What do the new media mean for journalists and journalism education? Today's New York Times tells about some classes at the University of California-Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism.
What the Proposition 209 vote may mean (Sunday, 11/10/96)
Sam Verhovek writes today in the New York Times about how the vote to roll back affirmative action in California breaks with the past and may set a precedent.
Taxes and the independent contractor (Sunday, 11/10/96)
The squeeze is on, according to Leah Beth Ward, and here's how some of the growing multitude of independent contractors are trying to cope. Also, Nick Ravo writes in the New York Times today how recent changes in the law makes the road to retirement a little less treacherous for government workers.
More on the Army rape scandal (Saturday, 11/9/96)
The United States Army has suspended more supervisors and expects to charge more persons in the scandal in Maryland.
It's official: Reich is going (Saturday, 11/9/96)
U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich has ended months of speculation by announcing that he will follow several others, including the Secretary of Commerce, and leave the Clinton Administration. He says he hasn't been able to adequately balance family and career, a problem facing many workers in the new economy. Incidentally, while there is almost always a Cabinet shuffle at the beginning of a President's second term, some are wondering whether there are more defections this time and whether it has special meaning. Will the Administration be wracked by scandal during the next four years, as many of Clinton's political opponents, including Ross Perot, have charged? Also, the President seems to want a bipartisan administration from now on and has sent up trial balloons to see if some leading Republicans are interested in coming on board. Dole has said that he will not be interested in heading a bipartisan commission to work on the overhaul of Medicare, and Senator Lugar says he isn't interested in being Secretary of State. However, Colin Powell, who, although a Republican, has served both Republican and Democratic presidents as a military officer, says this morning that he would consider a Cabinet position, but hasn't been asked yet. Also, about Medicare, the Republicans are saying they will wait for the President, calling him a demagogue on the issue.
Kodak sues former employees (Saturday, 11/9/96)
Two former employees are accused of stealing the company's technology and selling it.
How to check up on your doctor (Saturday, 11/9/96)
A new database provides information about whether physicians have been in trouble. Speaking of doctors, many in Ontario are fed up with their government's policy on fees, but the latest protest is mostly symbolic. Also, Anthony DePalma of the New York Times says that Canada's economy is sputtering, despite the lowest prime rate in forty years.
Hard times for some Romanians (Saturday, 11/9/96)
Christine Spolar writes in today's Washington Post about destitute Romanians who are looking to their government for relief.
More on Minnesota's tenure battle (Saturday, 11/9/96)
The Washington Post's Rene Sanchez says that job insecurity is coming to academe too, and the battle over tenure at the University of Minnesota is an example. Also, according to the Chicago Sun-Times, a leading Illinois politician who has had the help of teachers unions says he could support the elmination of tenure in public education.
Clinton's economic challenges (Saturday, 11/9/96)
In a major article, U.S. News & World Report identifies Clinton's biggest economic challenges for his second term, and how he can meet them.
Big payday may come at Citicorp, but with contingencies (Saturday, 11/9/96)
Business Week reports on how the windfall isn't assured at this point. Also, the magazine reports on a "sweatshop catalog" that isn't quite like those you're used to.
Army trainers charged with sex abuse, assault (Friday, 11/8/96)
At least 17 young female soldiers have been victimized at a Maryland base, according to military authorities. Here's the story from the Washington Post, the New York Times, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Affimative action protests continue in California, arrests made (Friday, 11/8/96)
Students at the University of California at Berkeley are demanding that the university not comply with Proposition 209 which passed in the recent election. At least 23 have been arrested.
Joblessness down, productivity up (Friday, 11/8/96)
Government data indicate filings for unemployment benefits declined last week, and productivity was up in the third quarter.
Socialists want poor countries in monetary union (Friday, 11/8/96)
French Socialists don't want the European currency to