In China, discriminatory recruitment practices based on star signs, birthplaces, and blood types are affecting job seekers amid rising youth unemployment. The Chinese government has stopped publishing unemployment data, raising concerns about transparency. Economic challenges persist despite the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, with sectors like technology, property, and private education being heavily impacted. Women face additional hurdles in the job market, and some young people are opting for a slower pace of life by returning to their parents' homes. Experts suggest that while the situation is concerning, it is not yet catastrophic.

TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew's testimony before a bipartisan U.S. congressional committee failed to alleviate concerns about the app's safety from Chinese government influence. The hearing highlighted the divide between TikTok's supporters and critics amid rising U.S.-China tensions over technology and its associated economic and political power. With 150 million U.S. users and over 100 million in the EU, TikTok faces increasing pressure from Western governments, including potential bans and directives to remove the app from government devices, due to fears of data privacy and influence.

China is set to implement strict regulations limiting the time children and teens can spend on their phones to two hours a day. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote good morality, socialist values, and prevent internet addiction. Age-based content will also be provided. Yena Lee, a correspondent for France 24 in Beijing, provides details on the implementation of these measures.

China's artificial intelligence market, currently valued at €20 billion, is expected to more than double within two years. Beijing aims to surpass the US and become the global leader in AI by 2030. AI technology in China is significantly transforming both personal and professional spheres, enabling machines to mimic human intelligence to generate texts, images, videos, and even create original art and designs.

FRANCE 24's Beijing correspondent Yena Lee reports that while the US wants China to increase its participation in international climate funds, Beijing is contending with US tariffs on Chinese solar panels and taxes on steel and aluminium. These trade issues are expected to remain unchanged during John Kerry's visit.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is set to visit China to stabilize relations between the world's two largest economies. Yellen emphasized the importance of cooperation between the US and China. The visit is seen as a rare high-level diplomatic effort to address ongoing tensions.

US President Joe Biden compared China's President Xi Jinping to a dictator during a fundraising event, a day after Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Beijing. China's foreign ministry condemned Biden's comments as a political provocation.

June 4 marks the 34th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre, traditionally commemorated by Hong Kongers with candlelight vigils. However, since the imposition of China's national security law in 2020, public criticism of Beijing has become perilous, prompting many to flee to Taiwan. These self-imposed exiles aim to continue their fight for civil liberties from across the Taiwan Strait.

Nüshu, or 'women's book', is a secret writing system developed by women in feudal China to communicate without men's understanding. Despite its near disappearance, efforts are being made in Hunan province to revive and preserve this unique cultural heritage.

Australian journalist Cheng Lei has been detained for 1,000 days by China's state security police on espionage charges, with her family maintaining her innocence. Initially held under the RSDL system, she could face a life sentence if convicted. The case has implications for China-Australia relations.

China's Foreign Ministry has publicly distanced itself from controversial statements made by Lu Shaye, the Chinese ambassador to France, on a French political talk show. Lu suggested that former Soviet republics lack effective status under international law, as there is no international accord confirming their sovereignty.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio da Silva is visiting Shanghai, China, for a four-day visit aimed at strengthening ties and proposing the creation of a 'Peace Club' with Xi Jinping to help end the war in Ukraine. Accompanying Lula is a large delegation, including over 200 business leaders and nearly 50 members of Congress.

French President Emmanuel Macron aims to secure minor concessions from Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the Ukraine war during his visit to Beijing. These concessions may involve food security measures or stronger condemnation of Russia's attacks on civilian infrastructure.

President Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow for a three-day state visit at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin highlights China's strategic interests rather than a focus on the Ukraine conflict. This visit marks Xi's first international trip since securing his third term as Chinese president and his first to Russia since the Ukraine invasion. The visit follows Beijing's release of a 12-point position paper on a political settlement to the Ukraine crisis.

China experienced approximately 226 million domestic trips during the Lunar New Year Holiday as it lifted zero COVID travel restrictions for the first time in three years. Despite the increased travel, the government claims there was no spike in COVID-19 cases, with the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention indicating that the current wave of infections is nearing its end. Official reports show a decrease in new infections from over 12,600 to around 6,300 between January 20th and 26th.

Trains have resumed operations, reconnecting mainland China to Hong Kong for the first time since the implementation of Beijing's 'Zero Covid' policy. Tens of thousands of families have eagerly awaited this moment, with emotional reunions marking the occasion. A Hong Kong resident expressed the hardship endured since the borders were sealed in January 2020.

Chinese hospitals, including one of the best in Shanghai, are overwhelmed by a surge in COVID-19 cases following the abrupt end of the 'zero Covid' policy. With a low vaccination rate, the healthcare system is under severe strain, with shortages of staff and fever medication. Patients and their families express frustration and blame the government for the lack of preparedness.

The Chinese government is proceeding with plans to ease more pandemic restrictions despite a surge in new coronavirus infections. Starting January 8th, the quarantine requirement for travelers entering China will be lifted. The report also touches on how China's healthcare system is managing the current situation.

China's real estate sector faces a severe crisis with major developers struggling under massive debts, leading to halted construction projects. Homeowners are left paying mortgages for unfinished apartments, forcing some to live in these incomplete buildings. The situation is particularly dire in Kunming, southern China.

The 'Great Resignation' or 'Big Quit' phenomenon, characterized by a significant number of employees leaving their jobs since the Covid-19 pandemic, has impacted France, particularly in sectors with difficult hours and low pay such as hospitality. With a quarter of a million jobs available in bars, cafes, and restaurants, the labor shortage is a major concern for business owners in the world's top tourist destination, especially before the summer season. The situation has altered the power dynamic between employers and employees, leading to creative recruitment strategies by businesses and the state. Insights on the workforce in France are provided by Professor Christine Erhel, Chair of Labour Economics at the French National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts.

Ten Nigerian cabinet ministers have resigned, indicating their interest in the 2023 presidential elections. Somalia is set to hold a presidential poll after months of delays, with the winner facing significant challenges including an Islamist insurgency, famine, and drought. In Niger, anti-corruption NGOs have filed a legal complaint alleging that over €95 million of state funds are missing.

China continues to enforce its zero-Covid strategy, described as a 'magic weapon' by health officials, despite increasing economic repercussions and growing public discontent in Shanghai due to lockdown measures.

Sudan's Darfur region experienced ethnic clashes resulting in at least 17 deaths, with Arab militias blamed for the violence over land and livestock disputes. In Ghana, the cost of living has reached a six-year high, with rising prices for essentials like water and oil impacting families and businesses. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing issues with shoddy construction, leading to a tragic accident in Kinshasa, with corruption and poor urban planning identified as contributing factors.

Some 250 Ukrainian peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of Congo are preparing to return home to face Russian forces. Egypt has banned exports of staples such as wheat and flour to secure food reserves, heavily relying on imports from Ukraine and Russia. Nigeria is experiencing long queues at petrol pumps, grounded flights, and electricity cuts due to fuel shortages, with prices surging partly because of the war in Ukraine.

Around 600 Nigerian students have returned home after being evacuated from Romania and Poland, where they had fled following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The students faced significant challenges, including discrimination at the border. Meanwhile, Cape Town's City Hall was illuminated in the colors of the Ukrainian flag, despite the South African government's neutral stance on the conflict.

France 24 reviews the TV series 'Inventing Anna', describing it as a lackluster adaptation of a fascinating story. The article also touches on Son Ye-jin's new project 'Thirty-Nine', which is characterized as a cringeworthy yet delightful show about women approaching forty. Additionally, the piece discusses the reboot of 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air', now titled 'Bel-Air', which has transitioned from comedy to drama, a move considered thoughtful by the reviewer.

European foreign ministers are set to discuss the security situation in Mali ahead of the AU-EU summit. In Uganda, the re-opening of schools after the world's longest Covid-related closure has posed challenges for students' access to education. Additionally, climate change is severely impacting the land and livestock of Kenyan herders.

Kazakhstan faced significant unrest after the government lifted its fuel price cap, leading to widespread protests, violent clashes, and a severe crackdown resulting in over 100 deaths and thousands of arrests. In response to a request from Kazakhstan's president, Russia deployed paratroopers to help stabilize the situation.

In France, over 30 percent of the population drinks excessively, a figure that has increased during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite this, the government's measures against alcohol consumption are less stringent compared to other addictions like smoking. Experts attribute this to the significant influence of industry lobbies.

With the Africa Cup of Nations just two days away, the atmosphere in Cameroon is vibrant. Meanwhile, multiple attacks in northwestern Nigeria have resulted in dozens of deaths, with updates provided by correspondent Sam Olukoya. Additionally, Ethiopians are celebrating Orthodox Christmas.

Cairo's Christmas market is a festive destination for families of all religions, featuring traditional holiday attractions. In southern Benin, the 'Kaleta' tradition, rooted in Afro-Brazilian slave history, involves children wearing masks and dancing for neighbors. Additionally, Congolese rumba and Morocco's Tbourida have been added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Libya's presidential elections have been postponed from the original date, with the electoral commission citing the impossibility of holding the vote on the scheduled Friday. A new proposed date for the elections is January 24th.

The UN's Human Rights Office has urged for an immediate and independent investigation into allegations of rape and sexual harassment at the anti-coup protests in Sudan. In a separate event, the French army has killed a leading jihadist in Niger, who was suspected in the murder of eight people, including six French nationals. Additionally, Egyptian authorities have implemented a ban on shishas in cafes to combat Covid-19.

Eric Zemmour, a far-right candidate for the French presidential election, held his first campaign rally in Villepinte, Paris, where he emphasized reducing immigration and criticized President Emmanuel Macron. The event saw violent clashes, with protesters from SOS Racisme being attacked. Zemmour's campaign has faced declining poll numbers and controversies, including distancing from key far-right figures. The rally aimed to regain momentum, with Zemmour reiterating his stance on immigration and the 'great replacement' theory. The political landscape remains uncertain, with Marine Le Pen and Valerie Pecresse also significant contenders.

Senegal's book industry is celebrating as Mohamed Mbougar Sarr wins the Goncourt prize, marking a significant achievement for the author and the nation's literary scene.

Entrepreneurs in the Central African Republic are exploring methods to increase Cassava production amidst dwindling supplies due to the pandemic. In the Ivory Coast, the development of Abidjan's new metro system has led to the displacement of residents, who now face uncertainty about their future.

The death toll in Sudan has risen as security forces crack down on anti-coup protesters. In the DR Congo, Islamist attacks persist in Beni, causing both casualties and stigmatization of the local Muslim community. In Senegal, the pandemic slowdown has positively impacted the conservation of baby turtles, with nests flourishing due to reduced tourism, fishing, and construction.

Nigerian security forces have arrested three men accused of participating in the mass abduction of 121 students from Bethel Baptist High School in July. The kidnapping occurred near Kaduna in north-west Nigeria. While 100 students have escaped or been freed, 21 remain unaccounted for.

Namibian lawmakers are currently deliberating on whether to accept a compensation deal from Germany for a genocide that started in 1904, with Germany offering €1.1 billion for projects as atonement. Meanwhile, Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni aims for a 10 percent Covid-19 vaccination rate by year's end. In Somalia, the National Theatre in Mogadishu celebrates its first public film screening in 30 years.

Jessica Chastain stars in a TV series about a marriage falling apart. The Spanish series 'Casa de Papel' or 'Money Heist' is releasing its fifth and final season on September 3, promising more action and violence. The Series Mania Festival, France's largest event for TV series, is free and available both in person and online until September 2 in Lille, France.

Belgium has sentenced Iranian diplomat Assadolah Assadi to 20 years in prison for attempted terrorism after a foiled plot to bomb a rally of the National Council of Resistance of Iran near Paris in 2018. The court ruling emphasized that diplomats do not have immunity for criminal acts and implicated the Iranian state in the plot. Three other Iranians received sentences ranging from 15 to 18 years. The Iranian regime denied involvement, calling it a Western trap.

An estimated 200 to 250 French children, offspring of suspected jihadists, live in Kurdish-run detention camps in Syria. The French government occasionally repatriates a few children on a case-by-case basis, but public opinion largely opposes their return. The report includes perspectives from those advocating for the children's repatriation, highlighting the complex and controversial nature of the issue.

The recent killing of a white farmer has intensified racial tensions in South Africa. In Nigeria, protests against police brutality have entered their ninth day. Kenya has seen a positive trend in wildlife conservation, with the elephant population doubling over the past 30 years.

Millions of students in Cameroon return to school for the first time since March with new safety measures in place. DR Congo prepares for heavy rains to prevent a repeat of last year's flooding. A new magazine, OFF TO, offers a fresh perspective on African capitals, featuring local voices and experiences.

A Kenyan court convicted two men for aiding al Shabaab in the 2013 Westgate mall attack that resulted in 67 deaths. Tunisia, once a leading phosphate exporter, now imports the mineral due to COVID-19 and social movements affecting its phosphate industry. Madagascar's tourism is hit hard by the pandemic, providing lemurs a respite from tourists.

Parisians have increasingly turned to cycling since the end of France's lockdown on May 11, aided by an additional 50 kilometers of bike lanes introduced as a public health measure. Milena, a daily cyclist, highlights both the benefits and challenges of cycling in Paris, including narrow streets and obstructed bike lanes. Stein van Oosternen, spokesperson for Ile-de-France’s bike collective, praises the new bike lanes but calls for more extensive infrastructure to make every street suitable for cycling, akin to the Netherlands or Denmark.

France Médias Monde, the parent company of FRANCE 24, has implemented extensive safety measures to cope with Covid-19, including mandatory face masks, temperature checks, and hand sanitizer dispensers. The company has been proactive, often ahead of national guidelines, in securing supplies and ensuring workplace safety. Staff members, including journalists and cleaning personnel, express a sense of safety and pride in their roles. While some programming has resumed, many employees continue to work from home.