78 million new jobs by 2030

Global working life is facing extensive changes over the next five years. According to Future of Jobs Report 2025 The World Economic Forum estimates that 170 million new jobs will be created globally by 2030, while 92 million jobs will disappear, giving a net increase of 78 million jobs. This development is due to a number of coinciding trends in technology, economics, demography, green transition and geopolitical conditions.

Changes in the labor market

The report draws on data from more than 1,000 companies representing more than 14 million employees, and identifies macro trends as powerful drivers of the labour market towards 2030. Technological development, particularly in artificial intelligence and automation, is the most important factor that both creates and transforms jobs. At the same time, the green transition and demographic shifts, such as the wave of older people and differences between regions, will create new needs in both traditional and emerging sectors.

Among the positions that are growing fastest are both technology roles and more traditional jobs in agriculture, transportation roles, and health and education positions. At the same time, several administrative functions and some creative jobs will experience decline as a result of digitalization and new technologies.

The need for skills is increasing dramatically

The report points to a huge gap between what skills employers demand and what skills workers have today. About 40% of the skills needed in jobs in 2030 are expected to have changed, and 63% of employers believe lack of skills is the biggest obstacle to transformation. This is consistent with the findings of NHO's Annual Competency Barometer.

That means many workers have to go through significant reskilling and upskilling. Demand for technology expertise, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, big data, networking and cybersecurity, is growing sharply. At the same time, abilities such as creative thinking, cooperation, adaptability and problem solving are becoming increasingly important.

Business and education must work together

In order for the workforce to be ready for the jobs of tomorrow, the report stresses that collaboration between government, business and educational institutions is absolutely essential. Investment in lifelong learning, flexible training courses and a close link between education and working life are necessary measures to meet the skills needs.

The report also highlights that many businesses are already planning to upgrade the skills of their employees, and over 75% of employers are considering training as part of their strategic response to the changes, but that challenges remain to ensure that this happens at a sufficient scale and pace.

What does this mean for Norwegian companies?

For Norwegian companies and workers, there is a clear signal in the figures: competence development is no longer a complement, but a core element of competitiveness and sustainable growth. Companies that focus on both technical and soft Competence will be stronger in the competition for the labour force and markets of the future.

At the same time, the structural change in jobs gives a possible positive picture of the labor market: more jobs are created than disappear globally. But without a coordinated boost for skills raising, many may be left out of this development.