In 2020, the global workforce lost an equivalent of 255 million full-time jobs, an estimated $3.7 trillion in wages and 4.4% of global GDP, a staggering toll on lives and livelihoods. While vaccine rollout has begun and the growth outlook is predicted to improve, an even socio-economic recovery is far from certain.
The choices made by policymakers, business leaders, workers and learners today will shape societies for years to come. At this critical crossroads, leaders must consciously, proactively and urgently lay the foundations of a new social contract, rebuilding our economies so they provide opportunity for all.
In this context, the Forum remains committed to working with the public- and private sectors to provide better skills, jobs and education to 1 billion people by 2030 through initiatives to close the skills gap and prepare for the ongoing technological transformation of the future of work.
This is why working mothers need 'work-family justice'
Big changes in US policies and cultural attitudes are necessary to bring work-life balance to America’s working mothers and their families, argues sociologist Caitlyn Collins.
Is poor generational intelligence holding you back at work?
As a new wave of youngsters enters the workplace, an understanding of GQ - or generational intelligence - is becoming increasingly important for businesses. Here's why.
Trade is not a weapon, schools with no dead ends and other top stories of the week
Also in this week's round-up of top stories: fighting cybercrime and the 11 EU countries that have already met their renewable energy targets.
Why women of colour take more risks in the workplace
Women of colour are significantly more open to taking risks to advance their careers than white women - but why is there such a disparity?
Movies in 2018 featured more diverse leads than ever
2018 was a blockbuster year for movies starring women. But equality, both on screen and behind the camera, remains a long way off.
Tech must embrace teamwork to transform the world
Tech and business may slowly be embracing their social responsibilities – but they have to partner up if they are to fulfil their real potential.
To fight antisemitism, we need to understand where it came from
Antisemitism is deep-rooted throughout history, but a recent spate of hate crimes and protests are bringing the hatred to the forefront once again.
The digital transformation is a skills and education opportunity for all. Companies must use it
Who is responsible for ensuring young workers, future workers, and older workers have the required skills to adapt to the evolving world of work? A collective response is required, and bu...
Southern England has 4 of the top 5 regions for graduates in the EU
Educated workers are a vital component of an economy’s success in a technology-driven future, but some cities have a head start.
Australian sports sign up to gender pay equality scheme
A number of Australia's major federations have made significant investments in women's sport in recent years, establishing professional leagues in cricket, soccer and Australian Rules foo...
It turns out you can learn things while you’re asleep
Scientists have discovered that the human brain can absorb information whilst asleep - and remember it when they wake up.
These 7 women in STEM give timeless advice to other aspiring scientists
There's no better source of advice for young women looking to get into science than those who have already done it.