The report was prepared by World Bank experts within the framework of a project sponsored by the European Commission through its Aeneas programme and the findings of the report were jointly presented with the European Commission in Brussels. It argues that the demand for skills globally will be characterised by higher qualification requirements at all occupational levels. However, labour-abundant regions including the Middle East and North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia regions are not yet ready to meet this global demand.
"The example of MENA and Europe is particularly telling. By 2050, Europe's labour force is expected to decline by 66 million people while MENA labour force growth will exceed 40 million. At the same time, the demand for mid-level skills in Europe will reach its peak. Education outcomes and women participation in the labour force would have to improve significantly for MENA workers to seize the job opportunities offered by the European market," said Leila Zlaoui, the main author of the report.
