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.
5 million homes in 5 years - Pakistan's poverty pledge
The biggest government-backed housing programme ever attempted will use student architects, new technology and local materials to keep costs low.
Wages are flatlining around the world – is automation to blame?
Nurturing the skills of the future is becoming ever more important as technology reshapes our workplaces and redefines how we're paid.
Which countries have the most doctoral graduates?
More people have doctoral qualifications than ever before, but which countries have the most?
Last year, 1,500 allegations of sexual harassment were made against UK students – but universities are taking action
Nearly 1,500 allegations of sexual harassment or sexual violence against university students were registered in 2018-19. UK universities are teaching students a vital lesson in respect.
There have been over 35,000 fires in Indonesia already this year, but the worst is yet to come
With thousands of hectares of rainforest being burned down, Indonesia is blanketed by a toxic haze as a result of the carbon dioxide being released from the trees, which is causing health...
Revealed: the countries with the best work-life balance
European nations dominate a new index that measures work-life balance around the world.
Children or career? For young Indians the choice is clear
In step with global trends, Indian millennials' values are changing. Being a good parent and helping others in need are their top priorities, rather than having successful careers.
This is what one of India's top female bankers did to help women juggle work and family commitments
Arundhati Bhattacharya took steps to address women's family responsibilities, allowing them to stay in their careers.
Automation and robotics could have a surprising impact on climate crisis
With at least 50% of current jobs capable of being automated, will more robots lessen or increase global warming? Car manufacture and agriculture can give us an insight.
These are India's most powerful businesswomen
Women working in media and entertainment feature heavily in this year's list of those making an impact in corporate India.
How women entrepreneurs are changing Indian society
Research shows India's women entrepreneurs are contesting social, cultural and family pressures to challenge the status quo.
The 3 challenges to skill development in India – and how to tackle them
Greater collaboration with industry and the private sector, creating pathways for international mobility and addressing women’s low participation in the labour force - all are critical to...