Shortcut to work areas:

Future of Work

The world of work is currently undergoing significant changes as a result of advances in technology. In addition, the organization of work is also changing. New industries, markets and job opportunities will be created while existing jobs and tasks are likely to evolve. This poses both an opportunity and a significant challenge to business. For example, opportunities for remote work can bring about better work-life balance encouraging a greater proportion of women and men to enter and remain in the workforce. While changes in skills needs are likely to present a challenges. In order to capitalise on the opportunities the future of work brings as well as to respond to the challenges, it is essential that enterprises and Employer and Business Membership Organizations (EBMOs) begin to prepare themselves for the anticipated changes.

The ILO Global Commission on the Future of Work held its first meeting October 2017. The work of the Global Commission will be organized around the four centenary conversations as outlined by the ILO Director-General in his report to the International Labour Conference in 2015. These include work and society, decent jobs for all, the organization of work and production, and the governance of work.

The Commission will produce an independent report on how to achieve a future of work that provides decent and sustainable work opportunities for all. This report will be submitted to the centenary session of the International Labour Conference in 2019.

The Bureau for Employers’ Activities is working to conduct research to support EBMOs and their members on adapting to technology-enabled work and working arrangements. EBMOs need to provide their members with advice and tools and good practices on adapting to the changing workplace.