Catch up on what’s happening in the world of work.

• TikTok Confirms €1 Billion Data Center Project in Finland

As part of its €12 billion “Project Clover” initiative, TikTok will invest €1 billion to build a new data center in Kouvola, Finland. The facility will support local storage of European user data and reinforce the platform’s commitment to data privacy, backed by independent oversight from cybersecurity firm NCC Group. Original source: TikTok Newsroom

• EU Launches €500M Talent Drive to Attract U.S. Researchers After U.S. Funding Freeze

In response to the Trump administration's freeze on U.S. science funding tied to diversity initiatives, the EU has unveiled a €500 million plan to attract global researchers. French President Macron and EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen introduced the new “super grant” scheme, aiming to position Europe as a scientific safe haven. story originally published by AP News.

• PwC to Lay Off 1,500 Employees in the U.S. Amid Low Attrition and Strategic Restructuring

PwC will cut around 1,500 jobs in the U.S., affecting about 2% of its national workforce. The firm cited historically low attrition rates as a key reason for the decision. This follows recent global cutbacks, including office closures in Africa and staff reductions under review in China. story originally published by Reuters.

• EU Workplace Accidents Down Overall, But Fatality Rates Remain a Concern

In 2022, the EU recorded over 2.9 million non-fatal and 3,286 fatal workplace accidents, according to Eurostat. While total accidents have dropped 5% since 2017, fatality rates remain high in some sectors. Manufacturing, healthcare, and construction saw the most incidents, and over a third of EU countries now fall below recommended labor inspection levels. story originally published by Euronews.

• EU and UK Eye Closer Economic Ties, Including Deal on Food Exports and Youth Mobility

The UK and EU are preparing to fast-track economic talks that could lead to reduced checks on British food exports and a youth mobility pact allowing under-30s to live and work across borders for up to three years. However, both sides remain cautious, with the EU tying progress to fishing rights and London wary of immigration optics. story originally published by FT.