Demand for skilled workers is increasing globally, while millions of workers migrate in search of employment. The World Bank is collaborating with governments to create and manage labor mobility programs that equip migrants with necessary skills for job markets that require workers urgently.
International labor mobility addresses global demographic trends. Low- and middle-income countries face a demographic shift, with 1.2 billion youth entering the workforce over the next decade but only 420 million jobs available. In contrast, high-income countries face population aging and workforce shrinkage. The World Bank Group supports efforts to ensure migration is safe, orderly, and regular, addressing demographic challenges and skill gaps.
The World Bank emphasizes proactive policy interventions to ease the transition for migrants seeking productive employment elsewhere. Skills training has proven effective in enabling migrants to support themselves and their families. Some countries receive support from the World Bank to match skills development with demand in destination countries.
Governments are enhancing skills development for migrants to align their abilities with needs in receiving countries. A recent report by the World Bank titled "Global Skill Partnerships for Migration: Preparing Tomorrow’s Workers for Home and Abroad" discusses challenges and opportunities linked to migration.
Three projects highlight the World Bank's role in skills development:
In Tonga, the Skills and Employment for Tongans Project ($20.9 million) facilitates overseas employment through conditional cash transfers promoting education completion and technical training. By 2024, nearly 13,000 beneficiaries received predeparture training.
In Türkiye, the Support for Transition to Labor Market Project ($78.8 million) improves employability for Syrian refugees and Turkish citizens by providing counseling or livelihood advisory services since its launch in 2022.
In Bangladesh, the Recovery and Advancement of Informal Sector Employment Project ($300.3 million) aids return migrants' reintegration through welfare centers offering various services like counseling and financial incentives.
The World Bank publishes data on migration to inform policy making, maximize benefits of migration while managing risks, supporting migration-related SDGs. It partners with governments on national migration policies using its knowledge base.
Looking ahead, the World Bank will continue providing data analysis for comprehensive plans addressing emigration and immigration issues through initiatives like the Joint Data Center for Forced Displacement.