Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The world of work is being transformed by factors such as digitalisation, globalisation, population ageing, and the shift to a low-carbon economy. These changes create new jobs and alter skill requirements in existing roles, highlighting the need for upskilling and reskilling so adults can benefit from these shifts and businesses can adopt new technologies and practices.
Improving employability is crucial for groups facing labour market barriers, including young people entering the workforce, older individuals whose skills may become outdated, and migrants encountering challenges in finding employment and integrating into society. Targeted strategies are vital to enhance the employability of these groups.
Active Labour Market Policies (ALMPs) provide employment services that motivate job seekers, upgrade skills, help employers meet skill needs, and create jobs. For effectiveness, ALMPs need thoughtful design, precise targeting, cost efficiency, and operational effectiveness.
Job quality significantly affects overall quality of life. Fair wages, benefits, and healthy working conditions support worker well-being and boost productivity and innovation. Quality employment also helps reduce inequality, fosters social cohesion, and promotes health and safety, underscoring the need to prioritise job quality alongside employment growth.
Additionally, the digital and green transitions, along with demographic changes, are reshaping local economies and communities. Regions and cities must adapt to these transformations to harness new opportunities and address labour market challenges.