The dynamics of the contemporary labour market are heavily influenced by the complexities of globalisation, patterns of growth, poverty, structural transformation, technology, demography (including migration and ageing), non-economic risks, and the low participation rate of women and youth, among other factors. 

The study explores several critical dimensions of labour market inequality, including:

• The economic value of unpaid care work—largely undertaken by women—which is routinely excluded from traditional labour statistics, leading to its systemic undervaluation;
• Gender disparities, where women, despite higher levels of education, experience lower employment rates and are underrepresented in higher-paying sectors;
• The declining participation of males in educational and employment opportunities;
• The dual challenge of ageing populations and high youth unemployment across the region;
• The compounded disadvantages faced by indigenous and disabled populations in accessing fair employment opportunities.