The world of work is undergoing rapid transformation, shaped by technological advancements, climate change, demographic shifts, and changing economic conditions. The FutureWORKS network aims to generate evidence, strengthen research capacity, and inform policies that support more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable futures of work across the Global South.
In Asia, FutureWORKS Asia – led by LIRNEasia – brings together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders to explore how societies can better prepare for these changes. The network supports high-quality, innovative, and gender-responsive research that addresses emerging challenges and opportunities related to skills, social protection, and decent work.
Through this initiative, the FutureWORKS Asia network aims to:
- Build a regional research network
Establish and strengthen a community of researchers and institutions working on the future of work in Asia, with a focus on how technological change, climate change, demographic transitions, and economic shifts are reshaping labour markets.
- Generate evidence for better policies
Support policy-relevant research that identifies solutions to future work challenges, including how workers – particularly women, youth, and vulnerable groups — can access the skills, protections, and opportunities needed to thrive in changing economies.
- Bridge research, policy, and practice
Translate research findings into actionable insights by connecting researchers with policymakers, educational institutions, industry actors, development organisations, and other stakeholders who can influence change.
- Strengthen research capacity
Provide training, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing opportunities to support researchers in producing impactful research and communicating evidence effectively for policy influence.
- Promote learning across regions
Facilitate collaboration and peer learning among researchers within Asia and across the wider FutureWORKS Collective, enabling the exchange of ideas, experiences, and solutions from different regions of the Global South.
Through these efforts, the FutureWORKS network works towards advancing the skills, policies, and partnerships needed to create more equitable and sustainable employment opportunities in a rapidly changing world.