The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 2025 Future of Jobs Report paints a picture of a global workforce on the brink of transformation. With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), shifting demographic trends, and a growing emphasis on climate action, every nation, including the Maldives, must prepare for what lies ahead. For a small island economy heavily reliant on tourism and fisheries, understanding these changes is not just important—it is imperative.
A Changing Global Landscape
Globally, digital access is predicted to be the most transformative driver of change by 2030. Sixty percent of businesses expect technological shifts—primarily AI, information processing, robotics, and automation—to redefine how industries operate. At the same time, climate change mitigation and adaptation rank high as transformative forces, with significant growth projected in green jobs such as renewable energy engineers and environmental scientists.
The report also highlights that economic and demographic trends will significantly impact labour markets. While higher-income countries contend with aging populations, lower-income economies like the Maldives must navigate the challenges of a growing workforce. This duality underscores the need for proactive strategies to align national policies with global trends.
The Maldivian Context
For the Maldives, the stakes are particularly high. Tourism, the backbone of the economy, must innovate to remain competitive in an increasingly eco-conscious global market. Similarly, fisheries—a vital industry for food security and exports—must adapt to sustainability standards. These shifts demand a workforce equipped with a mix of technological and environmental expertise.
The report’s findings on skill disruption are equally critical for the Maldives. Globally, 39% of core skills will change by 2030, requiring an emphasis on continuous learning and reskilling. However, a significant challenge remains: only 59% of the workforce is projected to receive the training needed to meet these demands, leaving millions unprepared. For the Maldives, this illustrates the urgency of establishing robust education and training systems tailored to emerging sectors.
Preparing for Transformation
- Investing in Education and Digital Literacy: The report identifies analytical thinking, AI proficiency, and technological literacy as among the fastest-growing skills globally. For the Maldives, integrating these into educational curricula and vocational training will be essential. Expanding digital access across the islands can help bridge the skills gap and enable more individuals to participate in a tech-driven economy.
- Developing Green Skills for Climate Resilience: Climate action is both a necessity and an opportunity for the Maldives. As global demand rises for roles in renewable energy and sustainability, the Maldives must position itself as a leader in eco-tourism and green innovation. Training programs for renewable energy technicians, environmental scientists, and sustainable business managers can catalyse this transition.
- Reskilling the Workforce: As automation disrupts traditional roles, reskilling initiatives must focus on transitioning workers into high-growth areas such as AI, software development, and green industries. Public-private partnerships can play a pivotal role in funding and implementing these programs.
- Fostering Innovation in Tourism: With global travellers increasingly prioritising sustainability, the Maldives’ tourism sector must evolve. Encouraging the development of eco-friendly resorts, AI-driven personalisation in guest services, and green transportation solutions will create new job opportunities while enhancing the country’s reputation as a sustainable destination.
- Strengthening Policy Support: Policies that encourage innovation, provide tax incentives for green investments, and improve labour market flexibility can help align the Maldives with global workforce trends. Initiatives to support remote work, entrepreneurship, and the inclusion of women and young people in the workforce are equally critical.
What’s at Stake
The report projects that technological and economic disruptions will result in a net global job growth of 7% by 2030. However, this growth will not be evenly distributed. The Maldives must ensure that its workforce is not left behind. Failure to act risks deepening inequalities and missing opportunities to redefine its economic model in line with global demands.
By embracing the twin forces of digital transformation and sustainability, the Maldives can turn global challenges into opportunities. Proactive investments in education, reskilling, and green innovation will not only future-proof the workforce but also position the country as a model for small island economies navigating the future of work.
