Labour Market Challenges Research Articles

Labour Market Disadvantages of Citizens with a Migration Background in Belgium: A Systematic Review

AbstractLabour markets struggle to be inclusive, while diversity is increasing. This literature review examines labour market challenges faced by first- and second-generation migrants in Belgium. We systematically review articles published between 2010 and 2023 in the Web of Science Core Collection to delineate underlying mechanisms, associated solutions, policy recommendations and literature gaps. The literature reveals that individuals with a migration background generally experience poorer labour market outcomes than natives. These outcomes vary based on specific origin and gender and persist from the first into the second generation. The mechanisms underlying these poorer outcomes are discrimination, individual preferences, and human and social capital differences. Recommendations for employers include implementing standardised hiring procedures and fostering awareness of discrimination among recruiters. On the employee side, investing in human capital, increasing labour market knowledge, and having competencies formally recognised can help to narrow employment gaps. Our review also advocates for policy refinement to combat biases and suggests that alternative pathways to attaining employment, such as self-employment and volunteering, are promising areas for future research.

Exploring digital competencies in higher education: design and validation of instruments for the era of Industry 5.0

IntroductionIndustry 5.0 is the next phase of industrial work that integrates robots and artificial intelligence to boost productivity and economic growth. It emphasizes a balance between human creativity and technological precision, built on three pillars: human centrality, sustainability, and resilience. Corporations and educational institutions must adopt an integrated approach to training their future workforce, emphasizing digital and key competencies such as creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. Higher education institutions must measure digital competencies and other key Industry 5.0 competencies to prepare students for a sustainable future. However, there is a need to identify appropriate scientific instruments that can comprehensively evaluate these competencies.MethodsThis study conducted a Systematic Literature Review to analyze the existing digital competency assessment instruments in higher education from 2013-2023. The focus was on instruments that measure digital competencies and core competencies for Industry 5.0, such as creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. The search process began with a strategy applied across various databases, including ERIC, Google Scholar, ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science, to cover a broad range of literature on the design and validation of digital competency assessment tools.ResultsThis search generated a total of 9,563 academic papers. Inclusion, exclusion, and quality filters were applied to select 112 articles for detailed analysis. Among these 112 articles, 46 focused on designing and validating digital competency assessment instruments in higher education. Within the reviewed literature, surveys and questionnaires emerged as the predominant methods utilized for this purpose. This study found a direct relationship between digital competencies and essential skills like communication and critical thinking.DiscussionThe study concludes that assessment tools should integrate a wide range of competencies, and students and educators should be actively involved in developing these skills. Future research should focus on designing tools that effectively evaluate these competencies in dynamic work contexts. Assessment instruments should cover a broader range of competencies, including creativity and collaboration, to meet the demands of Industry 5.0. Reliable assessments of digital competencies and soft skills are crucial, with a need for appropriate reliability tests that do not impact students’ preparedness for labor market challenges.

The fourth industrial revolution and the agri-food labour market: a systematic literature review

Purpose The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technological development has undeniably brought major challenges to the agricultural labour market, hampering the adoption of smart technologies in the sector. This study aims to explore a series of literature on the 4IR aspects surrounding agri-food research. In particular, this study will evaluate the challenges faced by the agri-food labour market in response to the emergence of 4IR and propose solutions to strengthen the agri-food sector in response to 4IR. Design/methodology/approach The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses methodology was used to systematically screen, review and synthesize the literature on 4IR surrounding agri-food research. Findings While applying 4IR technologies spells opportunities for productivity growth and food security, the results revealed that these advanced technological innovations also create challenges to the agri-food sector labour market. Some identified challenges are financial constraints, lack of “Industry 4.0” knowledge and skills, lack of awareness and interest and inadequate government support. Correspondingly, to smoothen the transition to 4IR workplaces, the proposed solutions include offering relevant education and training, gaining access to government support and engaging in collaborative public-private partnerships. Originality/value Given the limited understanding of how technological applications can affect the agri-food sector, this study offers a more nuanced understanding of the gaps related to 4IR within the agri-food sector. By assessing the labour market challenges and addressing solutions for the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture, this study presents valuable insights into how relevant stakeholders in the agri-food sector should embrace Agriculture 4.0.

Вплив інноваційних освітніх технологій на підготовку фахівців в умовах динамічного розвитку ринку праці

The article substantiates the impact of innovative educational technologies on the training of specialists in the context of dynamic development of the labour market. The key innovative technologies, such as online courses, augmented and virtual reality, artificial intelligence, gamification, are analysed, and their advantages and disadvantages are considered. The article shows how these technologies affect the learning process, increase student motivation, and develop creativity and critical thinking. The purpose of the article is to determine the impact of innovative educational technologies on the training of competitive specialists in the context of modern labour market challenges. Based on the analysis of the use of innovative technologies in the educational process, an attempt is made to substantiate their importance for improving the quality of professional training. In particular, the potential and risks of introducing such technologies as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, and gamification are identified. Particular attention is paid to the need to develop appropriate pedagogical models and methods for the effective use of these technologies. It is established that innovative educational technologies are an important factor in improving the quality of training, and their implementation allows creating a more efficient, personalised and future-oriented education system. However, in order to achieve maximum effect, a number of organisational, technical and financial problems need to be addressed. Given the complexity and multidimensionality of the chosen topic, the prospects for scientific research are further research of innovative technologies and their practical testing in various fields of education.

SPECIFIC FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION OF SOFT SKILLS AS A COMPONENT OF COMPETITIVENESS OF FUTURE MANAGERS

The current conditions for the development of young professionals pose challenges: the COVID-19 quarantine and Russia's invasion of Ukraine have led to the spread of distance learning, affecting the development of soft skills. Despite the resumption of classroom teaching, issues like poor communication, inability to present or argue opinions, and problems working in teams persist. However, these can be addressed using modern technologies and teaching methods. This study aims to analyze the impact of interactive teaching methods on developing soft skills among university students. Soft skills are crucial for future managers' careers. The article examines the peculiarities of developing and applying soft skills as key to the competitiveness of future managers in the Ukrainian context, integrating innovative educational practices. Emphasizing the importance of interactive learning tools, the study highlights their relevance for preparing future managers for modern labor market challenges, applicable in both online and offline settings.

Regulation of temporary agency work and the modern labor market: a case study of Slovenia

Temporary Agency Work (TAW) is a unique employment model involving a three-way relationship between a posted worker, an employment agency, and a client organization, enabling clients to adjust their labour force in response to fluctuating demands, but also raising concerns about job precariousness. Achieving a balance between flexibility and employment and social security is crucial for integrating TAW effectively into the labour market.TAW arrangements within the labour markets of the EU are confronted by specific contemporary dynamics, including fluctuations and seasonality of labour demands, labour scarcity in some professions and labour migration. Building on a case study of the TAW legislation development in Slovenia, this study aimed to elucidate the repercussions of these challenges on the regulatory landscape of TAW, potentially illuminating the prospective evolution of labour law standards throughout the EU.Despite the inherent limitations of case studies, the findings suggest that a detailed legal framework providing strong rights for posted workers and controlled flexibility for clients can be operational in addressing particular labour market challenges. TAW has the potential for further growth, particularly in supporting groups with limited labour market access and in filling professional gaps, by facilitating the integration of foreign workers.

Investigating the Effects of Education and Labour Market Challenges on Income Inequality

Abstract This paper examines the impact of education and labour market challenges on the income inequality in European Union (27 Member States) within the period 2012-2022, this being calculated using the Panel EGLS method. Even if the effects are clearly visible from a theoretical point of view, in the latest years there were not many authors focusing their studies on the effects of the unemployment and early dropout from school and training on income inequality. In this regard, updating the figures, the impact coefficients and the theoretical background increase the understanding of the statistical processes and their results in the new economic context. Our results confirmed a positive relationship between unemployment rate and income inequality (measured by Gini coefficient), this being also the highest impact found, but also a positive link between the early leavers from education and training rate and income inequality. In addition, we used additional variables to catch the current economic challenges that are related to demographic changes and high energy prices. In this context, we found positive effects exerted by housing cost overburden rate and old-age dependency ratio on income inequality. Even if the model is limited to four income inequality drivers, we have demonstrated that the calculated coefficients are the best linear unbiased estimators.

Labor Market Challenges from an European Union with Diversified Human Resources

Abstract The European continent is going through a period when uncertainty is the key word: a war on its eastern borders, increasing flows of migrants, a labor market in transition to a green economy, technological trend threatening the viability of human resources and, economic difficulties. In this scenario, the labor market must accommodate an increasing number of immigrants with non-European origin, on a job market where qualification requirements are not covered by human resources that must prove their relevance in competition with the artificial intelligence and automation in more and more areas of economy. In order to determine the level of integration of immigrants, the most relevant indicator was and remains their employment rate. This paper aims to make an analysis of the European labor market, subject of these pressures, through a comparative analysis between native-born human resources and that of non-European origin. The time frame covers the period 2014-2022. The system of analyzed indicators includes: the employment rate, the job retention rate, the schooling level, the types of targeted jobs and the qualification for them. We expect to identify an increasing level of employment among non-EU immigrants, as well as a widening gap between labor market requirements and labor supply.

Embracing Artificial Intelligence in Education: Shaping the Learning Path for Future Professionals

The integration of artificial intelligence plays a key role in modern education, transforming the learning process and training of future specialists. The purpose of the present research is to analyze the role of artificial intelligence in education, define its goals and objectives, and apply various research methods to identify the main aspects of this integration. In the course of the research, existing technologies and methods of using artificial intelligence in education were analyzed, and integration goals were identified, including personalization of learning, improving accessibility and efficiency of education, and preparing students for modern labor market challenges. The research results have shown that the integration of artificial intelligence into education opens up new prospects for improving the learning process while also posing challenges related to data security and staff training. The integration of artificial intelligence is a significant breakthrough in the modern world, where technology is playing an increasingly important role in education. This guideline draws attention to the goals and objectives of integrating artificial intelligence into education, as well as to the various research methods used to study this issue. The advantages and challenges faced by educational institutions in implementing such technology are discussed, and the key aspects of cooperation between artificial intelligence and humans are highlighted. The present research is an important contribution to understanding the role of technology in modern education and identifying ways to use it optimally. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of developing a harmonious interaction between artificial intelligence and humans to ensure optimal learning and preparation for the future.

Integration of Education and Industry in China: Lessons from Germany Applied Universities

This article delves into the significance of harmonizing education with industry requirements, with a focus on the German applied university system and its dual study model. It identifies challenges within the Chinese education-industry integration, such as inadequate cooperation and a skills gap, and contrasts these with the German model, where applied universities effectively bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands. The methodology involves a systematic review of literature to extract insights into how Germany's dual study programs guarantee employment upon graduation and how China can adapt these strategies. A key finding is the importance of a collaborative approach between educational institutions and industries to cultivate a workforce that is equipped to meet the challenges of the modern labor market. The Duale Hochschule Baden-Wuerttemberg (DHBW) is highlighted as a case study, showcasing its successful integration of theoretical and practical education with industry partnerships. It is concluded with recommendations for China to enhance its education-industry integration, advocating for closer university-industry collaboration, decentralized governance, practical program design, flexible learning formats, and supportive policy frameworks. The paper underscores the potential for Chinese applied universities to improve talent cultivation by aligning with industry needs and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, thereby increasing graduates' employability and contributing to societal development.

INTERNAL MIGRATION DYNAMICS AND LABOR FORCE CHALLENGES IN KAZAKHSTAN

This study examines the dynamics of internal migration and its impact on labor force challenges in Kazakhstan. Internal migration plays a crucial role in shaping demographic patterns and labor market dynamics in different regions of the country. By analyzing data on internal migration flows and labor force trends, this study aims to shed light on the factors driving internal migration and its implications for the labor market. The findings suggest that internal migration in Kazakhstan is influenced by various factors, including economic opportunities, demographic trends, and government policies. Internal migrants often face challenges in accessing employment, housing, and social services, which can impact their well-being and integration into the labor market. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that considers the needs of internal migrants and promotes inclusive growth across regions. By understanding the dynamics of internal migration and its impact on the labor force, policymakers can develop effective strategies to address labor market challenges and promote sustainable development in Kazakhstan.

Strengthening the labour force participation of low-qualified individuals in Europe

This article addresses the labour market challenges faced by adults with low formal qualifications. While low-level formal qualifications are usually associated with a lower skill level, it is crucial to recognise the large heterogeneity of skills within the group of low-qualified individuals in all countries. Although better skills enhance the job opportunities of low-qualified workers, their lack of formal qualifications limits their job prospects, even if they are as skilled as more highly qualified workers. Their placement in low-skilled jobs has implications for their participation in further training. Limited access to adult training is primarily caused by employment in these low-skilled jobs rather than by differences in cognitive skills or motivation to learn. Policies should, therefore, focus on strategies that improve training opportunities in the workplace, and employers should consider modifying hiring methods to place greater weight on actual skills in addition to formal qualifications. Both approaches would, economically speaking, enable the utilisation of the existing skill potential of low-qualified adults and, socially, enhance the employment prospects of this group.

Employment and Skill Development Initiatives in the Labor Markets: The Cases of Indonesia and Thailand

This study delves into the intricate dynamics of labor markets in Indonesia and Thailand, revealing the symbiotic relationship between policy attributes, vocational education, and collaborative governance, all anchored in a robust theoretical framework encompassing policy attributes. The central question driving this research is: How can the government effectively mitigate labor market challenges in Indonesia and Thailand? To answer this question, the study aims to illuminate the interplay of solubility, complexity, scale, divisibility, monetarization, scope, and interdependence attributes within labor market policies. Employing a case study as its primary research strategy, the study analyzes data from diverse sources, including labor force statistics, policy documents, and academic literature. The Indonesian government, driven by the commitment to address the multifaceted challenges of unemployment and skill gaps, has formulated strategic initiatives to increase productivity and competitiveness. Thailand’s School in Factory Programs is an exemplary model, showcasing a comprehensive approach to workforce competence by seamlessly integrating education with industry needs. The analysis extends to the broader context of population policies, drawing valuable lessons from the Republic of South Korea. The success of South Korea’s population policy highlights the relevance of principles such as New Public Management (NPM), New Public Governance (NPG), and New Public Service (NPS). These principles are subsequently intertwined with the Indonesian and Thai cases, providing a comprehensive understanding of governance dynamics within the context of population and employment strategies.

Who will take care of them? A reflection on Southern European welfare regimes

The age profile of a country influences the organization of healthcare arrangements for older people. In southern European countries, the low performance of the welfare state and traditional family-oriented culture have led to an informal and gendered model of care, with women often responsible for the (unpaid) caregiving work. However, the increasing female participation in the labour market challenges these welfare regimes, prompting a shift in family responsibilities outside the family. Moreover, in response to the growing need for long-term care workers, some European countries have relied on individuals with a “migratory background” rather than restructuring their public elderly care services. This article examines the demographic, cultural, economic, and social changes of southern welfare regimes. The introduction of policies that, directly or indirectly, eliminate gender stereotypes in informal caregiving work and the diffusion of equal family-care culture are measures that can no longer be postponed in addressing the future of such welfare regimes.

The Analysis of Natural Disaster Risk Impact on Labor Market Outcomes: Does It Lead to Middle-Class Workers Decrease?

Indonesia, as a country that is progressing towards an upper middle-income country, is facing a high incidence of disasters. Understanding how disasters impact living standards is still relatively difficult due to the lack of relevant studies in the literature. Therefore, the study aims to analyze the likelihood of individuals who were in areas with a high risk of disaster becoming middle-class workers. In this study, the incidence of disasters is represented by the disaster risk index, which comprises three components, namely the hazard, vulnerability, and capacity components in each province and regency/city based on the definition carried out by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). By using logistics methods, this study found that individuals living in areas with a high risk of disaster tend to have a lower chance of becoming middle-class workers. In overcoming the labor market challenges faced by regions with high disaster risk, careful policy steps are needed that focus on strengthening capacity and reducing the risk of high investment costs. Enhancing disaster-resistant infrastructure and community networks as well as improving access to social protection services and promoting economic recovery are priorities.

Escaping the trap of temporary employment: Precariousness among young people before and after Spain's 2021 labour market reform act

AbstractTemporary employment has been the core dimension of employment precariousness in Spain for decades. In December 2021, a labour market reform aimed at reducing the use of fixed‐term contracts, which especially affected young people, was passed. This article compares the situation of young workers before and after this labour market reform, with the objective of identifying internal differences among this age group. The results show a substantial reduction in the prevalence of temporary employment after the reform, although they also show that temporary employment, as well as incipient forms of precariousness such as involuntary part‐time employment, are more concentrated than before among the most disadvantaged in this age group, following traditional patterns of segmentation in the labour market. This article, therefore, provides insights into which profiles of young workers were better off after the reform and which were not, offering valuable lessons for other countries with similar labour market challenges.

U.S. Labor Market Challenges in the Era of Evolving Artificial Intelligence

This comprehensive research paper explores the challenges encountered by the U.S. labor market amidst the evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Using an extensive quantitative analysis, the study explores the implications of AI on employment dynamics, skill requirements, and income distribution, proposing nuanced policy responses. The depth of this research seeks to provide a detailed understanding of the complexities surrounding the impact of AI on the U.S. labor market and the measures needed for a resilient and inclusive transition.

U.S. Labor Market Challenges in the Era of Evolving Artificial Intelligence

U.S. Labor Market Challenges in the Era of Evolving Artificial Intelligence

Гармонізація ринку освітніх послуг закладів позашкільної музичної освіти країн ЄС та України

In the current conditions of globalization and integration processes between Ukraine and the European Union (EU), the topic of harmonization of the educational services market, in particular in the field of extracurricular music education, becomes especially relevant. Harmonization of educational standards and approaches between the EU countries and Ukraine allows creating a single educational space that provides a high level of specialists’ training competitive both at the national and international labor markets.The article is devoted to the analysis of har monization key aspects of the educational services’ market in the field of music education, which includes consideration of the legal framework, analysis of methods and tools used for harmonization, as well as assessment of the these processes’ impact on the development of extracurricular music education in Ukraine. Considerable attention is paid to the study of the experience of the EU countries in the uniform standards’ implementation of education, in particular in the field of music education, and its possible application in the Ukrainian context. The article also analyzes the existing problems and challenges that stand in the way of harmonization, among which are the need to adapt national legislation, improve the level of teachers’ professional training, as well as provide financial and institutional support for this process from the state and international organizations. In addition, the prospects for the educational services market development in Ukraine in terms of integration into the European educational space are discussed. As the result of the study, it was found that the harmonization of the educational services’ market in the field of extracurricular music education is a necessary step to ensure the competitiveness of the Ukrainian educational system, its integration into the European space and improving the music education quality. It also creates preconditions for the cultural exchange development and national musical traditions preservation, which contributes to the formation of a unique cultural landscape in Europe. In general, the educational services harmonization in the field of music education should become the basis for the development of a sustainable and high-quality educational system that will meet the needs of modern society and the challenges of the global labor market.

Актуальність використання людського капіталу на підприємствах: міжнародний аспект

The aim of the article is to analyze the relevance of the use of human capital in enterprises in the international context. According to the results of the carried out study, it has been found that human capital is becoming a key factor of competitiveness at the international level. The article examines the relevance of the use of human capital in international enterprises and its impact on their competitiveness. Various approaches to the development and training of staff in different countries of the world, in particular in Japan, the USA, Sweden and Germany, are analyzed. Through the analysis of various models of corporate training and staff management, the article highlights the features of each country and the most effective practices. In particular, Japanese domestic study programs, American corporate universities, Swedish financial well-being programs, and the German dual education system are considered. A general analysis of approaches to the use of human capital in Japan, the United States, Sweden and Germany indicates a significant variety of methods and strategies used in enterprises in these countries. At the same time, there is some convergence in efforts to improve personnel policy and use innovative approaches to human capital management. Japan and Germany focus on long-term development and loyalty to the company, the United States on flexibility and adaptation to change, and Sweden on well-being and social responsibility. The study highlights the importance of adapting human capital management strategies to the specific conditions of each country and to the particular sector of the economy, with a focus on ensuring high productivity, efficiency and competitiveness of enterprises in the global market environment. The carried out analysis helps to understand how each country adapts to the challenges of the modern labor market and the development of its staff.