The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 indicates a significant transformation in the global job market, forecasting that 22% of jobs will be disrupted by 2030. An estimated 170 million new roles are anticipated, alongside the displacement of 92 million jobs, resulting in a net increase of 78 million positions.
Key drivers of this shift include technological advancements, demographic changes, geoeconomic tensions, and economic pressures. The report, based on data from over 1,000 companies, highlights that nearly 40% of skills required on the job are expected to change, with 63% of employers identifying the skills gap as a primary barrier to business transformation.
Frontline roles in essential sectors such as care and education are projected to experience the highest job growth by 2030. Notably, roles like nursing professionals and secondary school teachers will see increased demand due to demographic trends, while advances in AI and renewable energy will reshape the market, enhancing demand for technology and specialist roles.
Conversely, roles such as cashiers and administrative assistants are among the fastest declining, now joined by graphic designers as generative AI alters the labor landscape. The report emphasizes that if the global workforce were represented by 100 individuals, 59 would require reskilling or upskilling by 2030, with over 120 million workers at risk of redundancy without adequate training.
Employers worldwide are responding to these changes, with 77% planning to upskill their workforce. However, 41% also intend to reduce their workforce due to automation. The rising cost of living is another factor influencing labor market dynamics, with projections indicating that 6 million jobs could be displaced globally by 2030.
Demographic shifts, particularly aging populations in high-income countries, are increasing demand for healthcare roles, while expanding working-age populations in lower-income regions are driving growth in education professions. Geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions are further complicating the landscape, with 34% of businesses expressing concern over these issues.
To address the challenges outlined in the report, urgent collective action is required from governments, businesses, and educational institutions. Priorities include bridging skills gaps, investing in reskilling initiatives, and creating accessible pathways into emerging job markets.