Global labour market trends 2025

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The global labour market is undergoing a significant transformation

Employers across regions are facing a mix of stabilisation and fragility, driven by demographic shifts, economic pressures, and evolving workforce expectations. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for organisations aiming to stay competitive and resilient. Explore Pontoon's Market Burst to discover the current trends and get strategic recommendations. 

 

The global workforce is entering a new era of transformation. From risk-aware hiring in the US to demographic shifts in APAC and persistent skills shortages in EMEA, employers must rethink how they attract and retain talent in 2025.

  • In the United States, hiring remains cautious amid economic uncertainty and cost pressures. Labour force participation is flat at 62.3%, with 7.8 million job openings indicating a need for smarter sourcing and scenario-based workforce planning.

  • Across EMEA, labour and skills shortages continue to challenge employers. Youth unemployment stands at 14.8%, with countries like France and Germany experiencing declining job demand. However, the UK shows signs of recovery, particularly in high-skilled roles, with employment growth projected in professional and technical occupations.

  • In APAC, the region faces a dual demographic challenge: ageing populations in Japan and South Korea, and a surge of younger workers in India and Indonesia. This contrast demands dual-track workforce strategies—upskilling older workers while creating scalable pathways for early-career talent.

To navigate these shifts, organisations must adopt agile and forward-looking workforce strategies. Proactive planning, contingent hiring, and investment in digital platforms will be key to building talent resilience in 2025 and beyond.

Want the full regional breakdown? Discover more with Pontoon's Market Burst.