Thematic Section: Economic and labour market shifts and ALE - GRALE - Consultancy

Thematic Section:
Economic and labour market shifts and ALE - GRALE 6 - Consultancy OVERVIEW

Parent Sector:
Education Sector (ED)

Duty Station: remote

Classification of duty station:

Standard Duration of Assignment:

Job Family:
Education

Type of contract:
Affiliated personnel

Duration of contract:
From 7 to 11 months

Recruitment open to:
External candidates

Final date to receive applications (Midnight Paris Time): 01-MAR-2026

UNESCO Core Values:
Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

Published every three to four years, UNESCO’s Global Reports on Adult Learning and Education (GRALEs) take stock of adult learning and education (ALE) progress at national, regional and global levels, identify challenges and provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, practitioners and researchers and other relevant ALE stakeholders. The reports are expected to present evidence to inform policies, to advocate for a stronger policy focus and increased funding for ALE, to promote quality provision and inclusive participation, and to share examples of best practice.

The Sixth Global Report on Adult Learning and Education (GRALE
6), to be published in 2027, is structured around two sections: a monitoring section and a thematic section. Focusing on the overarching theme of “ALE in times of rapid change”, the report will explore how adult learning and education can both respond to and shape global transformations. By examining key drivers of change, such as digitalization, economic shifts, environmental sustainability, and conflict, GRALE 6 aims to showcase how ALE serves as a catalyst for empowerment, adaptability, resilience, and positive social transformation.

Thematic Chapter C: ALE in the Context of Rapid Economic and Labour Market Shifts

The thematic section of GRALE 6 addresses four interconnected global themes, one of which how ALE is affected by and can respond to economic and labour market shifts. Global and regional economic structures are impacted by greater automation, AI, digitalization, demographic changes, and the transition to green economies. Employment is becoming more fluid, careers less linear, and skill demands more dynamic, resulting in fewer secure, well‑paid jobs across many sectors and fields.

In this context, labour market shifts shape the priorities, structures and financing of ALE systems, while ALE enjoys renewed policy attention as societies seek mechanisms to support reskilling, upskilling, and workforce adaptability.

At the same time, unequal economic shifts and labour market transformations are deepening inequalities between high- and low-skilled workers, formal and informal sectors, and those with and without access to continuous learning opportunities. The growing emphasis on employability has encouraged market‑oriented approaches to lifelong learning, including employer‑led training, micro‑credentials, and platform‑based provision. While these models can expand access and flexibility, they also raise concerns about privatization, the shifting of responsibility from states to individuals, and the framing of learning as a personal resilience or risk‑aversion strategy rather than a collective public good.

Through the development of critical skills, civic agency, and innovative thinking, ALE can also support more inclusive and sustainable economic models, strengthen workers’ voices, and facilitate just transitions. In short, a better understanding of this relationship moves the discussion on ALE beyond adaptation to labour market change toward recognizing it as an active force in negotiating the future of work and the social contract that underpins it.

The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) is seeking an expert consultant to research and write a thematic chapter that provides an evidence‑informed, policy‑relevant analysis of the implications of economic shifts for ALE. The Consultant may work alone or as part of a team. However, the consultancy fee will be paid to a single individual, who is responsible for arranging appropriate compensation for any co‑contributors.

The Consultant, and up to two co‑contributors,…