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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, resulting in a net increase of 78 million jobs. This is according to the Future of Jobs Report 2025, published today by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The report says these trends are already 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.

Amongst other findings of the report, technology skills in artificial intelligence (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.

"Trends such as generative AI and rapid technological shifts are upending industries and labour markets, creating both unprecedented opportunities and profound risks," said Till Leopold, Head of Work, Wages and Job Creation at the World Economic Forum. "The time is now for businesses and governments to work together, invest in skills and build an equitable and resilient global workforce."
 
According to the report, frontline roles and essential sectors like care (nursing) and education (teaching) are set for the highest job growth by 2030, with demographic trends driving the growth in demand. Also, advances in AI and renewable energy are reshaping the market – driving an increase in demand for many technology or specialist roles while driving a decline for others, such as graphic designers.

Advances in AI, robotics, and energy systems – notably in renewable energy and environmental engineering – are expected to increase demand for specialist roles in these fields, says the report, which also projects that roles such as cashiers and administrative assistants will remain among the fastest declining, and are now joined by roles including graphic designers as generative AI rapidly reshapes the labour market.

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 finds that demographic shifts are also reshaping labour markets, with ageing populations predominantly in higher-income countries driving demand for healthcare roles and expanding working-age populations in lower-income regions fuelling growth in education professions.

The report identifies geopolitical tensions are a top concern for 34% of businesses, while trade restrictions and industrial policy shifts will transform many more, with some companies planning to adapt through offshoring and reshoring strategies – trends that are also increasing demand for skills such as cybersecurity.