San Francisco is considering murder charges for drug dealers in response to the opioid crisis, marking a significant shift from its traditionally liberal stance on drug crimes. This move is driven by the reality of increasing deaths and public disorder, challenging progressive prosecutors who have been reluctant to pursue such charges. Similarly, Oregon is reevaluating its liberal drug decriminalization laws as overdose deaths soar. The article also discusses the loneliness epidemic, highlighting a new app designed to help people in metropolitan areas connect and combat loneliness. The breakdown of family structures is identified as a major contributor to this issue.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are facing a reassessment due to political backlash and corporate cost-cutting, particularly in the US. UK consultants report a shift in demand towards more integrated and sophisticated DEI strategies rather than standalone departments or budgets. DDI's survey indicates a potential backslide in DEI progress, with a decrease in companies with diversity programs and leaders endorsing DEI efforts. Mercer's talent survey, however, ranks DEI high among global organizational priorities. The US sees some organizations cutting DEI investments, leading to a reduction in quick-fix attempts like unconscious bias training. Independent consultants like Lily Zheng, who view DEI as a long-term investment, have not seen a decrease in demand. EY's global head of DEI, Karyn Twaronite, emphasizes the importance of treating DEI as a multiyear business strategy and notes that many employers are expanding their initiatives. The article suggests that despite some companies downsizing their DEI efforts, there is a continued need for DEI consulting and a belief in the resilience of the industry.

Employers are increasingly focusing on retraining their existing workforce to fill skills gaps rather than hiring externally, a trend known as 'quiet hiring.' London Business School's Lynda Gratton notes a shift from specific job roles to desired skills and traits. McKinsey & Co. predicts a significant occupational shift by 2030, with many roles becoming obsolete. Companies like Gartner Inc., Randstad NV, and Ogilvy UK are implementing strategies to develop internal talent. Accenture PLC and JLL have undertaken large-scale training initiatives, while others lag behind. The World Economic Forum emphasizes the importance of human traits and tech skills for future jobs. The article suggests that the ability to adapt and retrain quickly may become the most valuable skill in the evolving job market.

Employers are increasingly focusing on retraining their own workers to fill skills gaps rather than recruiting externally, a trend known as 'quiet hiring.' London Business School's Lynda Gratton observes a shift from specific job roles to desired skills and character traits. McKinsey & Co. predicts a significant occupational shift by 2030, with many executives acknowledging imminent skills shortages. Companies like Ogilvy UK, Accenture, and JLL are investing in employee training to adapt to new demands, particularly in areas like AI and sustainable practices. However, some firms lack a strategic approach to skills development, and overall investment in skills has declined. The World Economic Forum emphasizes the importance of human traits and tech abilities for future jobs, while experts recommend regular workforce planning exercises to prepare for changing labor market needs.

The Working It podcast episode from the Financial Times, hosted by Isabel Berwick, discusses the benefits of internal hiring over external recruitment. Josh Bersin, an HR expert, argues that developing internal talent is crucial for a company's success and growth strategy. Bethan Staton, the FT’s deputy work and careers editor, adds that internal recruitment requires creative thinking and a better understanding of existing employees' skills. The episode highlights that while internal hiring can save money and improve employee engagement, it also has challenges such as potentially leaving another vacancy and missing out on new skills external hires might bring.

Workers are increasingly using email scheduling to manage their work hours flexibly, while maintaining the appearance of working during standard business hours. This trend, which has grown since the COVID-19 pandemic, allows individuals to work at unconventional times without imposing on others' free time. Experts like London Business School's Dan Cable note a shift from using scheduling to simulate longer hours to now respecting established work hours. Despite the benefits, some, like Bonnie Dilber from Zapier Inc., argue for normalizing flexible work hours without the need for disguising them. The Trades Union Congress suggests that employers should address workload issues and set reasonable expectations for after-hours communication.

The shooting at the US-funded Jordanian International Police Training Centre in Muwaqqar resulted in the deaths of five people, including two American trainers. The incident has sparked speculation and concern among Jordanians about its implications, with some fearing it may be linked to extremism. The training center, which has been operational since 2003, plays a significant role in US-Jordan military cooperation. Public sentiment in Jordan remains ambivalent towards the US presence, with some expressing support for the shooting. Authorities have not provided clear answers, and the incident has highlighted the complex dynamics of US-Jordan relations and the broader regional security context.

Jerusalem experienced a 'day of rage' marked by violent clashes between Palestinian youth and Israeli forces, particularly in Shuafat, Qalandia, and Issawiya. The unrest was fueled by recent tensions at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, where a large number of worshippers gathered for prayers under heavy police presence. Israeli authorities responded with force, leading to injuries and mass arrests. The situation remains tense, with differing opinions on how to handle the crisis, including calls for restraint from religious leaders and aggressive measures from government officials.

In response to a mass stabbing attack in Tel Aviv, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Hamas and the Palestinian Authority for inciting terrorism. The attack, praised by Hamas as a 'heroic operation,' has heightened tensions and security measures in Israel. The incident follows a series of violent events and protests, with Israeli politicians using the situation to criticize Palestinian leadership ahead of upcoming elections. The suspect, Hamza Matrouk, was identified as a Palestinian from the West Bank, and the attack is considered a 'lone wolf' act.

Jordanian authorities have deported 800 Sudanese refugees back to Sudan, claiming they were not recognized as refugees by the UNHCR and had entered Jordan for medical assistance. The deportation followed the dismantling of a Sudanese protest camp in Amman, where refugees were demonstrating against perceived UN discrimination in resettlement. Refugees reported the use of force by police and expressed fears for their safety upon return to Sudan, citing ongoing conflict and persecution. The situation raises concerns about violations of the 1951 Refugee Convention's non-refoulement principle.

The article discusses the aftermath of a fatal car crash in Jerusalem involving Abd al-Rahman al-Shaludi, which resulted in the death of a 3-month-old Israeli girl and injuries to several others. The incident, labeled a terrorist attack by Israeli authorities, has intensified the already tense situation in Jerusalem, particularly in the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan. The article highlights the growing hopelessness and frustration among Palestinians due to the ongoing occupation, settlement expansions, and frequent clashes with Israeli forces. It also touches on the broader context of violence and despair in East Jerusalem, where many young Palestinians feel marginalized and abandoned.

In the wake of a Gaza ceasefire, Palestinian leaders in the West Bank emphasize unity and resistance, with Hamas, Fatah, and other factions presenting a united front. Celebrations and calls for continued resistance mark the public mood, while leaders outline diplomatic strategies, including potential actions at the UN and ICC. The destruction in Gaza underscores the need for coordinated efforts to rebuild and resist Israeli occupation. The article highlights the challenges and optimism surrounding Palestinian unity and future negotiations.

A suspected 'price tag' attack by Jewish extremists in Jerusalem's Mount Zion has left the Christian community shaken. Masked men set fire to a Christian seminary, causing significant damage and fear among residents. This incident is part of a broader pattern of settler violence targeting Palestinian properties, including mosques and schools, with arson and graffiti. Despite strong condemnations from Israeli officials and ongoing investigations, the response to such attacks has been criticized as inadequate. The violence is seen as an attempt to intimidate Palestinian populations and deter actions against illegal settlements.

The US faces a potential economic disaster if Congress does not agree to raise the debt ceiling by June 1st, with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warning of financial chaos. President Joe Biden and Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy are set to negotiate, but deep partisan divides persist, with Republicans demanding spending cuts. Meanwhile, Russian oil and gas tax revenue has dropped significantly, and education companies like Chegg are struggling due to AI technologies like ChatGPT, which are changing the landscape of educational support and raising concerns about increased costs for students.

Shares in the education sector, including Chegg, Pearson, Duolingo, and Udemy, fell sharply following Chegg's admission that AI chatbot ChatGPT was impacting its sales. Chegg's CEO Dan Rosensweig reported a significant spike in student interest in ChatGPT, leading to a 7% annual fall in revenue and a 5% drop in subscriber numbers. Pearson's CEO Andy Bird views AI as an opportunity, not a threat. Chegg has launched CheggMate, a service built with ChatGPT-4, despite criticism that it enables cheating. Analyst Tom Singlehurst suggests that ChatGPT could replicate Chegg's study guide service but poses a more indirect threat to Pearson.

The Israeli Nation State Bill, which enshrines Israel as a Jewish state, has sparked controversy and condemnation. Palestinian citizens of Israel view the bill as a confirmation of longstanding discrimination. Activists argue that the bill exposes the inherent contradiction between Israel's identity as a Jewish state and its democratic claims. The bill has mobilized both the Israeli left and Palestinian citizens, highlighting issues of social justice, equality, and apartheid. The article features personal stories and perspectives from Palestinian citizens, illustrating the broader impact of the legislation on their lives and rights.

The article discusses the assassination of Jordanian journalist Nahed Hattar, who was shot dead on his way to trial for sharing a controversial cartoon on Facebook. The cartoon depicted a Jihadi in heaven, which led to Hattar's arrest for insulting the faith and inciting sectarian strife. The incident has highlighted the underlying extremism in Jordan and the government's struggle to maintain control. The government's response, including a gag order and arrests for hate speech, raises concerns about the freedom of expression. The article also touches on the broader issue of extremism in the region, noting the number of Jordanians fighting for Jihadist groups and the public's reaction to the textbook changes that reduced religious references. The assassination is seen as a warning of the growing extremism within a kingdom that has been relatively stable amidst regional turmoil.

The article discusses the decline of Egypt's tourism industry, particularly in the Sinai Peninsula, following the 2011 revolution and subsequent political instability and terrorist attacks. It focuses on the Seashell resort, a halted construction project emblematic of the region's many 'ghost hotels.' The author highlights the local Bedouin community's struggles, as their land claims and desires for ecotourism development were overlooked in favor of large-scale hotel investments. The Bedouins were marginalized and their businesses, such as Msallam Faraj's 'Bedouin Dream,' were destroyed or overshadowed by these developments. The article also touches on the broader economic losses Egypt faces due to the tourism downturn and the hope of some locals, like Faraj and a guesthouse manager named Tito, for a revival of tourism that respects the natural beauty and culture of Sinai.

The article discusses the urban planning issues in Amman, Jordan, focusing on the lack of public spaces and the problems posed by the Jordan Gate Project's unfinished skyscrapers. Architect Hanna Salameh has proposed a plan to revamp the towers with sustainable features, which has garnered significant public interest and support. Despite the enthusiasm, there is skepticism about the feasibility of such a project due to potential corruption and the centralized decision-making process in the city. The article also touches on the public's desire for more involvement in urban planning and the government's efforts to address these concerns through a developing master plan. The response to Salameh's proposal highlights a desire for change and improvement in the city's public spaces.

The Sub Laban family in Jerusalem's Old City faces eviction as Israeli organizations push to move Jewish families into the area. The family has lived in their home since 1953, but recent eviction orders have intensified their decades-long struggle. Activists, NGOs, and international delegations have rallied in support, while legal battles continue. The evictions are part of a broader issue in Jerusalem, where Israeli groups, often backed by American donors, seek to acquire Palestinian properties. Critics argue that these actions undermine peace efforts and exacerbate tensions. The Israeli government's role in these evictions is contentious, with some accusing it of enabling the process. The Sub Laban family remains determined to stay in their home, viewing it as central to their identity.

Birzeit University students, particularly those affiliated with Hamas' Islamic Bloc, face increasing arrests and alleged torture by both the Palestinian Authority (PA) and Israeli security forces. The PA's actions are seen as politically motivated to curb Hamas' growing influence. Despite international human rights organizations' efforts, students continue to face brutal interrogations and detentions. The situation has fostered a sense of fear among students but has also strengthened the resolve and legitimacy of the Islamic Bloc. The article highlights the broader implications of these arrests on student politics and human rights in the West Bank.

The funeral of Mu’taz Hijazi, suspected of attempting to assassinate right-wing Israeli activist Yehuda Glick, saw hundreds defy police restrictions in Jerusalem. Despite a controlled and limited attendance, many mourners managed to join the procession, leading to heightened tensions and clashes with Israeli forces. The article highlights the frustration and defiance of the Palestinian community against the restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities, with mourners expressing anger and predicting further unrest.

In Jerusalem's Silwan and Abu Tor neighborhoods, tensions have escalated following the death of Mu'taz al-Hijazi, suspected of attempting to assassinate Jewish activist Yehuda Glick. The unrest has led to clashes between local Palestinians and Israeli soldiers, resulting in widespread shutdowns and heightened security measures. The conflict is deeply rooted in religious and territorial disputes, with both sides expressing frustration and anger. The situation remains volatile, with locals bracing for further violence.