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The World Economic Forum (WEF) estimates that remote work opportunities will become even more popular and widespread in the next five years around the world.
A new research paper released by the WEF and digital technology consultant Capgemini forecasts 92 million jobs will be performed entirely remotely by 2030 — up from the current 73 million.
In the past five years, remote trends in the global workforce have been sped up by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, emerging technologies such as cloud computing, video conferencing tools, and artificial intelligence have also greatly contributed to increases in global collaboration and remote jobs.
The research cites the potential for lower-middle-income countries to bridge local skills shortages by tapping into the global talent pool. More specifically, WEF research reveals a 188% rise in job vacancies in upper-middle-income countries.
According to the report, “This paper finds that in lower-middle-income countries especially, a surplus of skilled and educated workers exists. These workers could help fill labor shortages experienced in high- and upper-middle-income countries through global digital jobs.”
Key sectors identified as suitable for remote roles include accounting, legal, finance, IT services, healthcare, marketing, advertising, communications, and cybersecurity.
However, the transition to remote work is not without challenges. The report outlines strategies to address risks associated with the rise of remote work. The three major risk categories include:
- Technology malfunctions and cybersecurity
- Performance management systems for a global digital workforce
- Quality of work conditions
Other hurdles faced by organizations when employing remote digital workers include inadequate access to corporate-grade hardware and high-speed internet in some regions. For example, according to the WEF, only 38% of households in Nigeria have a computer. The report suggests governments should offer support to boost computer ownership in these regions, in addition to investment in high-speed internet infrastructure through public-private partnerships.
There are also concerns for wage suppression and work-life balance for remote workers joining teams based in high- and middle-income countries. As more regions around the world embrace remote workers, it is important for employers and leaders to address these challenges head-on. The WEF’s report emphasizes the importance of fair wage practices and fostering an inclusive work environment through career support and community engagement initiatives to enhance employee wellbeing and satisfaction.
