Background

Rapid demographic transitions, evolving labour markets, and accelerating technological change are reshaping the foundations of employment systems across the world. Ageing populations, in particular, present both opportunities and challenges for economic growth, social protection, and labour market sustainability. At the same time, persistent inequalities in employment, skills mismatches, and regional disparities continue to demand innovative policy responses. Against this backdrop, employment policy has emerged as a central pillar in achieving sustainable and inclusive development.

This special issue brings together interdisciplinary research that examines how employment policies can respond effectively to the realities of ageing societies while supporting sustainable economic development. It seeks to explore how governments, institutions, and labour market actors can design adaptive strategies that enhance employability, extend working lives where appropriate, promote active ageing, and ensure that economic growth remains inclusive and resilient. The issue also highlights comparative global and regional perspectives, recognising that demographic change and labour market transformations vary significantly across contexts.

A key focus of this special issue is the intersection between employment, social policy, and sustainability. It encourages contributions that address themes such as labour market participation among older workers, lifelong learning and skills adaptation, flexible work arrangements, health and well-being in employment, and the role of innovation in shaping future work systems. It also aims to deepen understanding of how policy frameworks can balance productivity, equity, and social cohesion in ageing societies.