UN agency safeguarding workers’ rights since 1919
The United States has proposed tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from about 59–60 countries, citing failures to curb goods made with forced labour. The EU has negotiated a digital trade deal with South Korea and is preparing new industrial measures to reduce single‑supplier dependence. China has tightened controls on outbound investment and is hosting a steady stream of foreign leaders.
Labour has pledged to remove discriminatory age bands and equalise pay for 18–20-year-olds with older workers. Ministers say reforms aim to reduce insecure work while acknowledging challenges faced by hospitality and high street employers amid cost-of-living pressures. The LPC timeline remains central to when youth rates will align with adult pay.
A fire in a Lucknow building housing a pet shop, veterinary clinic, study center and animation studio has killed at least 14 people, most of them students. Rescue teams faced heavy smoke as they evacuated and searched for survivors. Authorities say the cause is under investigation.
Several ships have been struck in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran continues attacks on commercial shipping. The incidents have reduced traffic and heightened risk for crews, with Indian seafarers among those killed or injured. The United Arab Emirates and Oman report ongoing threats, and international pressure calls for de-escalation.
The UN and world powers are pressing for governance reform as demand for critical minerals rises. Leaders warn that without local processing and stronger rule of law, mining profits will bypass local communities and fuel conflict. New commitments aim to channel wealth into public services and jobs amid a global scramble for cobalt, lithium, nickel and rare earths.
The United States has set 10% to 12.5% tariffs on imports from 60 countries accounting for 99% of U.S. imports, arguing that they fail to enforce bans on goods made with forced labour. The tariffs take effect as prior global levies expire, with India and others qualifying for lower rates after tightening enforcement.
The Fair Work Commission has issued a minimum standards order for on-demand gig workers in Australia, setting an earnings floor between $31.30 and $32 per hour, plus required personal accident insurance and third-party vehicle insurance. The changes take effect on 17 August and affect hundreds of thousands of workers, with unions calling it a landmark moment.