The ILO reports that job quality and fair work conditions are improving slowly despite stable global employment levels.
A new report from the International Labour Organization shows that progress toward fair and stable work has slowed across the world. Even though global work levels appear steady, millions of workers are still stuck in low-paid and insecure jobs. Nearly 300 million people continue to live in extreme poverty, earning less than three dollars a day. According to the ILO, this shows that having a job does not always mean having a decent living.
The report, titled Employment and Social Trends 2026, highlights growing risks from technology changes and uncertain trade policies. These issues could make job conditions worse, especially for young people and workers in poorer countries.
Unemployment Stays Stable but Job Quality Lags
The ILO expects the global unemployment rate to remain around 4.9 percent in 2026. This equals about 186 million people without work. While this figure shows some stability, the real concern lies in the quality of available jobs. Many workers are employed in roles that lack job security, fair wages, and social protection.
The report notes that earlier gains in improving job quality are now slowing. Population changes, such as ageing in wealthier nations and rapid growth in poorer ones, are also putting pressure on labour markets. These trends make it harder to create enough decent jobs for everyone.
Informal Work Continues to Rise
Informal employment remains a major challenge. By 2026, around 2.1 billion workers are expected to be in informal jobs. These workers often have no health coverage, paid leave, or legal protection. This situation is most difficult in low-income countries, where progress in improving work conditions has been very limited.
The ILO warns that workers in these countries are falling further behind. Without stronger policies and investment, informal work will continue to trap people in poverty.
Young People Face Growing Barriers
Youth unemployment remains high across many regions. In 2025, the global youth unemployment rate reached 12.4 percent. Around 260 million young people were not in education, employment, or training. In low-income countries, this figure rose to nearly 28 percent.
The report also raises concerns about the impact of new technologies on young workers. Automation and advanced systems may reduce entry-level opportunities, especially in high-skilled fields. This could make it harder for educated young people to find their first job.
Women Still Underrepresented in the Workforce
Women continue to face long-standing barriers to employment. They make up only about two-fifths of the global workforce and are far less likely than men to be part of the labour force. Social expectations and stereotypes remain key obstacles.
Progress in increasing female participation has slowed in recent years. This has delayed improvements in workplace equality and limited economic growth in many regions.
Population Changes Affect Job Growth
Ageing populations in richer countries are reducing the number of people available for work. Fewer young workers are entering the labour force, and more older workers are leaving it. This is slowing economic growth and putting strain on public systems.
In contrast, low-income countries are experiencing fast population growth. However, without enough productive jobs, these countries risk missing the chance to benefit from a growing workforce. The ILO warns that job creation must keep pace with population growth to avoid rising unemployment and poverty.
Trade Uncertainty Impacts Workers
Changes in global trade rules and supply chain disruptions are adding uncertainty to labour markets. These issues have affected wages, particularly in parts of Asia and Europe. Workers in export-focused industries are especially vulnerable to shifts in trade policy.
Despite these challenges, trade still supports around 465 million jobs worldwide. More than half of these jobs are in Asia and the Pacific region. The ILO stresses that stable trade policies are essential to protect workers and support job growth.
Asia and the Pacific Face Mixed Trends
Employment in Asia and the Pacific grew by about 15 million people between 2024 and 2025. However, the share of working-age people with jobs is expected to decline through 2027. Population ageing is one of the main reasons for this trend.
The region is also highly exposed to climate change risks. At the same time, it is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. As countries move toward cleaner energy, new jobs are emerging in renewable sectors. While these roles are growing, they represent only part of the wider shift toward environmentally friendly work.
A Call for Stronger Action
The ILO report makes it clear that stable unemployment numbers alone are not enough. Governments need to focus on creating better jobs, reducing informal work, and supporting young people and women in the workforce. Without targeted action, economic growth will not translate into improved living standards for millions of workers.
The future of work depends on smart policies that balance technology, trade, and social protection. Only then can progress toward decent work resume on a global scale.
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