As industries evolve under the influence of technological advancements, demographic shifts and economic pressures, the global job market is undergoing transformative change. The Future of Jobs Report 2025 by the World Economic Forum (WEF) shed light on these shifts, revealing both opportunities and challenges that will redefine the world of work by 2030.
Job creation and displacement
According to the WEF, 170 million new jobs are expected to be created globally by 2030. However, 92 million roles are projected to be displaced, leading to a net gain of 78 million jobs. Job disruption is anticipated to affect 22% of roles, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, renewable energy and other technologies, alongside demographic trends and geoeconomic tensions.
The report draws on data from over 1,000 companies and outlines a striking duality: while some jobs will thrive, others will fade away.
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Fastest-growing and declining jobs in future
Among the fastest-growing roles are frontline and essential service positions, including farm workers, delivery drivers, construction laborers, nursing professionals and educators. These roles align with societal needs and demographic trends, particularly in sectors like healthcare and education.
Specialist roles in AI, renewable energy, and environmental engineering are also poised for significant growth, as sustainability and technology become central to industrial development.
In contrast, roles like cashiers, ticket clerks, administrative assistants, and even creative positions such as graphic designers are experiencing rapid declines. Automation and generative AI technologies are reshaping industries, rendering many traditional roles redundant.
The fastest-growing roles over the next five years include farm workers and other agricultural laborers, light truck and delivery drivers, software and application developers, building trades workers, and shop salespersons. On the other hand, the fastest-declining roles are cashiers and ticket clerks, administrative assistants and secretaries, building caretakers and cleaners, stock-keeping and material-recording clerks, as well as printing and related trades workers.
Skills revolution
One of the most critical challenges highlighted in the report is the widening skills gap. Nearly 40% of skills required for jobs are set to change by 2030 and 63% of employers identify this gap as a major barrier to business transformation.
Demand for technology-related skills such as AI, big data and cybersecurity is skyrocketing. However, human-centric skills like creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, and leadership remain equally vital.
The fastest-growing skills include proficiency in AI and big data, cybersecurity and technological literacy, alongside creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, resilience, adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning are becoming increasingly important. Successfully navigating the evolving job market will require a combination of technological expertise and human-centric capabilities.
The Future of Jobs Report 2025 serves as a clarion call for governments, businesses, and individuals to prioritize skills development, invest in reskilling initiatives and harness the potential of emerging technologies to create a more equitable and sustainable job market.
