Descriptive Summary:

What if Europe’s future labour market isn’t defined by shortages, but by mismatches?

Using the Link4Skills microsimulation model, this new open-access article in the European Journal of Population explores how Europe’s workforce and skill needs may evolve up to 2060. The article shows that while Europe will have more highly educated workers than ever, demand for skills will shift unevenly. The result: many high-skilled workers may find themselves underused, even as employers struggle to fill medium- and low-skilled jobs.

To understand what might help, the authors test a range of responses — from increased immigration and education reform to mid-career retraining, later retirement, automation and employer-led upskilling. Their conclusion? No single policy closes the gap. Addressing Europe’s future labour mismatches will require coordinated, long-term strategies that align skills, job quality, and demographic realities in an ageing, increasingly digital economy.

Link to publication (external website)