Article written by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
The Future of Jobs Report 2025, published on the 08th of January 2025, by the World Economic Forum, reveals that job disruption will equate to 22% of jobs by 2030, with 170 million new roles set to be created and 92 million displaced, resulting in a net increase of 78 million jobs.
Technological advancements, demographic shifts, geoeconomic tensions and economic pressures are the key drivers of these changes, reshaping industries and professions worldwide.
Drawing on data from over 1,000 companies, the report finds that the skills gap continues to be the most significant barrier to business transformation today, with nearly 40% of skills required on the job set to change and 63% of employers already citing it as the key barrier they face.
Technology skills in AI, big data and cybersecurity are expected to see rapid growth in demand, but human skills, such as creative thinking, resilience, flexibility and agility, will remain critical.
A combination of both skill types will be increasingly crucial in a fast-shifting job market.
Shifting global trends in technology, economy, demographics and the green transition are projected to generate 170 million new jobs by 2030, while displacing 92 million others.
Fastest growing skills by 2030 will include technological skills alongside human skills, such as cognitive skills and collaboration.
Collective action in the public, private and education sectors is urgently needed to address the growing skills gaps.
Till Leopold, Head of Work, Wages and Job Creation at the World Economic Forum, said “trends such as generative AI and rapid technological shifts are upending industries and labour markets, creating both unprecedented opportunities and profound risks. The time is now for businesses and governments to work together, invest in skills and build an equitable and resilient global workforce.”
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