US Labor Market: The U.S. added just 29,000 jobs in September, far below expectations, and unemployment rose to 4.2% as prior months were revised down—fueling fresh debate over how long the Fed can stay aggressive. Corporate Restructuring: Nike says it will cut more jobs under its “Pace” plan to save about $2.5B through fiscal 2031, with some support roles shifting toward Singapore. Workplace Rights & AI: Current Affairs staff ratified a new two-year contract with strong protections, including an anti-generative-AI writing/art rule and expanded paid leave; separate coverage highlights how HIPAA consent and data ownership matter when practices use AI tools. Labor Action: UVM Medical Center support staff authorized a strike over staffing protections, while TV Nova employees protested changes to editorial policy and personnel decisions. Hiring & Policy: INEC opened its 2027 ad-hoc election staff portal; Cayman Islands plans to route work-permit job ads through its WORC portal. Skills Gap: Mike Rowe warns skilled trades shortages remain a “pinch point,” pushing more vocational training. International: Ukraine will expand oversight and regional forensic capacity for identifying fallen servicemen; Pakistan reported 59 women lured by fake job offers and left without phones.