Decoding the Future of Work
Key Insights from the WEF's 2025 Report
The World Economic Forum (WEF) stands as a globally recognized authority in analysing the critical shifts shaping our world. Among its influential publications, the 2025 Future of Jobs Report offers a vital lens through which to view the evolving global labour market. The 2025 edition arrives at a pivotal moment as rapid technological advancements and dynamic global forces converge to redefine how we work and which skills will be most valued.
This analysis delves into the core predictions and key findings of the report, offering a comprehensive overview for individuals, businesses, and governments navigating the future of work.
Global Job Market Transformation by 2030
The report projects a net increase of 78 million jobs worldwide by 2030, with 170 million new jobs created and 92 million displaced—an estimated 22% of current roles. This highlights the scale of disruption and the urgent need for reskilling and upskilling initiatives.
While new roles offer opportunity, the displacement of existing ones demands strategic workforce planning and adaptability. The report urges proactive engagement in strategies that foster continuous learning.
The Role of Technology, AI, and Collaboration
Technology—especially AI and big data—is the most powerful force reshaping work. The report predicts:
- 19 million jobs created by AI and information processing
- 9 million jobs displaced by the same technologies
This shift signifies a move from automation to augmentation, with 47% of tasks done by humans, 22% by tech, and 30% collaboratively. By 2030, human-tech collaboration is expected to increase further.
Key figures include:
- 77% of employers plan to upskill workers for AI integration
- 41% foresee workforce reductions due to automation
- Nearly half plan to transition affected employees into new roles
The Skills Revolution
About 40% of core job skills are expected to change significantly by 2030. The most in-demand capabilities include:
- AI and big data proficiency
- Creative thinking
- Technological literacy
- Design and user experience skills
- Curiosity and lifelong learning
Employers will seek a balance of technical skills and human capabilities—analytical thinking, leadership, flexibility, and collaboration—emphasising a blended approach to talent development.
Jobs on the Rise and in Decline
Jobs expected to grow:
- Farmworkers
- Delivery drivers
- Construction workers
- Salespersons
- Food processing workers
- Healthcare and personal care professionals
- Secondary and tertiary teachers
Jobs facing decline:
- Cashiers
- Administrative assistants
- Data entry clerks
- Accountants and auditors
- Graphic designers (due to generative AI)
This contrast shows how both innovation and fundamental needs will shape the future workforce. The decline in creative roles like graphic design illustrates the rapid encroachment of AI into traditionally human domains.
Regional and Industry-Specific Variations
Demographics and geopolitical factors also play a key role. Ageing populations in high-income regions fuel healthcare demand, while growing youth populations in lower-income economies drive need for education professionals.
Geoeconomic fragmentation is altering offshoring and reshoring strategies, increasing demand for security and cybersecurity expertise. Digital access continues to transform all industries, requiring stronger digital literacy at all levels.
The report emphasises the need for tailored workforce strategies depending on regional and industry context.
Recommendations for Stakeholders
For Individuals:
- Commit to lifelong learning and self-directed upskilling
- Combine technical and human skills
- Work collaboratively with AI tools
- Emphasise real-world experience and practical skills
- Use networking and mentorship to navigate change
For Businesses:
- Anticipate future skill needs through workforce planning
- Invest in employee reskilling and upskilling
- Integrate tech to augment rather than replace staff
- Foster a culture of agility and continuous learning
For Governments:
- Bridge national skills gaps through large-scale programs
- Ensure equitable access to future-ready training
- Create pathways into fast-growing job sectors
- Support displaced workers with retraining and placement services
Conclusion
The Future of Jobs Report 2025 from the WEF paints a clear picture of a labour market in transformation, driven by technological progress, demographic shifts, and economic reorientation. While disruption is inevitable, those who embrace adaptability, reskilling, and strategic workforce alignment will thrive.
The future of work belongs to those willing to learn, adapt, and collaborate with technology to unlock human potential.