Digital Access & Technology: Broadening digital access (60% of employers) and advancements in AI, robotics, and energy are the most transformative trends. These will drive demand for AI, big data, cybersecurity, and tech literacy skills.
Economic Conditions: Rising living costs and economic slowdowns will impact job creation, displacing 1.6 million jobs. Skills in creative thinking, resilience, and adaptability will be in demand.
Climate Change & Green Jobs: Climate mitigation (47%) and adaptation (41%) will drive demand for renewable energy engineers and environmental roles. Environmental stewardship is now a top-growing skill.
Demographic Shifts: Aging populations in high-income nations boost healthcare jobs, while expanding working-age populations in lower-income nations increase demand for education roles.
Geopolitical & Economic Fragmentation: Trade restrictions (23%) and policy changes (21%) will reshape business models, increasing demand for cybersecurity, resilience, and leadership skills.
Job Market Shifts:
Fastest-growing roles: AI specialists, fintech engineers, software developers, green energy specialists, and education and care economy jobs.
Fastest-declining roles: Clerical jobs (cashiers, secretaries), postal clerks, bank tellers, and data entry roles.
Skills Transformation: 39% of skills will become outdated by 2030. Top skills: analytical thinking, flexibility, leadership, and AI-related skills. Manual dexterity and endurance will decline.
Workforce Reskilling & Talent Trends: 59% of workers will need reskilling. Skill gaps are the biggest barrier (63%), leading 85% of employers to focus on upskilling.
Diversity & Inclusion: DEI initiatives are rising, with 83% of employers adopting them.
Wage & AI Impact: Over 50% of employers will increase wage allocation, and two-thirds will hire AI-skilled talent, though 40% plan to cut jobs due to automation.
