The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is set to expire. Although it rewards companies for hiring people with job barriers, it does not increase hiring of target groups and costs $2 billion annually. Large corporations benefit unintentionally. It is necessary to redirect these funds to more effective policies to improve the job opportunities of disadvantaged workers.
The US National Security Strategy of December 2025 criticizes the EU for weakening political freedoms and sovereignty in Europe, supporting far-right parties. Cooperation between conservatives and extremists affects the stability of the European Parliament. The Von der Leyen coalition faces crisis due to lack of a centrist majority. A center coalition is needed to face challenges. Collaboration with the far-right puts the European Parliament’s ability to act at risk.
The government of Ahmed Al-Sharaa in Syria faces discontent from allied jihadist groups such as Hayat Tahrir al Sham, complicated by internal divisions and the influence of the Islamic State. A mediation sought by Al-Sharaa is hindered by the jihadists’ distrust.
The U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences focuses on identifying effective educational programs. The Trump Administration cut its budget, generating financial uncertainty and job insecurity for researchers. It is necessary to expand educational research to understand how and why programs work, including causal, qualitative, and contextual studies.
Rosa Parks challenged bus segregation, leading the NAACP and the Political Action Committee of Women to desegregate buses in Montgomery. Alongside other black leaders, she defended voting rights and equality. The #SayHerName movement highlights violence against black women. Today, black women continue to mobilize for social justice, following the legacy of the fight for equity.
