What to make of the global layoffs, and how Sharjah guards child rights, Gulf News Editors comment on the top stories on April 3

IT’S NOT JUST GLOBAL TECH SHEDDING JOBS NOW: Is global banking catching tech’s feverish job losses? Swiss banking supremo UBS might let go off anywhere up to 30,000 of its workforce. Some degree of attrition was inevitable, given the magnitude of the rescue act needed to absorb Credit Suisse. But when it comes at the cost of such an expansive cull in employee numbers, some of that goodwill gets crushed. And then there was the news from the US about fast-food chain McDonald’s planning layoffs. Can Gulf economies and employers insulate themselves from having to let go of personnel? (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

SHARJAH CLOSELY GUARDS CHILD RIGHTS. The emirate’s Child and Family Protection Centre has seen a slight rise in calls to its hotline. The Centre’s director points out that the increase is likely due to electronic crimes being reported by schools, parents and children themselves. The ease of submitting reports, including a voice recording option, and complete privacy makes it more probable that people will approach authorities for help. Sharjah is keeping pace with the latest technology to ensure there is a user-friendly system in place for those seeking a resolution of issues with regards to children’s welfare. (By Faisal Masudi, Assistant Editor)

POTTER JOINS GROWING LIST OF MANAGERIAL CASUALTIES: Graham Potter was finally put out of his misery at Chelsea late last night as the club sacked the beleaguered coach. He was in charge at Stamford Bridge for less than seven months. The final straw came following a 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa which left the Blues 11th in the table. It was also the Englishman’s 11th defeat in 31 games since replacing Thomas Tuchel in September. Now the big question is who does the club turn to next? There are several big-name, title-winning managers on the market such as Zinedine Zidane and Luis Enrique. Julian Nagelsmann had earlier been linked with Tottenham but will Chelsea get him before their London rivals who are also looking for a new coach after parting with Antonio Conte? Leicester City also need a new boss after giving Brendan Rodgers the bullet. Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi has caught the eye this season since he replaced Potter and either Chelsea or Tottenham could do worse than going for the 43-year-old Italian. It will be very interesting to see who comes in the hot seat at all three clubs and what he can do with just 10 games remaining in the league. (By Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor)