AI to render 39% job skills obsolete by 2030: WEF
What's the story
The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 has warned about the impact of AI on the global job market. The study, which collected insights from over 1,000 employers across 55 economies, predicts massive job creation as well as widespread displacement due to AI. It says half of all employers are planning to restructure, while 40% expect to cut workforce in automatable roles. The report also warns that 39% of current skills will become outdated by 2030.
Job displacement
Impact on clerical and secretarial jobs
The report notes that clerical and secretarial positions would be most vulnerable to automation in the near future. Jobs like administrative assistants, cashiers, and ticket clerks are especially at risk. However, industries that require human oversight and expertise would thrive despite these challenges. Delivery, food processing, construction, and farming are among the sectors that are expected to grow due to their inherent need for humans. Nursing, social work, and other professions that require a human touch will also grow.
IT demand
Demand for IT specialists in evolving job market
The evolving job market is likely to favor IT specialists in autonomous systems, robotics, and renewable energy technologies. This shift emphasizes the growing importance of technical skills in an increasingly digital world. The WEF report also highlights broader challenges reshaping global labor markets such as rising living costs that could eliminate 1.6 million jobs, and trade restrictions and economic hurdles that may further strain workforce dynamics.
Job growth
WEF projects net increase of 78M jobs by 2030
Despite potential disruptions, the WEF report remains optimistic about overall job growth. It projects a net increase of 78 million jobs globally by 2030 as industries adapt to these changes. This projection suggests that while some roles may be lost due to AI and automation, new opportunities will arise in other sectors requiring different skill sets.