FutureWORKS Collective: Inception Workshop | Negombo, Sri Lanka

The FutureWORKS Collective (FWC) is a global consortium funded by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) that addresses the unique opportunities and challenges shaping labour markets in developing countries. Coordinated by JustJobs Network, FWC unites five distinguished research organisations as regional hubs to examine critical labour market issues, including the impacts of technological advancements, the proliferation of artificial intelligence, climate change, and energy transition.

FWC held its inception workshop in Negombo, Sri Lanka in March 2024.

Why It Matters

21st century presents unprecedented challenges for labour markets worldwide, with 85% of the working-age population residing in the developing countries. Three major transformations are reshaping work globally:
– Climate change
– Technological acceleration
– Demographic transitions

While the future of work has become central to policy discussions, current research and debate often center on developed country perspectives, creating a misalignment with the unique challenges facing Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Key Features of the Consortium

During the inception workshop, the Collective emphasised on and prioritized the need for ground-level evidence-based research and best practices, cross-regional collaboration and partnerships with international organizations. It also identified the key features that will guide its work in the coming years.

Regional Research Hubs

The regional hubs will drive region-specific research, building a body of evidence-based work on local labour market challenges and opportunities in light of 21^st century transformations. Together they will contribute to focussed understanding of future of work in the developing countries.

Gender Focus

With a special emphasis on employment opportunities for women, the Collective will explore both direct and indirect impact of key global transformations, including AI, and climate change on workers, highlighting the challenges faced by women in the workforce.

Stakeholder Engagement

The Collective emphasized inclusive stakeholder participation, bringing together government bodies, civil society organizations, trade unions, private sector representatives and media organizations, creating spaces for social dialogue and policy advocacy.

Looking Forward

The FutureWORKS Collective is working to develop practical policy recommendations that address the unique challenges of future of work in developing regions. Through collaborative research, peer learning, and strategic communication, the initiative seeks to influence policy discourse and support inclusive development in evolving and dynamic labour markets.